AY 2023-2024 - Newsletter Vol. 6
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A Month of Learning Milestones, Discovery, Communication, and Talent
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Capturing Creativity: Highlights of Our April 20th Arts Open Day
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TEDEd Student Talks: Ideas Worth Sharing
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AP Art and Media Production’s field trip to Nanyang Technological University and National Gallery Singapore
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SSMFC Students attend Johor International Student Leader Conference 2024
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Honoring Children's Day
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Lower School Music and Showcase
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Student-Led Conferences
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Author and Illustrator Competition
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Early Childhood Beach Activity
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Outstanding performance at MCM Swimming Gala !
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Secondary School Fit4Life Program in PE - Volume 3 (April 2024)
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April 2024 Dorm Updates
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SSN Final Episode 12
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Parents Meeting on April 16th & 23rd
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Internet Speed Test? Meh. Here's What Really Speeds Up Your Home Wi-Fi
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Enhanced Security Measures at Campus Entrance: Car Registration Required
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Delischool menu for May - June 2024
A Month of Learning Milestones, Discovery, Communication, and Talent
Dear School Community,
April is often associated with the start of spring, rebirth, and renewal in western culture. It is also celebrated as National Poetry Month in the United States, where poets are honored for their craft.
Looking back at our students' achievements and events in April, we can proudly say that it has been a month of growth and success. Throughout the month, poetry was a prominent feature on our campus. Students enthusiastically participated in writing and reciting poems, with a special "poetry jam" event held in the canteen. The lower school students, in particular, showed a keen interest in poetry, creating a vibrant atmosphere celebrating the art form.
In addition to celebrating poetry, April also saw important academic milestones with the CAT4, MAP, and PSAT tests providing valuable insights into student learning. These assessments have enabled teachers to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement, leading to the development of targeted action plans to enhance educational outcomes. By personalizing teaching approaches, educators have been able to cater to the individual needs of each student effectively.
Communication played a crucial role in April, with the Parent Teacher Conference (PTC) event facilitating open discussions between parents and teachers about student progress and challenges. This collaborative approach ensures that everyone is working together to support student learning and growth. The "Parent University" session on EAL also provided valuable information on improving English proficiency efficiently.
Lastly, the Talent Show and Art Open Day events showcased the diverse talents of our students and teachers, from singing and dancing to creative artworks. These events not only entertained but also fostered a sense of pride and achievement within the school community.
In conclusion, April has been a month filled with learning, discovery, communication, and the celebration of talent. We are proud of our students' accomplishments and grateful for the support of parents and teachers. As we continue on this journey, let us nurture the potential of our students and create an environment where they can thrive and excel.
Thank you for your continued participation and efforts in our school community. We look forward to sharing more exciting news and updates in the months ahead.
School Leadership Team
Capturing Creativity: Highlights of Our April 20th Arts Open Day
On April 20th, our school's Arts Open Day was a dynamic fusion of creativity and learning, uniting our community in a day of exploration and expression. With a diverse range of artistic activities, from embroidery to Zentangle drawing, attendees found inspiration at every turn. The addition of specialized demo classes further enriched the experience, offering tailored opportunities for educational growth. The day was filled with music from the Rhapsody Youth Ensemble and lively percussion sessions. As the day unfolded, the air was filled with music from the talented Rhapsody Youth Ensemble, and the rhythm of lively percussion sessions. The much-anticipated talent show let our students share their talents, highlighting their unique abilities while fostering community spirit. It was a day filled with artistic exploration and celebration, fostering a sense of community and inspiring creativity in all who participated.
TEDEd Student Talks: Ideas Worth Sharing
The first week of April saw the culmination of our TEDEd program for our Grade 11 and Grade 12 students. For the third year in a row, our seniors have completed the TEDEd curriculum as one of their graduation requirements, and took to the stage to share their ideas, passions and opinions. Having spent 14 weeks preparing for this momentous occasion, their talks were outstanding, and showcased a huge amount of soul-searching, detailed and engaging speech writing, and passionate sharing of unique ideas. From live origami demonstrations, to explorations of cultural identity, and even the issue of embracing AI generative art, their ideas challenged us to think deeply about the world we live in, and how we want it to be in the future.
