A YEAR OF HISTORIC PROGRESS
Annual review 2018-2019
ANNUAL REVIEW 2018-2019 Editors Valentina Pollini Kami Poma Bill Volchok
Contributors Maria Angeles Blanco Alison Carollo Johanna Cena Kevin Hebden Meg Holmes Lynda Johnson Ann Jurewicz Jennifer Killion Jeremy Majeski Ana Martínez Mark Pingitore Valentina Pollini Kami Poma Shawn Plancke Margareth Stuhan Cristina Torrengo Marta Vernet Bill Volchok © American School of Barcelona www.asbarcelona.com Diseño y producción: ACV Global - Look and Remember www.acvglobal.com
INDEX Message from the School Director
2
Leadership Team 2018-19
4
Board of Trustees
6
ASB History School Overview
8 12
School Demographics
14
Assessments 15 Standardized Tests
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University Acceptance 19 Divisions 21 Early Childhood Center 22 Elementary School 26 Middle School 29 High School 32 Visual Arts Athletics
36
40
Commitment to Community Service Professional Development
46
ASB English Language Center
51
Parents Association
52
Development Program
55
Alumni Association
57
Financial Report
58
ASB Memberships
59
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MESSAGE FROM THE SCHOOL DIRECTOR Every year we want to make strides to creating a better and warmer place for students, families and staff. Our strategic plan’s five strategic initiatives: Project Based Learning, Math, Science, Athletics, Performing Arts, help us move toward our vision and commitment to ongoing improvement.
Mark Pingitore Director
Our focus in 18-19 in math and science led to professional development and implementation of New Generation Science Standards (NGSS), a new elementary math-science instructional coach, and new secondary science labs. We are really pleased with our 2019 standardized test results and progress in these two areas. As part of this plan, we also inaugurated a state of the art auditorium-gymnasium that has transformed our performing arts, athletics, and community events. We hosted many performing art exhibitions that included two major musicals, The Chocolate Factory and Mamma Mia, and showcased student talent by hosting basketball and volleyball tournaments, math and robotics competitions, talent shows, and visual art displays. We ended the year by having our first indoor graduation on campus in June. Furthermore, we created a pilot team of teachers to learn together how to implement project based learning units in our school, planned a new Maker Space and hired an innovation coach to start in 19-20. This annual review captures in much greater detail our 2018-19 story. Our impressive success is due to an international community of parents, students, and staff who are teaming to construct a great learning environment for students. I am proud of the positive steps we are taking from our 3 year olds‘ development of trust in adults and each other, the cultivation of their sense of wonder, and to these little ones’ massive vocabulary expansion to our 18 year old International Baccalaureate Diploma graduates’ high level of academic independence, sense of global responsibility, and ability to lead and care for others.
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CURRICULUM, COURSES AND FRAMEWORKS • A new six-day schedule framework that includes more time for students in math and science. • New IB courses in Computer Science, Music, and Global Politics. • New secondary math curriculum (CPM) in grades 6-10. • Revised advisory curriculum and student support systems in secondary school to support social-emotional development. • Introduction of Catalan Language Learning (CLL) for non-fluent speakers.
ADDITIONAL STAFF POSITIONS • • • • •
New High School Principal. New Middle School Principal. New Performing Art Director. New IT Manager. Reading Specialist in K5-Grade 1.
INITIATIVES • Development of international teacher professional development cohorts with other international schools in Spain. • Launch the iPad pilot program in 5th grade. • Creation of the ASB project-based learning pilot teacher team. • Leadership in being a founding member and participant of the Barcelona International School Association (BISA) and the Iberian Sports League.
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LEADERSHIP TEAM 2018-2019
Bill Volchok Assistant Director
Jeremy Majeski Elementary School Principal
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Johanna Cena Teaching and Learning Director
Cristina Torrengo Early Childhood Principal
Ann Jurewicz High School Principal
Marta Vernet Head of Activities and Community Service
Maggie Stuhan Middle School Principal
Shawn Plancke Athletic Director
Kevin Hebden Director of Performing Arts
FerrĂĄn Sole Operations Manager
Alison Carollo Head of Admissions
Valentina Pollini Head of Communications and External Relations
Ana Mercadal Head of Human Resources
Jose Manuel Calahorra Facilities Manager
Jordi Varela IT Manager
MarĂa Angeles Blanco Financial Manager
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance of ASB. It focuses on the following three components of school leadership:
ENSURE THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE SCHOOL
FOCUS THE SCHOOL ON ITS MISSION WHILE PROVIDING SUPPORT TO ACHIEVE ITS VISION
SUPPORT AND SUPERVISE THE SCHOOL DIRECTOR
The Board and Leadership Team invested in our 5 MSA objectives with resources to help the school reach its vision: The Middle States Association (MSA) re-accreditation process helped our community define developmental objectives that will improve our students’ achievement and community experience. The resulting action plans helped define parameters for the budgets for this year and future school years. These objectives are now the foundation of our strategic plan.
Objectives Increase student achievement in math
Develop a stronger performing arts program
Increase student achievement in science
Develop a stronger athletic program
Increase inquiry and project-based learning experiences The school also created objectives and areas of improvement beyond the scope of these five areas.
The Board and Leadership Team decided to increase student population in the ECC to ensure the future stability of our programs. • Additional classes, increasing the PK3 and PK4 to two groups.
