Heritage International School of Dili

EVENT PRE-CLOSING STATEMENT
First Inter-School Sports Festival 2026

Distinguished guests, parents, respected school leaders, coaches, and teachers who were very instrumental to this milestone-event, dear students, and valued partners from QSI International School, CMTC, Escola De Graca International School, Lighthouse International School, and Heritage International School—good afternoon.
As we have successfully accomplished all events in this year’s First Inter-School Sports Festival, we extend our deepest gratitude to each one of you for making this event a meaningful celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and excellence.
To all our participants—thank you for your dedication, discipline, and passion. You have demonstrated not only athletic ability but also respect, teamwork, and resilience. These are the true marks of champions.
To our winners, both individual and team, we warmly congratulate you on your outstanding achievements. Your hard work and perseverance have truly paid off, and you have set a high standard for excellence that will inspire others.
At the same time, we would like to recognize that beyond the final scores are stories of courage and determination. Special awards will be given to selected players who have shown extraordinary performance, leadership, and sportsmanship, even if their teams did not ultimately secure the championship. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and you embody the true spirit of this festival.
We are pleased to inform everyone that the Official Awarding Ceremony will be held on:
May 9, 2026
at the Heritage International School Auditorium
This will be a time to formally honor all winners and outstanding athletes.
Following the awarding ceremony, we invite everyone to join us in a boodle fight, a shared meal that symbolizes unity, cooperation, and camaraderie. In the spirit of community, we encourage everyone to bring what you can to contribute to our boodle menu, as we celebrate not just victories, but friendships formed and strengthened throughout this event.
As we part ways today, may we carry forward the values we have witnessed—fair play, respect, teamwork, and unity—into our schools and communities.
Once again, thank you all for your participation and support. Congratulations to everyone, and we look forward to seeing you again at the awarding ceremony.
Good day, and safe travels to all.

Very Truly Yours,

Engr. Mitchel E. Andres, CE, EdD Sister Sonia Sangel FDCC,
HIS School Director CMTC, School Directress

Wishing a very Happy Birthday to our brilliant School Director, Engr. Mitchel Edu Andres, CE, EdD! 🎂

​From navigating complex projects to guiding our students toward their dreams, Engr. Andres leads with a unique blend of precision and heart. We are incredibly grateful for the wisdom and care you bring to our school community every day.

​More than anything, we feel so honored and grateful to have shared in this birthday celebration with you today. Seeing the joy this day brings is a reminder of how blessed we are to have you as our leader.

May the Lord shower you with His choicest blessings today and in the years to come. We pray for your continued good health, a long and fulfilling life, and that God grants all the desires of your heart as you serve others. ✨

Happiest Birthday, Sir Mitch! 🥳🎂

Heritage International School of Dili - First Quarter Academic Recognition

Celebrating the achievements of our outstanding students at the 1st Quarter Academic Recognition! Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence have truly paid off.

Congratulations on a job well done this quarter. Keep striving, keep growing, and continue making us proud for the rest of the school year!

Gratitude and pride filled the hearts of the Heritage International School community as we celebrated our 12th Founding Anniversary with the theme, Timeless Beats: 12 Years of Learning through Age.

The celebration began through a solemn Holy Mass on February 13, 2026, offering thanksgiving for twelve years of blessings, growth, and academic excellence. The grand celebration followed on February 27, 2026, bringing together students, teachers, parents, and guests for a vibrant and memorable program inspired by a retro motif.

The performances officially opened with our adorable Playgroup learners, who confidently stepped onto the stage and delighted everyone with their charming presentation. Each grade level then followed, showcasing energetic and creative numbers that brought timeless music and classic dance hits back to life.

A major highlight of the event was the search for Little Mr. and Miss HIS for the Elementary Category and Mr. and Miss HIS for the High School Category. Our candidates impressed the audience not only with their confidence and poise but also with their intelligence and strong sense of school pride.

