AOSR Welcome to Rome Magazine

WHERETOLIVEIN ROME?

Romeishuge!Bigger thanyouimagineso findingthebestplaceto liveisasimportantas yourchild’sschool

WINTEROR SUMMER?

thechoiceof seasoncancolor yourfirst impressionsquite distinctly

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

INTRODUCTION-P.2 WELCOMEMESSAGE

BEFOREYOURARRIVAL-P.3 -CHOOSINGTHERIGHTINTERNATIONALSCHOOL ANDWHATYOUNEEDTOKNOWABOUTAOSR -LIVINGINROME:NEIGHBORHOODSOFROME -FINDINGYOURPLACE:SUPPORTWITHINYOUR COMMUNITY

UPONYOURARRIVAL-P.7 -WELCOMETOROME -UNDERSTANDINGTHEAMERICANEDUCATIONAL SYSTEM -STORIESFROMEXPATFAMILIES:THE PEMBERTONS -ROMETHROUGHTHESEASONS -YOURFIRSTWEEKSATAOSR

NAVIGATINGTHESCHOOLSYSTEM-P.13

CONTACTINFORMATION-BACKCOVER

THE ETERNAL CITY GUIDE

Welcome to our Rome Expat Guide a publication thoughtfully crafted by expat families for expat families. In these pages, we share the wisdom garnered from our own experiences of moving to, settling in, and thriving within the vibrant and historical city of Rome. Our aim is to provide you with not just a handbook, but a companion for yourjourney,filledwithinsightsandadvicetohelp younavigatetheexcitingpathahead.Whetherit's choosingschools,understandinglocalcustoms,or finding the best spots for family outings, consider thismagazineyourroadmaptoasuccessfulexpat lifeinRome.Welcomeaboard,andlet'sembarkon thisadventuretogether.

CHOOSINGTHERIGHT INTERNATIONALSCHOOL ANDWHATYOUNEEDTO KNOWABOUTAOSR

Selectingtherightinternationalschoolin Romeiscrucialforyourchild’sacademic and personal growth. The American OverseasSchoolofRome(AOSR),withits robust U.S.-based curriculum and a diverserangeofextracurricularactivities, stands out among the city's prestigious institutions. Established in 1947 and accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, AOSR has long been synonymous with academic excellence and a vibrant internationalcommunity.

At AOSR, we offer a comprehensive educationaljourneyfromPre-KtoGrade12 (3-18 years of age), tailored to meet the developmentalstagesofourstudents.Our elementary program emphasizes research-based learning outcomes, aligned assessments, and best-practice instructional strategies, with resources aimed at supporting student growth and achievement. It provides ample opportunities for both academic and social/emotionalenrichment,facilitatedby experienced and enthusiastic educators.

Asstudentstransitiontomiddleschool,the curriculum, based on the U.S. educational standards, prepares them for the rigor of high school. In the final two years, high schoolstudentsmaychoosetoenrollinthe prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program or Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students not opting for these programs will graduate with an American Diploma, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of a changingworld

Beyond Academics - After School and Extracurricular Activities: At AOSR, education extends beyond the traditional classroom Students can participate in a variety of after-school activities (ASAs), including sports, arts, and technology Notably, our middle school robotics team competes across Europe in the Robomed competition,highlightingourcommitment to cutting-edge technology education fromanearlyage

Inclusive and Supportive Community: Our student body is composed of 30% Americans,30%Italians,and40%fromover 53 other nationalities This multicultural mix fosters a global perspective among students. Our dedicated faculty, 89% of whom are native English speakers, is proficient in various languages and comes with extensive international experience. AOSR also ensures that resource teachers are available to provide personalized support to students with diverse learning needs.

State-of-the-ArtFacilities: AOSR boasts a state-of-the-art campus featuring advancedsciencelabs,aBlack-Boxtheater, a newly opened performance center, a brandnewMiddleSchoolcommons,music rooms,agymnasium,andnewsportsfields These top-tier facilities foster a vibrant learning environment that nurtures creativity, encourages physical wellness, and supports a well-rounded educational experience.

HealthyandConvenientServicesAt AOSR, weprioritizethewell-beingandconvenience of our students and their families. Our nutritiouscafeteriaserviceisincludedinthe schoolfeesforchildrenfromPre-KtoGrade 3(ages3-8) Forolderstudents,thisservice is available at an additional cost. Additionally,ourcomprehensivebusservice ensureseasyandsafetransportationforall students Detailed information about routes andfeesisavailableuponrequest.

