Back to School 2016!

BACK To SCHOOL ISSUE Volume 4 Issue 1

Saturday, September 17 10am - 4pm

- ADMISSION -

- PLENTY OF -

30 Baht

FOOD AND DRINKS

Children and Adults

GAMES RAFFLE PRIZES

Dear Readers Welcome back to another fruitful year at ICS! Sixteen months ago, I began my run as an editor-in-chief. When I realized this year marks my last year in such role, it sparked a degree of reflection. My title might be the same but The Quill and its brilliant members is profoundly different than it once was.

Along with our awesome advisor, Mr. Mark Cooprider, a fine number of new members from the freshman, sophomore, and junior class have been recruited, and I’m struck by the level of talent each of them possess.

The new teachers of high school grounds occupy the spotlight in this year’s Back to School issue, while the newest member of the senior Class of 2017 and sophomore class representatives take the limelight. And to get our community to know each other better, our team has put together a series of interviews offering insights into their lives—where they’re from, their interests and hobbies, what brought them to ICS, and so many more.

As you take charge of this school year, open yourself up to new things—new activities, new people, new mindset. It’s your year. Own it.

Quillfully yours, Titapa C.

Contents Volume 4 Issue 1

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Letter from the Principal Mr zach

Harms

Mr Dustin

Fromm

Mr andy

Fullington

Mr Allan

Fjording

Mr Darryl

dekock

Mr William

gill

48 54 60 66 72 78 84

Mr Dan

Pinsent

Mr Jonathan

moquist

Mrs Katie

pritz

Mr Joe

mcdonald

senior Session Kate Phoonsiri

Eagles’ Eye

Sophomore Class Representatives

Highschool Memories or ap’s

THE TEAM

Mr. Mark Cooprider Advisor

TITapa chaiyakiturajai EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

yihyun kwon Managing Editor

surawut withayarukson ART director

Ruchipat Kumpusiri Pann Sermchaiwong

Titapa Chaiyakiturajai Haripoom Prasutchai Yihyun Kw0n Jin Ha

EDITORS

Napassorn Wongakkarakhun

Layout Designers

Pawat Wirawarn

Photographers

Surawut Withayarukson

Surawut Withayarukson Pann Sermchaiwong Titapa Chaiyakiturajai Pawan Wirawarn

WRITERS Titapa Chaiyakiturajai Anvi Mehta Prisha Khimavat Arjav Sanghavi Naran Suvarnpradip Pumpanchat suthisamphat Vichida Phisitkul Chanaradee Leelamanthep Haripoom Prasutchai

Satida Limtrajiti Pawan Wirawarn Alex Nim-anong Tachapol Posaphiwat Yihyun kwon Jin Ha Gino Lin Pawat Wirawarn Erica kim

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from the Principal Photos by Surawut Withayarukson Dear ICS High School Students, Welcome back to another year of awesomeness at ICS! It’s hard to believe we are already four weeks in to the school year and quickly approaching the mid-1st-quarter mark! I have thoroughly enjoyed talking with many of you and catching up on your summer activities. I must say, I am astounded by the things you do and the places you go. ICS students were all over the world doing incredible internships, taking summer courses in some of the world’s top universities and summer programs, and working on a multitude of community service and Capstone Projects. Of course, there was also an abundance of sleeping, chilling and more sleeping. Good work. I continue to be blown away by the amazing students we have! Keep being awesome!

As we begin this year, I hope you see our learning community as one filled with teachers that genuinely care about you and are excited to be here teaching. I hope that you will find ways to genuinely contribute to this community each and every day.

Seniors, this is your last year at ICS! You have the opportunity to positively impact ICS in a lasting way. I encourage you to meet each day with the same fervor and passion that you have demonstrated over the last 3 years. Enjoy these last few months at ICS, it will be a time that you remember forever and it will go by faster than you think.

I am honored to serve you all again this year! May this be the best year ICS has seen yet!

God bless, Mr. Luc

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Mr ZACH

HARMS Interview by Titapa Chaiyakiturajai Words by Pawan Wirawarn Photos by Surawut Withayarukson

& Ruchipat Kumpusiri

M

R. ZACH HARMS–A VIBRANT ICS ALUMNI AND TEACHER–ONCE AGAIN FINDS HIMSELF WALKING THE HALLWAYS OF THE CAMPUS, GREETING STUDENTS WITH ECSTATIC SMILES. MR. ZACH NOW TEACHES HIGH SCHOOL WORLD GEOGRAPHY AND IS LOVING IT HERE AT ICS!

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Interview

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Please introduce yourself to us!

I am Zach Harms. I grew up in Thailand and graduated from International Community School (ICS), Soi Prong Jai, in 2004.

