ISSUE #3 APRIL 2014 AOSR Falcon Flyer Content submitted by AOSR faculty & students AOSR Leadership Conference By: Brian B. (Grade 12, NHS President)
I pledge to maintain high scholastic standing, to On March 1st, a rainy Saturday morning, the First hold as fundamental and worthy an untarnished AOSR Leadership Conference was held. Leaders character, to endeavor intelligently and from the fields of medicine, youth work, education, courageously, to be a leader, and to give of myself diplomacy and world organizations shared their freely in service to others. In so doing I shall prove wisdom with an audience of over one hundred myself worthy of a place in the National Honor students, teachers and parents. We learned the Society. importance of being open to different experiences and of not forgetting our dreams because we will This is the pledge that is made by National Honor never know when the opportunity will come, from Society members at their induction ceremony. Ms. Joanne Martin, Chair of the AOSR Board of This year, the AOSR NHS Chapter organized Trustees. The U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, a Leadership Conference to promote one of its Kenneth F. Hackett, spoke of two exemplary leaders: principles and to bring the school community Pope Francis and Colin Powell. together through a student led event. Continued on page 2
Inside This Issue:
PAGES 4-10: Elementary School News PAGE 12-14: Middle School News Saturday, May 10: Mayfair Celebration PAGE 16-20: AOSR News Thursday/Friday, May 22, 23: Annual Shakespeare Festival PAGE 20-25: High School News PAGE 26-28: Alumni Friday, May 30: Commencement, Class of 2014 AOSR Leadership Conference (continued) page 2
AOSR Leadership Conference continued from page 1 Dr. Yaya Olaniran, Nigerian Ambassador to UN agencies, recounted the importance of childhood experiences, planting seeds, and of being courageous. Dr. Dan Gustafson, Deputy Director General of Operations at FAO, spoke of working in teams, and how successful teams are composed of members with different talents: the specialist, the visionary, the team builder, and the one with a holistic view. Using the metaphor of a stack of coins, one coin for each decision, Mr. Luca Crivellari, a youth worker and Peace Camp representative, reminded us the importance of being aligned with our core values. Professor Emilio Iodice, Vice President of Loyola University Chicago and Director of the Rome Center, spoke of leaders from Napoleon to Pelé; on the importance of vision, and basing our actions on facts. Marja Pronk, MD, Founder and Managing Director of Europe- ExPro, shared her story, both professional and personal, to emphasize how having the courage to listen to our inner voice, disregarding other people’s points of view, can be life changing. She highlighted how an idea once developed must be guided by knowledge, a supportive network of people and by listening to our inner voice.
We learned the importance of education, hard work and delayed gratification from Dr. Prof. Festus Akinnifesi, Chief of FAO’s South-South Cooperation: “Preparation, preparation, preparation.” Last but not least, Mr. James T. Johnston, Officer in Command, Engineering Security Office of the US embassy, spoke of recognizing the humanity of people in the workplace and that leaders need to primarily develop themselves as individuals. Being an engineer he said that a machine can be built and broken, but most importantly it can be repaired.
The conference ended with a panel discussion stimulated by thought provoking questions from the audience. The speakers’ presentations were filmed and are available on our school’s website and livestreaming at “new. livestream.com/aosronline.” As a follow-up to the conference, Ambassador Hackett sent us a powerpoint presentation on the attributes of Colin Powell, and Prof. Emilio Iodice, presented his book on Leadership to the school. It is now available in our HS library.
The First AOSR Leadership Conference would not have been possible without the members of the National Honor Society working together as a team and without the support of these important people: our advisor Ms. Telmon, Mr. Kunin, Dr. Pfannl, Members of the Board of Trustees and the PTO, Anna Chiara, Ing. Piccioni, Ms. Arnold, Mr. Miller, Mr. Desideri, and the Maintenance Staff. Thank you all for contributing to this memorable event.
Comments from students that attended the leadership conference: The Leadership Conference was one of this year’s highlights. At school we are given the tools to enrich our education, but it is really hard for a school to provide for “real talk” simulation. The Leadership Conference filled in that blank.- Charles, Grade 11.
The Leadership Conference was a well organized school event and I liked what the speakers had to say. -Cooper, Grade 11.
The Leadership Conference was very interesting. There were many different leaders who reached their positions, thanks to their knowledge and experience. This was very important for us as we learned key factors which generated these leaders. One leader who surprised me for his story was Mr. Akinnifesi. Thanks to his determination in accomplishing his studies he became a great leader. -Mattia, Grade 11.
The Leadership Conference was a fascinating event. I very much liked the variety of speakers present. -Sofia, Grade12.
The Leadership Conference was a very useful experience. I found that the speakers gave very good advice to all of us. -Alice, Grade 12.
The Leadership Conference is one of the most inspiring events that I have experienced. The speakers shared important advice that motivated me to become an influential leader. -YiMing, Grade 12. page 2 AOSR News SPECIAL VISITOR ON The Geometric Mosaic Found at AOSR in 1959 CAMPUS By: Dr. Richard Hodges OBE, BY: DR. BETH PFANNL, HEAD OF SCHOOL President of the American University of Rome
The American Overseas School at Rome lay exactly Last month, Dr. Richard Hodges, President within the fork of the junction of the Via Cassia and of the American University of Rome, visited the Via Veientana, depicted on the 4th-century map, the AOSR for the first time. He took over as Peutinger Table. Overlooking the abandoned Etruscan the president of AUR in 2012. Knowing that capital of Vieii, the building discovered in 1959 in the Dr. Hodges was an eminent archeologist, I present school car park was excavated by John Ward- showed him the geometric mosaic hanging Perkins, at that time Director of the British School at by our elementary school library. I was so Rome, a wartime Monuments’ Man, and a distinguished excited when he immediately recognized the classical archaeologist. According to his published report, piece as part of a floor from an ancient Roman the building formed part of a villa, but it is likelier that villa that had been discovered in the school this was a mansio, a roadside hostelry for visitors coming parking lot back in the 1950s. Read what Dr. to Rome. This building almost certainly extends from the Hodges has to say about our treasured mosaic. present Via Cassia to some point under the school to the line of the original Via Cassia.
