MONO International School
THE STORY BEHIND MONO
A Dream That Became a School
MONO International School began with a simple belief: every child deserves the opportunity to dream, learn, and build a better future.
As the Founder and Director of MONO, I have spent many years working with children and communities in Cambodia. Through my work, I saw that children living in remote and isolated areas often had very different opportunities from children growing up in cities. Many had never met foreigners, never used a computer, and had very limited access to modern educational experiences.
In December 2017, I came to Thmor Bang and decided to work directly with children in this remote community. What began as a personal commitment gradually grew into MONO International School.
Since then, MONO has continued to provide children with opportunities to learn English, mathematics, computer skills, life skills, leadership, and character development — helping them become confident young people who can create their own future.
Today, MONO is more than a school. It is a place where children's dreams can begin to become reality.
At MONO International School, we believe education is about more than academic knowledge. We nurture children’s creativity, confidence, character, communication, and love of learning through English, technology, life skills, moral education, leadership, and practical experience.
We create a safe and inspiring environment where every child can discover their abilities, pursue their dreams, and build a brighter future.
Our Guiding Principles
Every Child Matters
We create a caring, safe, and supportive environment where every child feels valued, respected, confident, and ready to learn and grow.
Inspired by Curiosity
We encourage children to ask questions, explore new ideas, discover their talents, and learn through meaningful experiences. This makes learning an exciting journey that inspires children to think, create, and dream bigger.
Built on Community
We believe strong communities help children thrive. We build meaningful partnerships among students, teachers, families, volunteers, and the local community to create a supportive environment where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
BUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE
Our Vision, Mission & The Journey ahead
At MONO International School, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a brighter future—no matter where they come from.
Our Vision
To become one of Cambodia’s leading educational institutions, recognized for high-quality education that meets both national and international standards.
At MONO International School, we envision a future where every child—regardless of their background or where they come from—has the opportunity to dream big, receive an excellent education, and enjoy a happy and memorable childhood.
We want our students to grow into confident, capable, compassionate, and responsible individuals, with strong character, leadership skills, and clear goals for their future.
Through education and meaningful opportunities, we aim to help children:
- Communicate confidently in English and connect with people from different cultures.
- Develop digital and modern technological skills for the changing world.
- Discover their talents, build confidence, and pursue their dreams.
- Become responsible global citizens who care for others and contribute positively to their communities.
- Build a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Beyond the classroom, we envision education as a pathway to stronger, more knowledgeable, peaceful, and prosperous communities—while inspiring the next generation to protect forests and wildlife and pursue sustainable ways of living.
At MONO International School, our vision is not only to educate children, but to give them the opportunities to turn their dreams into reality.
Our Mission
To provide quality, inclusive, and child-centered education in a friendly, beautiful, and safe learning environment, equipped with modern educational resources—so that every child can learn, grow, discover their potential, and prepare for a brighter future.
We are dedicated to:
- Delivering high-quality education that meets national and international standards.
- Providing modern learning facilities including classrooms, playgrounds, computers, and educational resources.
- Developing the whole child through academic learning, life skills, personal character, and leadership.
- Encouraging critical thinking, creativity, communication, and self-confidence.
- Promoting caring, sharing, teamwork, and respect for others.
- Building strong partnerships with volunteers, families, and the wider community.
Through our five educational programs—General Education, English as a Second Language, Intelligent Mental Arithmetic, Computer and Digital Skills Training, and Life Skills, Moral Education, Character Development and Leadership—we strive to give every child the knowledge, skills, character, and confidence to pursue their dreams.
At MONO International School, education is more than learning in a classroom. It is about creating opportunities, developing potential, and helping children believe that their future can be bigger than their circumstances.
Our Goals
MONO International School aims to:
1. Provide high-quality education that meets both national and international standards, equipping students with strong academic knowledge, English proficiency, computer skills, and practical life skills.
3. Develop confident, responsible, and compassionate individuals with strong moral values and leadership qualities.
4. Prepare students for further education and enable them to continue their studies successfully at higher levels in both public and private institutions.
5. Create opportunities for children in rural communities to achieve their dreams and improve their quality of life.
6. Inspire future leaders who contribute positively to their families, communities, and the nation.
7. Promote environmental responsibility and encourage students to protect forests and wildlife through education and sustainable development.
Through these goals, MONO International School continues to transform lives, create opportunities, and empower future generations to build a brighter future for themselves, their communities, and Cambodia.
Beyond
the Classroom
At MONO International School, education is not only about becoming good at subjects. It is also about helping children understand why learning matters and giving them a reason to prepare for their future.
Many children in remote communities have limited opportunities to see the wider world—how people live, work, study, develop skills, use technology, and pursue different careers. That is why we create opportunities for children to experience more through educational activities, practical learning, cultural exchange, international volunteers, visitors, technology, competitions, arts, sports, and trips beyond their community.