Stepping onto the red carpet is a daunting task indeed, and we are so proud of all our students who conquered their fears and showcased not only their brilliant ideas, but also their English speaking ability. Well done! We are now able to share their wonderful talks on our school’s TEDEd YouTube channel.
AP Art and Media Production’s field trip to Nanyang Technological University and National Gallery Singapore
In Mr. Pettigrew’s Media Production course, students have started a podcast project this semester. In order to better understand how to plan and produce a professional podcast, the students were invited to speak with Mr. Daryl Li, a friend of Mr. Pettigrew who writes the scripts for podcasts for the National Gallery Singapore. After briefly touring Nanyang Technological campus, where Mr. Li works, students met him for around twenty-five minutes and asked him questions they had prepared in advance. Students learned how to better engage their audiences and the differences between scripted, partly scripted, and unscripted podcasts.
Mr. Faris Ridzwan’s AP Art course joined the field trip so that they could also visit the National Gallery for the 2nd part of the trip. In small groups, the students visited art from across Southeast Asia and Singapore. Additionally, they were able to visit the exhibition of the work Cheong Soo Pieng, which included general explorations of what constitutes painting and what makes paintings complete, questions appropriate to ask when considering this artist’s output as he used different materials in his work.
After a rather full day, the group returned to school around 5pm, excited about all they had learned.
SSMFC Students attend Johor International Student Leader Conference 2024
Six students from Secondary School - Jiwon Yoon of Grade 7, Elaine Yang, Joho Yoon, Sam Zhou of Grade 10, Theen Kanagasaba and Minjoo Kim of Grade 11 attended the prestigious 9th Johor International Student Leader Conference (JISLC) 2024, held on April 22nd at the KSL HOTEL & RESORT, JOHOR BAHRU. The students were chaperoned by Mr. Reaz Shaheed, Technology Director at SSMFC.
Themed "DIGITAL UNIVERSE: EXPLORING THE CYBER COSMOS," the 3-day event, hosted by the Johor Student Leaders Council (JSLC), provided a platform for young leaders to delve into the exciting and ever-evolving world of technology. Founded in 2010 under the supervision of the Johor State Education Department, JSLC has a rich history of organizing regular community-based and international programs for students.
The SSMFC students kicked off their conference experience on the opening day, where prominent speakers from esteemed Malaysian universities and government agencies shared their valuable insights. The topics focused on crucial areas for future leaders, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and the importance of digital transformation in education. The participation of SSMFC students signifies the school's commitment to fostering future-ready leaders who can navigate the complexities of the digital age. Drawing from the experience of this year's conference, some of our students have also expressed interest to present their own insights on the cyber realm at future events.
This potential collaboration is an exciting prospect for both JSLC and SSMFC, as it will allow students to share their knowledge and ideas with a wider audience.
Honoring Children's Day
Lower School students celebrated Japanese and Korean Children’s Day by dressing in clothes that honor the occasion and participating in cultural games.
Children’s Day is dedicated to celebrating the essence of childhood and acknowledging the welfare, joy, and rights of children. In Japan, the traditional Koi Nobori, or carp streamers, are widely recognized symbols of this event. Some classes created these during their printing unit in Art class.
We warmly welcomed parents for our afternoon festivities. The community enjoyed participating in the Japanese game Fukuwarai and the Korean game Yut Nori.
Lower School Music and Showcase
The 2nd Semester in Lower School Art has been filled with hands-on learning experiences as they delved into sculpture and printmaking. The sculpture unit had students learn how to use various forms of clay such as air dry clay, modeling clay, and their favorite, ceramic clay. It was weeks and weeks of rolling, pinching, pounding, sculpting, and glazing as they patiently waited for each of their creations to dry so that they could paint or glaze them for the final touches. They then transitioned into our printmaking unit and got to experience the art forms of relief printing, collagraph printing, and other techniques such as texture rubbing, stamping, and monoprinting.
The school-wide community will have an opportunity to see these works of art proudly displayed at the upcoming Lower School Art and Music Showcase on May 28 at the PAC from 2:30pm onwards.