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Significant investments in upgrading the facilities • MS building. Two floors of state-of-the-art classrooms inaugurated in September 2018. • New Gymnasium and Auditorium to support athletics and performing arts that opened in October 2018.
• High school renovations during the summer with phase A completing 2 floors of classrooms that include new high school science labs, 2 music rooms, and a glassy, open, transparent environment developing a modern building theme across the campus.
ASB’S 2018-2019 BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEMBERS: From left to right Nuria Ribas Board Secretary & Communication Pete Popov - Strategy Pau Bermudez - Treasurer Angela Bonifacie - Governance Paola Garbarino - Facilities Andy Thompson - President Paul Petermeijer - Vice President & Strategy Claudio Doria - External Appointed (Missing in photo) Mark Pingitore
- School Director (Missing in photo) (Non Voting)
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ASB HISTORY
October 2, 1962 Was the first day of the history of the American School of Barcelona.
In 1977, ASB was given a large sum to leave the rented building in Pedralbes. With this money the school bought the land for the new building in Esplugues de Llobregat.
1960s The idea to open the first and only school to provide an education in English belonged to Dr. Jose Maria Poal. Upon returning to Barcelona from US Dr. Poal was inspired to provide his children with an American education leading him to found the first American School in Barcelona.
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1970s During the 1970s, Spain went from dictatorship to democracy, enjoying the new liberty achieved, which ASB had been enjoying for over a decade. By the end of the 1970s, ASB had 400 students, about 300 in Esplugues and over 100 in la Font del Lleo.
During the 1988-89 school year, we said goodbye to the Spanish national system classes. From that time on all students would study the American High School program, with a series of obligatory subjects for the students who wished to study in Spanish universities.
In 1986, the Ministry of Education recognized ASB as a “foreign school� (centro extranjero).
In 1995, the Generalitat of Catalunya recognized the parity of the North American educational system with the Spanish system.
1980s
1990s
The 1980s brought the reunification of all the students to the Esplugues campus.
The 1990s brought increased enrollment, better facilities, and official recognition for the quality of education that ASB provided. In the spring of 1990, ASB was accredited by the Middle States Association in the United States.
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In 2014, a celebratory event was held to inaugurate the new ECC and Elementary building and the new library. US Ambassador James Costos was a special guest at the event.
During the 2000s, ASB continued working on self improvement and was
2012
rewarded in 2001 when the Middle States Association re-accredited ASB, recognizing its academic excellence and standards. The alumni reunions, celebrations and goodbye parties for teachers have been an opportunity for many to touch base with their old classmates and teachers.
ASB celebrated its 50th anniversary.
In 2007, ASB was the first school to start the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in English in Barcelona.
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ASB bought the land bordering our facilities and created an outdoor recreation space of about 3,100 square meters. The construction started in August 2017 and includes an outdoor amphitheater, artificial grass field, hard court play space, and gardens. In
January 2018, the school completed the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) re-accreditation process and met all MSA standards.
2019
In 2016, ASB launched a development program called Building Together to help unite the community and start an inclusive culture of giving.
October 19th was a momentous day in ASB´s history: the inauguration of our new Middle School and auditorium-gymnasium. Over 400 community members celebrated this special event and got to see first-hand how the space brought everyone together and allowed us to spotlight our tremendous student talent. This new facility is a sign of our quest for ongoing improvement and just the starting point of where we would like to go as a school.
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SCHOOL OVERVIEW The American School of Barcelona is a private, international, coeducational day school serving students from 3-18 years old in the greater Barcelona metropolitan area since 1962. ASB offers a university preparatory curriculum which provides its graduates access to American, Spanish and international universities.
Is recognized and approved by the US Department of State’s OfďŹ ce of Overseas Schools.
Participates in the European Sports Conference (ESC), a regional sports league made up of schools from around Europe.
Is a member of the Barcelona International School Association (BISA).
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Is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).
Is recognized in Spain as a Centro Extranjero (foreign school) by the Generalitat de Catalunya and the Spanish Ministry of Education.
Belongs to the Mediterranean Association of International Schools (MAIS) and European Council of International Schools (ECIS).
VISION The American School of Barcelona seeks to continuously improve through innovation. Our aim is to be recognized as the leading international school in Europe, empowering students to lead with integrity, to open minds, and to transform the world.
CORE VALUES
MISSION
Caring, Student-centered, Innovative, Rigorous, Resilient.
Our mission is to empower preschool through 12th grade students to become global citizens with the critical thinking skills and the self-confidence to maximize their potential.
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SCHOOL DEMOGRAPHICS Start of School Year Enrollment
Students by Divisions
309
91
High School
Early Childhood Center
913
Students
219
Middle School
School Demographics
24%
30%
46%
294
Elementary School
Faculty Profile The ASB staff includes 114 faculty members (teachers and assistants), 23 support staff and 15 administrators. The approximate composition of faculty by nationality is: English speaking countries
62% Spanish
32% Other countries North American
Spanish 50+ nationalities
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Other countries
6% More than 80% of our international teachers have advanced degrees.
