BISE Speaker Highlights: More Opportunities for Student and School Collaboration

The 2017 Beijing International School Expo (BISE) is just around the corner and we’ve got all the information to help you select the best school for your child!

In this edition of 2017 BISE Speaker Highlights, we introduce Dr. Tarek Razik, President of the Association of China and Mongolia International Schools (ACAMIS) and head of school at ISB. ACAMIS is a network of school throughout China, Mongolia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau. The network provides member schools the opportunity for collaboration and host such varied events as sports tournaments, drama, public speaking, and other forms of competition. ACAMIS also provides professional development workshops for school staff members. Dr. Razik will speak on the role of institutions like ACAMIS in international schools.

What is your (Dr. Tarek Razik’s) background before coming to ACAMIS? When did you join ACAMIS? When did you join ISB? I have been a head of school at Pine Peace School, St. John, USVI from 1995-2000, high school principal at Shanghai American School from 2000-2006, head of school at Concordian International School Bangkok 2006-2009, head of school at International School of Beijing from 2010-2017.

What changes and/or developments have you seen from member schools in the 15 years participating in ACAMIS or since you have become ACAMIS President?
I have seen the implementation of a dynamic strategic plan, an upgraded website for informational purposes, top quality conferences and PD opportunities, and good leadership from our executive directors.

Is there any particular kind of school that ACAMIS hopes to include in its membership or focuses on during recruitment?
Membership requirements are specifically described on our website and help schools to decide if they are eligible to join ACAMIS. Basically, our requirements are similar to the accreditation standards from most accrediting agencies in terms of governance, safety, and curriculum oversight.

ACAMIS Volleyball Tournament for Girls and Boys

What opportunities do ACAMIS schools have to support each other? Are there or have there been coordinated efforts between schools to partner on issues outside of sports or professional development?
When ACAMIS began 16 years ago, there were very few international schools in China and therefore few opportunities for students to engage in sports or other activities. As the number of schools grew these opportunities became more prevalent in major cities. While ACAMIS continues to provide end of season team sports tournaments, student activities have expanded greatly to include individual sports as well as music, drama, and academic competitions. A range of five cost-effective professional development conferences and nearly 20 weekend workshops have been added to the ACAMIS profile of offerings. ACAMIS Head to Head links an experienced Head with all new Heads of member schools as a support resource if needed.

What opportunities (if any) are students given to participate in ACAMIS planning outside of sports events?
Recently students have been involved in planning for our new Technology Conference. They can also participate in Service Learning Projects.

ACAMIS Mathematics Competition

Does/how does ACAMIS give back to/partner with local communities in each respective country in which it operates?
ACAMIS is an independent self-supporting non-profit membership organization whose purpose is to meet the needs of its members. The presence of ACAMIS as the only professional organization of its kind in our host countries serves as a model.

Where does ACAMIS seek to grow in the future? Will there be expansions to other countries?
By nature of our name Association of China and Mongolia International Schools our activities and presence are limited by our Constitution and By-laws which were enacted by our membership and can be altered only by majority vote of the members. The present growth in China is more than a sufficient challenge for our expanding services.

How can parents participate in ACAMIS?
Anyone can apply to attend one of our conferences as a non-member. They can also attend and watch sporting and performing arts events.

What are some things that you believe ACAMIS can or will develop on in the future? Are there any upcoming initiatives you are excited to implement?
Our new English Language Learners Conference and Technology Conference help to meet important training needs in areas of great concern to our members. Emphasis will also be placed on linking university placement advisers directly with universities in countries of the most interest to our students and similarly, links with universities that offer renewal of teaching credentials and advanced degrees will help to support teacher personal professional development.

Want to know more about Mr Razik’s expert advice? Register now for the Beijing International School Expo 2017! You can also scan the QR code below:

Photos: ISB and ACAMIS