SchoolHoursandAccess:AOSRclassesrun from9AMto3:30PM Childrencanbesafely droppedoffatschoolstartingfrom8:15AM, with teachers on duty to ensure their wellbeing

ExploringOtherInternationalSchoolsinRome:

Choosingtherightschoolisacrucialdecision Each internationalschoolinRomepossessesadistinctethos, educationalapproach,andcommunityenvironment, offeringablendofacademicrigorandextracurricular opportunities.AmongtheseareCatholicschoolsand Britishsystemschools,whichgenerallyenforceauniform policy.Incontrast,AOSRstandsoutastheonlyprivate internationalschoolinRomethatdoesnotrequire uniforms,isnon-denominational,andboastsadiverse studentbodywithabroaderinternationalpresence comparedtootherschools,whichoftenhavealarger Italianstudentpopulation.

Tohelpexpatfamiliesnavigatethroughthemultitudeof options,theRomeInternationalSchoolsAssociation (RISA)providesacomprehensivelistofinternational schoolsinthecity.Theirwebsiteisaninvaluableresource foranyonelookingtounderstandmoreaboutwhateach schooloffersintermsofcurriculum,extracurricular activities,teachingphilosophy,andmore.

BychoosingAOSR,youarenotjustselectingaschool;you arejoiningacommunitythatvaluesacademicrigor, holisticdevelopment,andculturaldiversity.AOSRstands outnotonlyasaleadinginternationalschoolinRomebut asanurturinggroundfortomorrow'sglobalcitizens.

LIVING IN ROME: FINDING YOUR FAMILY'S PERFECT FIT

Living in Rome offers an enriching experienceforexpatfamilies,withitsvibrant culture,history,andthebeautyofdailylifein an iconic city. However, finding the right balance between home, school, and work locations requires careful consideration. AOSR,situatedintheserenenorthernpartof Rome on Via Cassia, is a prime consideration for many expat families. While AOSR provides a dedicated bus service covering the entire city, daily logisticsstillplayacrucialroleinyourliving choices Families from WFP and FAO, to learnmoreaboutspecificbusroutesand offers, please contact Mr. Aureli at vaureli@aosr.org.Youneedtoweighwhat mattersmore:havingyourchildrenwalkto school,therebyimmersingtheminthelocal environment, or prioritizing a shorter commute to work for you, potentially leading to driving your children to school. Traffic Considerations: Rome is famous for its bustling streets and lively traffic Regardless of your residence or school choice, navigating traffic is a part of life here. Via Cassia, despite its beauty and convenience,isnoexception.

LocalTip:ForthosechoosingtoliveonVia CassiatoallowchildrentowalktoAOSR,an early start before 7:15 am can make a significant difference. This timing often means dodging the bulk of traffic congestion,enablingasmoothercommute to major employment centers like the FAO headquarters downtown or the WFP office nearFiumicino.

ACloserLookatRome’sDistricts

Rome is divided into several distinct districts, each with its unique character andofferings.Here'sabriefoverviewofthe mainonestoconsider:

CentroStorico(HistoricCenter):Theheart of Rome, rich in history and iconic landmarks Living here offers a deeply cultural experience, though at a premium intermsofcostandspace

Prati:ClosetotheVatican,offeringamixof residential calm and bustling shopping streets.Pratiiswell-connectedandoffersa rangeofhousingoptions

Families from WFP and FAO, to learn more about specific bus routes and offers, please contact Mr Aureli at vaureli@aosr org

Monteverde and Gianicolense: Offering more space and green areas, these districts are popular with families. They provideaquieter,moresuburbanfeelwhile stillbeingaccessible.

EUR: A modern district known for its architecture,parks,andmuseums It’sideal forthoselookingforacontemporaryliving environment and is well-connected to boththecitycenterandthecoast.

Parioli and Salario: Upscale residential areas with a mix of modern and historic properties These neighborhoods offer tranquility and green spaces, ideal for familiesseekingahigherstandardofliving.

Via Cassia and Surroundings: Ideal for AOSR families, this area combines the convenienceofproximitytotheschoolwith thebeautyofRome'snortherncountryside Living here means embracing a balance between urban accessibility and the tranquilityofamoresuburbanlifestyle.

Choosing where to live in Rome is about balancing priorities and lifestyle preferences Whether it’s stepping out to view the Colosseum, enjoying the green spaces of Monteverde, or valuing the convenienceofashortwalktoAOSRonVia Cassia, Rome offers a district for every desireandneed.

