Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.

Proverbs 1:5

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DIS Educators Shine at 21st EARCOS Conference in Bangkok

Empowering Educators Through Global Collaboration

18-21 March 2026

A strong and enthusiastic delegation from DIS proudly represented the school at the 21st EARCOS Conference, held from March 18–21, 2026, at the Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Gathering hundreds of educators, school leaders, and specialists from across the region, the conference served as a dynamic platform for collaboration, innovation, and professional exchange. This year’s theme, “Elevating Voices, Enriching Worlds,” highlighted the importance of empowering diverse perspectives, fostering inclusive learning environments, and enhancing meaningful educational experiences for students in international school communities

The DIS participants included Mr. Arcel Joseph Amoguis, Ms. Jihan Borres, Ms. Carolyn Chen, Ms. Robeth Collado, Mr. Adrian Crisostomo, Ms. Marygrace Crisostomo, Dr. Clarencia Eddio, Mr. Jayno Jabonillo, Mr. John Erick Moje , Mr. Mervin Villaroya, and Ms. Donna Wolfe. This marks the largest delegation sent by DIS to the annual conference, reflecting the school’s continued commitment to professional growth and global engagement

The conference focused on practical strategies, innovative tools, and best practices designed to actively engage students across the region. Educators participated in a wide range of strands, including Literacy Reading, Early Childhood, Special Needs, Modern Languages, Media Technology and Libraries, Counseling, EAL, Children’s Author sessions, Child Protection, General Education, and Technology.

The DIS team strategically covered a comprehensive array of educational strands, ensuring that every facet of the school’s curriculum benefited from the latest research and methodology

Literacy and Multilingualism: Ms. Robeth and Mr. Joseph explored the frontiers of ESL and Modern Languages

Early Childhood Development: Mr. Carolyn, Ms. Donna, and Dr. Clarencia focused on foundational literacy and project-based learning.

Inclusive Education & Wellbeing: Ms. Jihan concentrated on the critical need for student-centered support (SEL/Counseling/Special Needs).

Technology and Innovation: Mr. Ian looked into how media and information literacy can empower students.

Child protection: Mr. Mervin delve into the practical strategies to ensure the well-being of every child—promoting trust, safety, and accountability across the school community.

General Education: Mr. Jayno and Mr. John Erick focused on General Education advancements.

The conference highlighted several "forward-design" concepts that are set to influence the DIS campus in the coming academic year:

AI-Powered Classrooms: Workshops led by Meghan Hargrave and Warren Apel provided hands-on strategies for preparing K-12 students for an AI-driven future.

The Coaching Mindset: A shift toward "Coaching for Everyone," spearheaded by Kim Cofino, aims to foster a culture of continuous professional growth among faculty and staff.

Translanguaging and MLRC: Engaging with Jon Nordmeyer of the Multilingual Learning Research Center (MLRC), the delegation explored how to align multilingual strategies with WASC accreditation standards.

Belongingness and Behavioral Excellence: Shelley Hawkes’ "Behavior Blueprint" offered proven, data-driven approaches to supporting student discipline and engagement.

The delegation is not merely returning with notes, but with an actionable blueprint for school-wide improvement. Upcoming initiatives include:

Knowledge Scaling: DIS delegates will share their expertise through upcoming PLC conversations, faculty meetings, and department-led workshops.

Digital Resource Hub: A dedicated Padlet platform has been established to house all EARCOS learning materials and contact networks for faculty access

Curriculum Enhancement: Integration of the "Dominican Pillars" with modern Service-Learning and Project-Based Learning (PBL) components.

Religious Studies Learning Resources Expansion: Potential acquisition of new learning references in World Religions and Ethics through the Collins Book Company.

Global Networking: Formalizing linkages with the International Schools Services (ISS) and the MLRC to keep DIS at the forefront of international standards

By championing Voice and Choice for students and educators alike, DIS Taipei evolves its curriculum to actively live the values of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging. The intensive workshop sessions didn't just provide information; they strengthened our professional network, connecting DIS with world-class speakers available for both in-person and virtual PD sessions starting as early as September 2026.

John Erick S. Moje, M.A. Ed., LP

As with previous years, attendees are expected to return with a wealth of new ideas, ready to be implemented in their classrooms. Beyond professional development, the conference also provided valuable opportunities to strengthen networks, exchange insights, and build camaraderie with fellow educators across the EARCOS region—making it a highly anticipated and meaningful experience.

This milestone participation was made possible through the leadership of the Professional Development program, chaired by Mr. John Erick Moje, whose efforts helped organize and support the delegation. The school also extends its sincere appreciation to Directress/Principal, Sr. Jacqueline C. Manuel, OP, for her continued support. Gratitude is likewise extended to the teachers who generously took on additional responsibilities and substituted for their colleagues during the event.

Through this experience, DIS continues to reaffirm its dedication to enriching teaching practices and elevating student learning on a global scale.