Greatness Starts With Attitude: The Magic of Kindness in Education with Katherine Langford

Jun 13, 2024

Nestled within the vibrant and bustling heart of Shanghai lies the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) - a place where enchantment and learning converge to create magic every day. Today, we are delighted to share the inspiring story of Katherine Langford, a dedicated educator from Canada, who embodies our series theme, "Greatness Starts With Attitude."

Katherine's decision to join WISS was sparked by the enchanting atmosphere she experienced upon her first visit. The school's environment, resources, and learning spaces exuded a sense of magic that was irresistible. But the real magic, as Catherine discovered, begins each day with the interactions between the educators, parents, and students. It's in these moments that the school's ethos of sincerity and kindness truly shines.

Redefining Success: The Michael Oviedo Story – Greatness Starts With Attitude

Jun 7, 2024

In the next installment of our Greatness Starts With Attitude series, we connect with a proud WISS parent and international business leader, Michael Oviedo. Michael is from the United States and is the United States, and his two children have been part of the Western International School of Shanghai community for the past couple of years.   His journey has been a winding path shaped by experiences, aspirations, and unexpected twists. From his early dreams of becoming a college professor to his current role as an industry leader in the collectibles and authentication industry, he has learned that greatness does indeed start with one’s attitude.

Melody Hu: A Trailblazer in Academia and Teaching at the Western International School of Shanghai

May 17, 2024

Sarah Leary, an educator with 16 years of experience, is a source of inspiration at the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS). Originally hailing from South Africa, Sarah’s journey in education has been marked by dedication, passion, and innovative teaching methods. Let’s delve into her story of “Greatness” and discover the impact she has on young minds.

Sarah’s childhood was steeped in intellectual curiosity. Growing up in a household where education was highly valued, she had the privilege of being exposed to a rich tapestry of languages, cultures, and art forms. Her father, a respected doctor, and her mother, a history teacher and historian, instilled in her a love for learning. These formative experiences shaped Sarah into a passionate and creative individual, setting the stage for her future in education.

Sarah Leary: Igniting Greatness Through Education

May 10, 2024

Sarah Leary, an educator with 16 years of experience, is a source of inspiration at the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS). Originally hailing from South Africa, Sarah’s journey in education has been marked by dedication, passion, and innovative teaching methods. Let’s delve into her story of “Greatness” and discover the impact she has on young minds.

Sarah’s childhood was steeped in intellectual curiosity. Growing up in a household where education was highly valued, she had the privilege of being exposed to a rich tapestry of languages, cultures, and art forms. Her father, a respected doctor, and her mother, a history teacher and historian, instilled in her a love for learning. These formative experiences shaped Sarah into a passionate and creative individual, setting the stage for her future in education.

From Dreamer to Achiever: Udo Roos' Triumph at the Western International School of Shanghai

May 3, 2024

In our ongoing series "Greatness Starts With Attitude," we are excited to spotlight the remarkable journey of Udo Roos, a dedicated student at Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) who embodies the true spirit of determination and resilience.

Hailing from South Africa, Udo Roos has been an integral part of the WISS community for over a decade, starting his educational voyage from kindergarten all the way to grade 9. Inspired by his elder brothers, who have successfully graduated from WISS, Udo aspires to follow in their footsteps and carve his own path toward excellence.

Attitude Matters: How Timo Pyeon Redefines Greatness at WISS

Apr 26, 2024

Welcome to the captivating “Greatness Starts With Attitude” series at the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS), where inspiring narratives and profound insights shape our educational philosophy. Today, we delve into the remarkable journey of Timo Pyeon, Director of Academics in Innovation at WISS, as he shares his reflections on the transformative power of attitude and resilience in achieving greatness.

Timo Pyeon’s background is a rich tapestry woven from diverse cultural threads. Originally from the UK with Canadian roots, Timo’s global teaching odyssey has led him through educational landscapes in Thailand, Australia, Cambodia, and now, China. However, the indelible influence of his grandfather—a teacher who instilled the value of uplifting others—ignited Timo’s passion for education and set him on the path to becoming an educator himself.

Balancing Acts of Greatness in Education and Beyond

Apr 22, 2024

In the latest installment of the "Greatness Starts With Attitude" series, we delve into the inspiring journey of Gary Halcrow, a dedicated Career-Related Programme (IBCP) coordinator at the Western International School of Shanghai (WISS) with a wealth of experience in teaching and a passion for guiding students towards holistic success.

Gary's path to education began with a love for sports, which ignited his initial interest in teaching physical education. Throughout his 10-year teaching career, spanning Scotland, Saudi Arabia, China, and now at WISS for five years, Gary has evolved into a dynamic IB teacher who values academic excellence and the development of essential character traits in his students.