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Honored to Return to Taipei American School
I was honored to return to Taipei American School to sustain ongoing education and strategy to deepen belonging and foster a culture of dignity and respect.
Many thanks to everyone who participated in our focus groups, and strategy and education sessions- with a special thanks to the more than 100 parents that attended our second workshop! Thank you for strengthening the parent- school partnership, which research finds is critical to fostering belonging for our students.
Taipei American School is seeking a director of belonging and social impact, so please spread the word!
I can’t wait to return in the spring and a special thanks to Liz Gale, Ed.D. and David Frankenberg for their partnership.
New Podcast!
I am delighted to share this recent podcast exploring belonging in international schools.
During the conversation, I provide key definitions and explore the research around belonging and belonging uncertainty, and the ways in which belonging enhances academic excellence.
Many thanks to Hong Kong International School for the opportunity to share insights from our recent consultation with students, all staff, and parents to foster a culture of dignity and respect for all.
Thrilled to Return to Hong Kong International School (HKIS)
I was thrilled to return to Hong Kong International School to continue our efforts to deepen belonging and foster a culture grounded in dignity and respect.
Building on work from last spring's visit with the Belonging Committee, this consultation also integrated constituent focus groups, a parent education session, a high school assembly with over 700 energetic and engaged students, and an all-staff professional development opportunity. I even had the opportunity to record a podcast!
Upcoming Consultation at Taipei American School
I am looking forward to sustaining my partnership with Taipei American School during the 2024-25 academic year to deepen belonging.
During the second year of our collaboration, I will meet with students, staff, parents, admin and Board to collect data, inform strategy, and build capacity to foster a culture grounded in dignity and respect.
Thank you Liz Gale, Ed.D. and David Frankenberg for your partnership! I am looking forward to our ongoing collaboration.
Upcoming event at VERSO International School
Thank you, Dr. Ryan Persaud and VERSO International School, for supporting this critical work to build capacity of over 40 school leaders representing 15 countries to foster inclusive schools grounded in dignity and respect.
Fostering a Culture of Belonging at Escola Concept
Many thanks to Escola Concept for their ongoing partnership to foster an inclusive school community grounded in dignity and respect.
I appreciated working with students, counselors, teachers, administrators, and parents from São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, and Salvador to advance this critical work over two days.
Second Consultation at Island Primary in Cayman Islands
I had a wonderful time facilitating a workshop to about 200 parents at Island Primary in the Cayman Islands!
During the session, we explored the importance of intercultural competency in a school that proudly represents over 27 nationalities on an island that continues to grow daily, having increased its population by 70% in the past 20 years.
We also discussed the essential skills students require for success in a globalized world and to foster an inclusive environment grounded in dignity and respect, ensuring that every student feels a true sense of belonging.
I am looking forward to returning in January!
CEESA Keynote in Split, Croatia
I am thrilled to be delivering a keynote address at the Central & Eastern European Schools Association. I am looking forward to partnering with Kathy Stetson and the entire CEESA community.
Year 3 at Cayman Prep & High School in Cayman Islands
It was a privilege to return this week to Cayman Prep & High School to support their ongoing commitment to cultivating a culture of dignity, respect, and belonging.
I look forward to returning in January to share findings from the student and staff Belonging Survey and to continue leading strategic planning.
Georgetown International Academy
Many thanks to Shauna Hobbs-Beckley, EdS , head of school, and the entire Georgetown International Academy community for another meaningful consultation. Looking forward to returning soon!
We’re excited to announce that Dr. Derrick Gay, an internationally recognized belonging and intercultural strategist, researcher, author, and university lecturer, recently returned to Georgetown International Academy (GIA) for his third three-day visit. With experience consulting in over 50 countries, Dr. Gay brings a wealth of knowledge to our school as we continue our journey to cultivate and sustain an inclusive school community .
During his time with us, Dr. Gay conducted insightful focus groups with students, staff, and parents, gaining valuable insights into how our community understands and experiences belonging, as well as the pace of change at GIA. With over 340 students and their families from around the world, along with local and international staff, it’s crucial that we continuously learn and support the diverse needs of all our community members.
Dr. Gay’s findings have provided us with meaningful strategies to deepen our efforts and ensure that GIA is a place where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. We eagerly anticipate his fourth consultation in January as we continue to build capacity to foster a school community of dignity and respect for all.