PANTHER NEWS
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Explore the latest issue of The ASM Insider, our student-led newspaper featuring real-time stories, bold opinions, creative art, and campus insights.
CLASS OF 2025 A GLOBAL JOURNEY BEGINS
Celebrate our 77 graduates and discover their incredible university destinations around the world from Milan to Boston, London to Singapore.
Dear ASM Parents and community members,
It is great, in many ways, to be nearing the end of our school year. Celebrations are plentiful, and there are so many reasons to feel grateful about our community. Sending off our Seniors in the Graduation of the Class of 2025 on Sunday, May 25th, we were able to look back on our seniors’ growth and join as families in recognizing their accomplishments Yesterday, May 28th, ASM took a moment to recognize the contributions of our many parent volunteers who helped to make this year special and to build on ASM’s already very strong community. Ahead, we’ll mark the move of 5th graders to Middle School, of 8th graders to High School, and of our leaving students moving on to other schools around the world. There will be laughter; there will be tears. It is an emotional time of year.
But while we celebrate–and in particular, celebrate our graduates–I feel it would be remiss of me not to note that one of the fundamental and underlying promises of attending and graduating from an American school abroad is under existential threat. The news this week has included an executive order to halt the scheduling of visa appointments for student visas to attend US colleges and universities, and a pledge by the US government to ‘aggressively revoke’ the visas of Chinese students studying in the US. The US President has suggested that American universities should accept fewer international students (a longer Atlantic article here).These government actions are affecting ASM students today, both Class of 2025 graduates seeking visas to attend US colleges, and past graduates of many nationalities who are studying in the US today. It is scary, unsettling and deeply disturbing.
I have been an international educator in American-style, American-supported schools for 34 years I’ve taught kids from probably 150 different countries, in English. I’ve had Kuwaiti students read The Crucible and Chinese students read Their Eyes Were Watching God I’ve led deep discussions with multinational classrooms about the immigrant experience as depicted in The JoyLuck Club or Farewell to Manzanar The kids I’ve taught–Bhutanese, Filipino, Senegalese, Egyptian, Malaysian–about American literature and American history, and a lot of them had the dream to go to university in the US Many of them did. They went to universities as diverse as the University of Oregon, NYU, and The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. They’ve gone on to build lives and careers as artists, performers, executive directors, government employees They have won major awards They’ve married and had children who are now, themselves, contributing to the American ‘experiment’ The kids coming out of our schools are bright, driven, compassionate. They have been raised by you and educated by our schools to do good And they have, until now, been able to realize their dreams in the United States That the US would close the door on all that talent, intellect, energy (not to mention tuition money) had been previously unthinkable. What a colossal mistake…and yet here we are.
I am deeply saddened by these recent developments and by the direct effects on our students I know that our College Counselors are working tirelessly to help graduates find out accurate information, find support, and if necessary, have a Plan B or even transfer schools. I am also very sorry that this barrier to dreams has been erected, after so many international school students have worked so hard to achieve their academic goals
Sincerely,
WayneRutherford Director director@asmilan org
A Message from the Board President
Looking Back, Moving Forward Together
Dear ASM Community,
As we close the school year, I want to thank you, families, staff, and students, for your continued trust, engagement, and support. Your constructive involvement strengthens everything we do at ASM.
This update follows our Spring General Assembly, a cornerstone event for our Board where we reflect on the year’s progress and align on the path ahead. I want to extend sincere thanks to all who attended and participated, and especially to Director Mr. Wayne Rutherford and our dedicated administrative team. Their leadership and tireless work were central to the success of this year, and to the bold steps we’re now taking into the future.
One of the most important milestones this year was the launch of ASM 2030, our new strategic plan. Focused on student wellness, dynamic learning, and long-term adaptability, it was developed through thoughtful input from students, parents, faculty, and global partners. ASM 2030 reflects who we are, and who we aim to become.
We also focused on ensuring ASM’s sustainability, through renewed contractual partnerships and a responsible, forward-looking budget.
I’m pleased to share that the 2025–26 school year budget was approved, and we elected four Trustees: Anna Rosa Cosi, Daniel Di Tullio, Andrew Yanev, and Chiara Fusaro. Their terms will expire in May 2028.
Finally, we honor those who are leaving our community this year. Whether graduating or moving on, your legacy at ASM lives on. You have helped shape this school for the better.
