AOSR History Timeline

AOSR History Timeline

History of the American Overseas School of Rome (OSR) is Born!

October 16, 1947

As a product of five British and five American parents, having learned that the allied troops were being moved out of Rome and into Trieste, a nondenominational school combining the best of the UK and American systems was born. With help from the presiding American and British Ambassadors to Italy, this group of passionate parents found a location on Via Nomentana (Villa Torlonia) and officially opened the doors to the school for the first 60 students.

OSR Moves to Via Cassia

1951

In 1951, the school met the demands of rising enrollment by moving to its current location on Via Cassia. From there, OSR continued to grow. The United States government expressed its recognition of the school's quality educational program, and the importance of the mutual respect and collaboration generated by the exchange of ideas and experiences among members of the multinational student body and faculty, and therefore, gave a grant to the school. The new elementary school was constructed, additional high school classrooms completed, and the gymnasium built.

OSR Starts Offering AP Courses and Exams

Elementary School Extension is Built

Early 1960's

1965

During the early 1960’s, with a focus on expanding curricular options, OSR was the first school in Rome to offer Advanced Placement courses to its High School students.

Continuing this valuable academic  program to current day, our High School students have a choice of 18 different AP subjects.

In 1965, the Elementary School extension, and the levelling of the field were completed, giving our campus its current appearance. From above, the spacious and abundantly green design become evident. Our fields exemplify some of the cherished elements at our school, adding valuable outdoor space for our students to enjoy in sporting practice, leisurely games or simple outdoor enjoyment for anyone who comes on campus. An oasis in Rome.

Overseas School of Rome OSR Becomes AOSR

AOSR becomes an IB World School

AOSR gains MSA Accreditation

1970's

April 1989

1995

During the early 1970’s the Overseas School of Rome officially changed its name to the American Overseas School of Rome, and after 50 years, still retains this name. It was also during the 70’s that our famous outdoor amphitheatre was built.

It continues to see frequent use for annual events like the Shakespeare Festival, assemblies and other student performances.

In April of 1989, AOSR officially became recognized as an IB World School, offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma program to its High School students. The program continues to offer a wellrounded, academic curriculum for our students. The IB program is recognized internationally in over 150 countries worldwide.

In 1995, AOSR gained official accreditation from the Middle States Association (MSA). In the spring of 2018, AOSR successfully completed the reaccreditation process, and looks forward to the next phase in MSA accreditation in 2025.

70th Anniversary Celebration Event

April 2018

In April of 2018, AOSR celebrated 70 years of amazing history! Alumni came to visit from all over the world and celebrated with AOSR faculty, staff, and families during a 3 day event. Let's see what the next 70 years of history bring to AOSR!