On the afternoon of August 31st, SHSID students returned to campus after a two-month summer vacation. In the Xianmian Building, ASB members had thoughtfully arranged a welcome back event for senior students centered around the theme “The Last First Day of School,” creating a warm and encouraging atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Zhongxing Building was also filled with a vibrant welcome energy, as teachers warmly greeted students in Grades 9 to 11. The campus was once again alive with laughter and joyful reunions.

Grades 11-12 Opening Ceremony

On the afternoon of August 31st, SHSID juniors and seniors gathered in the grand auditorium for their opening ceremony, hosted by Ms Liu Qin, high school assistant principal and director of the student center. The ceremony began with a review of summer and previous semester student activity highlights, signalling the start of 2025 academic year.

Principal’s Address

High school principal, Mr. Ma, addressed the students. Starting with recent developments in technology over the summer, he analyzed the rapidly advancing landscape of technological innovation and offered advice on how students can respond to these trends. He then introduced several new measures the school is implementing this semester to enhance student well-being and improve communication across campus. Principal Ma also shared two major upcoming events: the 160th anniversary of Shanghai High School this October, and the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), which will be hosted at Shanghai High School in July 2026. He highlighted volunteer opportunities during the IMO and encouraged students to take part and witness these memorable moments.

Teachers’ Speech

Grade 12 head teacher, Ms. Yu Zhen, offered valuable advice to students entering the college application season. She encouraged them to balance academics and applications, emphasizing that diligence, self-management, and a positive mindset are key to success. She also reminded everyone to stay healthy, pursue their passions, and make their final year of high school a meaningful one.

Grade 11 head teacher, Ms. Wu Chen, encouraged students to strengthen their academic foundation, explore personal interests, and clarify future goals in this pivotal year. She advised them to manage their time proactively, set reasonable goals, and develop resilience and a calm mindset in the face of challenges.

Mr. Sun Hao, speaking on behalf of all homeroom teachers, reminded students to take initiative and responsibility in their academics and college applications. He emphasized that this period is not only challenging but also an important opportunity for self-discovery and identity formation. He also assured students that all homeroom teachers are committed to providing full support and assistance.

Students’ Speech

Arianna, from Class 12-3, shared her experience in the Summer Science Program (SSP) and expressed gratitude for the school’s support system—friends and teachers who had always cared for her. She encouraged her peers not to shoulder the challenges of Grade 12 alone but to seek help and guidance from teachers and friends whenever needed.

Kevin, from Class 12-6, reflected on the deep friendships and sense of belonging he had built at SHSID. “We are a noisy, competitive, and sometimes stressed group,” he said, “but we are always a family.” He called on everyone to support each other, grow together, and cherish the time they have left, creating more wonderful memories.

Hans, from Class 11-1, spoke about the importance of “stepping back” to gain perspective. He believes this approach helps people better understand the meaning behind their choices and achievements. Keeping the bigger picture in mind, he said, can help everyone overcome temporary setbacks, recognize that no failure is insurmountable, and find growth in every challenge.

Ariel, from Class 11-6, shared how extracurricular activities—such as creative writing, Model UN, and swimming—had helped her understand herself better and achieve personal growth. She encouraged everyone not to give up on what they love because of difficulties, stressing that persistence is what builds confidence and excellence.

Awards Ceremony

Outstanding students from both grades were recognized with the Principal’s List Award, Social Activity Award, and Academic Achievement Award for the 2024 school year. The audience applauded warmly to celebrate the recipients’ excellent accomplishments in various fields. We look forward to seeing students in Grades 11 and 12 continue to grow and surpass themselves in the new semester.

G9-10 Opening Ceremony

On the morning of September 1st, the opening ceremony for Grades 9-10 was held in the school auditorium. The ceremony commenced under the hosting of Ms. Liu Min, Vice Principal of the SHSID. With a meticulously produced retrospective video, she led all teachers and students in reliving the memorable moments of the past academic year, which were filled with growth and laughter.

Principal’s Address

Principal Ma first welcomed all the students back to campus. He specially addressed the new ninth-grade students: transitioning from middle school to high school is not just a change of building but also a significant shift in the stage of learning. High school will offer students more abundant resources and greater autonomy, while also requiring increased self-discipline and personal responsibility.

Principal Ma also shared a story about robots—from his childhood imagination when "robots only existed in science fiction" to today's reality where artificial intelligence has become deeply integrated into our lives. He emphasized that an era of transformation has arrived and encouraged everyone to courageously embrace change, stating that the future holds boundless hope for those who dare to explore.

Teachers’ Speech

Grade 9 head teacher, Ms. Chen Lin, emphasized that Grade 9 is a critical period as students transition from middle to high school. She encouraged everyone to develop good habits, self-discipline, and teamwork, and to take advantage of the school’s academic, artistic, club, and community service resources to explore their potential and embark on their high school journey.

Grade 10 head teacher, Ms. Zhang Yueyue, advised students to break long-term goals into manageable tasks, strengthen their academic foundation, and actively discover their interests and talents. She reminded everyone to balance academics and activities, make the most of this important growth stage, and embrace the new semester with greater independence and maturity.

Ms. Ye Zhen from the TA Office provided tailored advice for the new semester. She encouraged students to visit the Teacher Advisors' office in their free time for professional support—whether regarding course selection, extracurricular practice, or exploring their interests.

Mr. Liao Hui from the STEAMS office mentioned that students achieved remarkable results last semester, and there will be plenty of competition opportunities this term. Students interested in fields such as engineering, mathematical modeling, biology, or related areas are warmly welcome to visit the STEAMS office and consult with their team to plan their innovation journey.

Students’ Speech

Sunny, from Grade 9, reflected on her growth at SHSID from elementary and middle school to now entering high school. She acknowledged that challenges are inevitable but stated that these experiences build strength and independence. She encouraged everyone to keep learning and improving, striving to become individuals who make a positive impact.

Lola, from Grade 10, looked back on her personal growth over the past year and shared her hopes for the new semester. She called on her peers to stay focused on academics while also exploring their interests to enrich their high school experience. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience.

Awards Ceremony

The awards session was an inspiring highlight. Students who received the Principal’s List Award, Social Activity Award, and Academic Achievement Award for the 2024 school year were called on stage to receive their certificates amid continuous applause. This recognition not only honoured their hard work over the past year but also motivated all students to strive for excellence in the new semester.

With the successful conclusion of the opening ceremonies for Grade 9-10 and Grade 11-12, the 2025 school year has officially begun. May every SHSIDer embrace this new beginning with passion and determination, continuously push beyond their limits in the pursuit of knowledge, never stop moving forward on their journey of growth, and write their own extraordinary chapter in high school.

(Written by 9（6）Amy，9（11）Chaewon，9（11）Emily , 9（6） Arianna , 12（2）Gabrielle　　Photos by SHSID Media Group, Mr. Sun Hao　　　Supervised by Ms. Lijia Yu, Ms. Sijia He　　Edited by Ms. Wang Tongyan　　　Reviewed by Ms. Shen Chenli, Ms Gu Ying)