Coins and ceramics found in the dig indicate that the stone and brick building dates to the early to mid 1st century AD, the time of the Emperors Tiberius, Caligula and Claudius, and in common with many such properties in South Etruria was refurbished in the 3rd century. The simple black and white, geometric mosaic, made of decently cut tesserae, found in room 1, is a typical pavement for a functional room – corridors, service quarters etc. The white tesserae are of limestone and the black are of blue-black volcanic basalt. Curiously, the mosaic did not quite fit the room, and bits of stone and ceramics filled the narrow gap between it and the walls.
J. Ward-Perkins, Excavation of a Roman building near ‘Tomba di Nerone’ on the Via Cassia, Papers of the British School at Rome 27 (1959): 131-59.
Comments from students that attended the leadership conference: AOSR Parent Academy
Don’t miss our final two Parent Academy sessions of the 2013-2014 school year!
Wednesday, May 7: Moving On and Transitions (for middle school and high school parents) 9:20-10:20 in the cafeteria
Wednesday, May 14: Summer Reading (for elementary school parents) 14:20-15:20 in the elementary school library
page 3 Elementary School News page 4
Pre-K Celebrates Fathers’ & Special Friends’ Breakfast
The Pre-K children celebrated dads and special friends at our annual Fathers’ and Special Friends’ Breakfast on March 19th. The Butterflies and Frogs were very busy as they prepared for the breakfast. In the science center, and during small group time, they baked yogurt cake, mixed pancake batter and made their own butter by shaking cream. In the language center, each child prepared a special poem about his or her dad and in art they created and painted a clay pencil holder to give as a gift to their guest. As they arrived at school, the Butterflies and Frogs had breakfast with their guests and then spent time playing together in the various learning centers. The children were proud of all their hard work to get ready for this special event and we were happy to have so many dads and special friends join us! page 4
Kindergarten visits bridges and markets of rome with grade 9 buddies
On January 22, we went on a field trip to Ponte Milvio with our ninth grade buddies in Mr. Schipper’s class to learn about the bridges and markets of Rome. “First we took a bus to Ponte Milvio. The bus was really big!” cried Scout H. Our ninth grade buddies taught us about the famous bridge and how it was built. “The bridge was built by the Romans,” stated Nicola C. “It was built a long, long, long time ago!” added Yotam D. “We saw the Tiber and Ponte Flaminio,” said Ahmad A.
Upon our tour of the oldest bridge in Rome, Ponte Milvio, we walked over to the market where we bought items for our families. “At the market, I bought some apples, carrots and bread,” remarked Tommaso D. “I bought fruit and vegetables. We also saw a cake! I bought some strawberries!” exclaimed Cristian O.
After our trip to the market, we headed back to school. “We had lunch at school with our buddies and we wrote about what we liked best about the field trip. I liked Ponte Milvio the best because we took pictures on it,” says Federico S.
We had a good trip and had a fun time with our buddies. Tamar summed it up best by saying: “The whole day was beautiful and good!”
Kindergarten students with their grade 9 buddies on Ponte Milvio
On March 3rd, Kindergarten students showed off their knowledge of the alphabet in an ABC parade!
page 5 Elementary School News page 6
Grade 1 Reminder “To Brush Twice a Day”
Tooth Pillow Project First grade has been learning about how to have healthy teeth. We have been reading books about dental care and we have had a visit from a dentist. We have also been learning about different tooth traditions from around the world. In celebration of our learning first graders sewed their very own tooth pillows, with the help of parents and teachers.
Ms.Warlick’s students show off their pillows.
Ms. Tausend’s students show off their pillows.
Grade 2 Visits Pigorini Museum
In March, second graders took a trip to the Pigorini National Museum of Prehistory and Ethnography in EUR. The trip was scheduled to enrich the second grade social studies curriculum of early man. The students were both impressed and intrigued by the exhibits depicting early human history. The students’ enthusiasm, curiosity, and genuine interest were evident in their thoughtful comments and questions. We are looking forward to more field trips this spring! page 6
Grade 3 visits leonardo da vinci exhibit
In third grade the students are in the midst of a science unit on simple and complex machines. Engineers in Florence took Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks and built scale models of about fifty of his machines that are housed in the Leonardo da Vinci Exhibition in Rome. During our visit to the museum we observed a flying machine with a bicycle system, a hydraulic saw, a precursor to the helicopter, and an Archimede’s screw. We were able to identify the simple machines in each invention. We also were able to manipulate and work with some small machines to see how da Vinci used gear systems, ball bearings, and winches. This great inventor inspired us and we are eager to apply what we learned as we head back to the classroom to engineer our own industrial subsystems using simple machines.
Grade 4 Scientists
By: Finn J. & Jack T. (Gr. 4)
In the 4th Grade, we are studying about Ms. Tausend’s students show off their pillows. weather in science. For a starting activity we experimented on what air molecules do when they are compressed in a syringe. Then we answered questions about the Earth’s atmosphere. After, we started to learn about different types of heat. First we put one steel bar and one aluminum bar into a cup of hot water and attached temperature strips. The heat transferred to the strips to become colorful. That’s called conduction.
Next we partnered up and went outside with a container of water and a container of soil with thermometers and stuck the thermometers in both containers. We wrote down the temperatures in the sun and shade. We discovered that soil heats up and cools down faster than water. This is called radiation. We are learning fun stuff in science.
page 7 Elementary School News page 8
Grade 4: Melody Around the world
By: Jesse F. (Gr. 4)
Since the beginning of the year we have been reading a book called, Out Of My Mind, about how a girl named Melody lived her whole life in a wheel chair. The class was divided into groups of two and asked to write about what we were doing with Melody- our thoughts and experiences. We enjoyed the book a lot and then, one day, Melody even came to our classroom and we were all excited to meet and greet her! We took her to a museum exhibit, made sure we found all the wheelchair access ramps and continued to take her almost everywhere we went! We also donated some of our bookmarks to the following class that welcomed and received our “Melody Around the World” package! It was lots of fun, writing to the other students and hearing about the difficulties Melody meets every. We made a great friend, forever!
