Barry Dequanne

In Conversation

I was honoured to be recently interviewed by Tim Gilbert from International School Parent Magazine. The full interview can be accessed through the following link: IS Parent Interview.

In conversation with Barry Dequanne School Director, International School of Zug & Luzern (ISZL)

By Tim Gilbert – Guest Interviewer for International School Parent Magazine & International School Parent @IZSL

With more than 20 years of experience in the international education sector under his belt, Canadian-born Barry Dequanne was a natural choice for leading the ambitious future plans at The International School of Zug and Luzern (ISZL). The school’s pedigree is born from a history of commitment, adaptation and growth, responding to changes in the needs of international families since its founding in the 1950s to provide high-quality education for American expats. Since then, the school has seen continuous expansion, with current plans for developing an educational model that equips the next generation for a rapidly-changing world already underway. International School Parent Magazine speaks to Barry Dequanne to hear about his vision for the school’s next chapter, and what the future looks like for international students.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

Like many educators, I didn’t necessarily decide at a young age that I was going to go into education. I had no intention of working in leadership either; both evolved naturally over time as I followed my passions and interests.

I have always loved sciences and mathematics, which I studied at the University of Waterloo in Canada. The Mathematics and Computer Science programme there was unique, in that it allowed students to alternate studying with working every four months, which meant that I graduated with two years’ work experience as an actuary for Prudential Assurance already under my belt.

I found that, while I enjoyed the theory of the course, I didn’t necessarily enjoy the working environment, so I began to look for other opportunities. It was while I was working as a programmer for Xerox that something inside me told me to pursue a dream I had always had of volunteering overseas. The Canadian government had a programme similar to the US Peace Corp at the time, which I signed up for and was sent to Swaziland to teach local school children. It was a profound experience on so many levels: I discovered my passion for education and I found a career that fed my soul.

I returned to Canada to study to become a teacher, but I missed being abroad. As soon as I finished my teaching degree and practicum, I went to a job fair and found my first qualified teaching role at a school in South America.

Tell us about your experience teaching around the world – what lessons have you learned from working in so many different cultures?

For me, it’s always been about the people. The country and culture might be vastly different, but there are always parallels between organisations – and one of these is that any school is only as good as it’s people.

When I decided to look at overseas placements, I had a set of priorities for the professional and personal atmosphere I was looking for. Top of the list for me has always been a school that values community and personal relationships. I also value an environment where people are pushing themselves and each other to excellence. The transition from my previous school, the American School of Brasilia in Brazil, to ISZL has been relatively smooth, as both have these qualities.

I have found that as a director, the key is to identify what makes the school special, and then to develop this. It’s about having a sense of humility and really listening to understand the school, its needs, and the next steps in its evolution. It’s then about working with the community towards implementation. I have found that this is something that can be applied successfully to most schools across the world.

What do you think makes ISZL so special?

What makes the school special is that it has come from small beginnings, growing rapidly over its 50-year history while retaining that sense of intimacy and high quality of teaching. It has kept this feel through a unique combination of the people here and the influence of the local environment. Usually, larger schools are in larger city centres, but at ISZL we can take advantage of the comfort and closeness of a smaller community, and the opportunities it provides for a more balanced, outdoor education.

The other aspect is the tremendous academic results that our students achieve at ISZL, which are outstanding on every measurable account. At the same time, an implicit culture of academic rigour does not stifle our students’ creativity or personalities. We get to know the children and their families, to identify what their personal learning styles are as well as their passions, adjusting our teaching to meet those needs. The natural outcome is that our students are completely committed to their learning, and we see that reflected in the results year on year.

What is the vision that you came to ISZL with and that you are hoping to implement?

My vision is one of empowerment; of supporting and challenging a strong team to continue to move the school forward, without losing the strengths that make ISZL so special.

We already have a tapestry of nationalities here, which is a great strength that we can draw on to create an inspiring and diverse environment for learning. We need to make sure that the school has a structure that welcomes all of those voices, but is also clear in expressing our own identity. It’s important for me to make sure we are all going in the same direction, providing the support and resources that everyone needs to succeed.

My overarching belief is that every day we need to focus on getting a little better. It doesn’t matter how good we are today, we need to improve a bit more tomorrow and continue to drive that process. Incremental growth in the long term will make a compounded and significant difference to how we serve our students.

You recently invested in a new building for the school; what is your plan for this?

Enrolment has surged in recent years, so we are trying to increase our capacity and provide the best environment for learning for our students. The spaces that we have on both campuses are fantastic, and we are developing the school’s facility to fulfil our vision for the future.

The next step is to have our visioning architect work with parents, students, teachers and the local community to understand what our needs are and how we can stay true to our vision and philosophy. We want to create more collaborative structures and integrate technology to provide areas where students can engage and learn, and to build a sense of community not just for the students but for teachers, parents and the external community. This will be a project that will ultimately stand the test of time, able to adapt to the changing educational needs of the future.

What would you like ISZL students to have achieved by the time they leave school?

There are several things that we are trying to achieve here. On the one hand, we have a responsibility to ensure that our academic programmes provide them with the skills, resources and knowledge to function in a future that’s changing quickly. It’s important that we do this by helping our students realise their potential and how they can adapt their skills.

The other aspect is the importance of focusing on the child as a whole, providing a more holistic education and giving students the opportunity to explore new areas of learning. It could be sports, it could be the arts, it could be community service, leadership or public speaking – whatever inspires passion. When students enter the school with a broad set of skills, we need to help them develop these and broaden their options going forward. This is something that I think we do very well at ISZL.

Beyond this, I believe that all schools have a responsibility to work with families to ensure that the next generation go out into the world as good people and contribute in a positive way.

What do you feel is most important in helping international students and their families settle in when they first arrive?

We understand how overwhelming and difficult it can be for a family to relocate to a new country and set up a new life, so we do all we can to support them before they move and to integrate easily into school life once they arrive. There is a reason why a family chooses ISZL, and our responsibility is to be open and honest about who we are and what we can offer them. People choose schools not necessarily because one school is better than the other, but because there is a strong match between values and their needs.

I posted a piece on my blog recently about the nature of transitions. There is a difference between change and transition; where change deals with a more immediate event and how we react to that event, while transitions are longer-term, internal processes that involve emotional and psychological effects. When we think about our parents and students, we have to understand that it’s a deep, meaningful transition which will change them as a family, and to support them accordingly.

When a family arrives, we check in with them with regular meetings throughout the year. For the student, our priority is to connect them into the school environment as quickly and smoothly as possible, while also creating a safe setting where they feel able to share any concerns. One of the ways we do this is to operate a buddy system, so that they know that there is someone in the school that is dedicated to building their confidence within the school.

What challenges do you face in your method of working closely with international families?

Unpacking the specifics of where parents feel their children should be academically is a significant challenge. With families coming from so many nationalities and backgrounds, it’s understandably difficult for parents not to draw comparisons with schooling in their home countries.

Ultimately, I believe that the discussion around educational direction is one that parents should be an integral part of. It would be a mistake to exclude parents in decision-making processes as we need to hear what their fears and concerns are as we learn so much from them. At the same time, we also need to ensure that we’re communicating with them about the decisions we are making and why they are important.

How do you feel that a good international school should interact with the local community?

I think for any school in a host country we have a responsibility to engage with the local community; in its history, culture and at events. It’s an easy mistake to stay in this little bubble of our international school communities, when there is so much to experience around us.

This is even more important here in Zug, as we are a big school in a smaller town, so we need to set an example for our students to interact with the community in a positive way. We’re closely connected with international corporations and families, and one of my priorities is to further integrate our school into the local area to provide more opportunities both to our students and local families.

And more generally, what do you think are the main challenges facing education in the future?