With gratitude and optimism,
JamesWoods President of ASM Board of Trustees jwoods@asmilan.org
Meet the Meet the Board of Trustees Board of Trustees
Presi
ustee
Treasurer Committ
Hon. Do Benn Trust
Trustee
Vittorio Bonori
Trus
Maurice G
Chiara Fusaro Trustee
Tru
Trus
James Woods
Andrew Yanev
Daniel Di Tullio
Anna Rosa Cosi Trustee
Alessandra Abate
Paula Barrera
Sara Burigo Trustee
Dear Families,
The end of the school year is quickly approaching, which is always a whirlwind of events, celebrations, and goodbyes Overall, it has been a great year, and we will close the year with 905 students across the school divisions In the fall, we are anticipating approximately 100 new families joining ASM, who are very excited to be a part of our vibrant international community and home to our many families from all over the world.
For those of you who are departing this year, and whether you have been at ASM for 1 year or 10 years, we hope your time has been memorable and impactful for you and your families It is always difficult to say goodbye to those who may be leaving and above all else, we hope you will keep the good memories close and that ASM will always remain a special part of your journey.
I would also like to take a moment to thank the many people who have made this year exceptional and who build community each and every day at ASM! A very special thanks goes to our PTO and all of the volunteers who dedicate their time and resources towards making ASM a welcoming environment with so many exciting activities, events, and opportunities to come together. Thank you for your time and enthusiasm, and we look forward to seeing you again next year.
I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our Gala committee this year and to recognize their time and dedication throughout the year and in support of the Fund for Excellence It was such a pleasure to work with this amazing group of women, and I look forward to the 2026 Gala event.
Thank you again for all of the support that you’ve shared with ASM in so many ways, and looking forward to a very busy and wonderful last 12 days of school!
DeniseBuren
Director of Admissions and Advancement
dburen@asmilan org
to this year's volunteers in the photo above!
FFEUPDATES
Thank you to those of you who have made the launch of the Learning Forest a huge success this year, and for your continued interest and support of this unique outdoor learning space Many students and teachers are using the learning forest for play and exploration in science, art, and to observe biodiversity of nature. If you haven’t had a chance to stop by, come take a look as it is blooming and growing!
Last week, we found empty egg shells (possibly pigeons!) who have been roosting and several nests have been spotted! Students have found trees covered in ladybugs, observing larvae and eggs which we hope will continue to grow our ladybug population.
Recently, 3Bee, our biotech partner, carried out workshops with students from Kindergarten and through the upper school to demonstrate how the ‘biodiversa app’ and the ASM 3Bee platform offers valuable data on air quality and biodiversity
Students in 11th grade IB Environmental Science also explored the Learning Forest, using sweep nets and finding more ‘good’ insects than ever before on its premise.
The Learning Forest is a community project and a living outdoor classroom.We cannot wait to see what will develop next, and we again thank you for your support and enthusiasm surrounding this unique project on our ASM grounds!
If you haven’t had a chance to stop by, please come by for a stroll!
Dear Upper School Families,
May and June are what we fondly call our Month of a Thousand Nights, a time overflowing with celebrations, milestones, and meaningful farewells. From our Senior Parade on their last day of school to Graduation, the Athletics Awards, and this week’s going-away celebration for Santina and Piera, this season is uplifting, emotional, and, yes, a little exhausting.
Last Sunday, we proudly graduated 77 seniors from ASM, many of whom have been part of our community since they were just three years old. Watching them cross the stage to receive their diplomas, knowing that so many of their formative hours were spent learning in our classrooms, playing on our fields, and sharing meals in our cafeteria, is deeply moving. What greater reward is there than knowing we’ve played a part in helping them grow into the thoughtful, capable young adults they are today? As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and we are fortunate to be raising ours in such a vibrant, international, and forward-thinking village.
With just a few weeks of school remaining, our 8th Grade Terza Media students are beginning their state exams, and our high schoolers are preparing for their finals. This is a crucial moment for students to strike a thoughtful balance between friends, family, outdoor time, and studies. It’s also the right time to gently remind them to stay focused and finish strong. Summer is just around the corner.