ASSESSMENTS EXTERNAL ASSESSMENTS IB RESULTS International Baccalaureate Diploma Scores No. of ASB IB students % of ASB students that passed
Avg. ASB IB score
ASB high score (out of 45)
World average
2017
51
98%
35
42
30
2018
52
94%
34
44
30
2019
72
94%
33
42
30
Distribution of IB Diploma Scores Class of 2019 Score Range
Percent of passing students
45 - 40
11%
39 - 35
31%
34 - 30
29%
29 - 24
29%
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STANDARDIZED TESTS International Schools Assessment (ISA) The ISA tests are designed specifically for students in international schools around the globe and it assesses mathematical literacy, reading, and writing. ASB students in grades 3 through 9 take the tests every winter. In reading and writing, ASB continues to outperform our peer group at other international schools in Europe, as well as the average of all international schools in the cohort. In math, we are above the averages in most grades.
Ready by Grade 600 540
550
434
400
300
474 468
452
450
350
513
512
500
365 316
385 383 345
290 290
501
ASB European Schools
419 416
All Schools
341
250 200 3
4
5
6
7
8
Mathematical Literacy by Grade 592
600 550 500
485 474
450 387
400 350 300
548 538
549
455
ASB
519 515 467
European Schools
433 435
All Schools
379 378
306300 311
250 200 3
16
4
5
6
7
8
Exposition/Argument Writing 600
600
570
550
450 400
479
545 542
516 512 510
513
500
574 571
ASB
488489
European Schools
451 443
443
409 413
All Schools
350 300 250 200 5
4
3
6
7
8
Narrative/Reflective Writing by Grade 600
500
468 441 447
450 400 350
560
534
550
421 354 355
365
397
498
474 476
508 508
536 534
ASB European Schools
405
All Schools
300 250 200 3
4
5
6
7
8
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Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) The MAP tests are standardized assessments designed to measure growth in student learning in reading and math. Students in grades 3 through 10 are tested each spring to help teachers plan instructional programs and measure student growth. ASB is significantly outperforming other international schools in both reading and math in most grade levels.
MAP: Math
263
258
260 249
245
240
234 226 226 228 218
220 206
204
216 217
230
227 229
234
232
241
237 239
249 251
244 246
251
254 254
243
218
206 207
200 3rd
5th
4th
7th
6th
ASB
MAIS
ECIS
8th
9th
10th
AOS
MAP: Reading 260 240 239
240 228 222
220
200
200199 202
203
3rd
211 208208 209
4th
217 216 218
221
219
6th
5th
ASB
Benchmarks ECIS - European Council of International Schools MAIS - Mediterranean Association of International Schools AOS - American Overseas Schools
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220 222
233 223
225 227
7th
MAIS
ECIS
231 227 229
8th
AOS
230 231
9th
233
232 233 235
10th
UNIVERSITY ACCEPTANCE University Acceptance and Matriculation Graduates from the Classes of 2017-2019 were accepted to the following universities. (Highlighted universities indicate matriculation). UNITED STATES American University Babson College Berklee College of Music Boston College Boston University Bowdoin College Brandeis University Brown University California State University, Northridge Carnegie Mellon University Chapman University Colgate University Columbia University Cornell University Drexel University Duke University Earlham College Elon University
Emerson College Flagler College Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University Fordham University Franklin Olin College of Engineering George Mason University George Washington University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology Harvey Mudd College Indiana University Bloomington Johns Hopkins University Loyola Marymount University Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Miami University, Oxford Michigan State University New York University Northeastern University Northwestern University Nova Southeastern University Oakland University Ohio State University Pratt Institute Saint Louis University San Diego State University San Francisco State University Savannah College of Art and Design Seton Hall University Skidmore College Stanford University Syracuse University Temple University
The New School Tufts University University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Barbara University of Chicago University of Colorado Boulder University of Houston University of Illinois at Chicago University of Iowa University of Notre Dame University of Pennsylvania
University of Pittsburgh University of Portland University of Richmond University of Rochester University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of South Carolina University of Southern California University of Tampa University of Washington University of Wisconsin, Madison Virginia Polytechnic Institute Wellesley College Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Imperial College London Keele University King’s College London Lancaster University Leeds Beckett University London Metropolitan University London School of Economics and Political Science London South Bank University Loughborough University Manchester Metropolitan University New College of the Humanities Newcastle University Northumbria University Nottingham Trent University Oxford Brookes University
Queen Mary University of London Ravensbourne Regent’s University London Royal Holloway, University of London School of Oriental and African Studies St George’s, University of London Swansea University University College London University for the Creative Arts University of Aberdeen University of Bath University of Bedfordshire University of Birmingham University of Brighton
University of Bristol University of Cambridge University of Chester University of Derby University of Dundee University of East Anglia University of East London University of Edinburgh University of Essex University of Exeter University of Glasgow University of Greenwich University of Huddersfield University of Hull University of Kent University of Leeds University of Leicester University of Liverpool
University of Manchester University of Nottingham University of Oxford University of Portsmouth University of Reading University of Sheffield University of Southampton University of Stirling University of Strathclyde University of Surrey University of Sussex University of the Arts London University of Warwick University of Westminster University of Winchester University of York
UNITED KINGDOM Abertay University Aberystwyth University Arts University Bournemouth Aston University Bath Spa University Birmingham City University Bournemouth University Brunel University London Cardiff University City University of London Coventry University Durham University Edge Hill University Edinburgh Napier University Glasgow Caledonian University Goldsmiths, University of London Heriot-Watt University
CANADA Carleton University Concordia University McGill University McMaster University Queen’s University Ryerson University Simon Fraser University University of British Columbia University of Manitoba University of Ottawa University of Toronto University of Waterloo York University
SPAIN ESADE EU Business School Barcelona Institut Quimic de Sarria International University of Catalonia LaSalle-Ramon Llull Pompeu Fabra University Ramon Llull University Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona Universitat Politécnica de Catalunya Universitat Pompeu Fabra Universitat de Barcelona University of Navarra
NETHERLANDS Erasmus University Rotterdam Hotelschool The Hague Leiden University Maastricht University Universiteit van Amsterdam University of Groningen Utrecht University VU University of Amsterdam
