RISING TOGETHER
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
ASB is governed by a self-perpetuating board, with members serving three-year terms for up to a maximum of nine years. The board’s mission is to ensure the school’s long-term sustainability. Its key responsibilities include setting the school’s vision and strategic plan, approving budgets and infrastructure projects, establishing policies, and overseeing legal, financial, and compensation matters.
WELCOME
During the 2023-2024 school year, ASB was pleased to welcome two new board members. Ms. Patricia Ferruz has a professional background in digital marketing strategy and is an entrepreneur. Ms. Federica Foce Massa Saluzzo holds a PhD in economics and is the Director of the Masters in Sustainable Business and Innovation at EADA Business School.
THANK YOU
ASB would like to thank Ms. Angela Bonifacie for her five years of service on the Board of Trustees. During her tenure, from 2019 to 2023, Angela worked on the Governance Committee.
2023-2024 BOARD MEMBERS
Benjamin Newland Vice-President and Secretary
Roland Nash President
Daniel Van Meer Treasurer
Aida Pérez Marketing and Communication
Nuria Ribas Calsina School Culture
Patricia Ferruz Board Member
Juan José Terraza External Board Member
Federica Foce Massa Saluzzo
Carlos Durán Haeussler
Missing: Carlos Durán Haeussler
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Dear ASB Families, Colleagues, and Friends of ASB,
I am excited to share our Annual Review of the 2023-2024 school year, a year filled with progress, reflection, and new directions. Together, we launched a bold strategic plan, building on the successes of our previous roadmap (2017-2024), which strengthened math and science education, expanded sports and performing arts, and enhanced extracurricular opportunities.
This year was about adjusting our sails—evaluating where we stand in upholding our mission and values and refining our vision for the future. With valuable community input, we introduced a revised vision statement and added "joyful" to our core values, emphasizing the importance of a positive, engaging learning experience for all.
Inside this Annual Review, you’ll find key achievements, community highlights, and an overview of ASB’s financial health. Most importantly, it reflects the dedication of our entire ASB community in providing an exceptional education for our students.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your unwavering commitment and partnership in shaping ASB’s future.
With gratitude,
Mark Pingitore Director
STRATEGIC PLAN
In the spring of 2024, ASB launched its updated three-year strategic plan, built around three core pillars:
CARING AND BELONGING
ASB is committed to designing programs, professional development, and learning experiences that ensure every community member feels a strong sense of connection, belonging, and support. By prioritizing caring and belonging, students will develop more meaningful relationships with one another while benefiting from increased opportunities for well-being, social-emotional growth, character development, and academic success.
DEEPER LEARNING
ASB is transforming instruction by increasing integration across subjects and emphasizing deeper learning experiences. Through approaches such as inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary curriculum, students will engage with real-world issues in both their local and global communities.
EXPANDED CONNECTIVITY
ASB is strengthening the connections that extend beyond our campus and into Barcelona and the international community by creating a physical and virtual learning hub. We aim to foster relationships with international schools, universities, non-profits, alumni, and international institutions, both in Barcelona and abroad, to expand learning opportunities for our students.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
Omar
Kristen MacConnell
Cristina
Jose M. Calahorra
Marta Vernet Head of Activities and Community Service
Shawn Plancke Athletic Director
Kevin Hebden Director of Performing Arts
Alison Carollo Head of Admissions
Michelle Collin Director of Development and Alumni Relations
Ana Mercadal Head of Human Resources
Oren Marktell Head of IT
MISSION
Our mission is to empower preschool through 12th grade students to become global citizens with the critical thinking skills and the selfconfidence to maximize their potential.
ASB AT A GLANCE rigorousjoyfulinnovative caring resilient
VISION
The American School of Barcelona inspires students to lead with integrity, to be openminded, and to make the world a better place.
OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
EL CHIRINGUITO
Students, staff, and parents alike were thrilled with the opening of our new outdoor café, the Chiringuito, in February 2024. Initially offering just lunch to middle and high school students, the Chiringuito expanded to serving parents after morning drop off, and staff and students looking for breakfast.