Wishing you well,
MichaelAmodio Upper School Principal mamodio@asmilan org
UPPER SCHOOL ART SHOW UPPER SCHOOL ART SHOW
05-09 JUNE
June 5th Art show /aperitivo from 5-6 PM Spring concert at 6 PM
Class of 2025
University Acceptances
HELPING STUDENTS DISCOVER THE JOY OF READING SUMMER READING
As the school holiday approaches, it's the perfect time to encourage your child to discover the joy of reading While a break from the routine is important, maintaining reading habits over the holiday helps prevent the “summer slide” a common decline in literacy skills during extended breaks from school
Reading just 15–20 minutes a day can make a significant difference in your child’s academic progress It supports vocabulary development, comprehension skills, and overall confidence in language use For multilingual students, reading in both the home language and English is beneficial as it is important to make sure that all languages are strong.. The holiday offers a wonderful opportunity for reading to become a relaxing and enjoyable part of your child’s day. Let them choose books that interest them whether it’s fantasy, non-fiction, or graphic novels. Visiting a local library or exploring digital reading platforms like Sora can add excitement and variety.
You can also make reading a shared activity by reading aloud together, discussing stories, or even starting a small family book club These interactions not only build literacy but also strengthen your bond with your child
Let’s work together to make reading a rewarding part of this holiday A few pages each day can open up a world of imagination, curiosity, and lifelong learning
Happy reading!
SheenaMacLeod
Elementary School Principal smacleod@asmilan org
One benefit of summer was that each day we had more light to read by.
Jeanette Walls
HAPPY
FROM JR. JEDI
Hello, Namaste and Aloha!
Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is celebrated in the United States every May to honor and recognize the history, culture, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. We are excited to present lei to students that are able to answer trivia questions about this special month.
Thank you,
Elementary School Spring 2025 concert and Art Exhibition artscelebration
Join us for a Showcase of Art Created and Music Performed by ASM Elementary School Students. June 11 at 1:30 th
CELEBRATING OUR
ATHLETES
This week, ASM celebrated its annual Athletics Banquet, honoring the dedication and success of our student-athletes and coaches. It was a night of pride, reflection, and recognition for an incredible season.
A major highlight was the launch of our new Middle and High School Strength and Conditioning program, with 44 students participating. This year, over 85% of Upper School students, 463 in total, were involved in athletics, showing the strength of our sports community.
In league news, the European Sports Conference (ESC) saw Bavarian International School exit, leaving 12 schools across seven countries. Starting in 2025–2026, ESC will feature one Big Varsity Division. ASM was also named ESC Overall Champion for year-long excellence. Looking ahead, Track & Field will be added to the NISSA calendar in Spring 2026, bringing even more opportunities for our athletes.
Thank you to our coaches, families, and supporters.
Congratulations to all on an outstanding year!
Benedetta Ilieva Athletic Director
bilieva@asmilan org
COMMUNITYHIGHLIGHTS &UPCOMINGEVENTS
FAREWELL & THANK YOU, KARIN NIEMUTH
Dear ASM Community,
With heartfelt gratitude, we bid farewell to our incredible PTO Vice President, Karin Niemuth, as she steps down after two impactful years of service. Though her leadership role is coming to a close, her lasting impact on our community will be felt for years to come.
Karin has been a driving force of energy, creativity, and organization, working tirelessly behind the scenes and rallying volunteers with warmth and purpose. From Grade Level Parents, Green Team efforts, school dances and lunches, PTO Clubs, and student initiatives, to countless events and parent socials, her influence has touched nearly every corner of ASM.
Above all, Karin has been a unifying presence. Her empathy, collaboration, and spirit have brought parents, students, and staff closer together, strengthening our community in lasting ways. Personally, I’m grateful for her friendship and unwavering support. On behalf of the entire ASM community: Thank you, Karin. You’ve made us better, and you’ll always be a part of ASM. Please come back and visit us soon!
With appreciation, Tiffany Costanzo and all the parents at ASM
Let’s celebrate the amazing ASM parents who made a difference this year, and give a heartfelt farewell to our wonderful PTO Vice President, Karin Niemuth, for her two years of inspiring service and community spirit ��
RSVP by June 6 to Tiffany: +39 347 484 6456
Let’s raise a glass to a fantastic year, and to Karin! ����
�� Mason’s Lobster – Via Amerigo Vespucci, 1
�� June 12 at 6:30 PM
�� €20 includes:
– 1 Lobster Roll
– Side of Fries
– 2 Drinks
INTERNATIONALFESTIVAL
A big thank you to Julia Bryson for being our coordinator this year It was a huge success and we couldn’t have done it without parents, students and the support from numerous staff and teachers at ASM.The International Festival truly embodies what ASM is all about- Community!