I believe that this ties into challenges facing society more generally, looking at the connection between the future needs of the workforce and how we educate our children from primary through to university level.

Looking at the World Economic Forum’s literature on changing global skills requirements, there has been a significant shift to focus on a need for overarching, interrelated qualities, such as creativity, innovation, leadership, relationship building, empathy, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence. So, for the education sector, a critical challenge is in relation to how we prepare our students for the future and this more diverse skillset requirement.

The key challenge will be to transition from our current, rigid model of education, which has been ingrained for over a hundred years, to something that is more reactive to changes in access to technology, information, and approaches to learning and working. The model needs to change, and we need to assess how we can ensure relevancy and meaning in learning, and drive this change collaboratively. This is an idea which is gaining momentum within the field of education, and we have begun to think about how this future model might look in our vision for ISZL’s own future.

The International School of Zug and Luzern (ISZL) is an independent co-educational, non-profit day school, from Pre-School to Grade 12 serving the international community of Central Switzerland.

www.iszl.ch

Até Logo, EAB

“In ordinary life, we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.” ― Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Dear EAB Community,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this final communication in my role as Head of School. Serving EAB for the last seven years has been the honor and pleasure of a lifetime and, to that end, I cannot think of a better word than gratitude to highlight my time in Brasilia. It is difficult to summarize the seemingly countless reasons for my appreciation but will try to do so with a focus on five main areas: community, growth, families, faculty and staff, and reflections.

Community

It is without question that EAB’s greatest strength and differentiating factor is the school’s sense of community. It would be difficult to find another school that has the same esprit de corps and high level of positive energy and optimism. Faculty, staff, students, and parents regularly talk about how much they enjoy coming to the school and being part of this special community to the point that we often hear EAB referred to as a family.

The essence of any effective educational program is based on relationships. EAB’s students benefit from a deeply rooted culture that prioritizes and nurtures our community relations. It is this focus and belief in the community that has led not only to opportunities for celebrations associated with EAB’s successes, but also the coming together to provide mutual support, growth, and learning during challenging times, particularly in the face of tragic events.

It is the sense of community that has inspired a culture in which everyone is seeking to constantly improve the school’s programs and committed to being an active participant in the change process, all framed by a focus on student learning.

Mission: Learners inspiring learners to be inquisitive in life, principled in character, and bold in vision.

Growth

The emphasis on community and active participation has provided a fertile environment that embraces a continuous growth model. The hard work and dedication of faculty, staff, board members, volunteers, parents, and students have resulted in EAB’s recognition worldwide as a top tier international school and a regional leader among schools in South America. With respect to more tangible measurements, the following three areas highlight the school’s growth with respect to community (enrollment), management (finances), and student results (International Baccalaureate – IB scores).

Enrollment has been on an upward trend for several years, which has resulted in EAB’s current capacity enrollment and associated waiting lists.
EAB’s financial reserves have moved from essentially no reserves to a significant fund of nearly 40 million reais, which is primarily allocated to two strategic areas: (i) to ensure a contingency reserve, which is an expected best practice in international schools, to protect the school in the event of a future adversity or vicissitude, and (ii) to contribute to funding the future master facilities construction project.
Since EAB’s first IB student cohort in 2011, we have seen the average IB subject scores improve each year with virtually every key metric rising well above the world average.

It is due to the hard work and dedication of an entire community that EAB has been able to achieve these levels of development. And, we are grateful for the opportunity to have stood “on the shoulders of giants” – EAB’s previous Heads of School who made such a significant difference in the school’s development. It is EAB’s commitment to a continuous growth model that will serve EAB well in the future as the school continues to nurture and protect its strengths while also continuing to address the areas requiring further growth and development.

Families

The heart of a school are the students and EAB’s students are exceptional! I continually marvel at their creativity, intelligence, passion, interpersonal skills, and positive spirit. College admissions representatives, guests, and teachers from other schools regularly highlight what we see every day with regards to how impressive our students are in everything they do. Thank you, parents, for choosing EAB and enrolling your outstanding children!

EAB’s parents and family members exemplify the spirit of our school’s mission – Learners Inspiring Learners – as they are true partners in the learning process. The high degree of parent involvement at events, participation in workshops, and support for the school has made a real difference in the development of our educational program and, ultimately, benefit our students.

A special recognition and thank you goes to the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) who has volunteered countless hours towards to the betterment of the school. In the spirit of continuous improvement, the PTO recently participated in a series of retreats in which their goal was to evolve their purpose and mission. Effective immediately, the PTO’s new title is Family School Partnership (FSP), which is more representative of EAB’s culture and spirit. FSP’s new mission and vision read as follows: Vision – Inspiring families to partner in the education of their children; Mission: Connecting EAB families with each other and the school to create a strong community of lifelong learners.

Finally, I would like to recognize EAB’s Board of Directors. I marvel at the commitment of this highly effective team and the amount of time they dedicate to the future development of the school. I can state with confidence that EAB’s Board of Directors have earned a reputation among all international schools as a board that exemplifies best practices and effective governance. On a personal note, I am particularly grateful for the Board’s support, encouragement, and trust.

Vision: To positively impact the world through excellence in academics, activities, arts, leadership, and service.

Faculty and Staff

It is the faculty and staff that make the greatest difference in determining school effectiveness. EAB is most fortunate in this aspect as the faculty and staff are an incredibly dedicated, talented, determined, and impressive group of professionals. Colleagues regularly mention the faculty and staff as a highlight of working at EAB. From the guards who know everyone’s names to the teachers who will go to remarkable lengths to personalize learning and fulfill EAB’s mission, the school’s faculty and staff are an inspiration. It has been my honor and pleasure to serve with these extraordinary professionals.

Final Reflections

Working at EAB is a special privilege. The community spirit, the family support, the impressive faculty and staff, and the talented students all motivate us to give our very best to the school. It does not feel like work, but rather more like a purpose or a calling – Learners inspiring learners to be inquisitive in life, principled in character, and bold in vision – to hopefully make a real difference.

While my focus has been on serving the EAB community to the best of my abilities, I must confess that it feels like I have received more than I have given. I am grateful to have learned so much from this community and to have worked with such inspirational people. I am grateful for all the support and kindness I have received, for the opportunity to appreciate and learn from our diverse and international population, and, of course, for the chance to live in wonderful Brazil. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served as EAB’s Head of School for seven years and to be part of this special community. While the marks I may have left on the school’s program and development will inevitably fade over time, it is the relationships that will endure and the impact EAB has had on me that will last a lifetime.

While my contract as EAB’s Head of School will be completed at the end of this month and it is clear when my professional responsibilities will end, I am still not sure how to say goodbye to a community that has become more like an extended family. If it is true that we say “goodbye” to a position but not to people, then it seems best to end this note in the spirit of “until later” using two deeply meaningful Brazilian phrases: Até logo. Já estou com saudades!

Um abraço,

Barry

PS: Thank you, EAB and Brazil! Sometimes words are not sufficient so… this is our best Samba de Gafieira effort to express our gratitude to the EAB community and our appreciation of Brazilian music and culture. / Obrigado EAB e Brazil! Às vezes, as palavras não são suficientes, então … este é o nosso melhor esforço de Samba de Gafieira para expressar nossa gratidão à comunidade EAB e nossa apreciação da música e da cultura Brasileira.

PPS: Three very special EAB end-of-year / farewell videos:

Versão em português:

“Não chore porque acabou, sorria porque aconteceu.” – Dr. Seuss

Prezada Comunidade da EAB,

É com o coração apertado que eu escrevo esse último comunicado como Diretor Geral. Servir à EAB nos últimos sete anos foi a experiência de maior honra e a mais prazerosa da minha vida, portanto gratidão é a melhor palavra para destacar o meu tempo em Brasília. É difícil resumir as razões, aparentemente inúmeras, para o meu apreço, mas tentarei fazê-lo com foco em cinco áreas principais: comunidade, crescimento, famílias, professores, funcionários e reflexões.

