Outstanding schools are shaped by programmes, facilities, and opportunities – but they are brought to life by people: Experienced, passionate professionals who care deeply about their craft and their students. At recent Nanjing International School assemblies, we recognised nine faculty and staff members who have each contributed either 10 or 20 years of service to our school.

It was a moment worth celebrating – not only the years themselves, but everything those years represent. What does choosing to stay so long at a school say?

It speaks to a sense of belonging and shared purpose. It reflects a professional culture in which people can continue to learn, contribute, and grow. Most importantly, it represents years of relationships built with students, families, and colleagues – as well as a deep understanding of the community these educators help shape.

On average, faculty members spend six years at NIS. In the international-school world, where moving between countries and schools is often part of the profession, that continuity is especially meaningful. It allows experienced teachers to develop a rich understanding of our students, our programmes, and how learning at NIS evolves from year to year.

Longevity does not mean standing still. The teachers we celebrated have seen educational practice change, new programmes and learning spaces emerge, and generations of students pass through their classrooms. Throughout that time, they have continued to reflect, adapt, collaborate, and bring their professional knowledge to the changing needs of learners.

That continuity extends well beyond the classroom. Both local and international long-serving support staff help sustain the operations, culture, and relationships of our school. Their expertise and commitment provide an essential foundation for teaching, learning, and community life at NIS.

Long-serving NIS educators and support staff carry institutional knowledge, mentor newer colleagues, sustain traditions, and help new ideas take root. They remember where we have been while remaining deeply engaged in where we are going.

To our nine long-serving colleagues – and to all the faculty and staff who make NIS the community it is – thank you for choosing to share so much of your journey with us.