November returns with a gentle chill in the air and the tender emotions of a month dedicated to appreciation. It is the moment for the Sakura - Olympia community to come together and send sincere thanks to the “seed sowers of love” — the teachers who have devoted themselves to nurturing knowledge and compassion in generations of students. 

For students at Olympia Primary, Middle, and High School, the most meaningful gift for their teachers is their effort and academic progress. That is why this year’s Month of Gratitude has become more vibrant than ever, with a series of academic, creative, and artistic activities that together form a meaningful journey of honoring the teaching profession. 

THE CLASH OF MINDS: A SHOWDOWN OF YOUNG MATHEMATICAL MINDS 

The first academic activity of the month is “The Clash of Minds,” an English-Math competition for Primary students. The contest offered a dynamic arena where young mathematicians challenged themselves in a journey filled with excitement and laughter. More than a math event, it strengthened students’ logical thinking, real-world problem-solving, and confidence in using English to communicate, collaborate, and express their ideas. 

Lively atmosphere in both rounds of The Clash of Minds. 

>>> View more: “The Clash of Minds: A Showdown of Young Mathematical Minds” 

OLYMPIA SCHOLAR’S CUP: OLYMPIA’S “YOUNG SCHOLARS” EAGERLY CONQUERING ACADEMIC CHALLENGES 

Continuing the spirit of learning from “The Clash of Minds,” students from Grades 4 to 8 entered the energetic competition environment of the Olympia Scholar’s Cup (OSC) 2025. Inspired by the world-renowned World Scholar’s Cup, OSC helps students strengthen their English skills, develop independent thinking, and build a healthy competitive spirit — essential qualities of global citizens in the 21st century. 

The Challenge Round tests individual competency. 

The Semifinal and Final Rounds evaluate students’ debate skills and teamwork abilities. 

>>> View more: “Olympia Scholar’s Cup: Olympia Scholars Eagerly Conquering Academic Challenges” 

PODCAST “SOUNDS OF GRATITUDE” AND STUDENTS’ HEARTFELT MESSAGES 

Alongside academic activities, Olympia students also took part in the “Sounds of Gratitude” Podcast Project. This activity gave students the opportunity to express appreciation to their teachers through stories, memories, and sincere reflections shared in their own voices. 

The podcast series begins with the bright, innocent voices of Primary students. They sent their gratitude through simple interviews, heartfelt introductions about their teachers, and even sweet, childlike songs shared straight from the heart. 

The innocent reflections of Primary students 

Next came the emotional messages from Secondary students — those standing at the threshold between childhood and adolescence. At ages 12–15, they spoke about the motivation, trust, and courage their teachers have given them. Their words of gratitude carried a spirit of “dare to try – dare to make mistakes – dare to conquer,” like confident steps on the journey of discovering who they are becoming. 

The more mature sentiments of Middle school students 

For High School students, their words of gratitude became deeper and more contemplative. They shared the lessons that helped them grow, the moments when teachers guided them through pressure, and stories they had never expressed before. Each of their podcasts is a quiet, beautiful pause — a reflection of the maturity and appreciation of ages 16–18. 

The thoughtful stories of High School students 

GRATITUDE EXHIBITION: COLORS AND SOUNDS OF APPRECIATION 

In addition to the podcast project, students expressed gratitude through creative works such as paintings of “Teachers Through My Eyes,” hand-made cards, and heartfelt messages. All of these creations are now displayed in the Gratitude Exhibition — a space where students express emotions through the language of art and the heart. 

Every drawing, every audio clip, and every handwritten note is a thank-you message crafted in each student’s own unique way. The exhibition not only preserves these lovely creations but also tells meaningful stories of the student–teacher relationships at Sakura–Olympia. 

Gratitude Exhibition by High School students 

Gratitude Exhibition by Primary and Secondary students

Cards with sweet messages from students to their teachers 

Drawings of “Teachers Through My Eyes” 

FLAG-RAISING ASSEMBLY: THE ONES WHO LIT UP OUR DREAMS 

On November 17, 2025, Olympia High School students came together for a flag-raising assembly themed “The Ones Who Lit Up Our Dreams.” This was not only an opportunity for them to express gratitude to their teachers, but also a moment that helped them better understand the profound role educators played—quietly guiding, inspiring, and nurturing the dreams of younger generations. 

The highlight of the program was the play “Teachers Who Light Up Our Dreams,” performed by class 12/2. Through the stories of Minh, Hương, and Long, students reflected on the challenges today’s youth often faced—from academic pressure and difficult circumstances to moments of self-doubt. Along that journey, teachers acted as a source of light—igniting confidence and motivation, helping students overcome barriers and persevere toward their dreams. The play also served as a reminder to parents about the importance of accompanying, understanding, and supporting their children. 

The flag-raising assembly “The Ones Who Lit Up Our Dreams” organized by high school students 

The play “Teachers Who Light Up Our Dreams” conveyed a touching message about the importance of support from teachers and parents 

Students expressed gratitude and presented flowers to their teachers 

After the meaningful performance, students from class 12/2, on behalf of the entire school, offered heartfelt appreciation to their teachers. They sang together, presented flowers and small gifts, and shared warm wishes—creating an atmosphere filled with smiles, gratitude, and sincere affection. 

The assembly not only honored teachers but also awakened in each student a stronger sense of gratitude, unity, and hope for the future. Every teacher was a guiding light, helping students take steady steps on their learning journey so that their dreams could be nurtured, grow, and soar. 

CELEBRATION OF VIETNAMESE TEACHERS’ DAY: HONORING THOSE WHO SOW SEEDS OF LOVE 

The series of activities leading up to Vietnamese Teachers’ Day filled November at Sakura–Olympia with heartfelt emotions. Students, parents, and the entire educational community came together to send gratitude to the “seed-sowers of love” — the teachers who nurture knowledge and compassion in every child. In that shared spirit, the Vietnamese Teachers’ Day Celebration on November 15 became a special moment, when the Sakura - Olympia family paused to connect, reflect, and honor the true meaning of the teaching profession. 

More than just a gathering, the ceremony allowed every teacher and staff member to look back on the educational journey they have walked. Especially meaningful was the STEM activity “Tree of Love,” a beautiful symbol recreating the very act of sowing knowledge: each leaf representing a message of gratitude, each branch marking a milestone in growth, and every teacher and staff member embodying the quiet yet powerful role of a cultivator. 

The 2025 Vietnamese Teachers’ Day Sports Festival was an opportunity for all teachers and staff across the System to connect and strengthen bonds. 

The 2025 Vietnamese Teachers’ Day Celebration “Those Who Sow Seeds of Love” honored the contributions of all teachers and staff in the System. 

The STEM activity “Tree of Love” recreated the journey of knowledge-sowing by Sakura–Olympia teachers. 

As the 2025 Season of Gratitude comes to a close, the values it brought continue to grow in every member of Olympia. Through academic, creative, and artistic activities, students not only expressed appreciation but also cultivated important qualities: curiosity, responsibility, compassion, and a spirit of contribution. These are the “seeds” being planted — helping each child grow with knowledge, gratitude, and a humanistic heart.