What Does Becoming a CIS Member School Mean?
Becoming a CIS Member School is a testament to our shared belief in the Dehong Way. At Dehong Shanghai, we have always held a steadfast belief that every student should thrive in an environment that values both academic excellence and character development. We are therefore delighted to announce that Dehong Shanghai has officially become a member school of the Council of International Schools (CIS). This milestone not only reaffirms the educational philosophy that Dehong have consistently upheld, but also stands as a well-deserved recognition of the collective commitment, collaboration, and dedication demonstrated by every member of the Dehong community.
What Is a CIS Member School?
CIS is one of the world’s most respected international education organisations, renowned for itsrigorous and comprehensive accreditation framework that covers key areas such as teaching quality, student wellbeing, school governance, and continuous improvement. Becoming a CIS Member School is not only an honor and recognition, but also a testament to Dehong’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional education and upholding the highest standards of school management.
Achieving CIS membership is the first step toward full accreditation. The journey from membership to accreditation typically involves a multi-year process of self-evaluation, evidence collection, and expert review. Dehong Shanghai will now embark on its joint accreditation journey with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Why CIS Authorization Matters?
For educators across global K–12 and higher education, CIS authorization affirms a school’s standing among the world’s leading institutions. For Dehong parents and students, it highlights Dehong’s unwavering commitment to a student-centered philosophy grounded in the following principles:
- Student safety and wellbeing above all else
- High academic standards supported by excellent teaching
- Global citizenship and responsibility toward the wider world
- Strong leadership and governance that serve the best interests of students
- A culture of continuous improvement across all areas of school life
It also connects Dehong to a global network of more than 1,300 CIS-accredited schools and universities, broadening opportunities for Dehong students’ future learning and university pathways.
Affirming What We Already Know About Dehong!
This milestone does not change who Dehong is; it confirms it.
CIS evaluators recognised the very strengths of Dehong Shanghai:
- A safe, caring, and inclusive community where every student is known
- A bilingual, multi-cultural environment that values Chinese heritage and international outlook
- A dedicated and passionate teaching team committed to helping every student reach their full potential
- A reflective and collaborative culture that encourages growth for students and staff alike
In their report, CIS highlighted Dehong’s “strong sense of community and shared purpose” as a defining feature. This recognition reflects what can be seen in Dehong Campus every day: students thriving with confidence, teachers who inspire, and families who work hand in hand with the school.
Thank you to our students, parents, and staff for contributing to this journey. Together, we have shown that Dehong Shanghai not only meets the highest international standards but also defines excellence in a truly bilingual, Chinese-international school.
Membership is not an endpoint but a beginning. CIS standards will continue to guide our work as we strengthen our academic pathways, deepen our wellbeing initiatives, and help every student Aspire to Be their best self.