We want children to see that the world is changing quickly and that education can open doors to possibilities they may never have imagined.
Suddenly, mathematics has a reason. English has a reason. Computers have a reason. Learning has a reason.
When children see a bigger world, they can begin to dream bigger and return to their classroom with greater curiosity, confidence, and motivation to work toward that dream.
We don't only give children a dream. We help them discover the reason, skills, confidence, and opportunities to pursue it.
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Pathways to Learning & Discovery
Early Years — Little Learners
For children around two and a half to three years old, we begin learning through play, songs, dancing, stories, creative activities, and exploration. Children develop early communication, social, and motor skills while becoming familiar with letters, numbers, colors, shapes, and the joy of learning in a warm and caring environment.
2½ to 3
Junior Explorers
Children learn through songs, stories, games, creative activities, and hands-on practice. They begin learning to recognize and write letters in English and Khmer, remember simple letters and words, practice early spelling, and develop basic communication skills.
They also explore numbers by learning to recognize and write them, remember number names, and understand quantities. Through these joyful activities, children build confidence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for their next stage of learning.
(4-5)
Senior Scholars
Children strengthen the skills they have developed through engaging lessons, activities, stories, songs, reading, writing, and practical learning. They develop stronger English and Khmer language skills, practice spelling and simple sentences, and build confidence in reading and writing.
They also deepen their understanding of numbers, counting, basic mathematics, and everyday problem-solving while learning to work independently, cooperate with others, and take responsibility for their learning.
(5-6)
Grade 1–6 | After-School Support Program
PRIMARY LEARNING
3. Character & Growth
Education is more than academic knowledge. We help children develop discipline, responsibility, confidence, leadership, teamwork, respect, motivation, and practical life skills.
We create a safe, caring, and friendly environment where children can feel supported, enjoy learning, discover their abilities, and begin to understand how today's learning can become a bridge to their future.
2. English & Learning Skills
MONO provides structured English learning with dedicated teachers, learning materials, and activities that help children develop listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and communication skills.
We also encourage children to develop curiosity, concentration, quick thinking, creativity, and the confidence to use what they learn in real situations.
1. Academic Support
Children attend public school in the morning and come to MONO in the afternoon for additional learning and support. We help students strengthen their Khmer, reading, writing, mathematics, understanding, problem-solving, and homework skills.
Our teachers give children the time, guidance, practice, and encouragement they need to understand their lessons, strengthen their foundations, and become more confident learners.
PART-TIME LEARNING
Skills for a Changing World
MONO International School also provides part-time learning opportunities for older students, young people, and community members who want to continue developing their skills.
Students from around Grade 4 through Grade 12 can join English classes according to their level and learning needs. Some older learners and young adults, including people who are already working in the local community, also come to MONO for one or two hours to improve their English, communication, and practical skills.
We believe learning should continue beyond the regular school day and beyond a person's age. For some learners, English can open opportunities for further education, employment, communication, and connection with the wider world.
MONO also provides opportunities to learn computer and digital skills when teachers and equipment are available. These skills are increasingly important in a world that is changing and developing so quickly.
At present, our computer program is limited because we do not yet have a dedicated computer classroom and enough equipment. We hope to expand this opportunity so that more students and community members can gain the digital skills they need for education, work, and their future.
Wherever a learner begins, MONO provides a place to keep learning, growing, and preparing for the future.
Learning, Growing & Creating
What Parents Say About MONO
We are very happy to see how much our children have learned at MONO International School. They can read and write at a young age, solve mathematics problems, and communicate in English with confidence. We are proud to see abilities in our children that we did not realize they had, and we are very grateful for the quality of education they receive at MONO.
MONO gives our children opportunities that are not available elsewhere in our community. They can join competitions, art and sports activities, performances, presentations, and meet visitors from other countries. These experiences allow our children to discover their talents, try new things, and become confident in showing what they can do.
We are grateful that our children can have a happy and meaningful childhood while receiving a good education. At MONO, they learn, play, create, make friends, and experience new things together with their community. Seeing our children excited to come to school, proud of what they can do, and beginning to dream bigger makes us very happy and hopeful for their future.
WHEN DREAMS COME
FULL CIRCLE
From Students to Community Builders
At the end of 2017, a small group of children began a journey with us in Thmor Bang. We taught them, encouraged them to dream beyond the limits of their circumstances, and supported them not only through academic learning, but also through character, leadership, life skills, confidence, and motivation.
Over the years, we watched these children grow. They continued their education, completed high school, and some went on to graduate from university and pursue their own dreams.
But something even more meaningful has happened.
In recent years, some of those former students have returned to MONO. From 2022 to 2026, some have come back to work alongside us—not simply as former students, but as members of our team.
The children who once came to us to learn are now helping us create opportunities for other children.