Student-Led Conferences
On April 30th, Lower School student-led conferences were held, where students enthusiastically shared their educational journey by showcasing work from throughout the year. Additionally, students actively involved their parents in various educational activities to illustrate what and how they are learning in school. Highlights encompassed students presenting their academic journey and reflecting on their educational process.
Author and Illustrator Competition
Greetings, fellow book enthusiasts!
We are thrilled to share the exciting results of the Writers and Illustrators Competition held during the month of Book Week. This year, our talented writers and illustrators showcased their creativity, imagination, and passion for storytelling. After much anticipation, the results were drawn at the beginning of April where students received their awards during our community meeting. Winning entries are on display in the school canteen.
The first-place winners from each lower school grade captivated our judges with their outstanding storytelling and artistic skills. Their entries transported us to magical worlds, filled with vibrant characters and captivating narratives.
The second-place winners impressed us with their unique perspectives and imaginative illustrations. Their entries demonstrated a deep understanding of storytelling techniques and showcased their artistic talents.
Last but certainly not least, the third-place winners wowed us with their originality and creativity. Their entries were filled with charm and charisma, leaving a lasting impression on our judges.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the Writers and Illustrators Competition. Your dedication, hard work, and creativity truly made this year's Book Week a memorable one.
As we celebrate the power of storytelling and creativity, let us continue to inspire each other and nurture our love for books and literature. Thank you to everyone who participated in the competition, and we look forward to seeing more of your incredible talents in the future.
We are excited for next year's Book Week where we look forward to more fun events and activities as we continue to celebrate the wonderful world of books!
Early Childhood Beach Activity
The Early Childhood students have been exploring the public beach of Forest City with great enthusiasm. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to discover the diverse range of sea life that exists there. They found and observed sea cucumbers, crabs, seashells, seaweeds, and many other live creatures. As responsible adults, we took the opportunity to teach them about our contribution to providing these living organisms with a safer place to live. We did this by picking up trash such as water bottles and plastics floating on the sea surface. The kids also had a lot of fun learning with their friends. They shared and took turns using our buckets and sand shovels as they dug in and attempted to find a "treasure.”
Outstanding performance at MCM Swimming Gala !
On Saturday, April 20th, our swim squad, accompanied by Ms. Elaine and Coach Key, ventured to Marlborough College Malaysia for an exhilarating day of competition. Despite the challenges ahead, our students displayed unwavering determination and skill as they tackled events ranging from swift 25m sprints to demanding 50m and 100m races.
Their efforts paid off handsomely, with our students securing an impressive haul of 16 gold medals, 4 silver medals, and 2 bronze medals. Among the standout moments were Isabelle and Isaac Wong's stellar performance, as they dominated all their races in the U12 category. Additionally, our boys' U12 4x50m freestyle relay team showcased their skill and teamwork, clinching victory in an electrifying race, despite having younger swimmers representing the team.
These remarkable achievements are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship of our student athletes. They have done our school proud, and we eagerly anticipate their continued success in future competitions.
Congratulations to our swim squad for their outstanding performance, and let's continue to support and celebrate their achievements together! Go Team SSM-FC!
Mr. Vince (Athletics Director)
Secondary School Fit4Life Program in PE - Volume 3 (April 2024)
The Middle School PE 2023-24
It's with great excitement that we share the highlights of our recent track and field unit, where our students showcased their athleticism, determination, and team spirit. Here's a glimpse into the thrilling events that unfolded: The Sprint Races: The track was alive with energy as students sprinted towards the finish line in various distance categories. From the lightning-fast 100 meters to the challenging 1 to 3-kilometer run, every race was a testament to our students' speed and agility. The Long-Distance Running: Endurance was put to the test as our young athletes tackled the longer distances. With each lap around the track, they pushed their limits and demonstrated unwavering determination, inspiring cheers from spectators and teammates alike. The Field Events: The field events were equally electrifying, with students competing in the high jump, long jump, shot put, and javelin throw. Each participant exhibited precision, technique, and athleticism, aiming for personal best and cheering on their peers in the spirit of camaraderie. As we reflect on the successes and memories created during the track and field unit, let's celebrate the spirit of athleticism, perseverance, and unity that define our middle school community. May the lessons learned on the track inspire our students to continue striving for excellence in all aspects of their lives.