From the youngest learners to our High School students, every presentation beautifully reflected the journey of Heritage International School through the years, proving that as time moves forward, our commitment to learning, unity, and excellence remains truly timeless. 💛🎶

HERITAGE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
12 Years of Commitment, Community, and Courage,

For twelve meaningful years, Heritage International School has stood as a home of learning, growth, and hope here in Timor-Leste. What began as a vision has become a vibrant community—because of you.
To our dear parents who entrusted us with your children…
To our students who bring life and inspiration into our classrooms…
To our teachers and staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes…
Thank you for walking this journey with us.
As we celebrate our 12th year of operation, we also acknowledge the conversations circulating regarding Philippine Schools Overseas (PSO) in Timor-Leste, particularly the matter concerning the 75% Filipino – 25% International student ratio requirement.
We would like to assure our school community that this matter has been under review and dialogue for several years. For the past seven years, Philippine schools in Timor-Leste have been seeking clarity and proper mandate regarding its implementation. This concern is not rooted in incompetence or shortcomings of school leaders, but rather in the interpretation and application of existing laws and guidelines governing PSOs. As we all know that there are few Filipino Overseas workers that can bring their children to study here in Timor-Leste.
At present, the Association of Philippine Overseas Schools in Timor-Leste has formally sought reconsideration and mandate to address this ratio requirement in a manner responsive to the local context. We are grateful for the recommendation and continued support of the Philippine Embassy in Dili, and we are hopeful as this matter is now moving toward resolution and approval by the Philippine government, the Department of Education in particular.
Throughout this process, Heritage International School has remained compliant, transparent, and proactive in engaging the appropriate authorities. Most importantly, we have remained focused on what truly matters—the quality of education and the well-being of our students.
In fact, the HIS has other accreditations like the IAO, and the EARCOS membership to instill quality education exclusively dedicated to the Timorese students and other international students living in Timor-Leste. Above all these, the management continuously engages its stance with the present partners like the Phoenix Publishing House, who caters not only the educative materials but also the annual professional development seminars for the teachers and school leaders. The collaboration with international Universities that leads students to study in Australia, Malaysia, China, the Philippines and other universities are part of our mission and goals.
Our mission has never wavered.
Our commitment has never diminished.
Our standards have never been compromised.
Twelve years ago, we built this school on faith and perseverance. Today, we stand stronger because of the trust and unity of our community.
We thank you for your continued confidence, understanding, and solidarity. Together, we move forward—with clarity, cooperation, and hope.
The best chapters of Heritage International School are still ahead.
With gratitude always,

Mitchel E. Andres
School Director
Heritage International School
Dili, Timor-Leste

With vibrant joy and cultural pride, Heritage International School actively participated in the celebration of the Perpetual Profession of the Sisters of Saint Paul of Chartres in Dili on January 24, 2026 and in the special Children’s Day celebration sponsored by the Canossian community at the Canossa Boarding House of Colegio Canossa in Balide on February 1, 2026.

His Excellency José Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste, graced the Children’s Day celebration at the Canossa Boarding House with his presence, bringing encouragement and joy to the children and the community.

Held at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Balide, the Perpetual Profession of the Sisters of Saint Paul of Chartres marked a profound milestone in the lives of the newly professed Sisters. The Heritage International School community stood in solidarity with the congregation, witnessing a beautiful expression of faith, commitment, and service.

During both meaningful occasions, our teachers gracefully performed the Filipino folk dances Polka sa Nayon and Tinikling. The performances were presented at the parish celebration and again during the Children’s Day program at the Canossa Boarding House, radiating cultural pride, energy, and joy while delighting the congregation and especially the children.

At the Children’s Day gathering, President José Ramos-Horta warmly engaged with the children, spending time talking with them, listening attentively, and encouraging them with genuine care. He also interacted graciously with the teachers and guests, expressing appreciation for their participation and support. His presence added a deeply meaningful dimension to the celebration.

Through shared smiles, laughter, and lively dance, the Heritage International School community demonstrated that despite cultural diversity, unity and love bring people together as one family.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Clare L.Q Garcillana, SPC and Sr. Sonia Sangel, F&CC for the opportunity to be part of these memorable celebrations.

Special appreciation is given to Engineer Mitchel Edu Andres, School Director, and Ma'am Chona Binuya, School Principal, for their unwavering support and guidance.

Thank you so much!

Previously at Heritage International School, our community once again came together in faith, culture, and unity to take part in the joyous celebration of the Feast of Señor Santo Niño last January 16–18.

