Letter from Incoming ECE & Elementary Principal

Dear CIS Community, 

It is with immense joy and gratitude that I accept the role of ECE and Elementary Principal at the Canadian International School of Guangzhou, effective August 2025. Reflecting on my journey with CIS, I am filled with a deep sense of connection, gratitude, and commitment to this wonderful community. 

From 2016 to 2019, I had the privilege of teaching Grade 2 at CIS. During those years, I witnessed the incredible spirit of collaboration, innovation, and success that defines our school. The bonds formed with students, parents, and colleagues were truly special, and it was within this nurturing environment that my family felt connected. After making the difficult decision to leave CIS to pursue a new path, we found that no other community resonated with us as deeply as the one here in Guangzhou. After having our daughter, my husband and I knew that we wanted to return to CIS—a place where care and community are at the heart of everything we do—to raise her in an environment that would support her growth and development. 

These photos were collected during Mrs. Mallak's teaching tenure at CIS from 2016 to 2019.

As I embark on this new chapter as ECE and Elementary Principal starting in August 2025, I am dedicated to upholding and advancing our mission: to develop socially responsible lifelong learners who are equipped to problem solve, think critically, and make positive changes in our safe, caring, global community. This mission will guide our efforts to prepare our students to become future-ready citizens. 

The opportunity to collaborate with Mr. Gary Rehman this school year has been invaluable, and I am profoundly grateful for his guidance and support. Together, we will build on our progress and explore new avenues for growth and excellence. I eagerly anticipate working closely with our dedicated staff, engaged parents, and enthusiastic students to foster a vibrant and inclusive learning community. I am committed to creating an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. We will continue to focus on enhancing English language proficiency and literacy development, empowering our students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. 

The IB Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) will remain a cornerstone of our educational philosophy, promoting inquiry-based learning and encouraging students to become active, compassionate, and lifelong learners. Through the IB PYP, we will nurture their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills, empowering all students to make meaningful contributions to society. 

Thank you for your continued support and trust. Together, we will ensure that CIS remains a place where every child can learn, grow, and lead. 

Warm regards, 

Mrs. Kelly Mallak 

Incoming Principal of ECE and Elementary

Canadian International School of Guangzhou