Their journey reminds us why education matters. When we give children knowledge, confidence, character, and the courage to dream, their impact can reach far beyond their own lives.
Today, we are working together to continue building MONO International School into an outstanding place for the next generation.
Yesterday's students are becoming today's community builders.
Discover Koh Kong, Cambodia
Where Meaningful Volunteering
Meets Nature, Community, and Adventure
MONO International School is located in the remote Thma Bang District of Koh Kong Province, Cambodia, surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape and a close-knit rural community. Here, life is deeply connected to the land, with local families growing durian, bananas, avocados, passion fruit, vegetables, and many other fresh and seasonal fruits.
Beyond the school and the farms, the area offers a remarkable natural environment of forests, mountains, streams, rivers, and waterfalls. The wider Koh Kong region is also known for its protected natural areas, rich wildlife, national parks, mangrove forests, beaches, and beautiful coastline.
For volunteers, coming to MONO is more than simply travelling to another country to teach. It is an opportunity to step away from the busy pace of city life and experience a quieter, more natural side of Cambodia. You can become part of a local community, meet Cambodian families, share your culture and skills with children, and discover places and experiences that many visitors never have the chance to see.
Come for the Purpose. Stay for the Experience.
Volunteer at MONO, connect with the community, explore the beauty of Koh Kong, and take home memories that go far beyond the classroom
Volunteer With Us
Come to MONO International School and become part of a meaningful journey. Share your knowledge, skills, language, culture, and time with children from a remote community who deserve greater opportunities to learn, grow, and dream.
Beyond the classroom, experience a different side of Cambodia—life in a welcoming rural community surrounded by farms, forests, mountains, streams, and waterfalls. Discover local culture, enjoy fresh local produce, and explore the natural beauty of Koh Kong in your free time.
Teach. Connect. Explore. Make a Difference.
Your time with MONO can help open a wider world for our children while giving you an unforgettable experience of Cambodia beyond the busy cities
Share Your Skills. Experience Cambodia. Make a Difference.
Volunteer Application Form
Support MONO
Help Us Build a Brighter Future
Help Us Keep the Dream Alive
MONO International School was built on a simple belief: every child deserves the opportunity to learn, dream, and build a brighter future—regardless of where they are born.
But building and sustaining a school in a remote community has not been easy.
A Journey of Challenges and Perseverance
For many years, the founder has invested almost everything she had—her time, energy, resources, and personal sacrifices—to keep this dream alive for children who have limited access to educational opportunities.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck during the first and second waves, everything fell apart. The family faced severe hardship, with days when there was not even enough food for the day. At the same time, the school lost the land where it was operating because the landlord could no longer allow the school to continue there.
With the trust and support of the parents, MONO found a new place and rebuilt classrooms so the children could continue learning.
Then the country's economic crisis brought even greater financial difficulties. The school eventually faced bankruptcy. Although opportunities for employment arose, walking away would have meant leaving behind the students, teachers, and community who still depended on the school.
There were many moments when giving up seemed easier.
But the children gave us a reason to continue.
We Chose to Keep Going
Through every challenge, MONO has continued to stand because of faith, sacrifice, perseverance, and the belief that education can transform lives.
Today, after years of hardship, the school is beginning to bloom like a flower after a long and difficult season.
But we have reached a point where we cannot move forward alone.
Why Your Support Matters
Your support is not simply an investment in a school.
It is an investment in children.
It can help us create a safe, beautiful, and supportive learning environment where children can develop their knowledge, skills, confidence, character, and dreams.
With the right support, we can improve our facilities, strengthen our teachers, expand educational opportunities, and give children experiences that many of them have never had before.
What We Need to Move Forward
🚌 A School Bus
To provide safe transportation for students and create opportunities for educational trips to cities, museums, historical sites, and cultural places—while also creating potential income through transportation services.
💻 A Computer Classroom
To give students and staff access to computers and develop essential digital skills, while supporting volunteer training and capacity-building programs.
🛝 A Safe Playground
To create a modern, child-friendly space where children can play, explore, develop, and simply enjoy a happy childhood.
🏠 Dormitories for Teachers, Staff & Volunteers
To provide safe and dignified accommodation for the dedicated people who serve our children and to create better opportunities for attracting teachers, international volunteers, and educational partners.
🏫 A New School Center
To expand MONO's educational opportunities to another underserved community where children and families are still waiting for access to quality education.
Be Part of the Next Chapter
MONO International School has come this far because people believed that the dream was worth protecting.
Now, we need partners who believe in what comes next.
Your financial support, resources, partnership, or contribution of skills can help us continue this journey and create opportunities for many more children.
Together, we can keep the dream alive.
Together, we can transform dreams into reality.
If you would like to support MONO International School, please click the brown “Support MONO” button below, or scroll down to view our available payment methods, bank information, and QR code.