TEACHER&STAFF APPRECIATION
Thank you to Giovanna Chiesa and Emanuela Santoro for coordinating this year's teacher and staff appreciation lunch.On June 12th, we will celebrate all the ASM teachers and staff who make ASM such a special school.Please consider donating your time to show them how much we appreciate their dedication.
We will need lots of volunteers to make this happen! Please sign up - either by bringing something or volunteering to take on a duty during lunch or recess!
Volunteer to bring a dish
Volunteer to take on a duty
LUNCHBRUNCHTHANKYOU
A big thank you to Julia Bryson and all the parents who volunteered throughout the year to help with lunch duty - the teachers were so thankful and were able to benefit by doing workshops or having a break and the kids loved seeing all the parents!We are looking forward to doing it again next year! If you are interested becoming the lunch bunch coordinator email the ptoboard@asmilan org
PTOCLUBSUPDATE
A big thank you to our PTO club coordinators who ran many events connecting parents this year! PTO tours:Fabiana and JoyWong Daniels. PTO Languages:Sabrina Galasso.PTO Cinema:Elisa Quintavalla and BabetteVerbeek. PTO Book Club:Evita Zang Chiuso and Elisa Quintavalla We are so grateful for all of your support! If you have a passion you would like to share with the community, please reach out to us and we can create a new chat or group.
And a sincereThankYou to Daniela Cilia Huggers for all of your dedication and support of the ASM GreenTeam this year!
SPOTLIGHTONOUR GRADEPARENTS
We cannot manage all of the communication to our parents in the community throughout the year without the diligence and support of all of our grade level parents. Thank you so much!
General Contact Vice-President Treasurer President Secretary
We would like to introduce the 2025-2026 school year PTO Board! The board was elected unanimously at our final meeting on May 21.
TIFFANYCOSTANZO,PRESIDENT
JULIABRYSON VICEPRESIDENT
My name is Julia, a mother of three, Stefano, David, and Hope I've been part of the ASM community for six years and living in Milan for nearly 12 with my Italian husband, Rocco
Raised in small-townTexas with roots in Manhattan, I value kindness, curiosity, and community.ASM’s culture of continuous learning inspires me.
As PTOVice President, I aim to be an advocate for our community, helping to sustain and to grow an inclusive space built on respect, compassion, and connection.I am passionate about volunteering and love exploring creativity, from studying astronomy at university to working as a film producer I am committed to supporting and strengthening our school’s extraordinary environment I also believe in the importance of humor, kindness, and a little spider-saving.
I’m Camilla! My whole family is Italian, I was born in Milan, my husband in Rome, and our twin boys in Miami Beach
We lived abroad for 11 years:6 in Miami Beach and 5 in Barcelona. We returned to Milan two years ago, and my boys, now entering Grade 7, joined ASM in Grade 5.
I earned a Political Science degree from the University of Pavia and began my career at Johnson & Johnson, later leaving to help my husband run our restaurant and B&B.
A former professional basketball player, I still love all sports.I’ve always been involved in my kids’ school life and would love to join the ASM PTO to help strengthen the bond between school and families
Join the PTO as Secretary! It's a fun way to get involved and stay connected. If you're organized and interested, email ptoboard@asmilan.org.
Tasks include:
– Meeting agendas & minutes
– Monthly newsletter updates
– Email & event support
– Volunteer sign-ups
Departing Parents Supporting Families on the Move
You have to say a clear ‘goodbye’ in order to say a clear ‘hello.’
David Pollock
Dear ASM Families,
As our school year draws to a close, it’s important to pause and reflect on this unique journey. In our international community, transitions and farewells are a constant part of life, whether it’s us moving or friends moving away While these changes can be exciting, they can also be challenging As we approach the end of the year, we encourage you to consider any transitions or losses you are experiencing or anticipating It’s important to grieve well in order to move forward well
Earlier today, Friday 30th May 2025, our counselors hosted a special event for departing parents to discuss RAFT, a widely adopted practice in international schools developed by the late David Pollock to help families transition smoothly to new environments.