FINDING YOUR PLACE: SUPPORT WITHIN YOUR COMMUNITY

Formanyexpatriatefamilies,especiallythoselinkedtotheUnitedNationsand internationalorganizations,theschoolsettingbecomesmorethanjustan educationalinstitution;ittransformsintoadynamiccommunitycenter.AOSR isnotmerelyaplaceforacademiclearning itevolvesintoalivelycommunity hubwherefamiliesconnect,friendshipsareforged,andsociallivesthrive. LivingclosetoAOSRofferstheconvenienceofeasilyparticipatinginschool events,varioussports,andactivities,whilealsoprovidingauniquesenseof tranquilitythatfeelsdistinctlyseparatefromthebustlingcitylifeofRome.

Forrelocationservices,expatfamilieshaveusedPrincipalRelocationSupply Chain-enquiries@principalrelocationcom:PatriziaMassaro(Operational Director)andJessicaDiSavino(OperationalManager).

WearealsodelightedtointroduceCeciliaPizzaro,atrustedmemberofour parentcommunityandaseasonedinternationalconsultant.Ceciliahasbeen anintegralpartoftheRomeexpatriatecommunityforoverfouryearsandis fluentinEnglish,Portuguese,Spanish,andItalian.Herhusbandisemployed withFAO,addingtoherdeepconnectionandunderstandingoftheneedsof internationalfamilies.WhetheryouarelookingforahomenearAOSRor balancingotherpriorities,Ceciliaofferspersonalizedguidancetohelpyoufind youridealhome.

Email:Ceciliapizzaro526@gmail.com Mobile:+393311154143

WELCOME TO ROME

Welcome to Rome, the eternal city where history, culture, and gastronomy intertwine, reflecting the richness of Italy and the heart of global efforts to combat hunger and achieve food security, particularly through the noble missions of the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). As expatriates in this vibrant city, you are part of a crucial mission that transcends borders, offering a unique opportunity to immerseinrichculturalheritage,savortheexquisiteItalian cuisine, and contribute to a cause greater than ourselves. Rome is not just about its ancient ruins and breathtaking art; it's about living "la dolce vita," where every street corner tells a story, and meals are a celebration of flavors and cultural expression. This city provides a backdrop for buildingbridgesbetweencultures,enrichingpersonallives andthecollectivemissionofWFPandFAO.Asyouembark on this journey, let Rome inspire you with its resilience, beauty, and the power of human collaboration, reminding us that we are all united in the goal to end hunger worldwide. Welcome, and let Rome be your inspiration in everypossibleway.

UNDER AMER SYSTE

Adapting systemc experienc encounte system,k compreh rangeof practices accustom structure onthese firsthand fromIrela American ANewEd TheAmer encompa post-sec uniquevo thatmigh instance, middle,a fromthe p y secondaryschooling.

Familiesmightfindthemselvespuzzledby termssuchas"blueandreddays,"which refertoarotatingscheduleinmany Americanschools,wherestudentshave differentclassesoractivitiesdependingon theday.

Theintroductiontoavarietyof extracurricularprograms,suchasAfter SchoolActivities(ASA)andFalconsports programs,addsanotherlayerof complexity Theseprogramsofferstudents theopportunitytoengageinsportsand activitiesbeyondtheregularcurriculum, withdistinctionsbetweenvarsity(teams competingatthehighestlevelwithinthe school'ssportsprogram)andjuniorvarsity levels,whichmightnotbeimmediately cleartonewcomers.

TheJourneytoUnderstanding Oneofthemostsignificant adjustmentsforinternationalfamiliesis acclimatingtotheterminologyand structurethatcategorizestudentsby theiryearinschool.Termslike "Freshman"(grade9),"Sophomore" (grade10),"Junior"(grade11),and "Senior"(grade12)arecommonplacein theAmericansystembutmayinitially confusethosefromcountrieswith differentnamingconventions.Similarly, conceptslike"recess"(abreakperiod forstudentstorelaxorplayoutside) andthe"6-dayrotationinElementary SchoolandadvisoryinMiddleandHigh School",whichreferstoarotatingclass scheduleandaperioddedicatedto studentadvising,cantaketimeto grasp.

