G9-G10 Opening Ceremony

As winter fades and spring arrives, a new semester begins. On March 2, all teachers and students of Grades 9–10 at Shanghai High School International Division gathered in the school auditorium for the opening ceremony of the second semester of the 2025–2026 academic year, kicking off a brand-new chapter together.

The first speaker was Vice Principal Liu Min. She reviewed the students’ outstanding performances in sports, science and innovation competitions, as well as cultural and artistic activities last semester, fully affirming their growth and innovation through passion. She pointed out that the core of international education is diversity, encouraging students to find a path that truly suits them, follow their hearts and passions instead of blindly following others.

In the face of challenges and uncertainty about the future, she comforted the students that there is no need to feel anxious. Instead, they should allow themselves to slow down and learn to grow from setbacks. Regarding the challenges of the AI era, she emphasized that curiosity, critical thinking and creativity are the most irreplaceable core strengths. Finally, she introduced the diverse courses and activities planned for this semester, encouraging everyone to seize the opportunities and achieve their own success in the new semester.

Next, Mr. Zhao Tao, the teacher representative from Grade 9, delivered a speech and offered encouragement to all students entering the new semester. He looked back on the hard work and impressive achievements of the Grade 9 Service Group, Chemistry Competition Club as well as other teams in the previous semester, and praised the students for their consistent learning and exploration during the winter vacation. He hoped that all students would continue to take responsibility, stay enthusiastic and focused on their studies, pushing themselves to make new breakthroughs in the new semester.

Grade 9 student representative, Leo, shared his journey through the first half of his freshman year, emphasizing the importance of persistence and time management. He shared how his role as class chief monitor helped him learn the value of persistence and how he optimized the use of free time to balance studies with German practice. Finally, Leo thanked the school for exploration opportunities and encouraged students to actively engage with teachers in the process of finding their own paths.

Grade 10 teacher Mr. Zhuang took the stage next, praising the grade’s various volunteer teams for their contributions in maintaining campus order and atmosphere. He then offered students a preview of the second semester, introducing Mix Day and encouraging students to actively participate in said event, and finally wishing everyone a fulfilling semester.

Grade 10 student Xiaoxiao, well known in the grade for her role as director of the Math Drama, shared how she manages her chaotic schedule. Alluding to the recent Winter Olympics, she emphasized the importance of self-trust and urged students to focus on controllable efforts and small daily choices in the coming semester.

The representative of Teacher Advisors office, Mr. Wu emphasized the importance of setting clear goals and maintaining perseverance in the new semester. He encouraged students to build strong study habits, manage time effectively, and balance academics with personal interests. By making full use of academic guidance, arts programs, and STEAM opportunities, students can continue to explore their potential and strengthen both independence and responsibility.

Alfie from Class 10(2), President of the Associated Student Body, delivered a speech reviewing the achievements of the past semester and sharing plans for the months ahead. He began by expressing sincere gratitude to teachers, ASB members, helpers, and students who supported school events and offered valuable suggestions. In the first semester of the 2025–26 school year, the ASB assisted in organizing major events including the Sports Meet, Circuscape, the English Speech Contest, and the “Welcome to Whoville” Christmas Lunch during Energy Day. Behind the scenes, members devoted tremendous effort—writing over 21,000 words in proposals, holding more than 25 meetings, and coordinating ticket sales and event preparations. Alfie highlighted the collaboration among different departments, whose dedication ensured each activity ran smoothly. Looking forward, he announced the return of Summer Bash and Knowledge Knockout. He encouraged everyone to actively participate, continue sharing ideas through the suggestion box, and make this semester meaningful through involvement and teamwork.

Finally, the representative teachers of each subject presented blessings to all students in the form of Spring Festival couplets, wishing everyone to gallop ahead with vigor, progress steadily with long-term vision, and achieve immediate success in the new year.

With the conclusion of the ceremony, the 2026 spring semester has officially begun. May every student move forward with confidence and passion, embracing challenges and writing your own splendid chapter from this new starting point.

G11-G12 Opening Ceremony

On March 2nd, the opening ceremony for the second semester of the 2025 academic year of our school kicked off as scheduled. All teachers and students of Grades 11 and 12 gathered together for the ceremony, which was hosted by Ms. Liu Qin, Assistant Principal of the Senior High Section. With high spirits, the students welcomed the new semester and embarked on a new journey of growth together.

Ms. Wu Chen, Head of Grade 11, delivered a speech on the theme "Be the Navigator of Your Own Future," offering practical advice on academic planning and university preparation. She underscored the pivotal nature of this stage in their high school journey, encouraging students to leverage available school resources, which would propel them forward with strength and purpose.

Following her remarks, Grade 11 student representative Chingmo took the stage to share his personal reflections on "trade-offs, persistence, responsibility, and belief." He encouraged his peers to have trust in their latent potential and boldly explore the realms of new possibilities.

Building on this personal note, fellow Grade 11 student Sofia recounted her experiences navigating the pressures of the previous semester's A-Level examinations. She framed these challenges as catalysts for personal growth, advising her peers to maintain a sustainable pace during intense study periods, proactively seek guidance from teachers, and boost confidence through consistent, daily effort.

Transitioning to the graduating class, Head of Grade 12 Ms. Yu Zhen posed the question: "Why continue learning?" She looked back on the demanding college application season, acknowledging the progress students demonstrated in time management and academic efficiency. Ms. Yu highlighted the importance of learning and outlined the school's support for graduates transitioning to university life, urging students to cherish their remaining time in high school.

Grade 12 representative Aaron shared his insights from his experience founding an environmental protection club during his high school years. He motivated the students to embrace initiative, fully utilize the platforms available to them, and actively share their experiences to inspire others.

Closing the student addresses, Grade 12 representative Chloe then delivered a heartfelt speech centered on gratitude, reminding her peers that teachers, friends, and family constitute an unwavering support system. She articulated her aspiration to reciprocate the assistance she has received by contributing meaningfully to society and perpetuating a cycle of kindness.

Director of the Student Center, Ms. Liu Qin, addressed the student body to discuss the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence innovations and technologies in recent years. She acknowledged the powerful capabilities of AI, highlighting its role as an excellent tool for boosting efficiency and productivity. However, Ms. Liu emphasized that while these tools are beneficial, they should serve as aids to the learning process and not become a crutch that hinders students from developing their own critical thinking and foundational knowledge.

The opening ceremony drew to a successful close with New Year wishes from the monitor of each Grade 11 and 12 class. As the clarion call for the new semester has sounded, all teachers and students of Grades 11 and 12 in our school will forge ahead with firmer goals and more down-to-earth actions, unite as one, and strive with steady resolve to meet all the challenges of the new semester hand in hand, writing a new chapter of splendor on the journey of growth.

(Written by 10-9 Victor, 10-11 Chaewon, 10-8 Joy, 10-11 Emily, 10-6 Arianna, 11-2 Andrea, 11-3 Amanda    Pictures by SHSID Media Center     Supervised by Yu Lijia, Zhang Dongsheng   Reviewed by Gu Ying, Shen Chenli)