I’ve been teaching social studies to 7th, 8th, and 9th graders for seven years now. I love the students here! I’m married to Kelley—she’s beautiful—and I have a two-year-old daughter named Jordan. My parents were part of the founding members of ICS (1993) along with Ms. Aungsana and Mrs. Elsie. Back then, my dad had to teach 7 different subjects, like Art, English, Drama, and Yearbook to 5th graders through 8th graders.

A few years later, my dad became the high school principal while my mom served as the librarian and admissions coordinator.

What is your favorite memory at ICS as a student?

The Chiang Mai Basketball Tournament during my senior year! I played forward; we had a very good team, and it was just an amazing year. We won for the first time. We’ve never won before that year, and I don’t think we’ve ever got 2nd or 3rd.

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What made you decide to come back to ICS and teach here?

Coming back to Thailand was an easy thing to do, but I didn’t want to do the easy thing.

However, I feel like it’s destiny— like it’s meant to be. I was raised here in Thailand for a purpose, and I feel like I belong here because God wants me here.

Another factor was because I had quit my job in the States.

I was teaching for a couple of years in the States, and it wasn’t a very good job. So I just went to the principal and said, “I can’t work here anymore”. That same night, Darren Gentry, the headmaster, emailed me and said, “Hey! Apply to ICS!”. I don’t believe in coincidences. It was a sign; it was fate.

You left ICS for a coupleof years after teaching in middle school. Where did you go and why did you decide to come back to teach at ICS again?

We went to Texas for family.

My parents were there; my wife’s parents were there, and it was nice! It was nice having babysitters for Jordan; however, in the end, we realized that we left Thailand because it’s not our home, and we wanted comfort in Texas. We love ICS, but we weren’t comfortable staying here. We left because we wanted to be comfortable. So, when we were living in the States, we realized that comfort is not the

most important thing in life, and if you make decisions for selfish reasons, like “Oh, I want a babysitter for my kid,” or “Oh, I miss Taco Bell,” it’s just not right. That’s not the way you’re supposed to make decisions. So we came back because we both have the desire in our hearts to return to Thailand, and I think what happened was God let us leave in order to show us that we need to stay. Living there was comfortable! But, there was emptiness in my heart. So God used that to teach us that He wants us here. There are people I can serve here, and people I can help here. I’m supposed to be here. And that’s why we came back.

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You said that you didn’t feel like Thailand was home, so where would you say is your home?

Heaven is my home. No where on Earth is my home.

If I had to choose a place, it’s Thailand. But, I’m not from here; I’m a third culture kid.

Thailand is not my culture; America is not my culture.

I’m outside of it, so there’s no place I belong. All in all, the place that I feel most belonged to is the Christian Community and ICS.

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What are you most looking forward to get involved in or contribute to the ICS community?

Everything. Everything. I’ll probably be helping to coach girls’ basketball. My concern is the struggle to balance family life with work life. My wife needs me, my daughter needs me, but I also want to serve ICS as much as possible.

Every chance I get, I want to be involved, but I don’t want to neglect my family either.

Family is the most important.

But, if given any chance, if I can, I would love to serve and help ICS. What is your favorite food?

This is tough, because it changes, you know. My constant—for my whole life— it’s always been pizza, but that’s because it’s cheap and delicious. So, if I had all the money in the world, maybe it would be seafood. Right now, I really like KyoChon—this Korean chicken place. I also love Thai food. I had a really good SomTum yesterday, but I can’t have it too spicy. I love

Thai food; it’s just that I can’t handle the spice sometimes.

Thai food’s amazing. I especially like Thai food in America, because they make it sweeter and less spicy there. So, that’s good for my American belly! Thai Thai is just so hot! I like Tom Yum Koong, and if I find it where it has enough spice, like “Oh it’s hot!’, but it doesn’t make me cry, then that’ll be perfect.

Tom Kha Gai is my favorite Thai dish.

What is your favorite hobby?

Basketball!

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Mr Dustin

Fromm Interview by Jin Ha Photos by Pawat Wirawan

D

USTIN FROMM IS THE NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, REPLACING MUCH BELOVED JACK BARR. A FELLOW STRANGER IN ICS CANNOT ESCAPE THE EYES OF THE QUILL!

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Interview

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Please introduce yourself to us!

My name is Dustin Fromm.

I recently got married as of March 31, 2016 to my beautiful wife Jasmine. I am from Cleveland, Tennessee.

My mother Pam and my father Jack are still living there happily married. My brother, who is 28 years old, lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he works as a Financial Investor with North West Mutual. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science and a Masters of Arts and Teaching from Lee University. My personality would be described as high energy, caring, visionary, and passionate. I have been teaching for 6 years in the Bradley County School System back in Tennessee, working as a Physical Education and as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) Teacher.

What is your “sporty” background? What sports have you played or have you coached?