STORIESFROMAN EXPATFAMILY: THEPEMBERTONS

FourmonthsbeforeourmovetoRome,weembarkedonajourneytofindtheperfect schoolforourchildren,narrowingoursearchtoAOSR,SaintDominique,andAmbrit. OurfirstvisittoAOSRleftusthoroughlyimpressed—the"WowFactor"wasundeniable The boys instantly felt at home, charmed by the school’s vibrant atmosphere, spaciousgroundsreminiscentofanAmericanmovieset,andespeciallythestateof-the-artgym,greatsportsprogram,andlearningaboutfutureswimminglessons sealedthedeal,underscoringtheimportanceofthislifeskillintheireducation.

SaintDominiquewasournextstop,drawnbytheprospectofbilingualeducationin French. Despite the stunning campus and welcoming staff, the school's approach didn'talignwithourexpectations,leadingustoconcludeitwasn'ttherightfitforour sons.

Our exploration concluded with Ambrit, popular among WFP staff for its proximity However,itscurriculumonlyextendingtoGrade8andavirtualmeetingratherthana physical tour left us unconvinced. The presentation on the school’s academic and socialenvironmentfailedtoresonatewithus.

Ultimately,ourdecisionwasguidedbyaparentalintuition,leadingusbacktoAOSR Ourexperiencehasbeennothingshortofexceptional,withourthreechildrenthriving academically and socially beyond our expectations. The dedicated support for JoshuafromteacherslikeMiriamO'BrienandSarahEllysonhasbeentransformative, fostering both his academic growth and social integration. Jamie’s seamless transition and academic engagement, alongside Jackson’s successful adjustment underMs.Tausend’sguidance,havesolidifiedourconfidenceinourchoice.

Theschoolhasbecomemorethananeducationalinstitutionforus;it'sacommunity hub where expat families, particularly those from the UN, find camaraderie and support We’reespeciallygratefulfortheschool’scommitmenttoaccommodating working parents, offering after-school activities Monday to Friday, and a genuine Americaneducationalexperience,makingitaninvaluableresourceforourfamily.

CuriousAboutOurJourneytoRome?

We'dlovetoshareourstoryandansweranyquestionsyoumighthave Dropusan emailatspemberton@aosrorg—we'realwayshappytoconnectwithfellowfamilies!

ROMETHROUGHTHESEASONS:A GUIDEFORTHEEXPATFAMILY

Moving to a new city is an adventure, especially when that city is Rome, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. For expat families consideringamovetotheEternalCity,thechoiceofseasoncancoloryour firstimpressionsquitedistinctly.Let’sdiveintowhatmakeseachseasonin Romespecial,outliningboththeenchantingandthechallenging,toprepare youforyourRomanrelocation.

Charming Climate and Crowds: Rome in winter is mild compared to its European neighbors, with temperatures often hovering around 8-12°C (4654°F). This cooler weather is perfect for leisurely strolls down less-crowded streets and through the historic heart of the city. The absence of summer’s tourist throngs offers a more relaxed pace, ideal for those looking to gently settleintotheirnewhome.

CulturalRichness:TheholidayseasoninRomeisnothingshortofmagical.The city is adorned with festive lights and decorations, particularly impressive at landmarksliketheVaticanandalongViadelCorso.Christmasmarkets,such asthoseinPiazzaNavona,arebustlingwithartisansandvendors,offeringlocal craftsandseasonaltreats apicturesquesceneforfamilyoutings

Seasonal Drawbacks: Winter days are shorter, and some attractions may hich could limit sightseeing opportunities. The can penetrate buildings, making some older ver, such quirks are common in many historic usually manageable with the right home

Vibrant Weather and Lifestyle: Arriving in Rome during summer means steppingintoacitybathedinsunshine,withtemperaturesrangingfromwarm tohotabout25-35°Cor77-95°F).

This is the time to indulge in gelato tours, with flavors ranging from classic pistachio to refreshing lemon. The extended daylight hours allow families to exploretheplethoraofhistoricalsitesfromdawntilldusk

EndlessEntertainment:SummerinRomeisaculturalbonanza.Thecityhosts numerous festivals, outdoor concerts, and cinema events under the stars. PicturespendinganeveningattheCaracallaBathswatchingaliveopera;it’s an experience that combines historical awe with artistic splendor Dining outdoors in bustling piazzas where kids can frolic around ancient fountains addstothelivelyatmosphere.

SummerChallenges:TheheatcanpeakinJulyandAugust,whichmightbea bitintense,especiallyforthosenotusedtoMediterraneansummers.Theinflux of tourists can lead to crowded attractions and higher prices, typical of any major tourist destination during peak season. In August, the city is largely vacated by locals, which means that many services such as real estate agencies, restaurants, cafes, postal services, tabacchi (discover more about these!),andothersmaybeclosedoroperateonreducedhours.

