EAGLE TRACT

As we reach the last two months of 2024 , I would like to reflect on our progress and share three valuable lessons from my international experiences that continue to guide my dedication here at Cornerstone:

1. Vietnam: The Power of Consistency

In Vietnam, I saw how consistent attendance is the foundation for success. Students who showed up ready to learn every day consistently outperformed their peers.

Here at C.I.A., we emphasize the importance of regular attendance, and we have seen this commitment in our students so far this year. But it’s a joint effort—parents play a crucial role in ensuring students are present, on time and ready to learn. Together, we can keep building this solid foundation for academic success.

In Vietnam, I was struck by how people, despite having so little, always made time for others, prioritizing those around them. It made me reflect on how often we say, “I do not have time,” even with more comforts and support. This lesson has stayed with me, and it is something I want to cultivate at C.I.A.—a school where we make time for each other, prioritize our students’ needs, and foster a supportive community. In education, as in life, putting others first can make all the difference in creating a thriving, compassionate environment for learning.

2. Sri Lanka: The Resilience of Learning

In Sri Lanka, I worked with students and families affected by the devastation of the tsunami. Despite their profound loss, the children’s desire to learn was unwavering. School became their place of comfort and stability. At C.I.A., we foster that same resilience, making education a source of strength and continuity. We are grateful for the support of parents who continue to encourage learning at home and nurture that sense of stability for their children.

3. Costa Rica: The Value of Balance and Inquiry

In Costa Rica, education emphasized balance, outdoor learning, and allowing students the freedom to explore, be independent and inquire. At C.I.A., we are committed to explore the same approach. We encourage not only academic excellence but also the development of a love for learning, creativity, and balance in life. With the support of parents, who nurture curiosity at home, and our teachers, who guide that inquiry in the classroom and beyond, we’re creating an environment where students can thrive holistically.

4. Data-Driven Commitment to Success

At C.I.A., we are deeply committed to using data to inform our teaching, identify areas for growth, and tailor our support to meet the individual needs of our students. This requires a partnership between students, parents, and teachers. We rely on parental engagement, teacher expertise, and student dedication to analyze progress and make the necessary adjustments. Together, this commitment on all sides ensures that each child is supported in reaching their full potential.

As we move into the second half of this term, I’m excited about the continued growth and collaboration within our community. By working together—parents, students, and teachers—we will continue to ensure that every child thrives academically, emotionally, and creatively.

Warm regards,

Mit freundlichen Gruessen

Avec mes meilleures Sentiments

Nicole

Director of Academics,

Cornerstone International Academy

The C.I.A. Teacher’s Appreciation Week, held from September 30 to October 4, 2024, brought students together in a heartfelt celebration. Through thoughtful messages and creative artwork by students they honored their facilitators as mentors and role models.

After weeks of preparation and hard work the finalists took the stage on October 11 to showcase their exceptional spelling skills. In the end, Kayden Prince Akonnor emerged victorious in the Lower Elementary, and Myla Araba Debrah claimed the top spot in the Upper Elementary. Both winners demonstrated outstanding spelling ability, composure, and resilience under pressure, securing their place as champions. Congratulations to all participants for their remarkable efforts.

Every speller who made it to the finals should be proud of their achievement. We extend our utmost gratitude to parents and facilitators who supported and guided our young spellers throughout their journey.

Congratulations to our Winners:

●Lower Elementary Champion:

Kayden Prince Akonnor (Champion)

Averie Ewurajoa Debrah (1st Runner Up)

Jayla Gyemfua Tenkorang (2nd Runner Up)

●Upper Elementary Champion:

Myla Araba Debrah (Champion)

Gabriel Jayden Kwabena Adjei Jnr (1st Runner Up)

Michael-Junior Kuku Agyeman-Boaten (2nd Runner Up)

On October 25, The Scientist event kicked off, aiming to ignite a passion for science among young learners. With this year’s theme, Curious Minds: Exploring the Wonders of Science, students will enjoy weekly activities that make science fun and interactive.

The event will culminate in a final quiz competition, where students will compete for the title of "The Scientist." Let the discoveries begin!

Did you know? The word “family” comes from the Latin word familia, which originally meant a group of people who live together.

We are excited to introduce our new kindergarten unit, “Family”! In this interactive unit, our young learners will explore what makes a family, get to know different family members, and learn how families shape who we are.

Through fun activities, they will develop key communication and social skills while discovering the special role family plays in our lives.

As part of their unit on diseases, fifth grade welcomed guest speaker Doc. Mrs. Nina Ashong, who provided valuable insights into communicable diseases and shared practical tips for staying healthy.

The session was engaging, and students deepened their understanding of the topic, gaining important knowledge that will support their learning in this unit.

In preparation for the 2024/2025 PYP Exhibition, a series of workshops have been organized to equip students with the necessary skills and understanding. In October, three workshops were held to support our students in their exhibition journey.

The first workshop, led by the Fifth Grade Team, introduced students to the PYP Exhibition framework. This was followed by a session on 'Agency and the Learner Profile Attributes,' facilitated by the Kindergarten Team. The final workshop for the month, 'Finding Your Purpose,' was again led by the Fifth Grade Team, encouraging students to explore their goals and aspirations.

The Math Matrix Grand Finale was a highly anticipated event, commencing with a series of engaging round one mathematical activities. As the competition progressed, students demonstrated their prowess by tackling increasingly intricate math problems, showcasing their exceptional problem-solving abilities. The culmination of the Grand Finale was marked by an exhilarating final round, ultimately resulting in Heather Amos, the Head Prefect, emerging as the winner, with Mathew Olunifesi Ibine securing the second position and Herbert Amos claiming the third place.

We celebrate the beautiful lives of Maame Dwomoh Boaten and Justine Agbenu, whose spirits brought love, warmth, and laughter to all who knew them. Their kindness, bright smiles, and genuine compassion left a lasting impact on friends, family, and classmates. Maame and Justine shared their joy generously, touching our lives in ways words can’t fully capture.

Their lives may have been brief, but the love and memories they leave behind will forever be part of our hearts. May we carry their legacy forward, remembering the light they brought to every moment.

The Ghana Psychological Association (GPA), in partnership with our Counselling Department, visited the school to support the emotional well-being of our students and staff during this challenging time. We are grateful for the GPA’s generosity and your ongoing strength and unity.

Morning devotion and grief support led by Reverend Albert Tanor Gyan.

We are thrilled to see our students actively incorporating technology into their learning at the Media Resource Center! Students have been engaging in research projects, collaborating on digital assignments, and building valuable I.C.T skills that enhance their studies. With access to updated computers and resources, they are diving into research, exploring educational software, and developing digital projects that bring their learning to life. This hands-on use of I.C.T supports critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy—skills essential for today’s learners.