On September 22, 2023, Grade 11 students from Saigon South International School recently set out on a unique voyage. Ferried in boats during two separate shifts, more than 100 students engaged in a Rạch Đỉa riverside cleanup outside of the campus, deepening their connection to their neighborhood and their awareness of the role each individual plays in larger environmental issues.
“I hope this is the first of many such efforts,” Head of School Dr. Catriona Moran told students before boarding the boat to work with them side-by-side.
“I think we should do this more often,” Grade 11 student Olivia shared, embodying the enthusiasm of the group to contribute meaningfully. It is clear that the Core Value of “Dedicated Service,” a cornerstone of the SSIS philosophy, is alive in its students.
And although this was the first time for this effort, part of the school’s “Week Without Walls” initiative which takes SSIS students beyond the classroom for tangible, real-world experiences focusing on service, the positive feedback from all about the river clean-up indicates that it won’t be the last time.