Each season in Rome offers its own set of unique experiences and slight inconveniences,muchlikeanymajorcityintheworld.Whetheryouchoosethe enchanting winter season with its cozy charm and festive spirits or the dynamicandvibrantsummerwithitsendlessactivitiesandsunnydays,Rome willnotdisappoint.

Forexpatfamilies,adaptingtoanewlifeinRomemeansembracingthecityin all its seasonal glory. Both winter and summer provide rich opportunities for making lasting memories and experiencing the profound beauty and historicaldepthofRome.So,packyourbagsandprepareforanextraordinary adventureinoneoftheworld’smostcaptivatingcities,nomattertheseason!

YOUR FIRST WEEKS AT AOSR

Arrivinginanewcountryand startingatanewschoolcanbean exhilaratingyetoverwhelming experienceforbothparentsand students.AttheAmerican OverseasSchoolofRome,weaim tomakethistransitionassmooth andwelcomingaspossible.Here’s everythingyouneedtoknowtoget startedonthisexcitingjourney:

GettingtoKnowYourChild’sClass

Class Composition: Understanding the dynamics of your child’s class is important. AOSR prides itself on small class sizes (15 students per class on average) that foster personalized learning and attention. Upon joining, you will receive detailed information about the class size, gender ratio, and the diverse nationalities of students within the class. This diversity is a cornerstone of our truly international environment

Meet the Teacher: An introduction to yourchild’steacherisarrangedearlyin the school year. This meeting is an opportunitytolearnabouttheteacher’s background, teaching philosophy, and whatyourchildcanexpectintheirclass. We believe in building strong partnershipsbetweenourteachersand families

Class WhatsApp Group: Staying connected is key. To join the class WhatsApp group, please contact the PTO at pto@aosr.org. This group will keep you informed about class activities, homework, and other importantupdates.

DailySchoolLife

PE and Library Days: The schedule for PhysicalEducation(PE)andlibrarydays willbeprovidedatthestartoftheterm. Thishelpsensureyourchildisprepared withthenecessaryequipmentorbooks ontherightdays.

SnackandLunchTimes:Understanding thedailyroutineiscrucial.Snacktimes arescheduledtocatertothenutritional needsandenergylevelsofourstudents throughouttheday.Forexample,ifyour child'ssnacktimeisat2:25PMfollowing lunch at 11:15 AM, this schedule is designedtooptimizetheirlearningand comfort.Fulldetailsofsnack,lunch,and recess times will be shared with you, ensuring you can plan your child’s mealsanddayaccordingly RainyDayRecess:TheweatherinRome can be unpredictable. On rainy days, students engage in supervised indoor activities. These activities are designed tobefun,inclusive,andacontinuation oftheirsociallearningenvironment.

YourFirstFewWeeksatAOSR

Our mission is to ensure every student feelsvalued,understood,andexcitedto learn. During your first weeks, our dedicatedstaffandwelcomingparent community are here to support you in every way possible. From adjusting to thenewenvironmenttounderstanding the ins and outs of daily school life, we 'rewithyoueverystepoftheway.

Here’stostartinganincredible journey in Rome, full of learning, growth, and memorableexperiences!

WHAT IS AN AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL?

AmericanInternationalSchools,locatedoutsidetheUS,deliver an education rooted in American standards, tailored to a diverse student body that includes American expatriates, local residents, and students from various other nationalities. These schools operate within the American educational framework, adhering to the U.S. academic calendar and conducting instructionprimarilyinEnglish.Theyofferarichcurriculumthat spansabroadspectrumofsubjects,includinglanguages,arts, sciences, and advanced mathematics This curriculum is further enhanced by Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program, both designedtodevelopcriticalthinkingandproblem-solvingskills.

One of the key advantages of these institutions is the multicultural environment they cultivate, which fosters cultural sensitivity and promotes an international mindset among students The globally recognized curriculum enables smooth academic transitions for families on the move and prepares students for higher education opportunities worldwide. Beyond academicpursuits,AmericanInternationalSchoolsalsoplacea strongemphasisonextracurricularactivitiesinsports,arts,and community service, aiding in the development of well-rounded personalitiesandleadershipqualities

Insummary,AmericanInternationalSchoolsaremorethanjust educational institutions; they are foundations for future global citizens, providing a unique mix of rigorous academics and extensive developmental opportunities to equip students for thechallengesofaglobalizedworld.

VENI,VIDI, DIDICI