Head of School
Welcome

Dear TIS Families,

Welcome to our 2026-27 academic year. Whether you’re returning or joining us for the first time, we’re delighted to welcome you to our school, a proudly student-centred international community where care, responsibility, respect, and student centeredness guide everything that we do.

At the heart of the TIS mission is a holistic, student-centred approach, enabling them to reach personal levels of excellence. Learning is most meaningful when students feel safe and supported to grow, not just academically, but emotionally, socially and physically. We believe that children learn best when they have the opportunity to explore their natural curiosity and intrinsically embrace learning.

Through thoughtful planning and real-world connections, we prepare students not only to achieve academic success but also to develop resilience, empathy, and a sense of purpose, empowering them to make a positive impact on their lives and communities. Our goal is that students will build essential skills that prepare them to navigate real-world challenges with confidence and global-mindedness.

We’ve seen the results of this approach with last year’s graduating class achieving a 100% pass rate across both the Alberta and IB Diploma programs, with 81% reaching Alberta honours and an IB average of 36, well above the global benchmark. Students received offers from top universities worldwide and earned 745 million MOP in scholarships. Additionally, our alumni are as diverse as they are driven, from practicing doctors to game developers, architectural and clothing designers to engineers, and business managers to performing artists. This diversity demonstrates the importance of each individual forging their own path with courage and conviction. What unites them isn’t a single destination, but the freedom to pursue what they love. At our school, we encourage students to pursue their personal pathway, to follow their passions and pursue their dreams. We don’t prepare students for the future: we help them shape it, on their own terms.

From Pre-Kindergarten all the way to Grade 12, each child’s educational journey begins with a happy, united, nurturing space where curiosity is celebrated and every child is valued and respected. From first friendships to final exams, we walk alongside our students, supporting their growth, honouring their individuality, and providing them with the knowledge, skills and attitudes for personal success and global citizenship.

As we begin this year school-year, we thank you for your trust and partnership. Together, let’s continue to build the courage to innovate, passion to pursue excellence and character to embrace challenges.

Sincerely,
Lorne Schmidt