OTHER COUNTRIES ESCP-Europe - Paris The American University of Paris CODE Berlin University of Applied Sciences Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne Les Roches International School of Hotel Management University of Lausanne
University matriculation Class of 2019 UK 31% Spain 27% USA 17% Gap Year/Other 12% Netherlands 7% Other EU 4% Canada 2%
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SCHOOL NEWS Middle and High School Upgrades After many years of patient planning and waiting, the new Middle School building was completed and our 6-8th grade classes moved into marvelous new classrooms. Wide hallways and classrooms with large glass windows give a spacious feeling to the educational spaces. Our secondary art teachers and students have finally moved out of the old modular art room into a sunny, double classroom with many work area options. The lower floor of the building houses our new gymnasium/ auditorium, which our sports and performing arts programs have used to increase student participation. Musicals, concerts, pep rallies, sports competition, student and parent assemblies, and our culminating 12th grade graduation are now hosted in a spectacular, professional new facility. The inauguration event in October was a celebration for all the hard work, contributions and patience that the entire community has dedicated to the completion of this project. As a result of moving the Middle School from the main building into the space, the HS was able to begin a long awaited remodeling of the main building. Highlights include 2 new soundproof music rooms on the ground floor and large windows installed into classrooms for better visibility and lighting, and the creation of a 3rd HS science lab.
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DIVISIONS EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL
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EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
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EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WHAT DOES INQUIRY LOOK LIKE IN THE EARLY YEARS? One of ASB’s strategic goals is Project Based Learning. PBL in ECC is seen through the pedagogical method of choice known as Inquiry-based Learning. This approach invites children to become “owners & drivers” in their own learning. Children are encouraged to think, pose meaningful questions and solve problems by experimenting, observing and evaluating possible solutions of a wondering they may have. This year’s PK4 were extremely interested in the Light Unit. PK4 teachers guided their students to explore their questions related to light: How do we obtain light? Are there different sources of light?, Discover the many shades of light, name the many benefits of light and how does our community take advantage of it. Of course children’s interests didn’t arise from scratch. The teacher’s role within this unit was that of a facilitator. They guided their students to explore their questions and decide on a course of action. Teachers posed carefully crafted, open-ended questions that allowed learners to deepen their thinking and investigate further, rather than respond with one correct or incorrect answer. These open-ended questions were aligned with instructional goals and learning objectives, but also follow the lead of the children’s own thinking. PK4 teachers actively listened and reflected upon the thoughts of children in order to provide resources and provocations to extend the learning. PK4 students became real-life scientists. The research process came alive as learners were encouraged to make predictions, observe, investigate and share findings through discourse, drawings and book readings. This inquiry model echoes the constructivist theories of Freire, suggesting that children must be active participants in their learning, as opposed to vacant minds waiting to be filled with preordained information.
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BUDDY MOMENTS IN ECC Throughout this year many Elementary and Middle school children have had the opportunity to engage with our youngest students during the school day. In ECC, children enjoy the one-to-one attention they receive from their “older” buddy. You will often hear positive comments amongst the ECC students: “I like listening to my special friend when she reads to me”, “ He makes me feel special by telling me how I can make my drawing more colorful”, “We always do fun things together when we build with blocks!”, “I help my buddy with his Spanish”, and, “My buddy is my friend. We ride the same bus home”. Teachers report that participation in buddy sessions enhances children’s social learning behaviors such as taking turns, listening, sharing knowledge, praising others effort, and helping one another when completing tasks. Teacher comments confirm that these buddy sessions have a positive influence on the students involved. The older students assume the role of teacher, they are motivated to do their best. The younger children bond with the older buddy and friendships flourish, especially observed when ECC children see their new friends some place else besides their classroom. The excitement to say hello and give a hug makes you realize how wonderful it is to see such bonds form. Teachers agree that it brings out the best in kids. ECC invites all forms of buddies. They promote a favorable school atmosphere. We have had Middle school/Elementary SLL and CLL students read Spanish books and perform plays in Catalan for our youngest to enjoy. The Middle school Little Tikes Lynx sessions
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have also allowed MS students to engage and assist ECC kids during class instruction, Music, PE and Art classes. Elementary buddy reading has also happened, where grade levels celebrate reading with younger peers. Teachers try their best to find opportunities for children from different age levels to engage together. Besides accomplishing the academic purpose, building community is what makes students feel like they are part of something. They feel accepted, they empathize with others allowing their self-confidence skills to grow.
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 26
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Elementary school continues to make great strides with our strategic goals and initiatives. With the addition of our new math and science coach and significant professional development, our teachers are working together to enhance the elementary school experience. One area of growth has been in science. We’ve committed to increasing our students’ achievement in science by writing a curriculum that includes 3 units aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and engaging students in a cycle of inquiry throughout the scientific process. Students are learning to engage in scientific phenomena, generate questions, and design/conduct investigations. Through this work, students are engaged in units such as Light and Sound, Animal Adaptations, and Earth’s Changes. In addition to our work in science, we’re proud of our students for taking the lead in making an impact on their world. 5th graders were inspired by their study of the declaration of human rights and led amazing projects such as holding a book drive to send books to schools in Africa, inviting local climate scientists in to speak about the impact of climate change and hold a screening of a childrens movie that highlighted gender and racial diversity. 3rd graders learned about the danger to a local fish, the fartet, and helped to raise and release them in local waterways. 1st graders collected plastic waste, converted it into art, and sold it at a market to raise money for a local animal rescue.
