From the Director

​Dear AISL Community
Respecting the Passing of the fourth Zambian President 
AISL sends its deepest condolences out to the family of His Excellency Mr Rupiah Bwezani Banda, the fourth President of the Republic of Zambia who passed away on 11 March, 2022. The US Embassy represented AISL yesterday in the signing of the Condolence Book.
Here is the communication regarding the public holiday tomorrow, which was sent earlier today.
Conflict On Our Planet
As we all enjoyed a school break last week with many of us traveling either internationally, within this beautiful country, or just taking time to unwind and recharge; tragically more conflict erupted, centered this time around the Ukraine. The news reports bring home to us all the unnecessary suffering and pain that any war brings.
We have reached out to our international school community, to offer any support we can. Our hearts go out to the people of the Ukraine, Russia and surrounding countries at this time. In classes here at AISL, the topic has been a focus of conversation and learning. This is learning that is current, relevant, meaningful and vital. Right at the heart of IB philosophy.
This is an example of some MYP Learning on this topic from Mr Martin’s class.
As a full IB World school, please consider reading this from the DG of IB. An open letter from Director General Olli-Pekka Heinonen on Ukraine
Friday Market is Back
On a brighter note, we are bringing back the Friday Market, albeit on a smaller scale to start with. The first Friday Market will take place next Friday, 25 March from 12.00- 14.00 on the lawn outside the PAC. For those of us who haven't experienced this before, I think we are in for a treat. There will be various vendors, so bring your kwacha and enjoy your lunch with your children. If you wish to take away your food, please bring your own containers. We ask that you observe social distancing where possible. As this is an outdoor event, masks are optional.
Accreditation
And, of course, the time is now upon us. The Accreditation Visit starts this Sunday at 16:00. Although we are absolutely delighted to be going through this crucial process for school improvement, this coming week will be busy and, especially as it is a hybrid model, the first of its kind for CIS and MSA. The two Co-Chairs from these agencies will be on campus and the rest of the team will be connecting in remotely. This is a very important week for our school. Thank you in advance to the parents who volunteered their time to speak with the agencies.

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​​To Ponder
Some thoughts from Brene Brown
My mom taught me to never look away from people’s pain
The lesson was simple:
Don’t look away. Don’t look down.
Don't pretend not to see hurt.
Look people in the eye.
Even when their pain is overwhelming.
And when you are in pain, find the people who can look you in the eye.
We need to know we are not alone, especially when we are hurting.
This lesson is one of the greatest gifts of my life.
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​Have an enjoyable weekend and be grateful for all that we have in this community and in this country. Quite incredible! 
With kind regards,
Dr. Oli Tooher-Hancock
Director