With grateful hearts, the teachers and students of Heritage International School actively participated in this meaningful event, honoring the Child Jesus through prayer, devotion, and vibrant celebration. The culmination of the Feast of Señor Santo Niño was joyfully celebrated at St. Joseph Church of Aimutin, where the faithful gathered for the Holy Mass followed by the vibrant Sinulog dance. The performance beautifully portrayed joy, gratitude, and deep devotion to the Child Jesus.

This meaningful participation was made possible with the full support of Engr. Mitchel Edu Andres, School Director and Ma’am Chona Binuya, School Principal, whose guidance and encouragement continue to strengthen our school’s faith-centered mission.

It was a wonderful expression of our shared faith and the lively spirit of our school community—celebrating with both reverence and heartfelt joy.

Viva Señor Santo Niño! 🙏✨

TEACHERS, LET’S TALK ABOUT BOUNDARIES IN SCHOOL

Being a caring teacher doesn’t mean having no limits.
Great teachers know where to draw the line ✋

Here are the key boundaries every professional teacher should protect 👇

🔹 Communication Boundary
Speak with respect and clarity at all times. Keep conversations professional—especially on WhatsApp, calls, and messages after school hours.

🔹 Student Relationship Boundary
Care deeply, support fully—but don’t cross into favoritism or over-familiarity. Professional warmth beats unhealthy closeness.

🔹 Physical Interaction Boundary
Touch should always be appropriate, minimal, and culturally acceptable. When in doubt, don’t.

🔹 Time Boundary
Your time matters. Stick to school hours and approved activities. Burnout starts where boundaries end.

🔹 Confidentiality Boundary
What you hear in school stays in school. Protect students’, parents’, and colleagues’ privacy at all times.

🔹 Discipline Boundary
Correct with wisdom, not ánger. Discipline should guide, not humiliate or emotionally wound.

🔹 Colleague Boundary
No gossip. No rivalry. Build teamwork, not tension. A healthy staff room reflects in the classroom.

🔹 Professional Growth Boundary
Your personal life is your own—but in school, be a role model. Keep learning, improving, and showing professionalism daily.

Boundaries don’t make you distant.
They make you respected.

📌 Teachers, which boundary do you think is most difficult to maintain in schools today?
Let’s discuss in the comments 👇

WELCOME BACK MESSAGE
School Year 2026
Dear Old and New Students and Pupils,
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Esteemed Stakeholders,
Honorable Members of the Board of Trustees and Board of Directors,