I played: 4 Years of High School Varsity Baseball, 3 Years of High School Varsity Basketball, 1 year of baseball at Walter State Community College, and 2 years of baseball at Lee University Baseball ( 1-NAIA World Series Appearance).

My coaching experiences include: 1 year as High School Varsity Assistant in Baseball (WV), 6 years as Head Baseball/Coordinator at Ocoee Middle, 2 years as 17U Baseball Coach at eXposure Baseball/Turner Baseball Academy, and I coached with Brandon Turner, who played with the Florida Marlins), and 6 years as the Assistant Basketball Coach at Ocoee Middle.

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What are your first impressions of ICS? It is a family oriented place, which is very important to me. In addition, it is constantly surrounded by people who are in love with the Lord.

What responsibilities do Athletic Directors have?

Being the backbone to our coaches for support and direction, scheduling, and improving the culture of the athletics here at ICS. What should ICS students expect from you as our new Athletic Director?

More streamlined communication! If you feel as you’re hearing from me too much, that is a good thing! To establish a culture in athletics, it first starts within our four walls here at ICS. In order to grow, we need support from our faculty and staff to give our students the opportunity to be a part of a team by mentoring as a coach.

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What values do you consider important for athletes to have?

Dad’s Seven Point Creed

1 2 3 4

Be true to yourself Help others Make each day your masterpiece Drink deeply from good books, including the Good Book

5 Make friendship a fine art 6 Build a shelter against a rainy day Pray for guidance, count and give 7 thanks for your blessings each day His Two sets of three

1 NEVER LIE 2 NEVER CHEAT 3 NEVER STEAL 1 DON’T WHINE 2 DON’T COMPLAIN 3 DON’T MAKE EXCUSES the golden rule

Treat others as you would have them treat you!

These are the values that I think are important to instill in our athletes and coaches.

This has been posted on my wall for all my years in which I have been a coach. In doing these things listed above, it can only allow you to get a little better each day.

What is your favorite sports drink?

WATER AND GATORADE!

Bulldog I had to leave behind in the States. I dislike cats very much.

What is your favorite thing about Thailand?

The opportunity of traveling and continually meeting wonderful people!

What are some of your hobbies?

My hobby would be spending time with family (it’s very important to me), traveling, fishing, hiking, watching American college football (Go Vols), loving on my wife, and any kind of sports.

Are you a cat person or a dog person?

Dog for sure--I miss my dog, Stella, who is an American

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Mr Andy

Fullington Interview by Gino Lin Photos by Napassorn Wongakkarakhun

M

R. ANDY IS AN AMAZING TEACHER WHO CAN’T WAIT TO SHARE KNOWLEDGE AND HAPPINESS WITH HIS STUDENTS. BEING A FORMER STUDENT OF MR. ANDY, I CAN’T STRESS HOW FUN IT IS TO BE IN HIS CLASSROOM. HIS ENTHUSIASM FOR TEACHING HIS STUDENTS WILL MAKE HIS CLASS AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE.

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Please introduce yourself to us!

My name is Andy Fullington from Southern California in LA county. What’s my personality like? Well, I like people, I like laughing, and learning. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A.) and a Master of Divinity (M.Div.).

What made you choose to come to Thailand?

We had come to Thailand to work at ICS in 1999, so that I could teach students and share the hope that they can have in Christ. We came back in 2009 to do the same thing.

I was at Prongjai for 3 years, and as of now, it has been 7 years.

What are some expectations you have for your AP World History class?

I expect that my students are faithful hard workers and that they enjoy what they’re learning.

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What are some of your first impressions of ICS? One of the first impressions I had since coming back is that school is big. It is as not as personal as it was at the Prongjai campus. But this current campus had many more opportunities that existed than at the Prongjai campus.

Could you tell us about some of your past work experiences?

I worked at Subway and Pizza Hut. I have also worked as a Gymnastics coach. I have been an operations manager for the Los Angeles office of a company called Quest Drape, Inc. Lastly, I also taught PE and Elementary School.

What are some of your hobbies?

I love skateboarding, surfing, martial arts, exercising, reading books, and adventures in general.

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Mr ALLAN

FJORDING Interview by Anvi Mehta Photos by Napassorn Wongakkarakhun

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R ALLAN FJORDING IS THE RETURNING HIGH SCHOOL PHYSICS TEACHER REPLACING NEIL CHIPMAN, WHO IS DEAR TO OUR HEARTS. A FELLOW STRANGER IN ICS CANNOT ESCAPE THE EYES OF THE QUILL!

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Interview

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Please introduce yourself to us!

My name is Mr. Allan and I’ve been at ICS for 9 years now. I love it here and I’m really glad to be back here in the high school!

What was your first impression of the ICS High School?

Hmmm…. First impression?

I guess the students are much more grown up in thinking and social behavior. Just much more grown up. It’s good! I love the change.