LOUIE THE LYNX
To foster school spirit, ASB introduced a Lynx mascot costume. Throughout the year, many students and staff eagerly volunteered to wear it at school events, spreading excitement and joy among our students.
NEW ELEMENTARY PLAYGROUND
The renovation of the Elementary playground was completed in summer 2024, featuring new monkey bars, slides, climbing structures, and additional play equipment.
What made the project truly special was that it was designed by 5th-grade students (from the Class of 2030) as part of a legacy project for future elementary learners. As part of their research, they visited other playgrounds for inspiration and interviewed younger students to gather input on what they wanted in their dream play space.
The result is a fantastic, student-designed playground that fosters fun, creativity, and active play for years to come!
EARLY CHILDHOOD HIGHLIGHTS
Cristina Torrengo Early Childhood Principal
STORY WORKSHOP: ENHANCING EARLY LITERACY THROUGH PLAY
Introduced in the Early Childhood Center (ECC) in 2023-2024, the Story Workshop approach integrates play with literacy development, helping young children express their thoughts and ideas through storytelling. Recognizing that drawings are an early form of writing, the program encourages preschool and kindergarten students to imagine, create, and share stories using materials like blocks, paint, and sand. Through guided play and thoughtprovoking questions, teachers support students in developing storytelling and prewriting skills. Weekly sessions conclude with story sharing, fostering a sense of community and reinforcing the idea that every child has a story to tell.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BUDDY PROGRAM: BUILDING CONNECTIONS IN ECC
Middle school rotary students joined preschool classrooms for the final trimester, fostering meaningful social-emotional growth for both age groups. This buddy program helped younger children develop confidence, empathy, and problem-solving skills while giving older students a chance to model positive behaviors and leadership. Middle schoolers participated in music and art classes, assisted with transitions, and engaged in outdoor play, strengthening peer connections. The experience created a sense of belonging, with preschoolers eagerly anticipating their buddies’ visits and middle schoolers gaining a deeper understanding of their impact on others.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS
ENHANCING LITERACY INSTRUCTION
During the 2023-2024 school year, the elementary school implemented the UFLI phonics curriculum, with a literacy coach supporting teachers in its successful adoption. In grades 4 and 5, reading and writing were integrated to enhance students’ skills through mentor texts and mini-lessons, providing more voice and choice in learning. Micro-learning progressions further empowered students to become autonomous learners, strengthening literacy across all levels.
EXPANDED RECESS OPTIONS
Increasing recess choices had a positive impact on student behavior throughout the year. New play spaces included the rooftop terrace for ball games, the library for quiet activities, and the art room for creative expression. The amphitheater hosted organized, adult-refereed games, while the ES playground provided space for imaginative play, tag, and gymnastics. These additions gave students more opportunities to engage in activities that suited their interests, fostering a more enjoyable and inclusive recess experience.
Kristen MacConnell
Elementary Principal
NEW LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
We introduced three leadership opportunities in elementary: ES Journalists, Student Ambassadors, and the Principals’ Advisory Committee (PAC). ES Journalists created and produced monthly videos, while Student Ambassadors partnered with the Admissions Office to lead school tours, participate in the Open House, and co-facilitate New Student Orientation in August. The PAC played a key role in organizing assemblies and leading the T-shirt Design Challenge.
T-SHIRT DESIGN CHALLENGE
This year, we introduced a school-wide design challenge to teach students the design thinking process. Over 50 elementary students participated in the ES T-shirt Design Challenge, receiving feedback on their creations. The ES student body then voted for their top three favorite designs, which were combined into a final ES School T-Shirt design.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGHLIGHTS
Maggie Stuhan Middle School Principal
FOSTERING A CULTURE OF CARE AND BELONGING
ASB’s middle school faculty and staff deepened their commitment to fostering a strong sense of care and belonging by integrating Responsive Classroom practices. These strategies supported students’ social, emotional, and academic growth, with both teachers and students reporting positive experiences.
Beyond the classroom, we extended this work through a collaborative faculty and parent book club, reading Middle School Matters by Phyllis Fagel, and hosting parent chats to discuss key insights and track the impact of new initiatives. Additionally, we welcomed guest speakers and experts to address important topics such as healthy relationships, body image, risk-taking behaviors, and stress management, further supporting our students’ development.