By: Rowen N. (Gr. 4) part of our activities. For example, in art class we made bookmarks and some of the students donated Since the beginning of the school year, we have been theirs to Melody. Everyone got a chance to bring reading, Out of My Mind. The class did a couple of Melody to classes. The teacher chose a number projects involving a laminated figure of a girl (Melody) from one to a hundred and the students guessed it. sitting in her wheel chair holding a goldfish in its bowl, on We brought Melody all around school and helped her lap. We wrote about her experiences in our classes at her get up and down stairs. We realized that our school. Two people wrote what she felt everyday. school is almost impossible to get around in a wheelchair! It was fun and we learned what it feels Another project was in art when we made bookmarks and like not being able to walk. almost everybody donated them to Melody. The whole class thought the book was great. We also Skyped with a fourth grade class in America. We talked about what happened in the book about Melody. We brought Melody on a fieldtrip with us to a museum to see a National Geographic exhibit. It had one hundred twenty-five photographs on display representing the one hundred twenty-fifth anniversary! Many students, and Melody, loved the exhibit and trip!
By: Camilla S. (Gr. 4)
Since the beginning of the school year we’ve been reading the book, Out of My Mind. We enjoyed it a lot. We thought it was really fun that Melody came to our school in Rome and we think it was fun also for Melody to explore and be page 8
Grade 5: Welcomes Spring
The 5th Grade musical performance of A Night at the Theater was presented on April 10th at 19:00 to a packed house! The students, as usual, are showed themselves to be wonderful performers. Music, Art, Dance and Drama are where we see all the children shine. They had given up their recess and their free time at home in order to practice their moves and learn their lines. For the most part this was their first experience on stage in front of an audience. Every student in 5th grade had a role and their collaboration and support of each other was exemplary. Ms. Hirao helped us make props, hats and scenery and Ms. Collier was unfailing in her assistance with our ELL students, giving a hand back-stage when needed and providing help with costumes and props. The ‘Carmen Miranda’ style hat in the picture was made by 5th Grade at the “Hirao Atelier.”
Our students have also conducted an in-depth research on a mammal of their choice. The amazing models in the pictures are the result of their hard work. They have turned up some amazing facts and it has become a huge learning experience for us all. For example, the human body has 639 muscles while the elephant’s trunk has 6 major muscle groups. But, then they are divided into more than 100,000 muscle units, which make up around 40,000 muscles! We have been busy putting together science, technology, engineering and math along with team work and our groups have learned to work together, to organize themselves and to discuss aerodynamics along with it’s connection to geometry, surface area and mass. We are very proud of them.
Wishing you all a blooming nice spring.
page 9 Elementary School News page 10
What’s Happening in the ES Library? By Ms. Maria Falgoust (ES Librarian)
Did you know our collection holds recently, Elisa, Sabrina and Eva read, 11,825 titles? Stop by and browse “Making Basic Origami Shapes Step our selection! There is something for by Step” by Michael LaFosse and everyone! in the AOSR community. created a big, gorgeous work of art. All AOSR community members are Cookbooks have been very popular welcome. with our students lately and I enjoy hearing about the recipes they’ve been This school year alone, the inspired to try, often with a parent or Elementary School library has grandparent. Arts and crafts books are circulated 11,442 items! Our students also popular. are excited about learning and have a lot of enthusiasm for literature! Our library has hosted a variety of Our books are also enjoyed by exciting collaborative events lately, Middle School students, not only for such as a partnership between Ms. researching topics, but also for the Holcombe’s 6th grade classes and Ms. pure joy of reading! Warlick and Ms. Tausend’s 1st grade classes. This involved 6th graders The most popular books at the AOSR writing original, illustrated stories and Elementary Library this school year receiving feedback from 1st graders (so far) are: for future revisions. Mr. Schipper’s • Diary of a Wimpy Kid (series) by 9th grade history class students Jeff Kinney researched events, people and places • Kylie Jean (series) by Meg Pescke in Rome and also created their own • Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss books which they shared with a 4th • Big Nate (series) by Lincoln Pierce grade class. • Piggy and Gerald (series) by Mo Willems Donate a Book to the Elementary • Amulet (series) by Kazu Kibuishi Library in honor of someone you • Mercy Watson (series) by Kate love DiCamillo • Lego Star Wars: the Visual Donating a book to the library is a Dictionary by Simon Beecroft meaningful way to honor someone • Thea Stilton (series) by Thea while supporting the library. When Stilton ordering, please specify what you would like the bookplate to say. Thanks to the support of our Examples include; ‘Happy Birthday, wonderful Parent Teacher Sarah!’ or ‘In Memory of Gianluca”’ Organization, we’ve added some or simply “Donated by the Smith beautiful titles to the collection Family” or ‘Happy Hannukah, Lili’ or such as, “The Animal Book: A “In honor of my teacher, Ms. Roselli.” Art in the Library: A big “Thank You” to Ms. Hirao collection of the Fastest, fiercest, If you have any questions, please and the 1st and 2nd grade classes for decorating the toughest, Cleverest, Shyest - and contact Maria Falgoust at mfalgoust@ Library windows with gorgeous Spring Flowers and Most Surprising Animals on Earth” aosr.org. beautiful butterflies! They bring joy to everyone who by Steve Jenkins, “Iggy Peck the You can view the wish list here: walks in. Architect” by Andrea Beatty, http://www.amazon.it/registry/ “Demeter and Persephone” by Hugh wishlist/1TE951A2GHXMR Lupton, “Chitchat: Celebrating the World’s Languages” by Jude Isabella, Upcoming Events! “Treasury of Egyptian Mythology: Classic Stories of Gods, Goddesses Wednesday, May 14th at 14:20: Ms. Monsters & Mortals” by Donna Jo Falgoust, Ms. D’Aquanni and Ms. Napoli, “Journey” by Aaron Becker Stewart will present a Parent Academy and many more! called, “Summer Reading.” This session will offer strategies and tips It’s always exciting to see what people for encouraging good reading habits learn from a book. For instance, and routines. page 10
AOSR INTERNATIONAL DAY OF LANGUAGES LOGO CONTEST Great Prizes! For the 3rd AOSR International Day of Languages
We need a new logo!
All AOSR students are eligible for the contest.
The rules aresimple:
-‐‑ Come up with an image – simple and creative– to identify
the International Day of Languages.
