Message from the High School Principal – 1 October 2026
Dear ISHCMC High School Community,
This week has given our students several meaningful opportunities to pause, reflect, and think about what comes next, whether that means looking after the daily habits that sustain them, asking a university representative a thoughtful question, or shaping an academic pathway aligned with who they are becoming. Below are a few highlights of these recent initiatives, along with important updates as we look ahead.
Global Be Well Day
Global Be Well Day gave our High School students dedicated time to step outside their usual routines and focus intentionally on their wellbeing.
Across grade levels, students took part in engaging sessions, including trigger boxing, drumming circles, combat, and conditioning, which were guided by professionals who brought incredible energy and expertise. In High School, the demands on students can be significant, making it vital for them to recognize what supports their physical and mental health. These habits are not built overnight; they grow through the conscious choices students practice and carry forward over time.
HCMC Global University Fair
Our Global University Fair was a resounding success! Hosting over 200 universities from more than 20 countries, the event gave our students and broader school community a fantastic platform to connect directly with university representatives and explore a wide range of future pathways.
The energy throughout the day was vibrant and inspiring. Students asked insightful questions, discovered new possibilities, and took an active, confident role in planning their futures. Warm thanks to everyone whose organization and enthusiasm made the event both purposeful and memorable.
Evolution of High School Pathways: More Choices for Grades 11 & 12
That same commitment to helping students find a path tailored to who they are drives an exciting evolution in our academic program.
Starting in Academic Year 2027–2028, students entering Grades 11 and 12 will choose between two distinct pathways: the IB Diploma Programme and the Personalized Diploma Program (PDP). Both pathways lead to the accredited ISHCMC High School Diploma.
The PDP enables students to create a tailored combination of individual IB Diploma courses, AP courses, and ISHCMC courses. This flexibility allows students to align their subject choices with their specific strengths, passions, and university goals while maintaining academic rigor.
These guiding conversations begin in Grade 10, and our High School and Future Pathways teams look forward to partnering with families throughout this process.
Parent Information Session: Please join us on 7 October at 17:00 in the Secondary Theater. We will introduce the PDP, and explain how our grade 11 and 12 pathways function.
Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences (PTSC)
Our upcoming PTSCs will take place on Thursday, 8 October and Friday, 9 October.
Schedule Details:
Thursday, 8 October: Half school day for students (dismissal at 12:25 following Block 3; buses depart at 12:30).
Friday, 9 October: Non-school day for students due to scheduled conferences.
After School Activities (ASAs): Please note there will be no ASAs on Thursday or Friday.
We expect all students to participate in their conference alongside their parents. I encourage families to use this time to reflect together, celebrating successes, identifying areas for growth, listening to your child’s perspective, and agreeing on shared next steps. As our students grow more independent, our home-school partnership remains as essential as ever. Independence isn't about navigating everything alone; it’s about learning to take ownership with a trusted support network around you.
For any PTSC questions, please reach out to community@ishcmc.com.
High School Camps: Final Reminder to Sign Up
Looking further ahead, excitement is building for our upcoming High School Camps! Camp experiences offer invaluable opportunities for our students to build independence, strengthen friendships, and develop resilience outside the traditional classroom environment.
A friendly reminder that registration for all students in Grades 9 through 11 is due tomorrow, Friday, 2 October, by the end of the day.
Participation in High School Camps is a key part of our school curriculum and student development. Please note that attendance is mandatory for all students in Grades 9–11, and any unexcused non-attendance will be recorded as an unauthorized absence.
Please ensure your child’s sign-up is completed by the deadline tomorrow.
Rhino Family Fun Night
I look forward to seeing many of our High School families at the Rhino Family Fun Night this Saturday, 3 October at the Primary Campus!
With over 30 food and beverage vendors, activities for all ages, and up to 20 live performances, it promises to be a fantastic evening. Beyond the fun, it offers us a wonderful opportunity to connect as a community outside of classroom routines.
Reminder: This event is exclusive to the ISHCMC community. Please ensure you bring your Parent and Student ID for campus entry and to participate in the lucky draw.
Warm regards,
Kohulan Jeganathan
High School Principal
International School Ho Chi Minh City
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