Our journey at ProEd Global School in Bali has been an enlightening experience filled with both positive and challenging moments. As an expatriate family from India, we were initially drawn to the school’s reputation for academic excellence and its nurturing, inclusive environment. However, recent changes have prompted us to reconsider whether ProEd Global School is the right fit for our children. Here, we share five reasons why we decided to explore other educational options for our kids, balancing both the positive and negative aspects of our experience.
Table of Contents
The Shift to Russian as the Main Language
A Linguistic Challenge
When ProEd Global School announced the transition to Russian as the primary language of instruction, we were taken aback. Our children, who were used to being taught in English, suddenly found themselves grappling with a new language that none of us were familiar with. While we understand the school’s intention to cater to the growing Russian expatriate community, this shift has posed significant challenges for non-Russian-speaking families like ours.
Positive Cultural Exposure
On the positive side, the exposure to a new language and culture has been an enriching experience for our children. They have developed a newfound appreciation for Russian culture and language, which we believe is valuable in today’s globalized world. However, balancing this with their comfort and proficiency in English remains a challenge.
Academic Rigor and Curriculum Changes
Adjusting to New Standards
ProEd Global School has always been known for its rigorous academic standards. The recent curriculum changes, aligning more with the Russian educational system, have introduced a more challenging academic environment. While this has been difficult for our children to adjust to, it has also pushed them to develop stronger study habits and critical thinking skills.
Consistency and Quality Concerns
We noticed a decline in our children’s academic performance and enthusiasm for learning initially. They found it hard to keep up with the new curriculum, which seemed out of sync with their previous educational experiences. However, with time and support from the dedicated teachers at ProEd, they are slowly adapting and showing signs of improvement.
Community and Inclusivity Concerns
Feeling Disconnected
ProEd Global School was once a hub of inclusivity and diversity. However, the language shift has unintentionally created a divide. Our children, who do not speak Russian, felt increasingly isolated from their peers. They struggled to participate in social interactions and school activities, which left them feeling like outsiders in their own school.
Building New Friendships
Despite these challenges, our children have also made new friends and learned to navigate social situations more effectively. The school’s emphasis on fostering a supportive community has helped them feel more included, and they are gradually finding their place within the student body.
Extracurricular Activities and Holistic Development
Impact on Extracurricular Engagement
Extracurricular activities are essential for our children’s holistic development. Unfortunately, the language barrier impacted their enthusiasm for participating in sports, arts, and other activities. They found it hard to communicate and collaborate with their peers, which affected their overall experience and enjoyment.
Expanding Horizons
On the other hand, the diverse range of extracurricular activities offered at ProEd Global School has allowed our children to explore new interests and talents. They have taken up new sports, joined various clubs, and even started learning Russian, which has broadened their horizons and enriched their educational experience.