We were grateful to welcome our departing families and share ways to navigate these changes and support one another through this process. Every family and child has a story at ASM, and today was a meaningful opportunity to give those stories a voice.
Warm regards,
ASM Counseling Team
BooksforSummer
Looking for some great books to read over the summer?!
JUNE 6 2025
Join ASM Library for our first book swap and summer library check out. We will have donated books that can be taken on an as needed basis. We are also offering a summer library book checkout to any families who will be returning to ASM next school year. Bring your own bags! 9:00-10:30 AM
If you have any questions or need help navigating Sora or finding resources, please contact us at library@asmilan.org for support
ASM Insider’s Second Issue A
Student-Led Newspaper!
We’re thrilled to share with you the second issue of The ASM Insider—our student-led publication created by the passionate and hard-working members of the High-School Journalism club.
Read the April ASM Insider now!
What began as an idea to report on the Seniors' last day of school quickly turned into a rich collection of articles as real-time events unfolded and our student reporters seized the opportunity to explore them. This issue reflects the curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking that define our students—and there's truly something for everyone.
Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll find in this issue:
A timely article on the meeting between Trump and Reflections and moments from Seniors’ final day
Study tips from students, for students
A feature on film patterns around ASM
A powerful article on the effects of misogyny in society
Thought-provoking opinions on AI in schools
A book recommendation to add to your reading list
Original poetry, student artwork, and our beloved (and famously unsolvable!) Spot the Difference
Dear All,
As we wrap up this year's After School Activities program, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Your children's energy, curiosity, and passion have truly made this program special. In the final weeks, our students showcased their talents and hard work through various events.
We're currently finalizing the schedule for the 2025–2026 academic year and anticipate sharing it with you before the school year concludes. In the meantime, please note that most activities are expected to remain on the same days as this year, helping to maintain consistency for your planning. KARATE EXAMS
Parentswereinvitedtoobserveclasses,providinga glimpseintothelearningandgrowththeirchildrenhave experiencedthroughouttheyear.
Ouryoungmartialartistsdemonstratedtheirskillsand discipline, earningwell-deservedrecognitionfortheir progress.
MUSIC,DANCE, ANDMUSICAL PERFOR-MANCES
Should you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to reach out. Here are some photos capturing memorable moments from this trimester of activities.
SaraBraga Italian and ASA Coordinator sbraga@asmilan org
Students took to the stage to perform in music recitals, dance routines, and musical theater, highlighting their creativity and dedication
Florian Berger Pasticceria
Civil
Sunday 13th July -
CAMP
Saturday 19th July 2025
11-13 Years Old
In addition to a rigorous training curriculum guided by expert coaches, campers will immerse themselves in Italian culture. Highlights include learning the Italian language, sailing on the lake, and hands-on cooking lessons with renowned local chefs
These experiences provide an authentic connection to Italian heritage, fostering cultural appreciation and a broader global perspective through interactive and meaningful activities.
Engaging Soccer Training
One football training session per day, fun and development-focused
Book
Cultural and Outdoor Activities
Explore the vibrant heritage of the region
Dive into the rich traditions of Italian culture
Safe and Supportive Environment
Parent Portal with daily updates
Como 1907 Uniform kit
English Theatre Milano Presents
A Stroll in Shakespeare’s Milan. A Theatrical Promenade by Maggie Rose
Fragments of Shakespeare's
The Tempest retold in historic Milan
Joe Falocco as Prospero, Duke of Milan and Trinculo, a Neapolitan Jester
7 JUNE AT 10:30 AM AND 8 JUNE AT 5:00 PM
Romeo + Juliet in Greencity
24 May, 17:00
Parco Segantini Ortimisti, Orto 3
27 May, 19:00
All Saints Church, Via Solferino 17
4 June, 19:00
Teatro Pacta, Via Ulisse Dini 7
FREE ENTRANCE
DONATION IS WELCOME!
To book and for more info, contact: info@englishtheatremilan org
&
INTERNATIONAL SUMMER CAMP MONTANA
Total Teacher Days: 185 Total Student Days: 176 NO CLASSES FOR STUDENTS
*This calendar is subject to change to meet the unanticipated needs of the school.
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