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What is your background in physics?

I actually taught physics at ICS at the old campus. I’m trained in high school math and science, and I have a double major in math and physics. So physics was one of my majors in college. I’ve always loved physics.

What should we expect from you as our new physics teacher?

Hard, but fair, and hopefully fun along the way while learning lots of things.

What is your favorite topic in physics?

Electromagnetism.

What is your favorite kind of dessert?

Mango and sticky rice.

Do you prefer cookie dough or cookies?

If Jessica (11) has made the cookies, then the cookies themselves, otherwise cookie dough.

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August 2016

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Mr Darryl

Dekock Interview by Prisha Khimavat Photos by Pawat Wirawan

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R. DARRYL DEKOCK, RETURNING TEACHER TO ICS, IS FULL OF ENTHUSIASM AND WISDOM TO IMPART TO HIS STUDENTS. THIS ESPECIALLY BELOVED AND ADORED TEACHER, YET TO BE FULLY INTRODUCED TO THE STUDENT BODY, SHARES A LITTLE BIT ABOUT HIMSELF.

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Interview

Please introduce yourself to us.

But, that’s a long story! Okay!

I’m originally from South Africa. I was born and raised in South Africa, but then my family and I immigrated to Canada about twenty years ago, and I was a teacher in South Africa, a teacher in Canada but then I got bored of Canada and we’ve been traveling the world ever since.

I’ve taught in China, Thailand, Mexico, and somewhere else, but I forget, and now back in Thailand.

Considering that you’ve lived your life in so many different countries, do you find it difficult to answer the question “Where are you from?”

I find it very difficult to answer that, because I consider myself to be both South African, fully South African, but also fully

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Canadian, because I’ve lived in Canada for twenty years now, and I love both countries equally. So, it depends on who is asking me the question.

Sometimes I’ll say I’m from South Africa, and sometimes I’ll say from Canada.

Can you tell us a little bit about your family?

My wife and I have four children. Our son and our daughter live in Edmonton, Alberta in Canada. One daughter lives in Savannah,

Georgia in the United States, and one daughter lives in Cape town, South Africa. So, it’s very difficult to decide where we went to visit and when.

Can you please tell us about your time at ICS the previous time you were here and what have you been doing since then?

I was here two years ago, from 2012 to 2014. I really enjoyed my time here, but during my

last six months here, I had health issues, and I felt that God was saying to me that I need to slow down and go and spend time without children, so we did that when we left here in 2014. We did that for about 6-7 months and traveled from place to place to spend extended time without children, and then I got bored as I need to be working. My health was improving and so we went to to teach in Mexico for about six months. We went to Cancun Mexico.

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Is your wife a teacher as well?

She’s not a certified teacher, but she’s taught where we’ve been going. She’s taught in Mexico, she’s taught in China and again last year she taught in China as well. She’s as ESL teacher.

Why would you say that you chose to teach English?

Ah! That’s not a very difficult question. As a child growing up, I had five brothers and sisters, so there’s six of us. My dad worked hard, but if you understand where I come from, I come from South Africa during the time of Apartheid, we were poor, we were really very poor. The only real outlet we had was sports, because we could kick a ball around and play soccer, or reading. There was a library close by us, a provincial library, and it was free. So, I just started reading at a young age, and I’ve just found that i enjoyed and loved reading, and so I guess that just built up my love for language and words and english.

What would you say is your favourite book?

I think, I think I’m going to say To Kill a Mockingbird, because I enjoyed teaching it as well. It’s simplistically written. It’s a simple story

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and it’s simplistically written and there are very powerful themes in the book and it’s a really wonderful book to teach and to read.

You mentioned earlier that during your childhood, sports and book were the two major entertainment outlets, so how do you feel about sports? Any particular likes and/ or dislikes?

Okay, let’s just say that I do not have an affinity for American sports, maybe because I’m not familiar with them, but my sports are cricket, and soccer - which is a difficult word for me to say because soccer isn’t a word, and it isn’t a sport. The

sport is football - and then my favourite sport is rugby, which I think is just the most awesome sport. I wish I could start it here at this school, but the school won’t allow it.

What would you say is your favourite phrase?

Okay, just as a background, when I was growing up as a child I wasn’t a Christian. My parents were good people, and we did go to church, but we weren’t strong Christians and I wasn’t a Christian. When I met my wife, I became a Christian and something that has stuck with me is, a sermon that I heard, its says “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all things will be added to you” off the bat, right? And I have found so far in my life that if you turn to God, and if you look to God first, blessings just seem to come.

It’s not something that you can explain, I can’t explain it, and I certainly won’t even try and explain it, but I have found that my life has really been blessed since I have become a Christian. So “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all things will be added to you” all blessings will come to you, and so that’s what I’ve lived my life by.

