–by Sudarat T. Attanawin, Director of Strategic Initiatives/HR–
RIS administrators and a group of over 140 prospective RIS Ratchapruek parents came together earlier this year to celebrate the tradition of academic, service, and cultural excellence at Ad Astra Day, which is Latin for “to the stars.” The event was an opportunity to share the achievements of RIS in the last six decades and its vision for bringing the best possible education to the Ratchapruek community and its vicinity to create the leaders of tomorrow.
Mr. Daniel Smith, RIS Head of School, welcomed parents and explained the RIS vision and mission that focuses on the development of each child’s Head (Knowledge), Heart (Kindness),
and Hands (Skills). He went on to address the strong links between RIS and RISR, providing governance and quality oversight, together with staff training and exchange opportunities, as well as inter-school curriculum collaboration.
Mr. Matthew Fahey, RISR Founding Principal, and Ms. Madeleine Bystrom, Director of Teaching and Learning at RIS, emphasized RISR’s commitment to maintaining the ethos and values of RIS, focusing on dynamic, inspirational, and student-centered teaching, as well as its workforce strategy to recruit and retain the highest quality staff at all levels.
Mr. Remo Bryan Nyffenegger, RIS Canteen Manager, provided information about the importance of nutritious food and the canteen’s role in educating and promoting healthy eating at RISR while ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to delivering nutrition programs, food safety, and environmental programs that are aligned with RIS. Members of RIS administration, Fr. David Ketsurin, C.Ss.R; Ms. Sudarat T. Attanawin; and Ms. Tam Fawcett were also present at the event.
There was a true atmosphere of celebration, collaboration, and community, with parents and distinguished guests alongside the school management team. Two wonderful performances by Class of ’96 alumni Michael Sawatsewi and Debbie Klongtruadroke Scott, along with RIS students Logan (grade 4) and Landon (PreK 4), marked the occasion and showcased the multitude of ‘Ad Astra’ talents!