Warm greetings and a joyful welcome to School Year 2026 at Heritage International School.
With grateful hearts and renewed hope, we welcome back our dear students who continue their learning journey with us, and we extend a special and heartfelt welcome to our new students and pupils, who now become part of the Heritage family. Your presence enriches our community, and we are honored to walk alongside you in this new chapter of growth, discovery, and excellence.
To our parents and guardians, thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Your confidence in our mission inspires us to remain steadfast in providing a safe, nurturing, and high-quality learning environment where every child is valued, guided, and empowered to reach their full potential.
We also express our deepest appreciation to our stakeholders, whose unwavering support strengthens the foundation of our institution, and to our Board of Trustees and Board of Directors, whose wisdom, guidance, and leadership continue to shape the direction and sustainability of Heritage International School.
As we begin this new academic year, we reaffirm our commitment to our Vision and Mission, guided by our core values of Courage, Wisdom, and Integrity. We remain dedicated to forming learners who are academically competent, morally grounded, culturally respectful, and globally prepared.
School Year 2026 brings with it new opportunities, fresh challenges, and renewed aspirations. Together—as students, parents, educators, leaders, and partners—we will continue to build a community of learning where excellence is pursued, character is formed, and hope for the future is strengthened.
Once again, welcome back, and welcome anew to Heritage International School. May this school year be filled with meaningful learning, lasting friendships, and shared success.
With warm regards and best wishes,
The Management and Administration
Heritage International School
MENSAJEN BENVIDU FALI
Tinan Eskola 2026
Ba Estudante no Alunu Antigu no Foun sira,
Ba Inan-aman no Responsável sira,
Ba Parceiru no Stakeholder Estimadu sira,
Ba Membru Honrável husi Conselho de Curadores (Board of Trustees) no Conselho Diretór (Board of Directors),
Ho laran kontente no respeitu boot, ami hato’o mensajen benvindu fali ba Tinan Eskola 2026 iha Heritage International School.
Ho laran agradese no esperansa foun, ami simu fali ho kontente estudante sira ne’ebé kontinua sira-nia dalan aprendizajen ho ami, no ami mos hato’o benvindu espesial ida ho laran boot ba estudante no alunu foun sira, ne’ebé agora tama ona iha família Heritage. Presensa ita-boot sira fó valor barak ba komunidade eskola nian, no ami orgulhu atu la’o hamutuk ho imi iha kapitulu foun ida ne’e husi dezenvolvimentu, deskoberta no exelénsia.
Ba inan-aman no responsavel sira, obrigadu barak ba konfiansa no parseria kontinua ne’ebé imi fó ba ami. Konfiansa ida ne’e motiva ami atu kontinua fornese ambienti aprendizajen ne’ebé seguru, hadomi, no iha kualidade aas, iha ne’ebé labarik ida-idak respeita, orienta, no hetan apoiu atu bele atinji sira-nia potensial tomak.
Ami hato’o mos agradese boot ba stakeholder sira, ne’ebé sira-nia apoiu kontinua fortaleze fundasaun instituisaun ida ne’e, no ba Conselho de Curadores no Conselho Diretór, ne’ebé sira-nia matenek, orientasaun no lideransa kontinua atu define direksaun no sustentabilidade Heritage International School nian.
Iha hahú tinan akademiku foun ida ne’e, ami reafirma ami-nia kompromisu ba Visaun no Misaun eskola nian, ho orientasaun husi ami-nia valor prinsipal sira: Korage, Matenek (Wisdom), no Integridade. Ami kontinua kompromete atu forma aprendiz sira ne’ebé iha kapasidade akademiku, iha fundasaun morál di’ak, respeitu kultura, no prontu ba mundu global.
Tinan Eskola 2026 lori oportunidade foun, dezafiu foun, no aspirasaun foun. Hamutuk—hanesan estudante, inan-aman, profesór, lider, no parseria sira—ami sei kontinua hari’i komunidade aprendizajen ida ne’ebé buka exelénsia, forma karakter, no haburas esperansa ba futuru.
Tanba ne’e, benvindu fali no benvindu foun ba Heritage International School. Ami hakarak katak Tinan Eskola ida ne’e bele hodi aprendizajen signifikativu, amizade ne’ebé dura naruk, no susesu hamutuk.
Ho respeitu no votu di’ak sira,
Jestaun no Administrasaun
Heritage International School

A Message of Gratitude, Reflection, and Hope as We Welcome 2026

As we stand at the threshold of another year in the life of Heritage International School, our hearts are filled with gratitude, humility, and renewed hope.
The year 2025 has not been an easy one—neither for our school nor for the world around us. We have all felt the weight of uncertainty: global economic pressures, educational transitions, regulatory challenges, and personal struggles that have touched families, educators, and communities alike. These dilemmas have not belonged to one institution alone; they have been shared burdens, quietly carried by many.
Yet, it is precisely in these moments that the true strength of a community is revealed.
Despite the challenges, Heritage International School endured and moved forward—not by chance, but because of the collective commitment of our teachers, staff, parents, partners, and students. We are deeply thankful for:
• the trust of parents who continued to believe in our mission,
• the dedication of our teachers and staff, who remained steadfast in nurturing young minds,
• the resilience of our students, who continued to learn, grow, and hope,
• and the guidance of our partners and authorities, who helped us navigate complex realities.
Our survival and growth are not measured only by years, but by faithfulness to purpose, integrity in action, and perseverance in service.

As we look ahead to 2026, we do so with tempered optimism—aware that challenges may remain, but confident that new opportunities will also arise. We carry forward the lessons of 2025: the importance of compassion, collaboration, transparency, and unity. We choose hope over fear, service over discouragement, and progress over stagnation.
May the coming year bring:
• renewed strength to families,
• wisdom to educators,
• clarity to leaders,
• peace to communities,
• and meaningful opportunities for our children to flourish.
Heritage International School enters this new year with a grateful heart, a clear vision, and an unwavering commitment to serve the educational needs of Timor-Leste with excellence, responsibility, and care.

Thank you for walking this journey with us.
May 2026 be a year of healing, growth, and shared success for us all.

With gratitude and hope,
Heritage International School