Comunidade

Não há dúvida de que o fator diferencial e a maior força da EAB são o senso de comunidade da escola. Seria difícil encontrar outra escola com o mesmo esprit de corps, alto nível de energia positiva e otimismo. Os professores, a equipe, os alunos e os pais falam sobre o quanto eles gostam de ir à escola e fazer parte desta comunidade especial, a ponto de muitas vezes ouvir a EAB sendo comparada a uma família.

A essência de qualquer programa educacional efetivo é baseada em relacionamentos. Os alunos da EAB se beneficiam de uma cultura profundamente enraizada que prioriza e nutre nossas relações comunitárias. É esse foco e a credibilidade na comunidade que nos levaram, não só as oportunidades de celebrarmos o sucesso da EAB, mas também à união que proporciona apoio mútuo, crescimento e aprendizagem durante os tempos difíceis, principalmente nos eventos trágicos.

É o senso de comunidade que inspirou uma cultura na qual todos estão buscando melhorar constantemente os programas da escola e se comprometeram a ser um participante ativo no processo de mudança, tudo isso com foco na aprendizagem dos alunos.

Crescimento

A ênfase na participação comunitária e ativa proporcionou um ambiente fértil que engloba um modelo de crescimento contínuo. O trabalho árduo e a dedicação dos professores, funcionários, membros do conselho, voluntários, pais e estudantes resultaram no reconhecimento mundial da EAB como uma escola internacional de nível superior e líder regional entre as escolas da América do Sul. Com relação a medidas mais tangíveis, as três áreas a seguir destacam o crescimento da escola em relação à comunidade (matrícula), gestão (finanças) e resultados dos alunos (notas do Bacharelado Internacional – IB).

As matrículas estão em ascendência há vários anos, o que fez com que a EAB atingisse a sua capacidade máxima de matrículas e nas listas de espera associadas.
As reservas financeiras da EAB passaram de apenas reservas para um fundo significativo, que é atribuído, principalmente, a duas áreas estratégicas: (i) Assegurar uma reserva de contingência, que é uma prática esperada nas escolas internacionais para proteger a escola em caso de uma adversidade ou vicissitude futura; (ii) Contribuir para o financiamento do futuro projeto de construção e instalações.
Desde o primeiro grupo de alunos do IB da EAB em 2011, nós verificamos que as pontuações médias das disciplinas de IB melhoraram a cada ano.

Foi devido ao trabalho árduo e dedicação de toda uma comunidade que a EAB foi capaz de alcançar esses níveis de desenvolvimento. Somos muito gratos pela oportunidade de termos nos apoiado “nos ombros de gigantes”, no último diretor geral da EAB, quem fez uma diferença tão significativa no desenvolvimento da escola. É o compromisso da EAB com um modelo de crescimento contínuo que irá servir a EAB bem no futuro, já que a escola continua a nutrir e proteger seus pontos fortes ao mesmo tempo em que continua a abordar as áreas que exigem maior crescimento e desenvolvimento.

Famílias

O coração de uma escola são os alunos e os alunos da EAB são excepcionais! Constantemente admiro-me com sua criatividade, inteligência, paixão, habilidades interpessoais e espírito positivo. Os representantes de admissões das faculdades, visitantes e professores de outras escolas destacam regularmente o que vemos todos os dias no que diz respeito ao quão impressionante são nossos alunos em tudo o que fazem. Obrigado, a vocês pais, por escolherem a EAB e matricularem seus filhos espetaculares!

Os pais e familiares da EAB exemplificam o espírito da missão da nossa escola – Aprendizes Inspirando Aprendizes- já que são verdadeiros parceiros no processo de aprendizagem. O alto grau de envolvimento dos pais em eventos, participação em oficinas e apoio à escola têm feito uma diferença real no desenvolvimento de nosso programa educacional e, por fim, beneficiam nossos alunos.

Meu reconhecimento especial e agradecimento vão para a Organização de Pais e Mestres (PTO), que ofereceu inúmeras horas para a melhoria da escola. No espírito de melhoria contínua, o PTO participou recentemente de uma série de encontros em que seu objetivo foi evoluir seu propósito e missão. Já em vigor, o novo nome do PTO é Family School Partnership (FSP), o qual representa melhor a cultura e espírito da EAB. A nova missão e visão do FSP são:

Visão – Inspirar as famílias a serem parceiras na educação de seus filhos.

Missão – Conectar as famílias da EAB e a escola para criar-se uma forte comunidade de aprendizes ao logo da vida.

Por fim, eu gostaria de reconhecer o Conselho Diretivo da EAB. Eu fico maravilhado com o compromisso desta equipe altamente eficaz e com a quantidade de tempo que eles dedicam ao desenvolvimento futuro da escola. Posso afirmar com confiança que o Conselho Diretivo da EAB ganhou uma reputação entre todas as escolas internacionais como um conselho que ilustra as melhores práticas e uma administração efetiva. A título pessoal, eu estou particularmente agradecido pelo apoio, encorajamento e confiança do Conselho.

Professores e Funcionários

São os professores e funcionários que fazem a maior diferença na determinação da eficácia da escola. A EAB é muito afortunada neste aspecto, pois os professores e funcionários são um grupo incrivelmente dedicado, talentoso, determinado e um grupo de profissionais impressionante. Colegas sempre mencionam o corpo docente e funcionários como o ponto de destaque de trabalhar na EAB. Dos guardas, que conhecem o nome de todos, até os professores que percorrem distâncias marcantes para personalizar o aprendizado e cumprir a missão da EAB, o corpo docente e funcionários são uma inspiração. Tem sido uma honra e prazer servir com esses profissionais extraordinários.

Reflexões Finais

Trabalhar na EAB é um privilégio especial. O espírito de comunidade, o apoio das famílias, o corpo docente, o grupo de funcionários notável e o os talentosos alunos, todos nos motivam a dar o nosso melhor para a escola. Não parece trabalho, mas muito mais um propósito ou chamado – Aprendizes inspirando aprendizes a serem questionadores na vida, firmes em seu caráter e com uma visão audaciosa – para quem sabe fazermos uma diferença real.

Embora o meu foco tenha sido servir a comunidade da EAB dando o melhor das minhas habilidades, devo confessar que parece que recebi mais do que eu dei. Sou grato por ter aprendido muito com essa comunidade e por ter trabalhado com pessoas tão inspiradoras. Agradeço todo apoio e gentileza que recebi, a oportunidade de apreciar e aprender com a nossa população diversificada e internacional e, claro, pela oportunidade de viver no maravilhoso Brasil. Estou profundamente grato pela oportunidade de ter servido como Diretor Geral da EAB por sete anos e fazer parte desta comunidade especial. Embora as marcas que eu possa ter deixado no programa e desenvolvimento da escola, inevitavelmente, irão desaparecer ao longo do tempo, são as relações e o impacto que a EAB teve sobre mim que irão durar por toda a vida.

Apesar do meu contrato como Diretor Geral da EAB terminar no final deste mês e deixar claro o fim das minhas responsabilidades profissionais, eu ainda não sei como dizer adeus a uma comunidade que se tornou uma extensão da minha família. Se for verdade que não dizemos “adeus” para as pessoas e sim para o cargo então é melhor terminar esta mensagem com um espírito de “até breve” usando duas frases brasileiras profundamente significativas: Até logo. Já estou com saudades!

Um abraço,

Barry

Email: dequanne@gmail.com

Blog: www.barrydequanne.com

Twitter: @dequanne

Ironman Brazil Floripa

Photoblog of the 2017 Ironman Brazil triathlon in Florianópolis.

