The CAIS Podcast

Join us for a special episode of The CAIS Podcast as we sit down with Ms. Catherine Chou, a proud alumna and Projects Coordinator at CAIS, who also serves on the Board. What makes this conversation unique? Ms. Catherine was part of the very first class of seven students when CAIS opened its doors in 2006—and now she's back to help shape its future!

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Ms. Catherine shares:

🎓 Her remarkable journey—from CAIS student to NYU and Columbia graduate, and finally back to her alma mater as a leader.

🏫 The founding story of CAIS—how her parents, Mr. Daniel Chou and Mrs. Irene Chu, created the school to provide international education to the Changchun community, starting with just seven students (including her and her brother, Christopher!).

🌍 What makes CAIS unique—from its globally diverse student body (30+ nationalities!) to its pioneering role in educational technology.

🚀 The school's bold vision—becoming a regional hub for education and innovation in the next five years.

Tune in to discover how one school's humble beginnings grew into something extraordinary—and where it's headed next!

Host: Marco (Grade 6)

Editor: Mimi (Grade 6)

Guest: Catherine Chou (CAIS Alumna, Projects Coordinator, and Member on the Board)

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mr. Dan Popescu, CAIS's dynamic Physical & Health Education teacher and Athletics Director. A lifelong sports enthusiast turned educator, Mr. Dan shares his incredible journey from the playing field to the classroom, revealing how he cultivates teamwork, discipline, and resilience in every student-athlete.

Discover how Mr. Dan:
⚽️ Transforms PHE classes into engaging, inclusive experiences that go beyond just physical skills
🏆 Motivates students to push their limits in after-school programs and competitions
🤝 Fosters true sportsmanship through creative IB-aligned approaches
🏅 Leads CAIS's growing presence in regional sports associations

Whether you're a student, parent, or fellow educator, you'll walk away energized by Mr. Dan's passion for developing not just athletes, but well-rounded individuals through sports.

Host: Mimi (Grade 6)

Editor: Marco (Grade 6)

Guests: Mr. Dan Popescu (CIAS Physical & Health Education teacher and Athletics Director)

In this exciting second episode of The CAIS Podcast, our host Marco (Grade 6) sits down with our Performing Arts Coordinator and Drama teacher, Mr. John; and one of our talented PYP Visual Arts teacher, Halina Trela, to dive into the creative magic behind our school productions. This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas come to life on screen, from the initial spark of inspiration to the final cut. Our guests share their passion for the arts, the collaborative process of working with students, and how creativity is nurtured at CAIS.

Discover how the arts play a vital role in building confidence, teamwork, and self-expression in our students, and learn what it takes to bring a school production to life. Whether it’s designing sets, choreographing dances, or perfecting performances, this episode highlights the dedication and imagination that make our school productions unforgettable.

Tune in to hear inspiring stories and why the arts are such an integral part of the CAIS experience. Don’t miss this celebration of collaboration, creativity, and the incredible talent within our school!

Host: Marco (Grade 6)

Editor: Mimi (Grade 6)

Guests: Halina Trela (PYP Visual Arts Teacher) and John Cogollo (Performing Arts Coordinator)

In this inaugural episode of The CAIS Podcast, MYP1 students Mimi and Marco interview Dr. Ildiko Murray, our head of school. The episode is filled with insights into exciting school initiatives and personal anecdotes that will make you appreciate Ms. Ildiko's journey even more. In this conversation you will also hear how CAIS prepares students for a technology-driven world, emphasizing the importance of exposing students to new technologies in a safe and collaborative environment. She explains that the school models appropriate technology use, fosters critical thinking, and ensures students are equipped with the skills needed to navigate the digital world as "digital natives."

Tune in and find out why we're all so proud to be part of this amazing Tiger community!

Hosts: Mimi and Marco (Grade 6)
Guest: Dr. Ildiko Murray
Editors: Mimi and Marco (Grade 6)
Logo Art: Created using Padlet AI Image Generator by Amy (Grade 7)