EXCELLENCE IN MATH AND SCIENCE
ASB’s math and science programs continued to expand hands-on learning, collaboration, and lab experiences, leading to strong standardized test results and increased participation in accelerated math pathways and international competitions. In 2023-2024, ASB’s MathCounts teams took first and second place in the Iberian MathCounts Competition, with five students placing in the top 10 and one 8th grader winning first place overall.
BUILDING COMMUNITY, LEADERSHIP, AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
ASB introduced new team-building experiences, including an 8th-grade longdistance hike, to foster student autonomy, independence, and belonging. The Student Support Team led targeted small-group sessions on topics like being an Upstander and coping with anxiety to further support student well-being.
Middle school clubs thrived with the addition of EcoClub, MakerClub, and Young Thespians, expanding leadership and connection opportunities. Collaboration with high school students also grew, with middle schoolers participating in NESDA speech and debate events and the first-ever LynxMUN, a studentled Model UN conference for 8th-10th graders. These initiatives encouraged public speaking, leadership, and deeper engagement across the middle school community.
HIGH SCHOOL
HIGHLIGHTS
ENHANCING LEARNING AND EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES
ASB focused on building a culture of trust, refining instructional practices, and strengthening curriculum and standards. New technology-driven electives such as Video Effects, Maker Project Studio, and Game Development were introduced, along with French for Beginners to expand language offerings. Additionally, ASB’s partnership with Global Online Academy (GOA) grew, with over 22 students in grades 9 and 10 exploring courses like Neuropsychology and Climate Action & Sustainability during Lynx Time.
NEW EXCHANGE PROGRAM WITH BOSTON
In Grade 10, ASB launched its first-ever five-week exchange program with Lycée International de Boston. Two ASB students traveled to Boston, immersing themselves in academic and social life at an American school. In return, two Boston students joined ASB for five weeks, staying with host families and experiencing life in Barcelona. This highly successful initiative is set to become a longterm partnership, further strengthening ASB’s commitment to global learning and cultural exchange.
Omar Ugalde High School Principal
ASB HOSTS CIS COLLEGE FAIR
The High School Counseling Department organized an on-campus CIS College Fair, welcoming over 100 universities—the first event of its kind since the COVID-19 pandemic. Students had the opportunity to connect with university representatives, explore higher education options, and gain valuable insights into the admissions process. The event was also open to other schools in Barcelona, fostering a broader college and career exploration experience.
SUPPORTING STUDENT WELL-BEING: “ME AND MY BODY” WORKSHOP
Our counselors hosted a three-part workshop, Me and My Body, led by experienced psychologists from Proyecto Art. These sessions guided students in exploring their relationship with their body, mind, and eating habits, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex connections between physical and mental well-being.