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Mr William Interview by Arjav Sanghavi Photos by Erng Wirawan

M

gill

R. WILLIAM GILL, THE SON-IN-LAW OF OUR VERY OWN MRS. SHEILA, JUST RECENTLY MOVED TO ICS TO TEACH WITH HIS WIFE. THIS BRITISH LITERATURE TEACHER TELLS US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT HIMSELF.

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Interview

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So tell us about yourself.

My name is Mr. William. I have a wife who works in elementary school, Mrs. Shaina. We got married last year, July 3, 2015. I have a bachelor’s degree in education and religious studies from William Carey University in Hattiesburg which is where we moved from. I grew up in Mississippi, in a town named Ocean Springs. As for my previous work experience, I’ve worked one year as a seventh grade teacher at West Meridian High school.

How would others describe your personality?

Others? Humorous, I guess intelligent? Witty, I guess.

Caring? There are others, I don’t know.

Why did you choose ICS? So last summer I came to visit Shaina’s family. And then I kind of got introduced to the ICS family. We felt that God was calling us over here. And we thought we should at least try and apply and see if can learn and be a part of the ICS community.

Why did you choose to teach English and more specifically, why British Literature?

Well, as a side job in university I taught ESL with one of my professors and

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that’s when I developed a real passion for teaching and I decided “Hey I think I’ll do this as my career”. As far as literature or British Literature in that matter it can really teach you multiple things at once; like one, it can help you express yourself. Two, you can read through British history and see the culture go way back and trace their evolution or their progress throughout the years and you’ll be able to see what’s going on in their world. And you’ll also be able to learn things about yourself cause you’ll read things that are from way back in the 1500s and it’s portrays exactly what you’re feeling or going through or trying to express here in 2016.

Who is the most important British author to you?

Most important to me?

Personally, I like C.S. Lewis

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the best, he’s my favorite. I don’t know if he’s the most important in the grand scheme of things, but he’s my personal favorite.

What are your hobbies?

I love watching shows with my wife. We love doing that, like just Netflix or whatever.

Some shows I like are House, Prison Break, and Person of Interest. I like action or drama type shows; those are some of our favorites. As to my other hobbies, I enjoy sports. In general I’m not that good at sports. I love watching them, I love playing them: basketball, football (American, that is), I stink at soccer. I love music. I can’t play it though, but I still love it. That’s okay right?

What is your all-time favorite novel?

Can I say a series? Harry Potter.

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Mr Dan

Pinsent Interview by Ja Suvarnpradip Photos by Pann Sermchaiwong

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R. DAN PINSENT, A NEW TEACHER HERE AT ICS, STEPS IN TO REPLACE MS. LISSA, THE PREVIOUS HIGH SCHOOL SPEECH TEACHER. SEEMING LIKE A BUSY MAN, DUE TO THE FACT THAT HE ALSO TEACHES MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE ARTS, HE IS ALWAYS READY TO SHARE ABOUT HIMSELF.

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Interview

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Where are you originally from?

I am originally from Corner Brook Newfoundland, Eastern Canada.

How long have you been teaching and where?

I taught English and History for four years in Toronto, and taught English, History and Bible for two years in Siem Reap, Cambodia. I was also an Assistant Principal in Cambodia.

Why did you start teaching speech for high school students?

I started teaching it, because there is a need for a speech teacher. I also taught similar classes in Canada before.

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What is one thing you would like to tell the other students regarding speech class?

Speech class is not just a class that you need to take in high school. I know speaking in front of people can be scary, but it can also be a lot of fun and can open a lot of doors in a lot of different areas of your life.

What is your first impression on the community at ICS? Has that impression changed ever since?

It has been really wonderful seeing how the teachers work together and how the students are so supportive of each other. I still have the same

impression, because it has just been really interesting to know the students and see different ways that they support each other everyday.

On a scale of 1 to 10, how quickly did you adapt to the way things work here?

I’d say an 8. I find it really easy to adjust to here. Starting in a new school is always a challenge, but ICS is a really special place and it is not as much of a challenge to set up and get started here.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us about yourself?

I absolutely love playing sports, mostly basketball,

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and I am really excited there is such a great community of basketball players here. I also play a little bit of soccer, volleyball, running, and cycling. I also played in bands before. I play the trumpet, the bass, and the guitar. I moved here to serve and answer God’s call. We feel like God is calling us here to serve the students and the families at ICS, which is why we moved to Southeast Asia in the first place. My goal is to be really open to God’s will and be really dedicated to what He wants us to do. I would like to say thank you to everybody for being so welcoming to me and my family.

