As we continue to define and exemplify what it means to be an IB school, we shift our focus from last year's theme of balance, to this year's emphasis on cultivating a community of inquirers. At CDS, our students have the opportunity to embody the spirit of inquiry from our early years program through graduation, and our faculty and staff are offered a multitude of avenues to increase their knowledge and explore ways they can enhance the student experience.
An inquirer is defined as someone who by nature, nurtures their curiosity. It is often in their character to enjoy developing skills and seize various possibilities to acquire knowledge beyond the classroom.
At CDS, we learn independently and collaboratively, cultivating our ability to be inquirers through various projects and activities, from science experiments to historical investigations, from camping trips to traveling to the other side of the globe. We are constantly seeking creative and culturally diverse experiences to incorporate into our lives and studies.
Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore topics in depth, and seek out new understanding. This inquiry-based learning approach nurtures their natural curiosity and encourages them to stay engaged in their studies. Additionally, students can enrich their academic journey through diverse and ever-expanding extracurriculars that push the boundaries of conventional learning.
Faculty and staff are given opportunities for high quality professional development that encourages critical thinking, self-reflection, and dedication to lifelong learning and continuous improvement. They are awarded innovative and diverse educational frameworks and tools, encouraged to continue their education and training, and can travel through exchange programs, all offered to better expand their horizons and best serve our school community.
As we begin the 2024-2025 academic year, balancing all the opportunities afforded to us, we will continue to share with our community the things we have done as inquirers that have inspired growth and change.
By fostering inquiring minds, CDS is setting the stage for lifelong learning and global citizenship. We are not just learners; we are thinkers, communicators, and compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.
If you'd like to read more about how our CDS community nurtures their sense of inquiry, you can read the Fall 2024 issue of The Talon HERE.