Elementary

Transitioning from a local school to ICS, I was initially anxious about adjusting to a new environment and different ways of learning. However, I felt welcomed by the community, and the transition turned out to be much smoother than I expected. ICS has encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, especially through opportunities in public speaking and leadership, both of which have been invaluable life skills. Leading the Service Warriors club, joining as a designer in the Marketing Club, and taking part in Week Without Walls allowed me to discover new interests and build meaningful friendships. I am truly grateful for my teachers and friends who have supported me and helped me to grow into a more confident and independent person.”

My daughter Allison joined ICS in middle school, and since then, it has been amazing to see her grow into a confident and independent young woman who truly takes charge of her own learning and development. With the guidance of teachers and University Advisors, she is thoughtfully charting her own path toward the university and major she’s passionate about. One of the greatest joys for us as parents has been witnessing Allison dive into activities she loves including service activities, interest clubs, and leading school committees. These days, I find myself much more involved in my daughter’s school life rather than her school work, supporting her in performances, sports events, and even friendships. It brings me comfort to see how the relationships Allison has built with friends and teachers at ICS have helped shape her into a thoughtful and mature young lady.”

Jordan moved to Hong Kong when his parents joined the ICS staff, starting as a middle schooler and graduating in 2012. After college and exploring other career paths, he returned in 2019 to work at ICS alongside his mom and sister.

“ICS has been a home for my family and me, first as a student and now as part of the staff. There’s a real culture of forgiveness and teamwork here; even through challenges like COVID, we’ve always supported and learned from each other,” Jordan reflects.

During my years at ICS, I was affectionately known as “Mr. Greeter.” Originally from Ecuador, I first came to Hong Kong as a missionary, later pastoring a church and teaching Greek at a Bible college. I joined the ICS community in 1992 when my son became a student, starting out as a volunteer before serving as janitor, security guard, and eventually as the school’s “official greeter” when we moved to the Shek Mun Campus.

I retired in 2018 with countless fond memories of students, parents, and staff who became like family. Whether riding the train with students after school or cheering them on at games, it was a blessing to share God’s love through a simple welcome at the door and to witness His hand in shaping this community.”

I started at ICS as an ESL student in Grade 6, and my teachers surrounded me with real love and patience that changed my life. Their care inspired my approach as both a teacher and a counselor. 

After twists and turns in my career, God led me back to ICS, truly an answer to prayer for work where I can walk alongside students and help impact their lives. This community still values warmth, understanding, and supporting every child’s growth, just as it did when I was a student.”

When I first joined ICS, my biggest challenge was finding a close group of friends. I overcame this by putting myself out there and joining sports teams that matched my interests, which was a game-changer. When you’re part of a team, you automatically join a community that trains, competes, and experiences all the highs and lows together – that’s where I made my best friends.

Beyond the classroom and the sports field, my journey has been further defined by our service trips, like traveling to Indonesia during Week Without Walls to help a village prone to flooding. These experiences were incredible highlights that pushed me to grow in my thinking and also offered an opportunity to develop spiritually through our daily devotions and reflections.”

When we were choosing a school for Joshua, we intentionally looked for an environment that values family growth. We wanted evenings for family time, not just homework and revisions. A Christian education was also essential, as we hoped for him to be influenced by like-minded individuals who would support building his character development.

Since Joshua joined ICS in Grade 6, it has been a gift from God to watch him mature into a resilient and independent young man. We see his growth everywhere, from managing his daily commute to balancing academics and sports on his own. It brings us immense joy to see him learning to take ownership of his life within ICS’s safe and supportive community.

A true highlight for us as parents has been supporting him at games and concerts. What stands out is that, unlike other environments focused solely on skills and results, the teacher-coaches at ICS prioritize character development and resilience above all.”

Alan joined ICS in October 2020 after working for years in engineering and facilities management. Although the transition was challenging at first, he’s grown to appreciate the community and values that make ICS special.

“At ICS, I’ve found a supportive environment where my work is truly appreciated—teachers and students don’t hesitate to say thank you. As a staff member and a parent, I see firsthand how this school values every individual,” Alan reflects. “Being part of a Christian community helps me approach my work with clarity and integrity, and I’m grateful for the extra time I get with my children. ICS is a place where growth, gratitude, and care really matter.”

Over nine years at ICS, I’ve witnessed many changes and met countless people, but what remains constant is the spirit of care that shapes every day here. I especially enjoy working at the entrance, where the pace is lively and I get to help students safely arrive and leave – rain or shine. It’s heartwarming when kids and parents greet me by name, sharing quick chats or jokes; these personal connections make the job special.

Whether it’s morning arrival or after-school dismissal, coordinating with colleagues and mentoring new staff, I’m proud to be part of a team that prioritizes safety and supports the ICS community.”