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SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING AND CHILD SAFETY We believe strongly in educating the whole child, which includes their social-emotional development. A number of years ago, we adopted a research-based program called Second Step, which is implemented by our school counselor. The Second Step program teaches children important skills for getting along with others and doing well in school. It also helps our school be a safe and supportive place where everyone can learn. During the 2018-2019 school year, we added an additional component to this program called the Child Protection Unit. This unit reviews 3 types of skills regarding personal safety, touching safety and assertiveness. Through this program our students are equipped to handle challenging situations that may arise in regards to their safety.
SUPPORT
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
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EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Middle School continued to make significant progress with regard to our two strategic academic objectives in math and science.
In math, many middle school students participated in a variety of competitions during the course of the year including when ASB hosted the first ever Mediterranean MathCounts competition. ASB middle school students earned four of the top five spots in the competition, including first place. The science department began work with world renowned science consultant Paul Anderson to develop robust assessment and curriculum materials to meet the demands of the Next Generation Science Standards and to build out meaningful explorations to perform in our new science labs.
Additional STEM accomplishments included the MS Robotics team placing 4th out of 16 teams in the Middle School FIRST Lego Robotics Competition and our sending a delegation of 15 female students to participate in the Barcelona Emerson Robotics Event. The girls worked side by side with engineers, marketing, and human resource experts to build a robot, think of a product idea, and prepare a short presentation to find funding.
Our Lynx Enrichment program continued to expand to offer students an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of learning experiences from Salsa Dancing and Honor Choir to Lynx TV, Model MUN, and NESDA (Northern European Speech, Debate, and Acting). With the addition of NESDA, we were also able to host ASB’s first Annual Middle Years Speech and Debate Tournament. We are looking forward to building out this event even more in the coming years.
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SCHOOL COMMUNITY We moved into our new building and were excited to equip our humanities and castellano classrooms with flexible furniture to contribute to the overall community feel. We also started to settle into and enjoy a dedicated area for students and other community members to gather and spend time with one another with the addition of the suite of middle school offices and reception area. We took our Advisory Program to the next level this year by adopting a supplementary curriculum based on the work of Cathy Berger Kaye, an educational expert in pastoral care and service learning. Cathy visited us during the fall to deliver PD to all MS teachers and assist in the further development of our advisory and service programs.
Our students participated in many service programs during the course of the year ranging from collecting over 1200 kilos of non-perishable food items during our annual food drive to removing 7,787 pieces of trash from our Barcelona beaches. Finally, we continued to add more students to the numbers of children participating in both our after school performing arts and athletics programs with record numbers of girls participating in sports this year.
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HIGH SCHOOL
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EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT The High School saw facility upgrades with renovations that created 3 state-of-the-art science labs and two dedicated music rooms for the Performing Arts. In the IB Diploma Program (IBDP) 12% of our seniors scored 40 or above, qualifying them in the top 5% of IBDP students worldwide with a high score at 44. First time IB testing in Computer Science saw exceptional results. Progress reporting grades 9-12 moved to the 1-7 system based on the IBDP marking scale and separate Learning Behaviors reporting communicated academic behaviors distinct from outcome performance.
Continuing its growth trajectory, the High School added a fourth section of 10th grade fully occupying the A building as the Middle School moved to its own site. Full implementation of the CPM Math program in grades 9 and 10 was complemented by the introduction of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) thus expanding inquiry learning in alignment with ASB’s strategic goals. NGSS expert Paul Anderson provided PD to science teachers in the fall and spring. Lynx enrichment expanded to offer robust activities in service, wellness and academic pursuits, as well as providing additional support courses and one-on-one time with teachers to meet individual learner needs.
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SCHOOL COMMUNITY The High School Community enjoyed the expansion of student services with the addition of a dedicated Dean of Student Life in grades 9-12. The Dean of Student Life provides a first contact for students for support in all areas of the school whether it be questions on academics to helping meet socio-emotional needs. An Advisory Program was established in the Lynx period consisting of teacher Advisors who address student wellness and guide students in making good choices for their present and future lives. The Advisory curriculum is based on the work of Cathy Berger Kaye, an educational expert in pastoral care and service learning. Cathy visited the American School of Barcelona last fall to assist with teacher PD in these areas. The Camino de Santiago trip expanded to celebrate the end of the school year in both 9th and 10th grades by having students walk the trail for 3 days. Over 140 students and teachers deepened their relationships while achieving challenging goals and enjoying the beautiful terrain of this world-renowned pilgrimage. In the area of service, high school students engaged in marine conservation around the shores of Mallorca after winning the Changemakers at Sea competition, and in the summer of 2019 students participated in Operation Wallacea’s conservation research expedition in Indonesia. Marking the third year in the tradition of the summer medical mission to Peru, ASB students served as translators to doctors and medical students from Michigan State University, assisting in medical services and educating local populations who have limited medical access in various health matters.
