YCIS-SV Community Connection

Dear YCIS Community,

What an exciting week it has been on campus and beyond! From our youngest TK learners to our Middle School students, children have been out exploring the world around them on various field trips. These experiences have brought learning to life in such vivid ways—thank you to all our families for your continued support in making these adventures possible.

Back on campus, students have been joyfully engaging in Project-Based Learning (PBL), proudly sharing their discoveries and creativity through presentations, performances, and displays. If you’ve been invited to attend a celebration of learning, we hope you’ll join us in cheering them on!

This morning’s Co-Principal Coffee was another wonderful opportunity to connect with families and share updates and ideas. Thank you to those who joined us—we hope even more of you will stop by in May for our next gathering!

We’re also proud to share that 13 of our YCIS students were recognized at the 2025 Academic Competition hosted by the Association of Northern California Chinese Schools on March 30. Competing against top students from 28 Chinese schools, our students showcased their excellent Chinese language skills and brought home several honors—congratulations!

As we head into the April break, we wish everyone a restful and refreshing time. A special shout-out goes to our Middle School travelers returning from their international journeys to China and Costa Rica—what incredible stories and learning you bring back with you!

Enjoy the break, and we look forward to seeing everyone back on campus soon.

Warmly,

Kevin and Vivian

Click on the flyer below to order yours now! The yearbook is for both ECE and K-8 Campus! 😁

Our TK Classes had a fantastic time exploring the wonders of the Exploratorium! From the mesmerizing light displays to the hands-on science experiments, the children were truly engaged and curious. We witnessed so much learning and laughter. A huge thank you to all the wonderful parents who volunteered as chaperones. Your help was invaluable in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We couldn't have done it without you!

Still a few spaces available for April 7-10, 2025 Mini Camp on the ECE Campus. Reserve your spot now: https://ycis-sv.regfox.com/ycis-2024-25-ece-campus-mini-camp-sign-up

Our kindergarten students recently embarked on an exciting learning adventure as part of their Project-Based Learning (PBL) project, "How Do Things Move in Different Systems?" Through hands-on activities focused on motion and forces, they designed and tested their own marble runs, applying their knowledge to understand how objects move. As they built their marble runs, students engaged in critical thinking and problem-solving by making adjustments to improve their designs.

To extend their learning, students took a field trip to the bowling alley, where they learned about the mechanics of the string pin system. They also investigated kinetic energy firsthand by using a ball ramp with a bowling ball, observing how force and motion interact in a real-world setting. It was a fun and engaging experience that truly brought science to life!

As part of our Project-Based Learning (PBL) investigation on sound and light, our 1st-grade students had a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at the Palo Alto Children’s Theater on March 28. This hands-on experience allowed them to see how lighting and sound are designed and implemented in live performances. They explored the technology used to create stage effects, learned how professionals manipulate light and sound to enhance storytelling, and discovered real-world applications of these principles in theater production.

This engaging experience deepened students' understanding of sound and light in a creative setting while connecting classroom learning to practical applications.

Our 5th grade students embarked on an unforgettable educational journey to Beijing and Xi’an, immersing themselves in the rich history, culture, and language of China. In Beijing, students explored iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, deepening their understanding of China’s imperial past and architectural brilliance. They also engaged in hands-on learning experiences, from traditional crafts to calligraphy, strengthening their appreciation for Chinese cultural heritage.

In Xi’an, the students visited the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, learning about the legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. They walked along the old city wall, enjoyed Biang biang noodle, and experienced the vibrancy of local markets and street life.

Throughout the trip, students practiced their Mandarin, connected with local culture, and built lasting memories with their classmates. This immersive experience not only supported their academic learning but also nurtured their global awareness and cultural identity as bilingual learners.

The 6th and 7th graders are experiencing the natural beauty and ecological wonders of Costa Rica. Their adventure takes them through diverse landscapes including its pristine beaches and lush rainforests. As they explore, they are learning firsthand about the country’s incredible biodiversity, discovering its unique flora and fauna. Additionally, they have the special opportunity to achieve a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s globally renowned sustainability initiatives, gaining insight into the country’s commitment to conservation and eco-friendly practices.

These experiences not only broaden our students’ global perspectives, but also inspire their curiosity, deepen their cultural appreciation, and encourage greater enthusiasm for scientific exploration.

Days at Costa Rica

At YALP, we’re all about creating joyful experiences that help our students grow — both inside and out!

Every Friday, our lower grade students enjoy a special Outdoor Games Time. Our teachers thoughtfully plan and lead a variety of fun and energetic games that help build teamwork, YALP spirit, and friendship across different grade levels. It’s a joyful time where students laugh, play, and cconnect, and something our students truly look forward to each week!

Meanwhile, our upper grade students are digging into a meaningful Spring Planting Project, exploring the life cycle of plants from sprouting seeds to full-grown veggies. They water, observe, measure and care for their plants, and documenting the process in their growth journals day by day. A harvest celebration with delicious veggie tasting is almost here!

Our students have been learning Chinese idioms and ancient poetry in many fun and creative ways! They brought the idioms to life through illustrations — Now it’s your turn to guess which idioms they’ve drawn.

🌼April 7-10, ECE Mini Camp

🌷 April 7-11, Spring Break (NO SCHOOL)

💟April 18, Good Friday (NO SCHOOL)

👔P.O. Uniform Sale

🍉YCIS Family Fun Event & Spring BBQ Picnic

Register Today: https://www.ycis-sv.com/en/academics/summer-camp

Visit ycissvpo.org and stay connected with our community!

Sign-up for a Camping Spot NOW! 😆

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1UDDIkXdiJpniRYCyrH6LnCg5fYd0jxlQLJac-2SAzTg/edit