SSIS Vietnam Education Leadership Conference 2025

It’s not every day that 15 schools come together to exchange ideas and inspiration. Last week, we opened our doors to educators from across Vietnam, and while the focus was professional learning, it was our students who stole the show.

In Grade 2, students engaged in a hands-on exploration of the effects of light, conducting investigations using different materials to influence a light beam. Middle Schoolers proudly showcased how AI tools amplify creativity in art, while High School students used project-based learning to produce thought-provoking video documentaries.

Making Thinking Visible

The learning our students shared was not just about showcasing skills—they were about making thinking visible. As Director of Education Technology Don McNamee explained, turning abstract processes into tangible outputs helps students communicate their ideas and refine their understanding. It’s the mindset behind everything we do, from sparking curiosity in young learners to fostering independence in older students.

Building Critical Habits for a Changing World

Whether building AI-driven narratives, exploring light and design, or presenting their ideas confidently to visiting educators during a conference, our students are developing the traits needed to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

Skills like collaboration, agency, and responsibility—once considered “invisible”—are now a part of each child’s progress report, through our "Habits of a Learner," ensuring that our students develop these essential competencies.

By nurturing these critical habits, we’re preparing students not just for academic success, but for a lifetime of meaningful contributions in an ever-changing world.

Inspiring a Ripple Effect

We are deeply grateful to the many educators who attended the conference, providing our students with a unique opportunity to share their learning in impactful ways. These moments not only inspire confidence and communication but also highlight the transformative power of making thinking visible.

As the conference concluded, participants reflected on the question: What did you see today that you want to start tomorrow? We hope the ideas and inspiration shared here will ripple outward, creating opportunities for students in schools across Vietnam to develop their voices, showcase their talents, and thrive in environments that nurture their growth. Together, we can shape a future where all learners are empowered to shine!