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Interview

Mr

Jonathan Moquist Interview by Peak Suthisamphat Photos by Pann Sermchaiwong

A

S A NEW ADDITION TO THE ICS HIGH SCHOOL MATH DEPARTMENT, MR. JONATHAN MOQUIST STEPS IN AS A REPLACEMENT FOR MR. JASON SON, TEACHING ALGEBRA 2 AND GEOMETRY.

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Interview

Please introduce yourself to us!

My name is Mr. Jonathan and I am from North Dakota.

Years ago, I received a Math Education degree from the North Dakota State University. Prior to ICS, I have been teaching Pre-Algebra and Algebra 1 at a Middle School in North Dakota for three years.

I am married to my wife, Michelle, and together we have a year old child, Isaish.

Why do you like math?

As I constantly describe myself as a math nerd, I feel that my love for critical thinking and problem solving ultimately drives my passion for the subject. Ironically, though I am not a big fan of arithmetic, algebraic and calculus concepts fascinated me and kindled my passion for math. Additionally, I would like to implant critical thinking skills ,as well as, algebraic techniques within the students.

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Interview

Hobbies?

Like I said before, I love math, and I sometimes challenge myself for fun by solving difficult math problems. In addition, I like to play board games like Pandemic, because it pushes my problemsolving skills to limit. On the outdoors, I really enjoy ultimate-frisbee, though the facilities at ICS do not accommodate the sport. On various occasions, I would like to sit down and play board games with Mr. Mike, Mr. Jeremy, and Mr. Brad.

Why Thailand? And ICS in Particular?

Me and my wife chose Thailand, because we have

many great friends from Asia and we are intrigued by the culture. Mainly, ICS attracted me because the job is open and I saw that ICS’ mission was to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

What Qualities attracted you to ICS? I simply looked for a Christian school that would tolerate religious freedom and has a great academic program.

ICS fits the description perfectly. In addition, thanks to Ms. Amy and Ms. Aubrey, I was introduced to ICS.

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Interview

Mrs Katie

Pritz Interview by PunPun Leelamanthep

Photos by Pann Sermchaiwong

W

ITH PHILIP HARKIN’S DEPARTURE, KATIE PRITZ FILLS IN AS OUR NEW THEATRE DIRECTOR, AS WELL AS THE MIDDLE SCHOOL’S CHOIR TEACHER.

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Please introduce yourself!

My name is Katie Pritz. I moved from the United States to Thailand one year ago with my three children. I went to Oklahoma State University for my undergrad in Speech and Communication.

For my masters degree, I went to Midwestern State University in Texas for Public Administration. I paid for college with my vocal music scholarship.

Why didn’t you major in musical theater when music is your passion?

While I was in college, I thought I needed to get a real job, so that’s why I majored in Speech. I also thought that majoring in theatre was too specific of a thing. So I went with Communication. I have some regrets - I should

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have done what I loved.

Fortunately, I figured out how to make money doing what I love.

So what brought you to Thailand?

We moved to Thailand last year because of my husband’s job. In effect, I came to ICS first as a parent.

Why ICS? I wanted a medium sized school that had a good balance of academics and extracurricular activities. We looked at a lot of international schools for our children to go to but we decided to send them here since the academics was the most similar to the States’ curriculum. I also wanted a school where the

teachers really cared about their students too. When this teaching position opened, I knew this was a place I wanted to make a difference.

How long are you expecting to stay in Thailand?

I don’t know. I wish I knew, but I don’t. It’s a weird feeling.

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So now that you’re in ICS, what will you bring to the table?

Not only do I want to help other people figure out what they love and how enjoyable it is to participate in musicals and choirs, but also want to search for stars and bring out the best of them.

What musicals are you planning to do this year?

For our fall play, we decided to go with the “Best Christmas Ever”, which is based on a children’s novel. It’s very, very

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funny and very entertaining.

At first, the performing art directors decided on the “Sound of Music”, but when I took the job, I said that I did not want to do it [Sound of Music]. But as of now, I have not selected the musical for the spring play.

What were some of your favorite memories in your career in musical theatre?

I was Belle in “Beauty and the Beast.” I acted in “My Fair Lady”, Shakespeare’s plays,

“Damn Yankees”, “Hello, Dolly!” et cetera. Three years ago, I was part of the Military Spouses Choir, in which we competed in America’s Got Talent and got the opportunity to sing in Radio City Music Hall in NYC twice!

Here’s a clip of the amazingly talented Military Spouses Choir: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=bWx5MjvTvo&feature=youtu.be

The “Phantom of Opera” has such great music, but it’s more somber. So it just depends on what mood I am in.

What are some of your favorite musical pieces?

Well, goodness, there’s a lot!

The heightened energy of “Hairspray” the musical is just so fun with its great spirit.

Any last words?

If you have a super great talent, you NEED to come and see me soon because I’m making my decision in the next three weeks.

How about your favorite songs?