Date: May 28, 2017; Location: Florianópolis, Brazil

Flight Brasilia to Floripa

Testing the bikes

Pre-race meal

Brenno’s gear

Pre-race dinner

Our favorite “per kilo” restaurant

Rayssa is 5+ months pregnant and still faster than all of us!

Information session

Swim Course – 3.8km

Bike Course – 180km

Bike Elevation Map

Run Course – 42km

Run Elevation Map

Lots of rain

Tim Don breaks world record!

Tim Don breaks world record.

Done!

Brenno finishing

Done!

Post-race massage

Splits

Video Highlights:

Featured Image/Photo Credit: Trisport – http://www.trisportmag.com.br/16-anos-de-ironman-florianopolis-relembre-os-campeoes/

Appreciating Teachers

“[Kids] don’t remember what you try to teach them. They remember what you are.” ― Jim Henson, It’s Not Easy Being Green: And Other Things to Consider

To all of the teachers at the American School of Brasilia and around the world: Happy Teachers’ Week! Your work, dedication, and commitment to the development of others are important and deeply appreciated. To that end, the following is a link to a previous post entitled, Why I Hated Meredith’s First Grade Teacher, which shares a moving story about the difference a teacher can make in a family’s life.

We are commemorating this year’s Teacher Appreciation Week with a variety of activities that include a morning breakfast, a relaxation room with professional massage therapists, the distribution of school t-shirts, an afterschool social event, and a parent and embassy sponsored evening celebration.

Given the unique honour and responsibility teachers are given to guide and support learning, these words from T.H. White are for you:

“The best thing for being sad,” replied Merlin, beginning to puff and blow, “is to learn something. That’s the only thing that never fails. You may grow old and trembling in your anatomies, you may lie awake at night listening to the disorder of your veins, you may miss your only love, you may see the world about you devastated by evil lunatics, or know your honour trampled in the sewers of baser minds. There is only one thing for it then — to learn. Learn why the world wags and what wags it. That is the only thing which the mind can never exhaust, never alienate, never be tortured by, never fear or distrust, and never dream of regretting. Learning is the only thing for you. Look what a lot of things there are to learn.” ― T.H. White, The Once and Future King

Thank you, teachers, for supporting learning and making a real and positive difference in the lives of our students and greater communities.

EM PORTUGUÊS:

Agradecendo aos Professores

“[Crianças] não se lembram do que você tenta ensiná-las. Elas se lembram do que você é.” – Jim Henson, It’s Not Easy Being Green: And Other Things to Consider

Desejamos a todos os professores da EAB e ao redor do mundo: Feliz Semana dos Professores! Seu trabalho, dedicação e comprometimento com o desenvolvimento das pessoas são muito importantes e profundamente apreciados. Para isso, o link a seguir é sobre uma postagem chamada Por que eu detestei a professora da Meredith do primeiro ano, que fala sobre uma história emocionante sobre a diferença que um professor pode fazer na vida de uma família.

Este ano estamos comemorando a Semana de Agradecimento aos Professores com uma série de atividades que incluem um café da manhã, uma sala de relaxamento com massoterapeutas profissionais, um evento social após a escola e uma noite de comemoração patrocinada pelos pais (Obrigado à Organização de Pais e Mestres da EAB!).

Dada a grande honra e a responsabilidade que os professores têm ao guiar e apoiar o aprendizado, essas palavras de T.H. White são para você:

“A melhor coisa em estar triste,” respondeu Merlin, é aprender alguma coisa. Essa é a única coisa que nunca falha. Você pode envelhecer e abalar a sua anatomia, também pode ficar acordado à noite ouvindo o distúrbio das suas veias, você pode sentir falta do seu único amor, pode ver o mundo ao seu redor devastado por lunáticos cruéis ou ter sua honra pisoteada nos esgotos de mentes baixas. Então só há uma coisa para isso – aprender. Aprender porque o mundo gira e o que o faz girar. Essa é a única coisa que a mente nunca pode perder, nunca alienar, nunca se torturar, nunca ter medo e não acreditar e nunca pensar em se arrepender. Aprender é a única coisa para você. “Olhe quantas coisas existem para aprender.” – T.H.White, The Once and Future King

Agradecemos aos professores por apoiar o aprendizado e fazer uma diferença real e positiva na vida dos nossos alunos e comunidade.

Featured image: cc licensed (CC BY 2.0) Flickr photo by Tony Hammond: When It Comes to Aboriginal Art, It Can Branch Out Into the Imagination! https://www.flickr.com/photos/8525214@N06/32420843740/

Three Questions

“All grown-ups were once children… but only a few of them remember it” ~The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

I was recently listening to a series of interviews with Joseph Campbell and his reflections on the essential themes that have emerged from sixty years of his life’s work. He emphasized the interconnectedness of our lives and the human experience, the fundamental role of storytelling in our culture, and the importance of courageously embarking on our individual journeys to fully realize our lives, as highlighted in his book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces. Campbell also shared a curious thought when he suggested that adults should read more children’s books to further our own learning and understanding. In fact, this seems to be sound advice, particularly as I recall a memorable and meaningful graduation speech that used a children’s book as its framework to convey a meaningful message.

A friend and colleague, Corey Watlington, was selected by the senior class to deliver the faculty commencement speech. While I am sorry that I do not recall all of the details of the speech, the messages conveyed through the use of a children’s book resonated with all of us. The book’s title is, The Three Questions, by Jon J. Muth, and, following Joseph Campbell’s advice and using Corey Watlington’s idea, the following is a brief summary and reflection associated with the book.

The book’s main character is a boy named Nikolai who is seeking answers to three questions: When is the best time to do things? Who is most important? What is the right thing to do? A cast of colourful characters, which include a monkey, heron, turtle, dog, and panda, all play important roles as Nikolai is forced to overcome several challenges due to a terrible storm. Through adversity, his own kindness, and the support and guidance of his friends, Nikolai finds answers to his three questions: “…there is only one important time, and that time is now. The most important person is always the one you are with. And the most important thing is to do good for the one who is standing at your side.”

This is indeed good advice and a reminder, not only for adults but also for our students and those responsible for our educational programs, of the importance of being present and kind. With so many distractions, technologies, and the seemingly ever-accelerating pace of life, this can be a challenge. Still, we owe it to ourselves and those around us to make this a priority. For this reason and many others, I am grateful for the opportunity to work and live in Brazil as the Brazilians have much to teach us about living in the present, enjoying the moment, and appreciating the people in our lives. As a Canadian with a disposition that can, at times, bend slightly towards a future orientated focus, the answers to Nikolai’s questions are always a welcome reminder.

International schools generally embrace a strong emphasis on a holistic educational approach, which includes the well-being and health of our students and communities. To that end, Nikolai’s learning extends to our educational programs and school cultures such that there are high value and support placed on being present, actively valuing our relationships, and ensuring a focus on kindness. Perhaps these approaches are some of the factors associated with Joseph Campbell’s reference to the interconnectedness of our lives and the human experience.

Featured image: cc licensed (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0) flickr photo Alan Morgan: The end of a wonderful day.  https://www.flickr.com/photos/jeff_sch/9274657293/in/photostream/

Transitions

“Light precedes every transition. Whether at the end of a tunnel, through a crack in the door or the flash of an idea, it is always there, heralding a new beginning.” — Teresa Tsalaky

I have been thinking a lot about transitions lately. We recently hosted the incoming Head of School for a one-week transition visit. I am also preparing to transition to Switzerland and the exciting changes associated with working at a new school and living in a new country. Like other international schools, we are preparing to say goodbye to beloved teachers, students, and families as they transition to other parts of the world, while also looking ahead and confirming the details for new teacher and family orientations. It can sometimes feel that life in an international school setting is one of constant transition where change in the norm and not the exception. While this seemingly perpetual state of transition is inherently filled with challenges, the opportunities for growth and new experiences are significant when we are able to effectively manage our transitions.

