Head of School
Welcome

Dear TIS Families,

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, curiosity and connection guide everything that we do.

For over two decades, TIS has grown in remarkable ways, yet our mission remains steadfast: to nurture lifelong learners who are socially responsible, globally minded and equipped to make a positive impact on those around them.

At the heart of this mission is a holistic, student-centred approach, placing our students’ wellbeing at the core of learning. We have long believed that learning is most meaningful when students feel safe and supported to grow not just academically but emotionally, socially and physically. Wellbeing isn't an add-on: it's the foundation. It shapes how we teach, how we connect and how we build a culture of belonging across every grade level.

This year, we reaffirm this commitment by embracing Good Health and Wellbeing, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #3, as our guiding goal for the year. This continues our tradition of aligning with the SDGs to inspire purposeful authentic learning and global citizenship. Through this lens, students will explore what it means to live well, care for themselves and others, and contribute to a healthier, more compassionate world.

This focus will be present in our programs, conversations, and daily practices, reminding us that students thrive when they feel safe, supported, and valued. Our school-wide social theme this year, #LightTheWay, reflects our commitment to fostering strength of character, compassion, and courage. From classroom activities to outdoor experiences and community events, students will explore what it means to live well, individually and together, and to be a light for others along the way.

When learners feel supported in all aspects of their development, effective learning skills are developed. They will also build confidence to engage with personal development and charity, gaining a sense of purpose as a result. We’ve seen the impact of this approach with last year’s graduating class achieving a 100% pass rate across both the Alberta and IB Diploma programs, with 90% reaching Alberta honours and an IB average of 36, well above the global benchmark. Students received offers from top universities worldwide and earned over 800 million MOP in scholarships. View full results here. 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, their passions become our passions. We don’t prepare students for the future: we help them shape it, on their own terms.

From PK all the way to grade 12, this is where your child’s educational journey begins: in 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 lighting the way from wonder to wisdom.

As we begin this year school-year, we thank you for your trust and partnership. Together, let’s continue to light the way forward.

Sincerely,
Lorne Schmidt