I still get excited for the first day of school after all these years at international schools. We started the school year on Tuesday with a “First Bell” (первый звонок) ceremony that marks the beginning of the school year in Uzbekistan. The bell symbolizes the “call to knowledge” and marks the transition from summer freedom to the structured world of learning. A preschool student (representing new beginnings) and 12th grade student (representing the culmination of school education) will ring the bells to literally and symbolically, call the students to begin their educational journey for the year. Humoyun and Emily were excellent representatives and as the oldest student, Humoyun calmed an anxious preschool Emily who was not used to being the center of attention. The ceremony took place in our beautiful TIS Park with hopeful parents, students, and employees ready to start the 2025-2026 school year. It only took a few minutes, but these symbolic gestures are important for communities to mark special occasions.
We also had a bit of fun in the secondary school opening assembly introducing the new faculty to the 300 students in the gymnasium. I was inspired by the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls of the 1990s and used Alan Parsons Project’s “Sirius” and introduced the teachers as they were professional basketball players. I think the students appreciated the entertaining manner of welcoming new and some returning, faculty members.
The PTO capped the week a well received Picnic yesterday. The parents organized activities, including kite flying, face painting, basketball, etc. for students. They absolutely loved it, especially the little ones! We are feeling the increased enrollment with so many more new parents enjoying the festivities.
The Tashkent International School year #31 is off and running!
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