When a thoughtful colleague, David Chojnacki, heard that I would be transitioning to another school, he recommended I read William Bridges’ book, Transitions. I am grateful for this reference as Bridges’ book is a must read because, in some form or another, we are all going through a transition! The book’s main message is that all of life’s transitions embody a similar pattern and, by recognizing and accepting these patterns, the tough times associated with a transition will not only make sense but will be more bearable. To that end, it is important to differentiate between “change”, which is what happens to us, and “transition”, which is how we manage our feelings while we work through these changes throughout our life journey.

Transition is an internal, emotional, and psychological process. In contrast, change is external, situational, and does not require those affected to transition. Transitions are longer processes that require those affected to gradually accept the new situations that result from the changes. Bridges’ frames all transitions in terms of a three-phase process involving an Ending, a Neutral Zone, and a New Beginning.

An Ending recognizes that a transition begins with letting go of the pre-change reality. In international schools, a significant number of teachers, students, and parents begin the process of letting go each semester as they prepare to move on to new endeavors. Depending on each individual, Endings are usually characterized by emotions such as denial, shock, anger, frustration, and stress. Emphatic listening and open communication for all involved are important strategies for getting through and supporting those who are experiencing an Ending. Recognizing that an Ending is about letting go is an important step towards what the author calls the Neutral Zone.

The Neutral Zone represents the bridge between the old and new in which we can still be attached to the past but also looking ahead to the future. The Neutral Zone is a place of uncertainty where people wonder about how they will adapt to the change they are currently experiencing. It is during this time that we can experience feelings of self-doubt, fear, anxiety, and skepticism. In contrast, the Neutral Zone can be a time of real growth and represent an incredibly rich time in our lives, as is beautifully illustrated through Danaan Parry’s trapeze metaphor.

The New Beginning phase is one where new understandings, values, attitudes, and identities are established. It is during this time that we emotionally and psychologically commit to the new reality that has been created through the change process. This commitment is usually accompanied by feelings of acceptance, importance, hope, and enthusiasm. This is also a good time to recognize and celebrate the third phase of the transition process.

William Bridges’ writings remind us to recognize that life’s transitions follow a similar pattern and to embrace our endings, neutral zones, and new beginnings. As we look ahead and begin to prepare for the end of another semester, I would like to wish everyone and all of our schools the very best as we embrace the positive changes and transitions that are such an integral part of international communities.

Reference:

Bridges, W. (2004). Transitions: Making sense of life’s changes. Da Capo Press.

Portuguese / Português

Transição

“A luz precede toda transição. Seja a luz no fim do túnel, pelas frestas nas portas ou no brilho de uma ideia, ela está sempre lá, anunciando um novo começo.” – Teresa Tsalaky

Ultimamente, eu tenho pensado muito sobre transições. Recentemente, recebemos o próximo diretor geral da EAB, Allan Bredy para uma visita de transição. Eu também estou me preparando para mudar para a Suiça e para as mudanças animadoras associadas ao trabalho em uma nova escola e a mudança para um novo país. Como em outras escolas internacionais, estamos nos preparando para dizer adeus aos nossos amados professores, alunos e famílias que também irão se mudar para outras partes do mundo, mas também nos preparando para a orientação de novos professores e famílias. É comum sentirmos que a vida em uma escola internacional é uma constante transição onde a mudança é algo normal e não exceção. Embora este estado, aparentemente perpétuo, de transição seja cheio de desafios, as oportunidades de crescimento e novas experiências são significativas quando somos capazes de gerenciar de forma efetiva nossas transições.

Um colega atencioso, David Chojnacki, soube que eu estaria me mudando para outra escola e me recomendou a leitura do livro de William Bridges, Transitions.Sou grato por esta referência, já que o livro de Bridges é um dos tipos obrigatórios de leitura, porque de alguma forma estamos todos passando por algum tipo de transição! A principal mensagem do livro é que todas as transições da vida incorporam um padrão semelhante e, reconhecendo e aceitando esses padrões, os tempos difíceis associados a uma transição não só farão sentido, mas serão mais suportáveis. Para isso, é importante sabermos a diferença entre “mudança”, que é o que acontece conosco, e “transição”, que é a forma como gerenciamos nossos sentimentos enquanto percorremos essas mudanças ao longo da nossa jornada de vida.

A transição é um processo interno, emocional e psicológico. Já a mudança é externa, situacional e não necessariamente ligada à transição. As transições são processos mais longos que exigem que os afetados aceitem gradualmente as novas situações resultantes das mudanças. Bridges enquadra todas as transições em um processo de três fases: Final, Zona Neutra e um Novo Começo.

O Final reconhece que uma transição começa com o abandono da realidade de uma pré-mudança. Nas escolas internacionais, um número significativo de professores, alunos e pais começam o processo de abandono do semestre ao se prepararem para ingressar em novos empreendimentos. Dependendo de cada indivíduo, o término de algo geralmente é caracterizado por emoções como negação, choque, raiva, frustração e estresse. Ouvir ativamente e uma comunicação aberta com todos os envolvidos são estratégias importantes para obter e apoiar aqueles que estão experimentando um Final. Reconhecer um Final é abrir mão, um passo importante em direção ao que o autor chama de Zona Neutra.

A Zona Neutra representa a ponte entre o antigo e o novo, no qual ainda podemos estar ligados ao passado, mas também olhar para o futuro. A Zona Neutra é um lugar de incerteza onde as pessoas se perguntam sobre como se adaptarão à mudança que estão experimentando atualmente. É durante este tempo que podemos experimentar sentimentos de auto-dúvida, medo, ansiedade e ceticismo. Em contraste, a Zona Neutra pode ser um tempo de crescimento real e representar um tempo incrivelmente rico em nossas vidas, como é lindamente ilustrado através da metáfora do trapézio de Danaan Parry.

A fase do Novo Começo é aquela onde novos entendimentos, valores, atitudes e identidades são estabelecidos. É durante esse período que nos comprometemos emocionalmente e psicologicamente com a nova realidade que foi criada através do processo de mudança. Este compromisso é geralmente acompanhado por sentimentos de aceitação, importância, esperança e entusiasmo. Este também é um bom momento para reconhecer e celebrar a terceira fase do processo de transição.

Os escritos de William Bridges nos lembram de reconhecer que as transições da vida seguem um padrão semelhante e abraçam nossos fins, zonas neutras e novos começos. À medida que olhamos para frente e começamos a nos preparar para o final de outro semestre, eu gostaria de desejar a todos e a todas as nossas escolas o melhor, ao abraçarmos as mudanças e transições positivas que são parte integrante das comunidades internacionais.

Featured image: cc licensed (CC BY 2.0) flickr photo Hernán Piñera: Niebla / Fog https://www.flickr.com/photos/boston_public_library/6554394361/in/photostream/

Parent Partnerships

An effective educational program requires full and shared participation from students, parents, and the school. Similar to a tripod in which all three legs are needed to provide support, a student’s development and realization of potential will not be fully achieved if even one of the legs – students, parents, and school – is not fully engaged in the learning process.

While we often talk about the role of students and schools in education, it is also important to reflect on the role parents play in student development. To that end, I would like to take this opportunity to express, on behalf of our community, our deep levels of gratitude for the positive difference parents make in the development of EAB’s programs, contributions to our school’s growth, and the learning experienced by our students.

What does an effective parent partnership look like? The Inclusive Schools Network emphasizes that effective parent partnerships are built on three guiding principles: Respect, Responsibility, and Relationships.