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Academic enrichment grew with the addition of a Math Team that competed in Madrid, and the launching of a FIRST Robotics Program. The American School of Barcelona hosted the FIRST Robotics competition last spring. ASB’s Model United Nations (MUN) and New European Speech, Debate and Acting (NESDA) programs remained strong with the sixth annual BCN MUN welcoming over 400 students throughout Europe and NESDA students taking top honors in Prague in April 2019.
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VISUAL ARTS This year, for the first time, our Art teachers organized an exhibition of art works from PK3 to High School that included paintings, wax works, ceramic works, masks and sculptures.
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The Art department continued their excellent job by displaying our amazing students’ works in the IB Visual Arts Exhibition, Around the world in 60 minutes, and Meet the Artist.
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PERFORMING ARTS 2018/19 was a busy year in Performing Arts. Our new performing arts director inaugurated two new music rooms, and the auditorium expanded our teaching team and developed a new department. Student participation increased, musical ensembles were developed and many students performed in a variety of shows and concerts. Students were treated to a visit from Tufts University Wind Band and our new relationship with IAB (Institute of the Arts - Barcelona) in Sitges led to student workshops in Musical Theater and a visiting performance of Alice in Wonderland for our ES students. There is a new buzz about Performing Arts at ASB.
CONCERTS Throughout the year there were numerous concerts for students from ECC to HS. We certainly made full use of having a new performance space and were able to host the BISA talent show for the first time.
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THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY In the fall, International Children’s Theater director Paul Belanger worked with a group of ES and MS students to create a magical performance, “The Chocolate Factory”. Based upon Roald Dahl’s story, our students shared their journey through Willy Wonka’s fantastical factory to excited audiences.
MAMMA MIA After the success of You Can’t Stop the Beat - A Tribute to Hairspray, Spotlight Productions staged its second musical, Mamma Mia - A Tribute to Mamma Mia in May 2019. This was an amazing student-driven project where the performers, script editors, set and costume designers, as well as back-stage hands were all made up of Middle and High School students!
MS LYNX MAIS CHOIR In March MAIS (Mediterranean Association of International Schools) hosted their middle school honor choir festival here at ASB. Seven schools representing Morocco, Portugal, Italy and Spain joined together to present a repertoire of choir music. Students rehearse separately and then come together for two days of intensive rehearsals. Students performed a selection of pieces for our Middle School and then did the full concert in the evening for parents, relatives and friends.
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ATHLETICS In 2018-2019 our ASB sports program continued the increase of participation of students in all levels of the school. In previous years ASB was represented in 4 Saturday soccer leagues. In 2018-2019 ASB was represented in 18 different competitive Saturday leagues in soccer, basketball, volleyball and flag football. The campus was buzzing on Saturdays with home games and the High School held pep rallies for the first time for our European Sports Conference (ESC) teams.
ASB inaugurated a brand new gymnasium which was used to host games, competitions and tournaments for the volleyball, basketball and cheerleading teams.
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SOCCER TEAMS
1st and 2nd grades soccer team
3rd and 4th grades soccer team
5th and 6th grades soccer team
MS boys soccer team
HS soccer 5vs5 team
HS boys soccer team
HS girls soccer team
MS girls team
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BASKETBALL TEAMS ASB held its first ever summer basketball camp for two weeks in June and July. Over 57 students participated in rigorous training and skills building.
ES basketball team
Girls basketball team
MS girls basketball team
MS boys basketball team
HS boys basketball team 42
CHEERLEADING TEAMS
Mini cheerleaders
ES cheerleading
MS cheerleading
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FLAG FOOTBALL TEAMS Our Flag football teams received 1st place in the Catalunya Flag Football Championships in the sub 11, sub 13 and sub 17 categories.
ES flag football team
MS flag football team
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HS flag football team
CROSS COUNTRY TEAM
VOLLEYBALL TEAM
MS volleyball team
HS volleyball team
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A COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY SERVICE AND SERVICE LEARNING ASB has continuously developed Community Service programs as well as Service Learning for our students. In these experiential programs, learning occurs through a cycle of action and reflection as students seek to achieve real objectives for the community and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to serve, as well as enhance their own skill set. Some highlights of this year are:
Sharing to Learn celebrated its 10th year ASB was a pioneer conceptualizing this program with the Department of Education of the Generalitat where High School students act as Language Assistants in ECC and ES classrooms of public schools in the Baix Llobregat. The program has grown over the past 10 years, involving more than 100 schools and impacting more than 25.000 students.
Researching with Researchers was a big success in its inaugural year In collaboration with ICO (Institut Catala d’Oncologia), ASB organized visits of high school students to the premises of ICO and IDIBELL. The “Researching with Researchers” program allowed the students to have a first-hand glimpse of cancer research and experience science and cancer treatment in an authentic setting. The visits were organized in the form of one-to-one talks with the ICO/IDIBELL researchers, where the students could learn about the career choices of the researcher, his/her project, challenges they face, and everyday work. Reciprocally, the conversation was done in English, so the researchers could practice their English with students who are native speakers.
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Kids in Mission Botswana Cyber Cafe ES students started a group called Kids in Mission and the students worked in partnership with a group of refugee women in the Dukwy refugee camp who wanted to start a cyber cafe. The 5th graders conferenced with the refugees periodically, designed the furniture for the cyber cafe and fundraised over 2000 euros so they could buy the necessary materials.
Books for Africa The ES Rotakids started a book drive for schools in Ethiopia, where they organized all the logistics of the drive. Working in partnership with the MS Rotakids and the HS Interacts, they organized several events to raise money to pay for the transportation. They were able to donate more than 10.400 books.