I really like Ashes Remain’s “On My Own” from Les Miserables. Another one of my favorites is A Change in Me, from “Beauty and the Beast” (Broadway).

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Mr Joe

Mcdonald Interview by Erng Wirawarn Photos by Pann Sermchaiwong & Surawut Withayarukson

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R. JOE MCDONALD IS THE NEW LEARNING SUPPORT TEACHER OF ICS. YOU MIGHT’VE SEEN HIM AROUND SCHOOL AND WONDERED “WHO IS THIS NEW GUY?”, SO HERE HE IS, UNCOVERING HIMSELF TO THE COMMUNITY OF ICS!

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Please introduce yourself to us! My name is Mr. Joe McDonald and I come from Australia. I have been teaching for 10 years in Australia. I have taught many subjects including PE, Geography, History, Business Studies and Sports Science.

In Australia I really enjoyed

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have always wanted to move here and we are thankful that God gave us an opportunity through ICS. What are your first impressions of ICS? My first impression of ICS was “wow”! I was really impressed by the people that I had contact with (Mr Luc and Mr Stephen) as well as the facilities.

What are your roles and responsibility in ICS being a Learning Support teacher?

As the Learning Support teacher my role is to empower students to be able to be the best learners they can be. I do this through supporting students in intensive studies class to help them achieve the best possible result.

surfing as my home town (Ballina, NSW) is near the beach.

What made you choose to come to Thailand?

I have been to Thailand three times before with teams from my church to do missions work in Chiang Mai. We

Since you’re coaching soccer, could you tell us what is so special about it and how has it played a role in your life?

I have played soccer since I was 3 years old and it has always been something that I have loved to do. I would always hang around my dad who would coach men’s teams and then started playing in the men’s division when I was 14 (I even scored the goal that won them the league!).

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What is your favorite soccer club?

My favorite team is the great Liverpool, I also support the Australian national team, The Socceroos (who are the current champions of Asia in case you missed it!).

How is your life in Thailand so far?

So far I love Thailand, the people are amazing and so is the food.

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KatE PhoonsirIi Senior Session :

Interview by Yihyun Kwon Photos by Surawut Withayarukson

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LOVELY NEW FACE HAS JOINED THE CLASS OF 2017! SHOWING ENDLESS AMOUNTS OF CHEERFUL GRINS AND SHINE, KATE PHOONSIRI IS HERE TO SHARE SOME OF THAT ENERGY WITH THE REST OF THE STUDENT BODY.

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Can you tell us a little bit about where you’ve lived before coming here to ICS? When I was three I moved to Jakarta, Indonesia, and lived there for two years. I later came back to Thailand and attended a public school called Satit Chula. Then, I went back to Jakarta for three years and attended a school called Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS). Then, I moved to Muskat, a city in Oman.

And now I’m back here in Thailand!

for me. Definitely the biggest difference.

Have you enjoyed traveling so much?

It’s an experience–getting to see so many things such as cultures and landscapes.

For instance, Oman is a desert country, so there were camels, taverns, and many Omanese would dress in their traditional clothings. It’s all pretty cool, but it is also hard to adapt to new school environments.

Any particular hobby or interest you pursue in your free time?

I’m a swimmer, and I’ve been on the swim team for 12 years. I also read books and play the piano. I’m always on Netflix browsing TV series- Game of Thrones yess, Walking Dead…

What are some major differences between Oman and Thailand?

The culture and religion.

Oman focuses on Islam, and that affected my daily life. I couldn’t wear short shorts or tank tops since it’s considered sinful. In Thailand, it’s all free dress, which I think is better

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What are some hopes and dreams you have for your future?

Honestly, my goal as of now is to go back to Oman to see my friends. I like the country itself. I like the way Omanese talk and the way they act, the population, the culture they have. It’s so different from ours. So when I came to Thailand, I wanted to return and be exposed again to the culture. That’s my goal.

Any tidbits or words of wisdom you’d like to pass down to the Eagle underclassmen?

Well, life goes on. If you're stuck with a lot of bad memories of friends in your past, don’t just stop there and grieve over your losses. Keep going on, make new friends.

Even if people talk behind your back, just don’t care about them.

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But being a senior, regardless of all these transitions, is meant to be full of a lot of fun and memorable experiences. Anything in particular you’re looking forward to experiencing and learning this year?

In general, I want my senior year to be fun and adventurous, but not a total frenzy. I don’t want to take any hard classes anymorethat was for last year. This year should be fun, not too crazy or insane- just fun. I also hope that I’ll change and get ready to face college.

The last question, and probably the most important, is- do you play Pokemeon Go? I do. I don’t have data on my phone, so I’m not obsessed with it. But yeah, I do play it sometimes.