With a primary focus on meeting student needs, an effective partnership is one that is built on mutual respect in which both the school and parent contributions are valued. Together, the family and the schools’ perspectives are invaluable to the educational process. This is why the focus on parent involvement in decision-making processes and the commitment to seek parent feedback is of paramount importance. With respect also come recognition of limits and an understanding of corresponding responsibilities.

Joyce Epsteen, the director for The Center of Parent School and Community Partnerships at John Hopkins University, effectively frames the focus on responsibility: “Our charge is to create parent-friendly schools and school-friendly homes”. A parent-friendly school is responsible for ensuring an inclusive environment that is committed to working with all students and families and creating structures that enable parents to be full partners in the learning process. A school-friendly home is responsible for reinforcing the school’s values and educational program. There is also a key responsibility for both partners to ensure that communication is constant, two-way, and meaningful. The large number of parent participation, workshop, and feedback opportunities offered by EAB and the similarly large number of parents who attend these events is an encouraging indicator that there is a high degree of responsibility assumed by both the school and parents towards the development of our students.

The third guiding principle is relationship building, which represents the foundation of any effective partnership. With a strong focus on trust, collaboration, and communication, we must ensure that there is an opportunity to contribute, make a difference, and feel valued as members of a dynamic community.

Yes, this can be hard work and there may be times when everyone may not always be in agreement. However, it is the common goal of providing our students with the best possible educational program that reinforces our focus on the ideals associated with respect, responsibility, and relationships.

Finally, in relation to the theme of parent partnerships, I would like to thank our parent volunteers as the extent to which they support EAB is both heartening and inspiring. The support from parents in the last few weeks alone has ranged from the work of the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), to the organization of Silent Auction during last weekend’s World Fest, to serving on the Canteen and Food Services Committee, to donating to EAB’s Envision program, to serving as members of EAB’s Board of Directors, to name but a few examples. The hard work and commitment of our parent volunteers makes a real difference in our school and is greatly appreciated by the EAB community.

Reference:

Williams, P. (2015). HOW DO WE BUILD EFFECTIVE PARENT-SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS IN INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS? Retrieved from http://inclusiveschools.org/how-do-we-build-effective-parent-school-partnerships-in-inclusive-schools/

Parceria Com os Pais

Um programa educacional eficaz requer a participação plena e compartilhada dos alunos, dos pais e da escola. Semelhante a um tripé, onde as três pernas são necessárias para fornecer apoio, o desenvolvimento de um aluno e a percepção de seu potencial não serão alcançados se, mesmo uma das pernas, alunos, pais e escola, não estiverem totalmente envolvidos no processo de aprendizagem.

Embora muitas vezes falemos sobre o papel dos alunos e escolas na educação, também é importante refletir sobre o papel desempenhado pelos pais no desenvolvimento do aluno. Para isso, gostaria de aproveitar a oportunidade para expressar, em nome da nossa comunidade, a minha profunda gratidão pela diferença positiva que os pais fazem no desenvolvimento dos programas da EAB, nas contribuições para o crescimento da nossa escola e o aprendizado vivido pelos nossos alunos.

O que torna uma parceria eficaz? A Rede de Escolas Inclusivas enfatiza que parcerias efetivas com pais são construídas com três princípios orientadores: Respeito, Responsabilidade e Relacionamentos.

Focando primeiramente nas necessidades dos alunos, uma parceira eficaz é aquela construída sobre o respeito mútuo, no qual tanto a escola quanto as contribuições dos pais são valorizadas. Juntos, a família e as perspectivas das escolas são inestimáveis para o processo educacional. É por isso que o foco no envolvimento dos pais nos processos de tomada de decisão e, o compromisso de buscar o feedback dos pais é de suma importância. Com respeito também temos o reconhecimento dos limites e a compreensão das responsabilidades correspondentes.

Joyce Epsteen, diretora do Centro de Escola para Pais e Parcerias Comunitárias da Universidade John Hopkins, enquadra o foco na responsabilidade: “Nossa responsabilidade é criar escolas amigas dos pais e casas amigas da escola”. Uma escola favorável aos pais é responsável em assegurar um ambiente inclusivo que se compromete a trabalhar com todos os alunos e famílias e criar estruturas que permitam aos pais serem parceiros de pleno direito no processo de aprendizagem. Uma escola-casa amigável é responsável por reforçar os valores da escola e o programa educacional. Existe também uma responsabilidade chave para ambos os parceiros em assegurar que a comunicação seja constante, bidirecional e significativa. O grande número de envolvimento dos pais, workshops e oportunidades de feedback fornecidas pela EAB e o número similar de pais que participam desses eventos é um indicador encorajador de que existe um alto grau de responsabilidade assumido tanto pela escola como pelos pais em relação ao desenvolvimento dos nossos alunos.

O terceiro princípio orientador é a construção de relações, que representa a base de qualquer parceria eficaz. Com forte foco na confiança, colaboração e comunicação devemos garantir que existe uma oportunidade de contribuir, fazer a diferença e se sentir valorizado como membro de uma comunidade dinâmica.

Sim, isso pode ser um trabalho árduo e haverá momentos em que nem todos vão estar de acordo. No entanto, é o objetivo comum de proporcionar aos nossos alunos o melhor programa educacional possível que reforça o nosso foco sobre os ideais associados ao respeito, responsabilidade e relacionamentos.

Por fim, em relação ao tema parcerias entre os pais, eu gostaria de agradecer aos nossos pais voluntários, pois a forma com que eles apoiam a EAB é encorajador e inspirador. O apoio dos pais nas últimas semanas incluiu o trabalho da Organização de Pais e Mestres (PTO), a organização do Leilão Silencioso que ocorreu no World Fest no final de semana passado, o Comitê da Cantina e Serviços de Alimentos, até a doação feita ao Programa Envision da EAB associado ao desenvolvimento e levantamento de fundos, e ainda serviram como membros do Conselho de Administração da EAB, entre tantos outros exemplos. O trabalho árduo dos nossos pais voluntários faz uma diferença real na nossa escola e é muito apreciado pela nossa comunidade.

Reference:

Featured image: cc licensed (CC BY 2.0) Flickr photo by Christopher (Books): https://www.flickr.com/photos/shutterhacks/4474421855/

Stronger Together

Versão em portuguêsVersão em português

“We are stronger not despite our differences, but because of them.” ~Prime Minister Trudeau

The recent horrific and tragic attack at the mosque in Quebec and the subsequent categorical response from Canadians and concerned citizens around the world is a poignant reminder of one of our primary purposes as educators. As learning institutions, we must model and live by the highest standards associated with tolerance, empathy, and understanding while categorically rejecting all acts of hate, bigotry, and discrimination. The unique opportunity to serve as an educator includes an unwavering commitment to model and stand up for the values we hold dear in our schools.

While it is not the role of a teacher to promote and impose personal political views and beliefs, it is a teacher’s responsibility to denounce, without exception, all comments and actions that are not in full adherence with the school’s focus on valuing plurality, difference, understanding, respect, and tolerance. As intolerance is usually a result of fear and fear is often generated from a lack of understanding, the focus on learning in schools plays an ever-important role toward deeper understandings. The hope is that the suspicions and uncertainty that result from a lack of understanding or knowledge will be replaced with curiosity, support, and appreciation.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s response to the shooting was a call to action and the coming together as a nation: “We will not stand for hatred and bigotry. Together we will ride from this darkness stronger and more unified than ever before. That is who we are… love, always love, instead of hate.” It is also heartening and inspiring to witness the commitment of our education colleagues and the focus of so many schools and organizations to take a stand against all that divides us. The message is clear in that if one of us suffers, we all suffer. By way of example, Asger Leth’s video, Three Beautiful Human Minutes, is a moving testimonial conveying the message that there is more that brings us together than we think. Teachers are also regularly seeking ways to embrace and learn from our differences. Alison Schofield recently posted a helpful article entitled, “How Teachers can Honor and Nurture all Students’ Languages and Cultures within an International School.” The University of Minnesota, where I am currently engaged in graduate studies, just launched a “We All Belong Here” campaign, with five key messages: 1. Our differences drive our greatness, 2. Respect everyone every day, 3. Rise above intolerance, 4. Stand up to injustice, 5. Strive to be inclusive.