Maker Challenge Was a 5th grade program, where the aim was to develop engineering skills, as well as build empathy, while participating in a meaningful service learning project in our local community. The students visited FundaciĂł Asproseat Proa, a day center for people with Down Syndrome, to get to know the members and to find ways that they could make a difference in the day-to-day activities at the center. Students worked in groups to identify challenges that people faced, and then worked over the month, in partnership with Barcelona-based Makerspace Creator Street, to find a solution to that problem.
Comemos Juntos Is a program that works to integrate new students into the school and helps bring together the school community, ensuring that no child eats alone. Comemos Juntos started out the year focusing on the ASB Middle School with a “new buddy program� that encouraged participating students to set an example
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of inclusion and kindness by partnering up with new students and helping them to make new friends. The group later ventured out into the community to bring the program to the Residencia ORPEA, with several of our middle and high school students spending time chatting and having lunch with the elderly. This program was initiated by two high school students.
Salvem el Fartet Is a place-based education initiative, which helped immerse students in their local culture and environment. We were able to take part to a partnership between ASB, the Barcelona Zoo and the Consorci per a la Protecciรณ i la Gestiรณ dels Espais Naturals del Delta del Llobregat. The fartet is a fish that is found in the Delta de Llobregat and is currently at risk of extinction due to pollution and the enemy fish eating its food. At ASB, we set up aquariums in the 3B classroom, as well as in the MS and HS science labs. Students involved in this activity met with a professional from the Barcelona Zoo to learn about fartets, their environment, and how we can help with the repopulation of these fish in the Delta de Llobregat. After three months of taking care of the fartets in the classrooms, the 3rd grade
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students took a field trip to the area to set free the fartets that were born in captivity. This project was led by our IT Assistant Albert Altimira and we were very excited to bring local environmental challenges into the classroom for our students to learn about firsthand.
ASB & Asproseat Oil Recycling Project This year three of our seniors partnered with Asproseat to start a community-wide Kitchen Oil Recycling campaign. They encouraged many ASB families to participate in this unique project. The purpose of this project was to recycle used kitchen oil and turn it into biodiesel. The oil was picked up and filtered at the Asproseat facility.
Peru Medical Mission In August, a group of 11 ASB students and two teachers participated in the 11th medical mission organized by MSUCOM in Iquitos, Peru. Our students and teachers acted as translators for 32 American doctors. During the two weeks, they visited more than 2400 patients. The experience was really powerful, with students not only learning about the culture of the people of the Peruvian Amazon, but also about medicine.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT This has been an exciting year of professional development for ASB staff members. We are fortunate to be amongst the founding schools of the American International Schools in Spain (AISIS) Collaborative of 4 International schools in Spain offering the highest level of professional development for teachers. Research suggests that professional learning should be ongoing and job embedded, therefore we have offerred professional learning experiences for multiple days within a school year with international consultants. The consultants working with our staff include:
Dr. Mary Ehrenworth from Columbia Teachers College Reading and Writing Project working with teachers on effective literacy instruction.
Paul Andersen Science consultant working with elementary and secondary teachers to use inquiry and science phenomena to engage students in hands on instruction aligned with the Next Generation Science standards.
Math Studio consultants working with elementary and secondary teachers on effective math instructional practices.
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We also hosted staff developers from High Tech High from California, U.S.A. to work with teachers on developing project based learning experiences for students, working with the residencia next to ASB to find the meaning of joy.
In addition to these professional learning opportunities we continue to offer coaching for teachers with three full time instructional coaches in literacy, math/science and technology. The Teaching and Learning department is proud to offer world class professional development for teachers, which will ultimately impact the learning experience of all ASB students
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The ASB English Language Center offers English language classes to non-ASB students ages 3 to 16 on Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings from October to May, and a four-week intensive course in July. Local demand for the ASB English Language Center programs was very strong in 2018-2019, with a total of 575 students enrolled. Weekday and Saturday ELC classes were held in the Elementary Building, which provided access for teachers to integrate technology into their language instruction using iPads and laptops. We also began a new program of Cambridge test prep courses, preparing students ages 11+ for the PET and First Certificate with the program achieving a 100% pass rate. In the Summer program, Early Childhood and Elementary students attended sessions with a professional storyteller in the school library, and classes were held for elementary and secondary students in Radio Broadcast, Art, Swimming, Computers and Sports. Afternoon enrichment classes included Drama, Dance, Music, Art, Video Art, Cooking, Speech and Debate and Lego Robotics.
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PARENTS ASSOCIATION Our Parents Association and the Committees have been working hard all year to ensure rich and plentiful opportunities for our community to become engaged in different events and activities like International Day, Halloween, Teacher Appreciation Day and Winter Bazaar and Flea Market. The Welcoming Committee also organized a number of social outings, workshops and fun events for new and existing families in which parents can make connections easier. The Parents Association also developed the organization of Parent Ambassadors who help new families adapt in a specific neighborhood.