The Racket Sports Course 2023-24
High School We're also thrilled to share the exhilarating moments from our recent tennis unit, culminating in an exciting mini-tournament that showcased the talent, dedication, and sportsmanship of our students. Throughout the tennis unit, our students honed their skills under the guidance of experienced coach, Coach John. From mastering the forehand and backhand strokes to perfecting their serves and volleys, each practice session was an opportunity for growth and improvement. As the tennis unit progressed, students engaged in friendly matches against their peers, putting their newly acquired skills to the test. These matches not only provided valuable playing experience but also fostered camaraderie and mutual support among players. The highlight of the tennis unit was undoubtedly the eagerly anticipated mini-tournament. With competitive spirits high, students competed fiercely for the title of champion. The tournament featured intense matches filled with thrilling rallies, strategic plays, and impressive displays of athleticism. While the competition was fierce, the true spirit of sportsmanship shone through on and off the court. Players exhibited respect for their opponents, graciousness in victory and defeat, and a genuine appreciation for the opportunity to compete and improve their skills.
The Team Sports Course 2023-24
High School Furthermore, we're excited to share the thrilling experiences from our recent field trip to the soccer stadium as part of our team sports course. The trip provided our students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of soccer, learn from professionals, and gain insights into the sport's rich history and culture. Here's a recap of the memorable journey: Upon arrival at the soccer stadium, our students were greeted with excitement and anticipation. Guided by knowledgeable tour guides, they embarked on a comprehensive tour of the stadium, exploring the locker rooms, VIP lounges, and iconic landmarks that have witnessed countless historic moments in soccer. As our students returned from the field trip, they carried with them memories that will last a lifetime and lessons that will shape their journey as athletes and sports enthusiasts. The experience served as a source of inspiration, motivating them to pursue their goals with determination, resilience, and a love for the game. As we reflect on the impact of the soccer stadium field trip, let's celebrate the power of sports to inspire, educate, and unite us. May the lessons learned and memories created during this unforgettable experience continue to fuel our students' passion for team sports and drive their pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.
Save the Date: 2nd Annual Secondary Sports Day on June 7th!
Get ready to mark your calendars and lace up your sneakers because the 2nd Annual Secondary Sports Day at SSMFC is just around the corner! On June 7th, our secondary school community will come together for a day filled with fun, excitement, and friendly competition. Here's a sneak peek at what to expect: Our Sports Day isn't just about competition; it's a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and school spirit! Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From track and field races to soccer matches and basketball games to relay races, our Sports Day features a diverse range of sporting events that cater to every interest and skill level. Whether you excel on the track, the field, or the court, this is your chance to shine! In addition to traditional sports, we'll have a variety of inclusive activities and games that encourage participation and camaraderie among students, parents, and staff. Everyone is invited to join in the fun and show off their sportsmanship! What's a sports event without enthusiastic cheers and applause? Our cheer squads and supporters will be out in full force, cheering on their peers and spreading positive energy throughout the day. Let's make some noise and show our school pride! While the competition will be fierce, we emphasise the importance of healthy competition and fair play. Our Sports Day is not just about winning; it's about giving your best effort, supporting your teammates, and showing respect for your opponents. At the end of the day, we'll come together to celebrate the achievements of our athletes and teams. Whether you win a medal or simply participate with enthusiasm, your dedication, and sportsmanship will be recognized and celebrated.
Save the Date: June 7th, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Mark your calendars and get ready to join us for a day of excitement, camaraderie, and sportsmanship at the 2nd Annual Secondary Sports Day! Let's make this Sports Day a day to remember!
Stay tuned for more exciting updates and events from the secondary PE programs in 2023–24!
#FIT4LIFE #StayACTIVE
April 2024 Dorm Updates
April has been a whirlwind of creativity, adventure, and camaraderie as we dove into a plethora of engaging activities. Here's a glimpse of the highlights from this vibrant month:
🎭 Painting Props for the School Play with Mrs. Coyle: We unleashed our artistic talents as we collaborated with Mrs. Coyle to paint props for the upcoming school play. From whimsical backdrops to intricate set pieces, our dormitory became a hub of creativity and imagination.