This work is not easy, though it is of paramount importance. The studies of a colleague at the American School of Brasilia, Gavin Hornbuckle, highlights one of these challenges. Gavin conducted extensive doctoral research in the area of intercultural competencies. The results of his study and others indicate that “while teachers often believe that they possess the intercultural skill-set required to [help students to develop intercultural competence], in reality, this may not be the case” (Horbuckel, 2013). The research also stresses that the majority of educators have more of a monocultural mindset, while our students show evidence of being more sophisticated in their intercultural development” (Cushner, 2012). It is a fact that intercultural competence does not come naturally and is an area that we, as educators, need to continually work at, particularly as we seek to understand, embrace, and celebrate our differences.

Returning to Prime Minister Trudeau, one of his recent statements may serve as a guiding principle for our schools: “If we allow individuals and organizations to succeed by scaring people, then we do not actually end up any safer. Fear does not make us stronger, it makes us weaker. We are bound by one, unwavering, unshakable truth: we are stronger not despite our differences, but because of them”.

References:

Cushner, K. (2012). Planting seeds for peace: Are they growing in the right direction? International Journal of Intercultural Relations, 36(2), 161-168.

Hornbuckle, G. C. (2013). Teachers’ views regarding ways in which the intercultural competence of students is developed at an international school in Southeast Asia: a mixed methods study. Unpublished Doctoral Dissertation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN.

Featured image: cc licensed (CC BY-NC 2.0) Flickr photo by Roel Wijnants (Painting): https://www.flickr.com/photos/cosmosfan/14628522324

Versão em Português

“Nós somos mais fortes por causa das nossas diferenças e não apesar delas” ~ Primeiro- Ministro Trudeau

O recente, horrível e trágico ataque que ocorreu na mesquita no Quebec e a resposta subsequente dos canadenses e cidadãos preocupados ao redor do mundo é um lembrete pungente de um dos nossos principais propósitos como educadores. Como instituições de aprendizagem, devemos modelar e viver segundo os mais altos padrões associados à tolerância, à empatia e ao entendimento e assim rejeitarmos categoricamente todos os atos de ódio, intolerância e discriminação. A oportunidade única de servir como educador inclui um compromisso inabalável para modelar e defender os valores que prezamos nas nossas escolas.

Embora não seja papel do professor promover e impor pontos de vista pessoais políticos, éticos e morais é responsabilidade dele denunciar, sem exceção, todos os comentários e ações que não estão em total adesão ao foco da escola na valorização da pluralidade, diferença, compreensão, respeito e tolerância. Como a intolerância é, geralmente, resultado do medo e o medo é, muitas vezes, gerado a partir da falta de compreensão, o foco na aprendizagem nas escolas desempenha um papel cada vez mais importante para entendimentos mais profundos. A esperança é que as suspeitas e incertezas que resultam de uma falta de compreensão ou conhecimento serão substituídas por curiosidade, apoio e apreciação.

A resposta do primeiro-ministro Justin Trudeau ao tiroteio foi um apelo à ação e à união como nação: “Não iremos defender o ódio e o fanatismo. Juntos, vamos cavalgar a partir desta escuridão, mais fortes e mais unidos do que nunca. Isso é o que somos…amor, sempre amor, em vez de ódio.” É também animador e inspirador testemunhar o compromisso de nossos colegas de educação e o foco de tantas escolas e organizações em tomar uma posição contra tudo o que nos divide. A mensagem é clara, se um de nós sofre todos sofremos. Como exemplo, o vídeo de Asger Leth,Three Beautiful Human Minutes, é um emocionante depoimento que transmite a mensagem de que há mais coisas que nos unem do que pensamos. Os professores também estão regularmente buscando maneiras de abraçar e aprender com nossas diferenças. Alison Schofield publicou recentemente um artigo (article) útil intitulado “Como professores podem honrar e nutrir todos os idiomas e culturas dos alunos dentro de uma escola internacional.” A Universidade de Minnesota, onde estou atualmente envolvido em estudos de pós-graduação, acaba de lançar uma campanha “We All Belong Here”, com cinco pontos-chave:

Nossas diferenças impulsionam nossa grandeza;
Respeite a todos, todos os dias;
Eleve-se acima da intolerância;
Posicione-se contra a injustiça;
Esforce-se para ser inclusivo.

Embora seja de suma importância, esse trabalho não é fácil. Os estudos de um colega da Escola Americana de Brasília, Gavin Hornbuckle, destacam um desses desafios. Gavin conduziu uma extensa pesquisa de doutorado na área de competências interculturais. Os resultados de seu estudo (study) e outros indicam que “embora os professores muitas vezes acreditem possuir um conjunto de habilidades interculturais necessárias para [ajudar os alunos a desenvolver a competência intercultural], na realidade, isso pode não ser o caso” (Hornbuckle,2013). A pesquisa também ressalta que a maioria dos educadores tem mais uma mentalidade monocultural, enquanto nossos alunos mostram evidências de serem mais sofisticados em seu desenvolvimento intercultural (Cushner,2012). É fato que a competência interucltural não vem naturalmente e é uma área em que nós, como educadores, precisamos trabalhar continuamente, particularmente enquanto procuramos compreender, abraçar e celebrar nossas diferenças.

Voltando ao Primeiro-Ministro Trudeau, uma de suas recentes declarações pode servir como princípio orientador para nossas escolas: “Se permitirmos que indivíduos e organizações tenham sucesso ao amedrontar as pessoas, não estaremos mais seguros. O medo não nos torna mais fortes, porém mais fracos. Somos ligados por uma verdade inabalável, sólida: Somos mais fortes por causa das nossas diferenças e não apesar delas”.

Students Helping Students

What does it feel like to be mentored by a national champion who is ranked among the best in the world? To find out, you are invited to visit the American School of Brasilia’s afterschool chess club.

Meilin Hoshino (Grade 6) and her sister Karen (Grade 10) are considered to be elite chess players on the world stage, with Karen recently recognized as the top female chess player in Japan. It is the juxtaposition of a student competing in the 14-day World Chess Olympiad in Azerbaijan and the same student offering a chess activity for lower school students that highlights an international school’s sense of community, the wide range of learning opportunities, and the value of diversity.

During my afternoon walk around campus today, I observed several other instances of students learning from other students. Some of these examples included cooking classes, guitar lessons, art projects, talent show preparations, Jiu Jitsu practice, reading program, robotics, and an after school running club. These are some of the many ways in which a school offering a pre-kindergarten to grade 12 educational program benefits from the wide range of student ages. The younger students have the opportunity to learn from older students while older students have the opportunity (and challenge!) to serve as positive role models and mentors while also learning more about their own abilities and strengths.

It is this building of community through mentoring, coaching, and collaboration that personifies the American School of Brasilia’s motto of “Learners Inspiring Learners.” The basis of all schools should be that of a community of learners and, for this reason, we are committed to further developing peer mentoring programs such that all students are benefiting from “students helping students” opportunities. To that end, I would like to thank Meilin and Karen for sharing their impressive talents and experiences with other students and for exemplifying the ideals associated with our school’s mission in which learners are inspiring learners to be inquisitive in life, principled in character, and bold in vision.

Versão em Português

Qual seria a sensação de ser orientado por um campeão nacional que também está classificado entre os melhores do mundo? Para descobrir, você está convidado a visitar a aula de xadrez do Club Eab da Escola Americana de Brasília.