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Interview

Eagles’ EYES :

Punpun Leelamanthep &PooM Sermchaiwong Interview by Haripoom Prasutchai Words by Alex Tam & Pond Posaphiwat Photos By Ruchipat Kumpusiri & Pann Sermchaiwong Interview

by Haripoom Prasutchai

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OW THAT OUR READERS HAVE BEEN INTRODUCED TO THOSE NEW TO THE ICS HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY, IT IS NOW TIME TO HEAR FROM THE TWO WHO HAVE ALREADY COMPLETED A QUARTER OF THEIR HIGH SCHOOL CAREERS: SOPHOMORE CLASS REPRESENTATIVES, PUNPUN LEELAMANTHEP AND TANAPOOM SERMCHAIWONG.

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F: Apparently, this is your second year in High School, but for how long have you been studying at ICS? At which grade did you enter ICS? P: Kindergarten-- this is my 11th year.

T: 2nd grade. I don’t know how many years that is.

F: How has your high school experience been so far?

P: I have lots of regrets. I should’ve played more in MS, so that I’d have more energy in HS. High school is somewhat harder.

T: It’s been fun, and a little bit tiring. There’s much more work than middle school.

Also, subjects are harder-Algebra 2 is a lot harder than Algebra 1.

F: Can you perhaps summarize your high school experience in three words?

P: Sleep, friends, surprise T: Very, very, unusual

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F: What is or are your favorite classes?

P: Biology and AP Biology.

The teacher’s nice, and I just like science and biology.

T: Definitely AP Computer Science, because we get to write programs. It’s fun that way. Algorithms are interesting. They’re complex, but they’re not overly complex. It’s like Algebra 2, but 10 times more fun.

F: Besides being part of the Student Council, of course, what other extracurricular activities are you involved? Which one is your favorite?

P: Last year and this year, I’m in MUN and the Quill.

Last year I also did Varsity

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Tennis. I guess that’s the most enjoyable, because they don’t actually have practices.

T: This year not much-- I mean Student Ministries-and that’s just about it for this year. Last year, I did Cross Country. So far, Cross Country’s my favorite. I enjoy running a lot.

F: What encouraged or inspired you to run for the class representative of your grade?

P: I want to make ICS great again. It also seems fun since you get to organize and represent your class.

T: *Soup spills out from noodle bowl and chuckles* I just wanted to make ICS great again.

F: So to those new to highschool, especially Freshmen or new students, what are your wise words of advice for them to succeed in and enjoy high school?

P: Make good friends-friends are the most important thing. All those studying is hard, but with good friends, it makes studying better and fun.

T: I think the most important thing is to avoid joining a clique or a group, because that really limits the amount of enjoyment you can get from HS. You’ll end up interacting with only a few people instead of the whole of HS. F: Well spoken.

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Opinion Editorial

“High School” memories or ap’s?

Words by Satida Limtrajiti

Photos by Erng Wirawan & Pann Sermchaiwong

E

ven though school has just begun, many AP classes have already assigned students a fair amount of work. At this rate, it’s expected for the course load for AP’s to increase significantly throughout the year, especially for those who have signed up for two AP’s or even four AP’s. With so much homework on one’s hands, it’s quite

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Editorial

reasonable that students who are taking a lot of AP’s are going to begin to withdraw from different clubs and school activities. But… is that the right decision to make?

Some students are taking AP’s for their college transcript, others are taking AP’s because it’s the subject that they’re passionate in. But is it worth it to pile on so many AP’s, only to drop out of different clubs and activities that help form the heart and soul of your high school memories? When looking back on your time in highschool, do you want your memories to be filled with the image of you sitting in your room surrounded by a stack of homework and textbooks?

For many, the answer would be: no. Don’t get me wrong,

taking AP’s is great -- they challenge you intellectually, they’re fun if you enjoy the subject the AP is about, and they help prepare you for the rigorous and heavy workload of college. However, I believe that there is a fine balance between taking challenging courses and overwhelming yourself to the point where you feel obliged to withdraw from the clubs and activities you used to enjoy.

Clubs and activities help students meet people; they help bring different people together by uniting them due to their passion for that particular interest. It’s a chance to connect with different people and meet new friends along the way.

For example, those with a passion for writing join The August 2016

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Quill, those with a passion to improve the environment join the ECO Club, those who love sports join a sports team, and so on. Joining clubs and activities open up an opportunity to participate in the hobbies that one is passionate about.

High school should not only be about studying and the experience. Alongside academics, students should also join clubs and activities that they love and enjoy.

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Editorial

High school is about meeting new people and exploring interests. When you look back on memories, don’t let them be filled with images of you buried in a stack of AP work (okay, maybe some of them will be that way). At least, on top of academics, have most of your memories be filled with the hobbies you love as well. So...High school memories or AP’s? I’d say, replace the ‘or’ with ‘and’...

That way, you’ll get the best of both worlds.

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