Dear HIS Community,

The final HEX of 2020--hard to believe.  We have come a long way together since August, and it is worth taking a moment to reflect on some of what we have accomplished together.  Just a few examples: 

Our students have demonstrated so much growth, academically and personally.  The positive impact of uninterrupted high-quality in-person instruction is evident, as our students demonstrate great progress on the MAP, classroom assessments, and other exhibitions of learning.  
At a time when a large number of schools on Hokkaido have closed due to Covid-19 quarantines, we still have not had a known case.  It may yet happen--but regardless, we should celebrate the vigilance and care our staff and community have shown to keep everyone healthy up to this point. 
While the pandemic continues to create uncertainty, and many international schools have experienced declining enrollment, ours has continued to grow since August. 
And maybe most importantly, our community has pulled together to support one another in countless ways to navigate all of the challenges of 2020. Thank you for that; it has been an inspiration to see.    

I hope that everyone takes some well-deserved time over the break to rejuvenate.  There is a lot to be proud of from our start to the 20-21 school year--and the best is yet to come. 

Stay healthy and have a wonderful holiday season!

Sincerely yours,

Tim Schlosser 
Head of School 
tschlosser@his.ac.jp