- The image must be original - Your design must incorporate the words: AOSR International Day of Languages. For more information: - Deadline: May 5th, 2014 [email protected]
- Please submit your digital [email protected] to or your paper work to Ms Magro (Villa11) or Ms Le Bail (Villa 15).
Please note all guidelines above and happy designing! Organized by the World Languages Department * Middle School News page 12
MS Cultural Trips
The sixth grade class for this year’s cultural delle Lacrime. We also went to see how papyrus trip went to Sicily. paper was made. That afternoon we went to Noto, a by Catalina V. (grade 6) city with lots of beautiful baroque architecture.
When we arrived everyone was excited. We got On day 4, we went to Ispica where we toured an on the bus and went to Acitrezza, which had an ancient flour mill and ancient cave dwellings. Then astonishing view. That afternoon we went to the we went to Ragusa, which was like a hidden city town of Taormina, a little city on a little mountain. down in a valley that was almost destroyed by an There, we explored the Greek Theatre, which is earthquake. We ended the day with free gelato and over 2000 years old. a demonstration of how the famous chocolate of Modica is made. The next day we went to see one of the oldest trees in the world, a chestnut tree on Mount Etna. We Day 5 was the last, but still entertaining day. First also tried to go to the top of Mount Etna, but we got thing in the morning we went to see how Pupi stuck in the snow on the way up. Instead of seeing Siciliani were made and ate a delicious barbeque. the crater, we got to play in the snow and even build After lunch we went to see the city of Catania, a snowman! After lunch, we made marzipan figures amazing for its architecture. Excited but sad, we and even got to eat them! went to the airport and got home to our happy, waiting families. On day 3, we went to Siracusa, a big city with an incredible church, the Basilica Santuario Madonna
Grade 6 students pose for a picture on Mt. Etna on day 2 of their trip to Sicily. page 12 Middle School Cultural Trips (continued)
Seventh grade students travelled to Portugal for this year’s cultural trip. by Jessica B. & Cooper J. (grade 7) The 7th grade trip was a great and unique experience. It was my first overnight trip and I loved it! It was educational and intriguing. I would love to experience it again. I would recommend that every student participate in one of the many MS cultural trips. For our trip, we traveled all around Portugal including cities like Coimbra, Sintra, Porto and Lisbon. There was amazing food and awesome sites everywhere we went. It was truly a unique and inspiring trip.
Eigth grade students travelled to Provence. These are some of their comments on the trip.
The trip in Provence was one of the best trips I’ve participated in during my time at AOSR because we had fun and learned many things at the same time. During the day students had a lot of time to visit the cities and discover the fun parts and not only the historical parts. Thanks to this trip we saw places and went to places where maybe we wouldn’t have gone in all our lives. The best part of it was Marseille. We saw one of the most beautiful cities of Europe, and also had fun on the panoramic wheel with our friends. Virgina A.
The Provence trip was a wonderful experience for me. The days that I liked the most were on the second and last days. On the second day we went to see a wonderful light show that represented all the most famous paintings of Klimt. It was fantastic to see all the paintings moving around in an enormous quarry. On the last day we visited Chateau d’If, a prison on an island next to Marseille. We got the chance to go inside the cells where the prisoners were kept. Chills came to me when I walked inside. Camilla R.
The France trip was amazing. We saw many astonishingly outstanding monuments, for example, the Pont Du Gard aqueduct that today has been turned into a monument because of its spectacular size and features. We also saw many other sights like Camargue. Camargue is a protected environment where animals can roam free to do whatever they want, like us every lunch break. After going to France I have learned that it is not all mimes and baguettes, but it is actually a very culturally diverse area where there are cowboys and kings, spectacular bull fighting and astonishing bridges. I would go on the France trip a million times over if I had the chance again because it was that amazing and fun. Quentin L.P.
page 13 Middle School News page 14
MS Cultural Trips (continued)
A mixed level group of students experienced day trips in and around Rome during the MS trip week. ACTIVITIES
Day 1: Modern day tour of EUR and visit to NATO Defense College
Day 2: Trip to the Theater to see Charlie Charleston
Day 3: Trip to MACRO art museum and Villa Torlonia
Day 4: Trip to LIFE Pizzeria on the Via Cassia for an organic food and pizza workshop
Day 5: Collaborative work day with PTO sponsored BBQ lunch, followed by group presentations.
Day 1: Students at the NATO Defense College
After School Activities
By: Ms. Christine Hogan ASA Coordinator & Ms. Vivian Mencarelli, Assistant
Session 2 of ASA has a large number of participants, approximately 230 students.
Sketch club and ceramics are very popular, as are all our sports. Private music lessons include piano, guitar, electric guitar, ukulele, violin and drums.
Our sports teams in basketball and soccer have participated in several matches against other schools here in Rome and have been excellent ambassadors of AOSR.
We believe that the students should have fun in a safe environment. Thank you parents, for entrusting your children to our care. page 14 AOSR News
By: Mr. Jason Schipper, CROSS-GRADE COLLABORATIONS Secondary History Teacher Cross-Grade Collaborations are a hit at AOSR!
