By: Debbie Shih, POP Co-Chair
“What and who is POP?” was the first questions I asked 2 years ago, being new to Shanghai and, in general, new to ex-pat life. I quickly learned that POP stands for Parents Organization Pudong, and while it is lead by a core of very committed individuals, it really embodies ALL of the parents of the YCIS children.
Life as an ex-pat can be filled with many exciting adventures from starting new businesses, taking classes to learn something new, and/or being more involved with our kids, their school, and the community. POP has offered any and all of these through many events over the years. Going on tours to familiarize us with hospitals in Shanghai, exploring the old and new parts of town, as well as visiting markets and water towns are just some of the activities POP has offered this year. Not to mention, touring some fabulous restaurants has been great in getting to know other parents of YCIS…who just arrived, who have been here “forever” and who are sharing their knowledge about where to find the best quality deals!
I’ve learned also that, just among the YCIS Community, there is so much talent to be explored and shared! We have had workshops held by parents who have skills and interests in various fields such as Art (Chinese Calligraphy/painting, jewelry making, Mandala etc), Holistic Health, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nutrition, Cooking, AND recently we even had exercise and yoga classes on offer! Our YCIS community is a goldmine for talent!
This school year, I had the opportunity, along with 2 other wonderful Co-chairs, to lead a great POP Core Committee that is dedicated in holding school social events throughout the year to foster a strong sense of community within our school, but also within the greater community of Shanghai. These events started with the Welcome Gathering and Picnic Bazaar at the beginning of the school year, Tree-Lighting and Giving Tree mid-year and culminated in the Spring Charity Brunch, Global Child Day and Staff Appreciation Day. Each of these event is organized by the POP Core Committee, but without the tremendous support of the parents of YCIS it would be impossible to carry them out.
As the end of the year approaches, the planning of the calendar and events for next school year has started. We are always looking for MORE involvement from our YCIS parents! Consider sharing what you love to do and do well by leading a workshop – think about joining POP in any capacity! All you need to do is contact one of our Core Committee Members or stop by the SCOOP (School Community Open Officers Platform) office and talk to Nadine or Roseline. We strive to have more parent involvement; after all, WE ARE ALL POP!
