As the school year drew to a close, Tsinghua International School (THIS) held on June 16 a special "Parent Volunteer Appreciation Party" to express its heartfelt gratitude to all the parent volunteers who had devoted their time and energy to supporting school-home collaboration throughout the year.
With today's fast-paced educational environment, school-home partnership has become a cornerstone for nurturing well-rounded children. THIS parents have brought this partnership to life in the most vivid way, bridging school and family education with genuine commitment.
Heartfelt Thanks from the School
The event was a warm and joyous one. Executive Principal Renee Zhu delivered an emotional address, acknowledging the many concrete contributions parent volunteers had made over the past year. She said:
"Parents volunteers have always been an integral part of the THIS community. This year, I could say you were everywhere—from early planning to on-site service, from creative brainstorming to volunteer execution. Your dedication made every event possible. It's because of you that THIS feels like such a warm and vibrant family. On behalf of the school, I extend to you our sincerest thanks. You are THIS' greatest treasure and our strongest driving force."
Academic Principal Scott Pare, Vice Principal of Operations Toni Dong, and Vice Principal Weiky Liu also expressed their gratitude from their respective perspectives.
Parents at the Heart of Every Event
Looking back on this school year, parent volunteers, especially Parent Council members and parent volunteers, were actively involved in nearly every major event. From the lively School Year Opening Ceremony and Sports Day to the G20 Education SDG Dialogue, Open Days, the Chinese drama Wotou Guild Hall, Parent Info Sharing Sessions, Model UN (MUN), the Arts Festival Carnival and Charity Auction, and College Application Experience Sharing from graduating seniors – THIS parent volunteers were there at every turn.
At THIS, Parent Council members and Parent Volunteers consistently played a pivotal role. The book club and dance club they organized ran engaging activities all year, attracting not only parents but also many Chinese and expatriate teachers. These events fostered deeper emotional connections and trust between families and the school. The Parent Council Store also operated year-round, raising necessary funds through thoughtful management. These seemingly ordinary acts of service came together as a powerful force driving THIS forward.
Despite the busy end-of-school season, the school insisted on hosting this appreciation party to ensure gratitude was more than just a formality, but something conveyed sincerely to every parent's heart.
Warm Interactions, Joyful Workshops
One of the most creative segments was the "Praise Class" game led by geography teacher Mr. Kang Xiaofeng. Parents formed small groups, took time to think, and spoke words of appreciation face to face. What many thought would be awkward turned into an outpouring of genuine emotion. Once they started, they could not stop. Laughter and touching moments filled the room as parents expressed gratitude to volunteer partners, acknowledged teachers' dedication, and reflected on the journey of raising children together.
Afterward, parents happily participated in workshops including indoor sports, handicrafts, dance, and theater. Working in groups and trying new things, they relaxed and recharged, leaving with a deep sense of happiness.
What Parents Are Saying
Several parent volunteers shared their reflections, simple yet moving:
Yuan Juan
"As the school year ends, I've revisited every memory. Behind each one is everyone's hard work and selfless dedication. From donations to physical effort, each of us channeled kindness in our own way, lighting up every corner of THIS. Next semester, let's continue side by side, making THIS family warmer and stronger."
Fumika Yagi
"As a foreigner living in China, I was initially uneasy about volunteering at the Parent Council Store. But with support from over 20 volunteers, especially Jessie, the journey soon became fulfilling. I treasure most the friendships and sense of belonging we built – we truly became a family."
Sissi
"Two years on the parent council taught me: companionship nurtures growth, shared journeys forge friendships, and home-school collaboration opens minds. A win for all: what's not to love?"
Sara
"The classical music appreciation session organized by the Art of Living group was wonderful. It was insightful yet accessible, elevating our artistic sensibilities and reminding us that beautiful music can nourish the soul."
Renee Zhao
"Mr. Kang's 'Praise Class' gave me the chance to speak from the heart. I thought it'd be hard, but once I started, I couldn't stop. Today was the perfect moment."
Runhua
"Volunteering at the Arts Festival Carnival with other parents and teachers was a privilege. Seeing children dart between booths and cheer for performances—the campus radiated joy. It was a true celebration for the THIS family."
Yu Jing
"Looking back on a busy year, all I see are beautiful moments. Let's keep it up next semester!"
Pei Pei Liou
"Genius, Humble, Diligent—these three words define the THIS family for me. So many 'super parents' embody all three. I'm lucky to learn from them every day. Grateful for this encounter."
These sincere reflections were both personal takeaways and heartfelt tributes to the entire THIS community.
Thank You, and Onward Together
This appreciation party was more than just a gathering. Instead, it was an emotional exchange, a resonance of hearts, and a living embodiment of the "school-home community" ideal. It reminded everyone that educational success is never the work of the school alone; it is the fruit of trust, collaboration, and mutual care between families and the school.
Thank you to every THIS parent volunteer for your trust, support, and generosity. Because of you, THIS is a family filled with warmth and strength. Our students grow here not only in knowledge but in love and responsibility.
In the coming school year, let's continue this journey together, creating more unforgettable memories and writing an even brighter chapter for THIS!
Feel free to share this with other parents and spread the warmth!
And stay tuned for more stories of school-home collaboration at THIS.