International schools possess a unique feature in lesson based upon Bartholomew and the Oobleck that K-12 students are typically housed on the by Dr. Suess. Ms. Klug demonstrated that by same campus. This is in contrast to American mixing cornstarch and water, you can make a and Italian schools in which grade clusters non-Newtonian substance, that is both a liquid or are in separate schools, usually located many solid, which is the substance that fell from the sky kilometers apart. This year at AOSR, a number of in the story! Ms. Klug describes how the students teachers took advantage of the close proximity of at first were hesitant about touching the mixture, all the grades and worked to establish educational but eventually “really dug right into it- literally! cross-grade partnerships to teach lessons that The best part was that they were having so much cover curriculum standards in both grades. fun, and learning about liquids and solids at the Over the last few months, a number of these same time. I really want my high school students partnerships were established and the results to accompany me on a future lesson with these had a tremendous impact, both personally and younger kids. It would be great for them to educationally, for all students involved. practice their knowledge.” Kindergartener Yotam said, “It was like jelly because when we touched The kindergarten students have been working it, it was sticky and then it moved fast like a race with a group of 9th grade students on a number of car.” The students literally participated in some different projects including an examination of the hands-on learning in this lesson! past and present impact of bridges and markets in Rome, identifying the numerous historical sites And two other classes of 9th grade students were around the city, and learning about the different able to share their home-made children’s book components that make up a story. Kindergarten about Ancient Roman sites to a 2nd grade and teachers Christine D’Aquanni and Carrie Cuenca 4th grade class. 9th grade teacher Jason Schipper describe the impact these projects have had states, “It was so cool to see the 9th graders take on their students: “Our students continue to the role of the teacher and get really involved in cherish their relationships with their 9th grade reading the stories to the younger students. They buddies. What started as a collaborative field were able to demonstrate their knowledge of trip has evolved into a unique and meaningful Ancient Rome and the components that make up relationship for both groups of students.” This is a good story, and the younger students were able echoed by 9th grader Emilio Maestas, who stated, to learn a bit too- while spending some time with “it has been such a great experience working with ‘the big kids!’” the younger students. Both in being able to teach them new things about Rome, and to be someone These successful results support the conclusion who they look up to. Its been one of the best parts made by the Developmental Studies Center of the school year and I hope we can continue (2011) which found that “Having effective this next year.” cross-age buddies has been shown to increase motivation to learn, promote academic The sixth grade students of English/Language achievement and foster their growth as caring Arts teacher Leslie Holcombe created a truly and principled human beings.” As the 2013- authentic learning experience for themselves by 2014 school year is beginning to draw to a close, writing short stories for the first grade students. AOSR teachers already are beginning to plan The project began with the sixth graders next year’s curriculum schedule where even more interviewing the first graders about what they cross-age partnerships will be created. Students liked in stories. Incorporating the feedback from will be able to return to school and immediately the first graders, the sixth graders drafted original connect back with their cross-age “buddy” story ideas, revised these stories, shared them, allowing for the transition back to school and and then revised again. They then built their the establishment of student community to be books, illustrated them, and read them to the accelerated. first graders on Read Across AOSR Day. It was a huge success! Best of all, the first graders really As soon as you walk onto the AOSR campus, it enjoyed the stories and especially enjoyed having is clear that there is a great sense of community the sixth graders read to them. among the students and faculty. These collaborations continue to make that community Students in 2nd grade and Kindergarten got even stronger across all grade levels, while also an oooey-gooey experience when high school engaging students in some powerful educational chemistry teacher Katie Klug visited their experiences with their new found “buddies.” classrooms to make “Oobleck” – a combination of corn starch, water, and food coloring- for a
page 15 AOSR News page 16
Annual RISA Conference “for Teachers, by teachers”
On Saturday, March 8, 2014, five members of the AOSR faculty presented at the Annual Rome International Schools Association Conference which was hosted by MMI.
Ms. Christine D’Aquanni, Ms. Carrie Cuenca and Mr. Jason Schipper shared their recent experience with collaboration across grade levels. Their presentation showed the ways in which ninth grade students and Ms. Carrie Cuenca (Kg) & Ms. Christine D’Aquanni (Kg) kindergarten students worked together to learn about bridges and markets in Rome. Through careful documentation and reflection, students were able to express the benefits of this type of collaboration.
Mr. Ethan Salsitz presented effective strategies to build vocabulary with students in elementary school and middle school levels. He shared that students need the opportunity to encounter words repeatedly, thorough a variety of modalities. Weekly vocabulary exercises were shared with
participants to be used to help students become Mr. Jason Schipper (HS History) better readers and writers and to enhance their
communication skills. Ms. Lauren Waite (ES Tech) Ms. Lauren Waite shared a variety of digital projects that can be developed with students and tools to enhance instruction. With participants, she explored many examples of web-based projects, iPad creations, and iMovies which engaged students in meaningful experiences ranging from Kindergarten to Grade Five.
These faculty members were excellent AOSR ambassadors. They shared what a positive experience it was to present at a conference of this type. Thank you to all AOSR teachers who were able to attend to support our colleagues!
Mark your calendars, next year AOSR will host the annual RISA conference on Saturday, March 14, 2015. Mr. Ethan Salsitz (Gr. 5) page 16 AOSR News
Message from the AOSR Board of Trustees
By Ms. Joanne Martin, Board Chair [email protected]
It has been a busy year so far for the Board. In January we had our annual retreat in the newly renovated High School library. The retreat gave the Board a chance to review our role and responsibilities, evaluate our effectiveness and set goals for the coming year. We spent time thinking about our new mission statement and how it underpins everything that we do. As part of this, we asked the question, “What makes AOSR special, what is our secret sauce?” We tried to identify some of the ingredients; the careful balance between American, Italian and international students, the caring and dynamic faculty and staff, the wonderful campus and our enquiry based academic program that prepares students so well. We spoke about how those key ingredients need to be cherished as we plan to further develop the campus.
Campus development has kept us all very busy. Our Buildings and Grounds Committee has been working on plans for both the upgrading of the parking lot, which should get underway this summer, and the new Performing and Fine Arts Center. Fundraising plans for the Center continue to be developed and the Fundraising Committee would like to invite any parents with ideas or experience to come and join us.
In March, I was invited to the Leadership Conference organized by our National Honor Society. It was a privilege to share a platform with eminent leaders from the Rome community; I was enthralled by their presentations. However, what impressed me most was the professional way our NHS students organized the entire event. They did an incredible job from inviting and preparing the speakers to organizing the coffee. However, it was not just the NHS students who were a credit to our school that morning but also the many students who participated. They were attentive, respectful and showed their leadership qualities by asking intelligent and insightful questions. I saw tomorrow’s global leaders in action that morning and I felt proud of our students.
Over the next couple of months, our high school students will be taking IB and AP exams and our seniors will be completing their work to earn their High School diplomas. AOSR’s Board of Trustees would like to wish them all the very best of luck!
To the right, an idea of what our new Fine Arts Center could look like. Parents are invited to join the Fundraising Committee!
