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High School Launches “Coffee Time” to Strengthen Parent-School Connections

October 23, 2025


To diversify parent-school engagement, Shanghai High School International Division (SHSID) High School has introduced a weekly “Coffee Time” as part of its communication channels this semester. This new initiative invites parents of Grades 9 to 12 to voluntarily sign up and visit the campus, where they can engage in relaxed, face-to-face conversations with school administrators, grade head teachers, and college counselors. The sessions promote in-depth discussions on educational philosophies and student development plans. Since its launch, “Coffee Time” has generated enthusiastic participation, with four successful sessions already held, fulfilling the expected impact.



The inaugural “Coffee Time” event welcomed Grade 12 parent representatives for discussions with school leaders, the grade head teacher, and the college counselor about the college application season. Parents shared their children’s academic and summer activity experiences, discussing study habits and well-being. Drawing on extensive experience, the school offered practical advice, encouraging parents and students to set clear goals, highlight unique strengths, and embrace challenges with confidence.



The Grade 11 “Coffee Time” focused on academic planning and family-school collaboration. Parents shared insights on family education and explored ways to better support their children. Teachers recommended that parents serve as supportive companions, guiding students to discover their own developmental paths. The relaxed, engaging atmosphere was warmly praised, with parents expressing enthusiasm for supporting the school’s initiatives.



The Grade 10 “Coffee Time” focused on long-term student development planning. Parents actively contributed ideas, while teachers offered diverse suggestions for academic and personal growth. They encouraged students to combine family discussions with school counseling to clarify course choices and future interests, participate in community service to build social responsibility, explore interdisciplinary studies, and strategically choose meaningful extracurricular activities to highlight personal qualities and leadership.



The Grade 9 “Coffee Time” focused on students’ transition to high school and long-term planning. School leaders and grade head teachers introduced multi-platform communication channels to keep parents informed. They emphasized the importance of fostering reading habits and critical thinking, encouraging students to explore interests through campus projects, and balancing development in STEM and social sciences. Through open dialogue, parents and the school reached a shared understanding: working together to support each child’s steady progress at their own pace.


Building on existing school-family communication methods like Principal's Lunch, PTSA meetings, Parent School, and Suggestion Box, "Coffee Time" has been introduced as a new format, further strengthening the connection between school and family. In the future, the school will continue to explore more relaxed and innovative ways of communication, working closely with parents to support students' holistic development and pave the way for their future success.



(Written by G9-12 Groups   Pictures by High School School Affairs Office   Edited by Ms. Shi Hanyue   Reviewed by Ms. Gu Ying, Ms. Shen Chenli   Proofread by Mr. Cody Turner)