A Vision for Growth, Community, and Faith
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When Daniel Schick stepped into the role of Head of School at the Christian Alliance International School (CAIS) in Hong Kong, he brought with him not only a wealth of experience but also a deep-rooted vision shaped by faith, family, and a lifelong commitment to education.
As CAIS approaches its 10th year at the Lai Chi Kok campus, the school’s leadership team is set to guide the school into a new decade—one defined by growth, community, and a steadfast dedication to nurturing the whole child.
A Journey Rooted in Faith and Family
Schick’s journey into education is as global as it is personal. Born into a family that valued learning—his parents were the first in their families to attend university—Schick’s early years were marked by a strong sense of purpose and community. “My parents placed a tremendous importance on education,” he recalls. “Behind every healthy student is a strong community, and it can be a small, tight-knit community, but it can also be a large, tight-knit community.”
For CAIS teachers, education is more than academic achievement; it is about shaping character and nurturing faith. “Our school culture is rooted in our faith and values,” Schick explains. “At CAIS, we say learning for understanding creates a sharp mind, but learning for appreciation will give someone a soft heart, and learning for responsible action compels them to have serving hands.”
One of the challenges CAIS embraces is balancing academic excellence with a Christ-centered community. “The two are not mutually exclusive,” Schick says. This year, CAIS has celebrated remarkable achievements, from perfect IB scores to international choral and mathematics competition victories. Yet, Schick is quick to point out that these successes are the fruits of a deeper foundation. “You can’t start with the fruit. You need to start with the roots. It focuses on character development, and the fruits of the school are much more than just academic results.”
As CAIS continues to grow, Schick is looking ahead to the future. The recent opening of a new aquatic centre ensures that every aspect of student life—from learning to play to community gatherings—supports the school’s mission. The upcoming 10th anniversary of the campus will be marked by a year of celebrations, reflecting the school’s growth and the strength of its community.
Schick’s education philosophy is encapsulated in a simple yet profound analogy: “To be a thermostat, not a thermometer.”
Ultimately, Schick hopes his time at CAIS will be measured not just in numbers or accolades, but in the lives of students who grow into men and women of integrity, ready to serve and lead in the world. “In education, we are on a tree planting mission, and we start with the roots, and then over time, we see them grow, and we see the fruits come out,” he reflects.
For Schick, leading CAIS is more than a professional milestone—it is a calling to nurture a community where every student is valued, every family is welcomed, and every graduate is equipped to make a difference. As CAIS enters its next decade, the school promises to shape not only the future of its students, but the lives of all who pass through its gates.