As we reported a few weeks back, we’re delighted to welcome Ms. Hazel Chee as our new Senior School Principal.
With her multilingual background, global experience and passion for student-centered learning, Ms. Chee will bring a blend of wisdom, warmth and vision to our community. We sat down for a casual chat to help the community get to know her a little better before she officially takes up her new role in August.
Tell us a bit about your background. Where did you grow up, and how did you find your way into education?
I grew up in England and originally pursued linguistics and language at university. After some time working in Europe, I found myself in Canada. Becoming a teacher wasnโt my initial planโbut I quickly realized it was the right choice. Iโve always appreciated finding ways to share knowledge, and I come from a family that, while not formally trained educators, always prioritized learning and exploration. Teaching felt like a natural extension of that.
What inspired you to step into school leadership?
Funny enough, I never set out to become a school leader but after some encouragement from friends, the leap into leadership has made all the difference. Iโve come to appreciate the broader impact I can have in shaping a supportive, dynamic school environment.
What have been your early impressions of SJS?
Thereโs a sense of community thatโs truly special. I attended graduation and immediately felt the warmth and authenticity from students, parents and staff. What struck me most was how genuine it all feltโpeople were relaxed, kind and clearly proud of the students and the school. It gave me a strong sense that this is a place where relationships really matter.
You’ve worked extensively with the IB. What draws you to that framework?
Iโm a proud advocate for the IB. Itโs the most holistic educational approach Iโve encountered. What I love most is that it goes beyond academicsโit cultivates curious, balanced and reflective learners. The learner profile isn’t just a list of attributes; itโs a way of life. IB encourages students to ask questions, take risks and develop resilience. And those skillsโfar more than any gradeโare what truly prepare students for the world.
What are the most important skills students should develop in Senior School?
Beyond the academic skills, Iโd highlight independence, resilience and gratitude. Senior School is a time for students to make mistakes, learn from them and build the self-awareness that will carry them forward. I also hope they leave with a strong sense of appreciation for the people whoโve supported them along the way.
What are you most looking forward to in your first year at SJS?
Getting to know peopleโstudents, staff and families. I want the community to feel they can approach me with anything, whether itโs to share a concern or just say โhello.โ I know Iโll be challenged remembering names and connections at first, but I genuinely enjoy building relationships and hearing peopleโs stories.
What do you enjoy outside of school?
Iโm a foodie, though I cannot cook for toffee! I love exploring different cuisines, especially when itโs part of discovering a new culture. Travel is a passion and as a polyglot with a background in linguistics, I find that language adds an entirely new dimension to those experiences. I also enjoy being outdoors, rain or shine, and often go for walks to reconnect with nature.
If you werenโt a teacher, what do you think you would be?
It might sound a bit strange, but Iโd probably be a tow truck driver! I enjoy driving, and thereโs something satisfying about the idea of helping people get back on trackโliterally. Itโs a different kind of problem-solving, but I think Iโd find joy in the challenge.
Any final thoughts youโd like to share with the SJS community?
What excites me most about SJS is the sense of connection and warmthโit reminds me of the kitchen table growing up. That table was the heart of the home: where stories were shared, ideas explored, meals enjoyed and support offered. I see SJS in much the same wayโa place where people gather, connect and grow together. I’m grateful to be joining your community and look forward to sharing the โkitchen table.โ
Ms. Chee officially begins her new role in August and weโre excited for all that lies ahead under her leadership. We know our community will warmly welcome her to the SJS table.