Hoje, durante a minha caminhada da tarde pelo campus, observei vários alunos aprendendo uns com os outros. Alguns desses exemplos foram as aulas de culinária, as aulas de violão, os projetos de arte, os ensaios para o Talent Show, o Jiu Jitsu , o programa de leitura, a robótica, e o Club Eab de Corrida. Essas atividades extracurriculares são um exemplo de várias maneiras de como uma escola, com esse programa de educação, é beneficiada por uma ampla faixa etária de alunos (desde a educação infantil ao ensino médio).

Assim, os alunos mais jovens aprendem com os alunos mais velhos, enquanto os mais velhos têm a oportunidade (e o desafio!) de serem bons exemplos e orientadores e, ao mesmo tempo, de aprenderem mais sobre suas próprias habilidades e pontos fortes. É por meio de orientação, coaching, e colaboração que se constrói uma comunidade e se personifica a visão da Escola Americana de Brasília: “Learners Inspiring Learners.” A base de todas as escolas deve ser de uma comunidade de aprendizes e, por esta razão, estamos comprometidos a continuar desenvolvendo programas e oportunidades como “alunos ajudando uns aos outros.” Para este fim, gostaria de agradecer à Meilin e à Karen por compartilharem seus talentos e experiências impressionantes com os outros alunos e por exemplificarem os ideais associados à missão de nossa escola em que aprendizes são inspiradores, firmes em seu caráter, e com uma visão audaciosa.

Meilin Hoshino (6º ano) e sua irmã Karen (10º ano) são mundialmente consideradas jogadoras de xadrez de elite, sendo que Karen foi recentemente reconhecida como a melhor jogadora de xadrez do Japão. Essa justaposição de uma aluna competir quatorze dias na Olimpíada Mundial de Xadrez, no Azerbaijão, e ao mesmo tempo ensinar xadrez aos alunos mais novos, ressalta o sentido de “uma comunidade escolar internacional”, a ampla variedade de oportunidades de aprendizagem, e o valor à diversidade. Hoje, durante a minha caminhada da tarde pelo campus, observei vários alunos aprendendo uns com os outros. Alguns desses exemplos foram as aulas de culinária, as aulas de violão, os projetos de arte, os ensaios para o Talent Show, o Jiu Jitsu , o programa de leitura, a robótica, e o Club Eab de Corrida. Essas atividades extracurriculares são um exemplo de várias maneiras de como uma escola, com esse programa de educação, é beneficiada por uma ampla faixa etária de alunos (desde a educação infantil ao ensino médio). Assim, os alunos mais jovens aprendem com os alunos mais velhos, enquanto os mais velhos têm a oportunidade (e o desafio!) de serem bons exemplos e orientadores e, ao mesmo tempo, de aprenderem mais sobre suas próprias habilidades e pontos fortes.

É por meio de orientação, coaching, e colaboração que se constrói uma comunidade e se personifica a visão da Escola Americana de Brasília: “Learners Inspiring Learners.” A base de todas as escolas deve ser de uma comunidade de aprendizes e, por esta razão, estamos comprometidos a continuar desenvolvendo programas e oportunidades como “alunos ajudando uns aos outros.” Para este fim, gostaria de agradecer à Meilin e à Karen por compartilharem seus talentos e experiências impressionantes com os outros alunos e por exemplificarem os ideais associados à missão de nossa escola em que aprendizes são inspiradores, firmes em seu caráter, e com uma visão audaciosa.

Featured image: cc licensed (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 ) flickr photo by Peter Miller: https://www.flickr.com/photos/cosmosfan/14628522324

A Green Day

“Let us all work together to help all human beings achieve dignity and equality; to build a greener planet; and to make sure no one is left behind.” — UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon

While the scheduling of EAB’s Environmental Day during the same week as the International Day of Peace was not by design, the coinciding of these two events was fortuitous. There is something about planting a tree that can instill a real sense of peace and community.

Our September 17 Sábado Legal, or “Cool Saturday,” was a day for our community to come together to plant trees, support an organic fair, build relationships, and inaugurate a new green space on campus. While seemingly simple in design, the day represented an important opportunity to disconnect from our world of technology and the stresses of daily life in a way that students, parents, and teachers could engage in environment-related activities associated with our school’s service pillar.

The day also offered an opportunity to connect with aspects of EAB’s student Learner Profile in a manner that was personalized and meaningful. On a day focused on environmental issues and, indirectly, International Peace Day, key indicators from EAB’s Learner Profile provided students with a framework for reflection and growth:

I approach problems respectfully and ethically and work hard to solve them.
I am respectful to others through my words and actions
I make decisions considering the impact on others.
I demonstrate environmental stewardship.
I consider the impact of my actions on others at school and in the world and make good choices based on this.

We often talk about wanted to change the world for the better. But, as is often quoted, that change must first start with us. In a world that is too often filled with pain, suffering, and darkness, we may question what difference our small actions can make. As Magaret Mead famously stated, “never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Thank you to all of our community members who came together last Saturday to plant trees and inaugurate a new green space. Thank you for contributing to the ideals associated with our environmental focus and those of International Peace Day. Thank you for making a difference.

Versão Português

“Vamos todos trabalhar juntos para ajudarmos os seres humanos a alcançar dignidade e igualdade para construir um planeta mais verde; E para nos certificar de que ninguém será deixado para trás”. Secretário-Geral da ONU, Ban Ki-moon

Apesar de não termos planejado que o Dia do Meio Ambiente da EAB ocorresse juntamente com o Dia Internacional da Paz, essa coincidência foi muito afortunada. Existe algo no plantio de uma árvore que pode trazer um senso de paz e comunidade.

O nosso Sábado Legal do dia 17 de setembro foi um dia para a nossa comunidade se reunir e plantar árvores, apoiar uma feira orgânica, construir relações e inaugurar um novo espaço verde no campus. Embora isso possa parecer algo simples em sua concepção, o dia representou uma importante oportunidade para desconectarmos do nosso mundo tecnológico e das tensões da vida diária de modo que os alunos, pais e professores puderam participar de atividades relacionadas com o meio ambiente e os pilares da nossa escola.

O dia também ofereceu oportunidade de conectarmos com aspectos do Perfil do Aluno da EAB de uma maneira personalizada e significativa. Em um dia focado em questões ambientais e, indiretamente, em questões relacionadas ao Dia Internacional da Paz, indicadores-chave do Perfil do Aluno da EAB oferece aos alunos uma estrutura para reflexão e crescimento:

Eu abordo os problemas de forma ética e respeitosa e trabalho duro para resolvê-los;
Respeito os outros através das minhas palavras e ações;
Eu tomo as decisões considerando o impacto que elas exercem sobre os outros;
Eu exerço gestão ambiental;
Eu considero o impacto que as minhas ações exercem nas pessoas da escola e do mundo e faço boas escolhas baseado nisso.

Costumamos falar sobre o desejo de transformarmos o mundo para melhor. Mas como geralmente é dito, a mudança deve começar em nós mesmos. Em um mundo cheio de dor, sofrimento e escuridão podemos questionar a diferença das nossas pequenas ações facilmente. Como Margaret Mead disse: “Nunca duvide que um pequeno grupo de pessoas conscientes e engajadas possa mudar o mundo. De fato, sempre foi assim que o mundo mudou”.

Muito obrigado a todos os membros da nossa comunidade que se reuniram no último sábado para plantar árvores e inaugurar o novo espaço verde. Obrigado por contribuir com os ideais associados ao nosso foco ambiental e ao Dia Internacional da Paz. Obrigado por fazer a diferença.

Photo by Fabio Oliveira (http://www.fabiooliveira.com.au/)