🚤🏝️ Exciting Boat and Island Trip to Merembong Island with Mrs. Tanner: We embarked on an unforgettable journey to Merembong Island with the ever-enthusiastic Mrs. Tanner. Exploring beaches, looking at sea creatures in the the rock pools, and soaking up the sun, it was a day filled with laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
🏐 Crossnet Games with Mr. Tanner: Sporting spirits soared as we engaged in thrilling crossnet games under the guidance of Mr. Tanner. From diving saves to powerful serves, every moment was a testament to teamwork and sportsmanship.
🎨 Participating in the Art Open Day: Our dormitory proudly showcased its artistic prowess at the Art Open Day. From captivating paintings to mesmerizing sculptures, our contributions added a splash of color and creativity to the event, earning admiration from all who attended.
As we bid adieu to April, let's cherish the bonds we've forged and the experiences we've shared. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures in the months to come!
SSN Final Episode 12
Please check out the most recent episode of Shattuck Student News featuring stories regarding the AP tests, the talent show, and a football match.
Parents Meeting on April 16th & 23rd
On April 16th and 23rd, the school hosted two multilingual Parent Meetings. These meetings welcomed parents to participate either in person or virtually. The speaker, Dr. Fred Li, is not only a distinguished college counselor but also a senior physics & chemistry teacher. Dr. Li captivatingly shared valuable insights and information with parents, covering topics such as:
Dr. Li's presentation captivated the parents with a harmonious blend of composure and inspiration. His relaxed and approachable demeanor instantly fostered a warm and welcoming environment. The informative content he delivered instilled a profound sense of confidence in the parents.
Internet Speed Test? Meh. Here's What Really Speeds Up Your Home Wi-Fi
Ever brag about your internet speed test results, only to find your home Wi-Fi still feels sluggish? Speed tests are like showing off your car's top speed on a racetrack – impressive, but not what matters for your daily commute. Here's what truly gets your internet running smoothly:
1. Ditch the Router Relic: That old router your internet provider gave you? It's probably slowing you down more than anything. Upgrade to a newer model for a smoother ride, even with slower internet.
2. Location, Location, Location: Just like real estate, router placement matters. Move it to a central spot, away from walls and appliances that gobble up Wi-Fi signal. Mesh networks can be a lifesaver for Wi-Fi dead zones.
3. Ethernet: Your Wi-Fi's Best Friend: Think wires are outdated? Think again! Plug in devices like game consoles and smart TVs for a rock-solid connection that won't bog down your Wi-Fi.
Focus on these tips, and you'll forget all about those speed tests. Because after a certain point, it's about having a happy and healthy home network, not bragging rights about raw speed.
Reaz Shaheed
Your Friendly IT Guy
reaz.shaheed@ssm-fc.org
Feeling overwhelmed with your tech challenges? Guess what... we've all been there! Our Tech Support team is here to help. Reach out for tips on managing technology for your children at tech.support@ssm-fc.org
Enhanced Security Measures at Campus Entrance: Car Registration Required
Ensuring the safety and security of our campus community is a top priority. In our continued efforts to enhance campus security, we are implementing new measures that will affect everyone who enters our grounds. The primary reasons for this new security measure include:
Enhanced Safety: By recording car registration details, we can more effectively monitor and control access to the campus. This measure will help us quickly identify unauthorized vehicles and ensure that only those with legitimate reasons for being on campus are admitted.
Improved Security: With accurate vehicle records, campus security can respond more swiftly and efficiently to any potential threats or incidents. This added layer of security will help deter any unauthorized or suspicious activities.
Streamlined Verification: The registration process will facilitate smoother and quicker verification at entry points, minimizing delays and ensuring a more organized and secure entry procedure.
The implementation of this new security measure is designed to protect our campus community. By providing your car registration details, you contribute to a safer environment for students, faculty, and visitors, a more secure campus with effective monitoring and response capabilities, and an efficient entry process that minimizes unauthorized access.
Facilities Team