BUILDING BRIDGES: HIGH SCHOOL INTRODUCES LINK CREW
This year, the high school launched Link Crew, a transition program designed to support middle school students as they enter high school. Originally from the United States, Link Crew pairs Grade 9 students with experienced Grade 11 and 12 mentors, who provide academic and social guidance, helping them navigate their new environment while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
CLASS OF 2024
UNIVERSITY ACCEPTANCES
CLASS OF 2024
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Babson College
Bates College
Chatham University
Clark University
Clarkson University
College of the Holy Cross
Columbia University In the City of New York
Drexel University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityDaytona Beach
UNITED KINGDOM
BIMM University
Birkbeck, University of London
Cardiff University
City, University of London
Coventry University
Durham University
Goldsmiths, University of London
King’s College
London, University of London
Kingston University
Lancaster University
London South Bank University
Loughborough University
Fordham University
Ithaca College
Lynn University
Macalester College
Miami University-Oxford
Misericordia University
New York University
Northeastern University
Providence College
Purdue University-Main Campus
Trinity University
MetFilm School
Middlesex University
Queen Mary University of London
Regent’s University London
Royal Holloway, University of London
Soas University of London
The University of Edinburgh
Ucl (University College London)
University of Bath
University of Bristol
University of Glasgow
University of Huddersfield
University of Kent
University of Kansas
University of La Verne
University of Louisville
University of Miami
University of Notre Dame
University of San Francisco
University of Tampa
Villanova University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Wesleyan College
NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam University College
Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
Eindhoven University of Technology
Erasmus University Rotterdam
Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Groningen
Maastricht University
The Hague University of Applied Sciences
Tilburg University
University College Utrecht
University of Amsterdam
University of Groningen
University of Twente
Utrecht University
University of Manchester
University of Portsmouth
University of Reading
University of Salford
University of Sheffield
University of Southampton
University of St Andrews
University of Warwick
University of Westminster, London
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
SPAIN
Abat Oliba Ceu University
Ceu San Pablo University
Cunef Universidad
Esade Business School
Eu Business School - Barcelona
Le University - Madrid Campus
La Salle - Ramon Llull University
TAI University Center of Arts
Universidad de Navarra
Universidad Europea de Madrid
Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Essec Asia Pacific, Singapore
International Christian University, Japan
Keio University Shonan Fujisawa
Campus, Japan
Mcgill University, Canada
Osaka University of Human Sciences, Japan
Sophia University, Japan
The University of Tokyo, Japan
Waseda University, Japan
TEST RESULTS
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAM
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP) is a rigorous, two-year pre-university curriculum for students aged 16 to 19. Recognized worldwide, it emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and global awareness.
MAP 2024
ASB uses MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) to help inform instruction and measure student growth. MAP is an adaptive assessment taken by students in grades 2-10.
ASB encourages all students who have the possibility of meeting the program requirements to pursue the IB Diploma.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
The partnership between the school and parents is a vital part of the ASB experience, fostering collaboration to support student success.
The ASB Parents Association (PA) plays a leading role in fostering the parent-school partnership, driving participation in school wide events, encouraging volunteerism, and supporting communication between the school and families.
PA-LED, SCHOOLWIDE EVENTS
Welcome Coffees
Ice Cream Social
Halloween
Winter Bazaar
Valentine’s Day
International Day
Staff Appreciation Breakfast
We are incredibly grateful for everything our PA and parent volunteers contribute to our community!
LION DANCE
Thanks to the support of our Chinese community, ASB celebrated our first-ever Lion Dance to mark the Chinese New Year.
STAFF APPRECIATION DAY
PA Executive Team. From left to right: Sergi Giralt, Stella Alikova, Rejane Martins, Dzenita Music, Nadide Goldstayn, Janna Fedotovskay, Veera Nath, Sara Bartucelli, Analaura Pliego.
SERVICE LEARNING
In 2023-2024, ASB upheld its tradition of excellence in service learning and community service, strengthening connections across all grade levels between academic learning and real-world challenges.
BOTSWANA MISSION
In its third year, ASB’s Botswana Mission continues to support the Dukwi refugee camp, from providing internet access to promoting female entrepreneurship through refugee art. A major milestone in 2024 was founding the camp’s first female soccer team.
SHARING TO LEARN
Now in its thirteenth year, Sharing to Learn provides native-level English speakers as classroom assistants in local schools. What began as a small ASB student-led initiative has grown to include volunteers from schools across Catalunya, benefiting over 100,000 students seeking to improve their English.
PERU MEDICAL MISSION
The Peru Medical Mission, now in its sixth year, exemplifies ASB’s commitment to service learning by connecting students with global health initiatives. Since inception, ASB student translators have dedicated over 3,600 hours to facilitating communication between local patients and doctors from Michigan State University in the Peruvian Amazon. This experience not only provides vital support but also allows students to witness the intersection of science, service, and humanity, reinforcing ASB’s mission to develop compassionate global citizens.
Botswana Mission
Sharing to Learn
REFUGART
RefugArt is an annual student-led fundraising event that combines the power of art and philanthropy to raise awareness of and funds for the global refugee crisis. Since its founding nine years ago by ASB students, RefugArt has raised nearly €100,000 for refugee causes.
