Dear Members of the School Community

It would be nice if a school could focus on the most important people in the school, the students, as well as applying the most ideal teaching methods.

For quite some time now, we have been forced by a dynamically changing pandemic situation to constantly adapt the form of teaching to new situations and, unfortunately, we cannot put our focus exclusively on the students. Even though our online learning programme is one of the highest standards compared to other schools, we all know that face-to-face learning is the best form of instruction for long-term learning success.

On a positive note, both teachers and students have further advanced their skills in digital learning. This capability will help students immensely in the future to cope with the demands of a digitised world. As a person and a school Principal, I am thrilled to see how even Kindergarten and Primary school children have learned to use digital tools as a meaningful learning channel with the great support of their teachers.

Having said that, I remain divided, as you are, because it is clear to me that social interaction is the basis for a peaceful society.

All teachers are eagerly awaiting the return to normal face-to-face schooling.

Nevertheless, together with the school leadership team I decided last Wednesday to switch back to online classes for the graduating year groups as well. The reasons for this difficult decision were very complex and largely driven by wanting to achieve the best for the entire school community. I would like to thank the parents in particular for their continuous understanding. I believe by supporting the community collectively, it will allow GSIS to grow together in unity.

In agreement with all our departments, we will continue online classes for all year groups next week. Due to the sharp increase in infection numbers and staff absences associated with group testing, this is the only reliable form of learning at this time.

As usual, teachers will deliver the best possible lessons online with the support of our entire administrative team and especially the IT department. 

My sincere thanks also go once again to the GSIS Board of Directors, who have been paying close attention to the needs of the school community and supporting the school management to the best of their ability.

My biggest thanks, however, go to our students, who are truly outstanding.

We stand together and are there for each other.

With optimistic regards

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