SEPTEMBER New Family Welcome Coffee Seminars: BWN Presentation Parents’ Tapas and Cocktail
OCTOBER Halloween Festivities Seminars: Health Care System in Spain Boquería Tour and Cooking Classes
DECEMBER Winter Bazaar and Flea Market
JANUARY New Family Welcome Coffee Technology Workshop
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FEBRUARY Valentine’s Celebrations Seminars: Driving in Spain and Working in Barcelona Barcelona Activa Presentation
MARCH Gastronomic Tour Calçotada Family Lunch Spring Celebrations
MAY International Day Gastronomic Tour Driving Classes Staff Appreciation Day
JUNE Thank You Volunteer Breakfast
PARENTS ASSOCIATION’S DONATIONS The Parents Association donated the generous sum of 3.390€ to support a variety of institutions and associations like:
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DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
The 2018-19 100-Day Campaign and the Spring Party auction raised over 106,000€ in donations. These funds have been targeted or spent on our strategic initiatives and include the following:
Makerspace Equipment - includes laser and vinyl cutters and 2D plotters 30,000€. Instruments for the music program 20,000€. Flexible Furniture for classrooms and other spaces
20,000€.
Classroom Air Servers in ECC, ES, and HS 16,000€. Student Trip scholarships - Athletics, STEM competitions, Robotics, speech and debate club, Model United Nations and Service Learning trips 10,000€. Teacher Innovation Grants 10,000€.
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SPRING PARTY Our successful annual Spring Party took place at the Mandarin Hotel and we wish to thank Mr. Jorge Monje, Director of the Mandarin Oriental and an ASB father, for his remarkable hospitality and cooperation. We would like to thank all of the ASB parents who generously donated items to the Spring Party silent auction and the ASB community for supporting this annual community building and fundraising event. The funds raised will be allocated to the Project Based Learning Initiative. A few of these projects included the flexible furniture, a creative makerspace, innovation and service learning scholarships. Finally, ASB would like to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible Spring Party Committee for their time, endless hard work, commitment and dedication to organizing a spectacular event.
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ALUMNI ASSOCIATION We are really proud of our Alumni and we are thrilled when they visit us!
We welcomed on campus:
Sarah Dagher
Fabio Chicero
Júlia Catena , Sabrina H are, Pablo Garf ías and Ann a Vall
We also were able to gather several alumni for the presentation of the book “180 Guiños a la vida” written by Pat Pujol. Pat has been for many years an engaged community member and mother in ASB. Her book reflects her positive way to look at daily life situations.
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FINANCIAL REPORT 2017-2018
2018-2019
July 1st, 2017 - Jun 30th, 2018
July 1st, 2018 - Jun 30th, 2019
13,561,760.22
15,965,867.77
983,860.89
1,312,203.39
3,158,897.12 4,142,758.81
2,972,526,23 4,284,729.62
17,704,518.23
20,250,597.39
4,062,157.59
4,523,558.85
Long-Term Loans
2,248,956.89
4,985,114.48
TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
2,248,956.89
4,985,114.48
Trade and Other Payables
3,968,836.58
2,600,861.76
Income Received in Advance
6,813,787.24
7,300,797.29
610,779.93
840,265.01
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
11,393,403.75
10,741,924.06
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
17,704,518.23
20,250,597.39
Assets In Euros Non-current Assets Property, Plant and Equipment Current Assets Trade and other Receivables Cash and Cash Equivalents Total Current Assets TOTAL ASSETS
Reserves Retained Income Non-Current Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Short term loan
SUMMARY 2018-2019 Expenses
Revenues Tuition Fees Other School Fees Other Programs Result
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80% 17% 3%
Personnel Expenses Educational Expenses Depreciation Other Programs expenses
75% 17% 5% 3%
ASB MEMBERSHIPS We cooperate throughout the year with different associations and support each other’s projects. ABS wishes to maintain a close relationship with international and local non-profit institutions and associations that operate in Barcelona to increase networking and provide support for our families.
Academic Associations
The Barcelona International Schools Association (BISA) is a professional organization that strives to improve the quality of education in its member schools through several venues. It promotes the sharing of resources, professional development, and communication and interchange; the organization also attempts to create international understanding in Barcelona and beyond. BISA serves as a liaison between its member schools, local governments, and pertinent local and international education organizations.
The Mediterranean Association of International Schools is a professional organization that strives to improve the quality of education in its Member schools. It promotes the professional development of Faculty, Administrators, and School Board Members, affects communication and interchange, and creates international understanding. MAIS serves as a liaison between its 40 Member Schools, 41 Associate Member organizations as well as other regional, professional, and in-service organizations. Presently, MAIS is composed of schools from 15 different countries.
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Networking Associations
Barcelona Global is a private, independent and non-profit association, that is set up as a citizen’s platform of ideas and action, made up by people and companies who care about Barcelona and its future. The association’s mission is: to actively contribute to making Barcelona one of the most attractive cities in the world to attract and develop talent and economic activity.
The Barcelona Women’s Network is a non-profit, non-religious, and non-political social and charitable organization offering support and friendship to both local and international women residing in the greater Barcelona area. BWN activities cover a wide array of interests including social, cultural, charity and well-being. These events are scheduled weekly, monthly or at special times of the year.
The American Society of Barcelona functions as a non-political and non-profit organization and strives to be the focal point for people who are interested in developing and maintaining business and social relationships in an international environment.
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AMERICAN SCHOOL OF BARCELONA C/ Jaume Balmes 7 O8950 Esplugues de Llobregat Barcelona, Spain Tel: +34 93 371 4016 www.asbarcelona.com info@asbarcelona.com
AMERICAN SCHOOL OF BARCELONA C/ Jaume Balmes 7 O8950 Esplugues de Llobregat Barcelona, Spain www.asbarcelona.com