COLLSEROLA PROGRAM
Now in its 15th year, the Collserola Program is a partnership between ASB and the natural park adjacent to our campus. Through this program, elementary students actively engage in environmental stewardship, learning to care for and appreciate their own “backyard.” By fostering a deeper connection to nature, the program instills a lifelong commitment to sustainability and responsible environmental practices.
Collserola Program
24 COMPETITIVE TEAMS ATHLETICS
IBERIA CHAMPIONS
Middle School Boys Basketball in Valencia
Varsity Boys Basketball in Barcelona
Junior Varsity Boys Basketball in Barcelona
Varsity Boys Volleyball in Madrid
Varsity Boys Soccer in Cambrils
Varsity Girls Soccer in Cambrils
ESC CHAMPIONS
Varsity Girls Volleyball in Barcelona
Junior Varsity Girls Volleyball in Lausanne
Varsity Boys Basketball in Berlin
FUTURE CHEER TOURNAMENT
Lynx Competition Cheer Team - 2nd Place in Paris
THE ARTS
IB VISUAL ART
The IB Art students traveled to Florence, Italy to tour galleries and museums and gather inspiration for their own work.
12th grade IB Art students presented their original pieces at the IB Art show in Esplugues.
MEET THE ARTIST
Fifth graders took part in the annual Meet the Artist event, showcasing their original works inspired by their favorite artists.
PERFORMING ARTS
Middle/High School musical production of The Little Mermaid. Cast and crew of over 50 students.
Elementary musical production of The Jungle Book Cast and crew of over 25 students.
High School Scene Acting production of The Dining Room Cast and crew of over 15
THEATER FESTIVALS
PlayMakers Festival, Barcelona
ISTA MS Theater Festival, Dusseldorf
ISTA HS Theater Festival, Madrid
MUSIC FESTIVALS
AMIS European HS Honor Choir, Paris
AMIS European MS Honor Band, Aberdeen
AMIS European MS Honor Orchestra, Berlin
MAIS MS Honor Choir, Rome
Iberian Music Festival HS and Grade 8, Madrid
ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTER
The ASB English Language Center offers after school, Saturday, and summer English language classes to non-ASB students ages 3 to 17.
ELC ENROLLMENT
277 students in the weekday/Saturday program 346 students in the summer program
OFFICIAL CAMBRIDGE EXAM SCORES, 2023-2024
In 2024, ASB launched a new strategic initiative by offering 8 need-based full scholarships for students participating in the Summer ELC program.
SUMMER AT ASB
SUMMER VOLLEYBALL CAMP
ASB teachers and coaches hosted a 2-week volleyball camp. 38 students participated in the first week and 20 students in the second week. Students came from ASB and many neighboring schools.
IBDP COURSE REVIEW CLASSES
ASB teachers offered IBDP review courses for 11 grade students during the first week of the summer. 23 students attended (16 from ASB and 7 from BFIS) and 5 subjects were offered.
SUMMER COLONIAS
ASB staff organized and chaperoned 80 students from PK3 to 5th for an off-campus summer camp experience during the first week of July in Mas Gorgoll in Palamós.
110 CAMPUS VISITS ALUMNI
“These alumni reunions are a testament to our commitment to nurturing lasting connections and traditions. We look forward to continuing this legacy, keeping our ASB community strong and united.”
-Director Mark Pingitore
GIVING
RISING TOGETHER CAMPAIGN
Following the work of a dedicated development task force, composed of parents, board members, and school administrators, ASB launched the Rising Together campaign in 2023-2024 with the ambitious goal of raising €3 million over the next 3 years to support our strategic plan.
By June, ASB had secured its first seven pledges from ASB community members.
Development Task Force: Sophie Beraznik, Patricia Ferruz, Peter Freer, Cody Kaye, Roland Nash, Natalia Polakoff, Fariba Rezvani, Nuria Ribas Calsina, Alex Wu (Parents), Michelle Collin, Mark Pingitore, Bill Volchok (Staff).
FINANCIAL REPORT
C/ Jaume Balmes 7, O8950, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain www.asbarcelona.com · info@asbarcelona.com · Tel: +34 933714016