Please join me in welcoming newly appointed Board members Dr. Hilary Link, Dean, Temple University Rome and Dr. Richard Hodges OBE, President of the American University of Rome. We know that their contributions will be of great value to our work on the Board.
page 17 Mayfair 2014 Come and celebrate with us Saturday, May 10, 2014
11:00 to 16:00
There will be lots of games and prizes for the children, delicious food from all over the world, vendor tables selling wonderful merchandise, entertainment and we can’t forget our very popular raffles giving away brand named electronics (iphone, xbox, headphones and more) and beautifully handmade gift baskets!
Don’t miss it!
All proceeds earned from Mayfair help to enrich the school and our community!
Be prepared to enjoy yourself! See you at Mayfair! Parking 3€
Mayfair 2014
Venite a festeggiare il Mayfair all'American Overseas School of Rome Sabato, 10 maggio 2014
11:00 - 16:00
Ci saranno giochi a premi per bambini, pietanze etniche prelibate, bancarelle che vendono articoli meravigliosi, una riffa con in palio cesti regalo ed altri lussuosi premi....il divertimento è assicurato!
Non potete di certo mancare a questo evento annuale davvero speciale!
I proventi saranno interamente devoluti a beneficio della scuola e della sua comunità.
Ci vediamo al Mayfair!
Parcheggio 3 €
High School News page 20
Quoi de neuf à la Société Honoraire de Français ? 2013-2014 Team: So Many Achievements! By Veronica G. (grade 12)
Visiting the Cezanne Exhibit
This year we went to the Cézanne sales, booster bars, and also for 30 schools and supported exposition at the Vittoriano through the partnership with an teacher workshops. Museum. external company, Enterprise SPA, which decided to invest in Another important activity this We also raised money to help our project by donating €500. year was to raise awareness in communities that are in difficulty both our school and throughout especially in francophone We raised €750to support a project Italy or our projects. This was countries. We concluded our that involves producing (writing, done with posters and holiday project with the school in illustrating and printing) a small cards, with Enterprise SPA. These Velingara, Senegal, which we reading text for primary schools cards were sent all over Italy to helped by raising money to on “Traditional Trades/Activities” the company’s clients. purchase new school utensils, of communities in Senegal. It computers, and copy machines. includes: fishing, cattle raising, Furthermore, we also worked with vegetable gardening, basket the Global Issues Network club We helped this school through weaving, house building with (GIN) to support the Joel Nafuma various fundraisers such as: bake local clay, etc. We printed copies refugee center in Rome.
New Team, New Projects! By Daniel C. (grade 10)
With something as remarkable as last year, the FHS has answered the call, and is back and living up to expectations. With fresh ideas for charity projects and new leadership, the society is headed in a new direction.
This year, the FHS has welcomed 11 new members : Gianlorenzo R., Laura R., Antoine I., Nashwa A., Lavinia G., Sonia M., Sophie M., Ginevra R., Nicholas M., Daniel C., and Margo S., to its lineup. For the upcoming year, they will donate the proceeds from their fundraisers, bake sales, and other events to the Italian organization, MAIS onlus, to support their efforts in Madagascar. New FHS officers elected are: Diana C. (president), Lavinia G. (vice-president), Dan C. (secretary), and Sonia M. (treasurer).
Students will being to notice the ambitious efforts of the FHS. Besides the continued support and promotion of the French language at AOSR, in line with the Society’s official goal, FHS bake sales and booster bar events, such as that organized on the 19th of March, strive to offer a unique taste of French cuisine, such as crêpes, that none other can offer, while donating to a benevolent cause. page 20 GLOBAL ISSUES NETWORK BY: MS. EVA ST. ONGE (SECONDARY SCIENCE & GIN ADVISOR)
This year’s Global Issues Network (GIN) club has been working on the Students also attended many topic of refugees. We studied the presentations by their peers. Our issue, we conducted fund raisers, GIN delegates gave two excellent and clothing drives for the Joel presentations to report on our Nafuma Refugee Center of Rome. knowledge of refugees as a global We visited the center and delivered issue. They shared our humbling collected items, prepared Christmas experience working with the gift bags, gave English lessons, and refugees and presented our action participated in art therapy sessions plans for furthering our assistance. with the refugees. Through the Our presentations ended with an process, not only did we learn a lot interactive activity that “put the about the global issues of refugees, audience in the shoes of a refugee,” but we also began to take local which sparked enthusiastic action related to this problem. In discussions between students and our school, our various activities teachers from schools of various and videos raised awareness and countries. Following the outstanding we informed the AOSR community reviews from our morning about this important global issue. presentation, our afternoon session became an instant hit. The room In March, nine members of GIN was filled to capacity and we even were selected as delegates to attend had to add chairs to accommodate the 9th Annual GIN Conference everyone. in Luxembourg. There were many extraordinary speakers, among them We are already making plans for Royal Duchess of Luxembourg, our next exciting and inspiring and a 15 year-old girl who started a GIN experience. Come join us and community project five years ago become part of a group of global that today benefits 300 families. citizens that take action!
Vatican Librarianship School (Scuola Vaticana di Biblioteconomia) Visit to AOSR Libraries By Ms. Marta Rahm (Secondary Librarian)
On March 17, Dr. Pfannl and AOSR Librarians, Ms. Rahm and Ms. Falgoust, had the pleasure to welcome the annual the Vatican Library School for their annual visit to AOSR. They have been visiting us yearly for more than twenty-five years; It is one of AOSR’s traditions.
