HOPE CONNECT

a new and convenient way to connect the HOPE community

January 31, 2020

Important Dates

FEBRUARY

3rd ~ Volunteer Child Safety Training

17th - 19th ~ No School

27th ~ Parent Teacher Interviews

28th ~ Afternoon School Spirit Activities 

MARCH

4th ~ YAPP Dodgeball & Capture the Flag @NISC

4th ~ FRIDAY Timetable

10th - 11th ~ IGCSE ART exam 

13th ~ IGCSE ART exam 

26th - 31st ~ Read-a-thon

APRIL

6th - 17th ~ No School - Khmer New Year

A message from our Deputy Secondary Principal

There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. (Luke 21:11)

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12)      

Whether reading through the Bible or studying history, it becomes clear that events like “earthquakes, famines, and pestilences” (or global health emergencies?) are not exactly uncommon. At the same time, this fact may not provide much comfort to those experiencing one--or all?--of these crises. Regardless of time, place or religion, humans have usually understood such events not as random occurrences, but instead as having a divine cause or significance.

For followers of Jesus, these events have often taken on added meaning, in light of his teachings about the end times, such as the one we find in Luke (above). There have been many points in the past where believers were convinced the end was near or at hand, and recent or developing events could certainly cause us to ask the question again.

In the midst of a new “pestilence,” school (and life) continues, and we may swing between fear or faith--all the while trying to help our students and children find healthy and appropriate ways to think and live. Being a hostage to fear does not seem a productive response. At the same time, neither does pretending there is no risk or chance of disease or death, or that life is not precious or fragile.

We appreciate your continued prayers for all of us during this season--not only prayers about how to respond, communicate, or “manage” risk--but also that we can see, hear and know God in all circumstances, and that the Lord will continue to “teach us to number our days.” 

To God be the glory,

Eric Wolthuis 

Notices

Mahiera is a student-teacher who has been completing her final practicum in Mr Kennedy's math class. Yesterday we had a morning tea together to say farewell and to pray for her and her teaching journey ahead. We are so grateful that you have been here at HOPE. 

Tips for talking with your child about the Coronavirus

Children with existing emotional health challenges are sometimes particularly impacted by concerns such as these, as it simply adds "one more thing" to their existing worries.   

Children with "big feelings" are also of course more prone to feeling worried and concerned for themselves and others.

It's important to be aware that some of these ideas and pieces of advice will be helpful for some children, but some might be less helpful.   Different children, in different situations need different approaches.  As always - as parents/caregivers you are the expert on your own child.  so you should feel free to choose the ideas which you think might be most helpful for you.  

Here are some ideas - a list which you might choose from - to use to support your child/ren who are anxious.

Learning Hub News 

Did you know…?

You can access and enjoy on-line Encyclopedia Britannica at home!

Follow this link to find out about all types of things!

https://bit.ly/3a86ExE

This will  take you to a login page. 

The password is hope

Enjoy!

“It is what you read when you don't have to that determines what you will be when you can't help it.”

― Oscar Wilde

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