Director's Wave | Volume 5 Edition 18

Dear CIS Community,

CIS is a special place that cultivates opportunities to grow, accept challenges, and pause to reflect. I am writing to share my decision to conclude my service as Director of Cayman International School at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. As of June 2026, I will complete six fulfilling years at CIS, thirty years serving in schools outside my home on my native land, and I will be knocking on the door of my seventh decade.

Whilst it is still eighteen months away, rest assured, CIS and the Cayman Islands will leave lasting impressions on my mind and heart. During my time at CIS, I have been privileged to witness remarkable growth and achievement. Together, we have celebrated outstanding inspection, accreditation and authorization ratings, 25% enrollment growth, elevated IBDP scores and participation, enhanced MAP scores, and the successful opening of a new building. We've strengthened our play-based learning, honed Project-Based Learning initiatives, expanded support for belonging, critical thinking, wellness and learning differences. We have navigated growth, natural phenomena, and challenges of the pandemic while maintaining face-to-face learning (remember masks, quarantines, testing, social distancing and more) - an accomplishment that reflects our community's resilience and commitment to excellence.

I am grateful to work alongside our exceptional team of educators, support staff, as well as the ISS and Dart teams. Your collective efforts, professionalism, and genuine care for our students create the foundation for CIS's continued success. The relationships we have built - sharing laughter, growth, learning, research, and much more - have enriched my professional journey beyond measure. An engaged parent community, particularly through the FSA, is an asset in creating a vibrant school culture. Your volunteerism, partnership, and enthusiasm - exemplified in events like our recent International Festival - strengthen our educational environment and build lasting community bonds. Thank you to Liz Duffy, Kris Evins, Tom Hawkins, and Dave Randall - our CIS Board - whose prudent governance and forward-thinking leadership have been / and is crucial in CIS' advancement.

CIS students remain a great source of inspiration, learning, and joy. Whether in classrooms, on playgrounds, engaged in service, performing on stage, or competing in sports, they approach each day with curiosity, energy, and promise. It is my privilege to play a small role in their development as they learn, grow, and prepare to make meaningful contributions to our ever-changing complex world.

As I look ahead to the next eighteen months, I remain fully committed to CIS's mission and principles, as well as ensuring a smooth transition for my successor, who will be fortunate indeed to serve with this exceptional school and dedicated community. With gratitude for the past, excitement for our continued work together, and optimism for CIS's bright future.

In appreciation, kindness, partnership and sustainability.

Sincerely,

Jim Urquhart
Director - Cayman International School