Prof. Ciminello and a group of forty-eight students (from all over Italy and other parts of the world) were very impressed by our libraries, facilities, programs and special initiatives. They were equally wowed by the warmth of our Head of School who mingled with the students and was available to answer questions. The Secondary Library offered a wonderful setting, using the newly created space to its full potential. We were all proud to show off our beautiful libraries, updated collections and share our initiatives and collaborative efforts. Please visit us any time and check out our collections!
page 21 High School News page 22
Class of 2014 Preparing for College! By Ms. Jessica Samet (College Counselor)
With College acceptances arriving daily from schools near (the American University of Rome and Bocconi), a little further (IE University, Madrid, Utrecht University, The Netherlands or Royal Holloway and King’s College, London) or clear across oceans (Virginia Tech, Rochester Institute of Technology, Babson College and New York University), please join me in celebrating the achievements of those who have heard and decided on their university, those who are making difficult decisions and those who are still waiting in anticipation. We have seen the class of 2014 grow and shine by devotion to their studies, adding their international perspective to enrich class discussions, raising money for international charities, and setting an example for their fellow classmates. It is a joy to witness a group take advantage of such opportunities. It is with this same energy that they approached first semester senior year filled with challenging coursework and college deadlines. As they move into their final months at AOSR and as they see their fellow Junior classmates begin the college process, I invite them to keep up the good work and share their stories of success, missteps and lessons learned. Auguri! Here are some words of inspiration from our Senior Class:
Domiziana M. will attend John Cabot University. “It is now time for me to reach one of the most important steps of my life that will let me see the world from a higher view. I’ve attended AOSR since 1999 and I’m about to end this long journey that is bringing me to college, but one thing I know for sure is that I will carry all these years forever in my heart.” (“Live each day as if it were your last” by Marcus Aurelius & Steve Jobs)
Angelo R. will attend the University of California, Santa Barbara. “I have been an AOSR student for seven years. In some ways the school, like its mascot the Falcon, has provided me with a nest; a safe place to grow in. In its nest, AOSR raised me and taught me how to become a better person. It was there to challenge me. Sometimes it fed me with a lot of work, some of which I liked, and some of which I hated. Over time, AOSR taught me how to try my best, to know my limits and to break through them.” (“For me life is continuously being hungry. The meaning of life is not simply to exist, to survive, but to move ahead, to go up, to achieve, to conquer.” Arnold Schwarzenegger)
Zach T. will attend McGill University. “There is something so fascinating about higher level education and I don’t know whether it is the added responsibility or freedom. I know I will academically flourish and I look forward to being part of McGill’s urban environment.” (“All that it takes to change the world, is the will of a single man.” Vladimir Makarov)
Veronica Gabriele: “The process of deciding what to do after high school is extremely hard. Right now I am about to de- cide what my future will be like, and the university I go to will determine part of it. Culture, continent, country, and style will all be determinants. As of now, I have been accepted to schools in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy. Some of these are King’s College, Durham, Babson, Boston University, NYU-Stern, Emory, and Bocconi. I am really excited about college because I will be able to pursue the major that inspires me to be who I am and that honestly makes me enjoy work. I will also be able to travel to some magnificent places and meet people from all over the world.” “People( often become what they believe to be. If I keep repeating to myself that I’m not able to do a certain thing, it is likely that I will really become incapable of not doing it. Conversely, if I have the belief that I can do it, I will acquire all that I need to do it, even if I had not originally possessed it. “ Gandhi)
Aram Hudson will study biochemistry at Virginia Tech and possibly transfer into chemical engineering. ‘I’m excited about having more freedom and specialization regarding my class choices as well as access to a wider variety of extra- curricular activities. (“Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else.” from Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Stoppard.) page 22 2014 THIMUN Conference a Great Success for the AOSR Delegation! BY MR. JASON SCHIPPER (SECONDARY SOCIA L STUDIES)
In January, a group of 12 junior and senior high school students traveled to The Hague, Nether- lands to represent AOSR at the International Mod- el United Nations Conference. The students are part of the Model United Nations course at AOSR taught by MUN director Jason Schipper. For over 50 years the International Model United Nations program has served as a program for secondary students to participate in simulated functioning of the United Nations. The intent of the program is to expose the students to critical thinking about major global issues using authentic United Na- tions parliamentary procedures and debates. Every year, hundreds of local and regional Model United Nations simulation conferences are held, with the largest being THIMUN at The Hague.
Each school attending THIMUN is pre-assigned a country to which the students need to thoroughly educate themselves in the history, functions, and issues facing the country. This year, AOSR was assigned the Kingdom of Thailand. After months of research and preparation, the AOSR students took to the conference with enthusiasm and determination to get Thailand’s issues heard. The first two days were spent conducting exhaustive lobbying, followed by a full day of intense debate. Every day, the hard-working AOSR students left the conference billowing with excitement and a new-found passion for global issues. Not to mention, the numerous friends that they were making from schools around the world, and the steadfast bonds they were making with their AOSR colleagues. At the final day of the conference, all resolutions and amendments were voted on for acceptance and referral to the actual United Nations in New York, USA. Proudly, a number of major Thailand issue found their way onto resolutions. In addition, a signature from a Thailand delegate was on at least one resolution passed by the main committees and sub-committees!
The 2014 THIMUN conference was certainly a success for all participants involved from around the world especially our students from AOSR. Member Charles Blanchette said, “The conference made me realize how much on an impact I can have on the future of this world”. AOSR Member Aram Hudson stated, “THIMUN was not only a chance for me to improve my public speaking, lobbying, and analysis skills, but it was also an incredible opportunity to explore the functions of the UN and form inseparable bonds with my peers on the trip.” The buzz and excitement for a spot on the 2015 AOSR THIMUN delegation has already started among the high school students. If 2015 is anything like 2014, AOSR will certainly make a fine showing at the conference and further the mission of the school and of Model United Nations of creating global leaders for the future world community. 2014 Student Attendees: Charles B., Tommaso C., Akash C. Andy D., Jessica D., Omry E., Aram H., Giuliano N., Elettra S., Samantha S., Alessandro S., Giulia T.
page 23 High School News page 24 AOSR MS/HS theater Presents: HS Drama: The Good Doctor (Critique) By Veronica G. (grade 12)
Neil Simon’s play “The Good Doctor,” presented by AOSR high school students, was one of the best quality plays that AOSR has ever performed. The play is a collection of comedic sketches that portray important life themes, some dramatic, while others light-hearted. The aspects that made this play the best were the efforts put forth by our talented actors. I must give a special recognition to actors Max M., who was the main actor in the skit, “The Sneeze.” John G. who played the crippled English man in the skit, “A Quiet War,” was also exceptional.
Another aspect I think that made this a great performance, was that the actors had fun and laughed on stage together with the spectators. This feature is truly important to generate an enjoyable play. I recall when Jack L. was giggling between his lines, making his performance even more hilarious. Also, part of one of the skits was narrated by David C., which gave it a fun perspective.
Moreover, the set and the technology used for the performance were creative; there were new lighting effects, perfect music choices, and a double backstage setting that transformed the stage into a garden, in some scenes, and a house, in others. This furthermore contributed to the brilliance of the play. However, it was the actors that truly made this play fabulous.
There are many factors that make a play fantastic and I personally think it resides within the talent and possibilities of actors who are able to transform and give a meaning to an ordinary sentence or word, which was exactly what happened with “The Great Doctor”. page 24 AOSR MS/HS theater Presents:
2014 Shakespeare Festival May 22/23 19:00 hs.
MS Students Visit Theater On Friday, April 4, the seventh and eighth grade theater students attended a performance in English at Teatro Umberto, To Be or Note, which blended rap with five of Shakespeare’s works. This was timely for both grades as the grade seven group studied and performed Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in English and Drama class third quarter and grade eight is now studying and performing Shakespeare’s As You Like It in English and Drama class.
Following the performance, the large group moved to Villa Borghese for a picnic lunch. The group had an opportunity to enter into the Globe Theater located in the park to see and discuss in greater detail the setting of Shakespeare’s plays. We would like to extend a special thank you to AOSR mom, Ms. Carmella Di Bella and the Toti family who made the special visit to the Globe possible for our students. By: Ms. Sarah Ellyson (MS Coordinator)
page 25 Alumni and Friends Summer Weekend in Rome June 20-21, 2014 Re-connect with old friends and see all the exciting developments on campus!
Candlelight Dinner al Fresco - Friday June 20, 2014 (19:00 - 23:00) Join us for music, aperitivi and a delicious dinner as the sun sinks behind the beautiful AOSR terrace. This special event will kick off a fun weekend at AOSR, meeting old friends and hearing about the exciting new developments on campus.
Celebrate Summer on the Quad - Saturday June 21, 2014 (11:00 - 16:00) • barbecue • logo wear • school tours • music • basketball • Italian product vendors • tennis • face painting • soccer games • and much, much more...
Registration per person is €45.00 (required to participate in any event) and includes all Saturday events at the Summer on the Quad (children under 12 are free) Tickets for the Candlelight Dinner al Fresco are available for €50.00 per person (please RSVP) (Over 18’s only.)
RSVP no later than Saturday, May 31, 2014 Domenica Losani [email protected] +39 06.33438.331 or Geoff Miller [email protected] +39 06.33438.332
(A minimum number of participants must RSVP by May 31, 2014 for these events to take place.) Spread the word! Tell all of your former classmates to come and share in the festivities! For complete details, and payment information, visit www.aosr.org or our new official AOSR Alumni and Friends News Facebook page. AOSR Freshman joins 16U Italian National Basketball Team
After being selected to the All Tournament Team at the European Championships last February, AOSR 9th grader Otis Reale, was selected to the 16U Italian National Team. “A dream come true!” he said. Otis, son of Coach Carmela Verardi, AOSR girls’ baske- ball coach and Mr. Oscar Reale, AOSR elementary music teacher, is an A student who works hard both on and off the court.
“I knew that if I set high goals, stayed focus and maintained a good work ethic, one day, something big was going to happen,” he added. In April he is traveling to France to play teams from Latvia, Greece and France. Congratulations Otis! Keep up the great work!
AOSR Alumni Still Playing Basketball!
Coach Phil Davis, secondary school PE teacher, and HS boys’ basketball coach, recently received this email message from Eran Efrima, Class of 2011.
Coach, yesterday next to my school I saw a bunch of people playing some bball in the park, so I went home and changed. I got there and I saw that they were not letting any white guys or old people play .... but they they decided to let me join after they saw me play. I ended up playing with them Coach Phil with the 2013-14 for 2 hours. After the game we went for some drinks and Varsity Team they were all asking me how is it that I know how to play like that and I told them all about you!
I remembered what you always told us in the lockeroom: ‘Most of you are probably not going to play serious basketball in the future, but whenever and whereever you play people are going to respect you. You will tell them you played ball at AOSR.’
I felt honored! Thanks coach!
page 27 AOSR Alumni & Friends Gathering in Boston February 2014 By Dr. Beth Pfannl, Head of School
An excited and eclectic group of alumni, former faculty members and friends of AOSR, gathered together for a fun reunion at the Westin Copley Hotel in Boston on a cold, snowy day last February. The room, however, was full of great warmth and laughter. As the snow fell outside, old friends exchanged stories about their lives in Rome and at AOSR. A short presentation on the plans for a new Performing & Fine Arts Center on campus generated a lot of enthusiasm and excitement!
Contact Information
Villa Reception and Staff Faculty & Coordinators Villa Secretary: Ms. Manuela Ciocca 06-33438-300 Pre-K Coordinator: Ms. Amy Magazzu 06-33438-330 Head of School: Dr. Beth Pfannl 06-33438-331 ES Coordinator: Ms. Susan Prideaux 06-33438-350 Secretary: Ms. Domenica Losani 06-33438-331 MS Coordinator: Ms. Sarah Ellyson 06-33438-336 Director of Finance & Human Resources: AP/IB Coordinator: Ms. Belinda Fiochi 06-33438-337 Dr. Elisa Bruno 06-33438-338 College Counselor: Ms. Jessica Samet 06-33438-327 Admissions Officer: Ms. Sabine Neumann 06-33438-311 School Counselor: Dr. Simona Reichmann 06-33438-373 Busing: Mr. Kieran Canter 06-33438-372 Nurse: Ms. Lynn Lenox & Ms. Jan Miller 06-33438-321 Secondary School After School Activities: Ms. Christine Hogan Principal: Mr. Ken Kunin 06-33438-326 Resource Room: Ms. Rene Ostapuk (ES) 06-33438-302 Secretary: Ms. Anna Chiara Troisi 06-33438-326 Ms. Jacqueline Gallo (MS/HS) 06-33438-390 Elementary School Athletics: Mr. Daniel Zacaroli 06-33438-313 Principal: Ms. Melissa Kay 06-33438-395 Secretary: Ms. Joanne Hoberg 06-33438-395
American Overseas School of Rome
811 Via Cassia 00189 Rome, Italy http://www.aosr.org Phone: (+39) 06.33438.31 Fax: (+39) 06.3326.2608