AAS News Archive

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

It is time to say “good-bye” and “maybe I’ll see you again someday” as I leave AAS after 7 amazing years.  My original PK students are now in middle school and some of them still greet me in the cafeteria.  I have been blessed to see students (and their parents) develop healthy coping strategies during the challenging times of personal stress, visa struggles, COVID and now the changing world scene.  Each of you has taught me something and I am so grateful.
I wish all of you the very best as you journey on.  I look forward to settling into a new position in Tokyo and being able to be back in my childhood home country after a 23 year absence.
Sharon Ronan, PK - 2 ES Counselor

Dear ES Parents, 

I was truly grateful and honored to be part of the AAS community this last year. I do hope that I can one day return and soak up more of what Moscow has to offer and support the AAS student community. This summer I will be relocating to Colorado Springs. I do wish you all the best next year and as they say “until we meet again.” 
Elizabeth Souba, Grade 3-5 Counselor 

If you need any documents over the summer, reach out to AAS admissions and they will be able to guide you.
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

The final week of school approaches and with that brings a lot of emotions on and off campus. Two weeks ago the counseling department hosted a transition session for the community. You can watch the video recording below.

Watch the recording here

During these times of transition there are often different types of groups that correspond in transitions: Stayers, Goers and Newbies. As a Third Culture Kid/Cross Culture Kid attending international schools, June is a difficult month for our community.

Everyone has something at risk

Stayers are at risk

When Stayers stop engaging Newbies (because saying goodbye to Goers is too painful) the clock starts ticking. It is a matter of time before the community will grow up behind them and they will be the ones trying to break in... or going. Continued connection is key.

Goers are at risk

Mental and emotional shifts begin long before the physical ones. Once announcements are made the community changes even though no one has flown away yet. Stayers and Newbies start figuring out what life looks like without the Goer and adjust accordingly.  Goers check out.  The chemistry of those two things can make for some explosive reactions. Intentionality is key.

Newbies are at risk

Newbies lend fresh eyes and fabulous new ideas to stagnant and stressed environments. Newbies may see what’s wrong before anyone is ready to listen. Stayers get annoyed. Goers continue checking out and chuckle because it’s not their problem. Patience is key.

Everyone has something to give

Stayers give stability

Stayers have less of an unhealthy attachment to their suitcases than either Goers (who are packing) or Newbies (who are un). Stayers, although always in transition, have the solidity of NOT changing everything. No global trekking. No new job. No figuring out where to buy cucumbers. They may not feel stable but in this scenario they are privileged with a lesser instability. If you’re a Stayer, consider watching the Goer’s children while they pack or showing the Newbies where the cucumbers are.

Goers give understanding

For Goers, going is the most consuming thing in their lives.  Fair enough.  It’s a big deal.  For Stayers, the going of the Goers may be a big deal, but is not generally all consuming.  Goers who have expectations (active or passive) that Stayers will drop everything to be consumed by their six month departure are failing to see the broader picture. There are ALWAYS Goers.  Understanding that will actually help Goers AND Stayers plan focused, intentional quality farewell time.

Newbies give humility

It can be really frustrating to step into a community of Stayers who just lost their best Goers.  That frustration only grows when you can clearly see problems and the Stayers are still figuring you out.  Starting as a learner is genuinely the deciding factor between those who do this well and those who do not.  Listen first.  Learn.  Ask a billion questions.  Not because you don’t know anything but because you don’t know everything.  Give the Stayers the respect they’ve earned from staying and the space to adjust to another round of new.  Soon you’ll be on the other side.

Read the full article here

"Grief is perhaps an unknown territory for you. You might feel both helpless and hopeless without a sense of a 'map' for the journey. Confusion is the hallmark of a transition. To rebuild both your inner and outer world is a major project.”
– Anne Grant

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
ES Counselors

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

Last week the counseling department across the divisions provided a virtual presentation about Transitions. Transitions can mean something different to us all whether you are remaining at AAS next year and moving up a new grade or moving to a new school in a new city. Any transition can carry a form of loss. For those unable to join the presentation, you can find the link to the recording below.

Watch Transitions Meeting Here

This past week, we have started some lessons on transitions and how it relates to being a Third Culture Kid. For some of our families, your child may not share in the same definition of a Third Culture Kid but may be a Cross Cultural Kid. A Cross-Cultural Kid (CCK) is "a person who has lived in—or meaningfully interacted with—two or more cultural environments for a significant period of time during developmental years.” (Ruth E. Van Reken) For example, your child is born in Russia and is attending an international school in his/her home country.

In the lesson, we begin to talk about building a RAFT or RAKE to support the transition leading to a new school year. In the video, we provide more examples that relate to building a RAFT/RAKE.

One activity that all grade 3 to 5 students were given recently was to write a letter to their future self. In our circumstance with our community not together as a whole, it can be a challenge to navigate how we have closure to the year. I asked the students to take time at home to reflect on their year and post date the letter for 6-12 months from today. They can use the provided template to hand write a letter or use this website to email the letter to them on a specific date.

Future Me website to email the letter on a specific date. 

Handwritten letter to put into a sealed envelope. 

We all process things in different ways and as a family, it is important to validate all of your experiences from this 2021-2022 year.  Please let us know if you need any further information or support. 

“Don’t cry because it is over. Smile because it happened.”
– Dr. Seuss

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,
 

We would like to invite you to our spring Transitions Meeting on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at 13:00 MSK.

Please go to the link below to learn more about healthy transitions. The six AAS counselors will be hosting a helpful discussion to assist with the complex transition process.

Join Transitions Meeting Here

We will also record the presentation and make it available to all AAS families to watch at your convenience.

One of the concepts that helps families is the idea that your children are considered “Third Culture Kids”(TCKs). What this means is that the international lifestyle many of you have adopted is another “culture” for your children. They may have one or more “home” cultures, a “culture” from the host country and this additional “culture” that comes from being part of the internationally mobile community. They might relate more to each other than to peers back in their “home” countries. Their “cultural formation” might not fit their particular passports.

Answering the question, “Where are you from?” might be very complex. Please be aware that there might be some awkward moments as your children learn how to relate to their cousins or peers as they travel back to your “home” country (countries). They have become TCKs as a part of their mobility.

In the next two newsletters, the counselors will be offering more specific steps to help TCK students in their ongoing adjustments. We also have regular lessons in the upper elementary school to explore TCK topics.

Please let us know if you need any further information. Feel free to explore our spring 2022 newsletters for information about transferring to new schools and the reference process.

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

We were so excited to have the Grade 3 - 5 students living in Moscow join us this week. They were so happy to see each other and their teachers and instructional assistants. The cafeteria was buzzing as well. Students are energized to share their learning with peers and teachers.

The counselors and staff are busy preparing for next year and working on class lists. Those final lists are distributed to families just a few days before school starts in August when all the details have been finalized.

🏫  Recommendations for Changing Schools

At this time of year many parents ask for teacher reference letters to be sent to new schools.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for families and that placement in the next school is of utmost importance to families on the move. During these challenging times, we have been doing the reference forms at a rapid pace to assist families as they have scattered around the world.

Children can often sense the additional stress in the family that the idea of a move can bring so being as open and honest with your children can help them move through this time more successfully. Please know that children know when “something” is up and are stressed about wondering what the news might be.

If your family is approaching a possible transition please keep the following in mind:

• Please let your child’s counselor and teacher know of any potential move as soon as possible, and how your child is coping with the news, so we can be of support:
  elizabeth.souba@aas.ru and sharon.ronan@aas.ru
   
• Please contact your student’s counselor first for: reference letters, online teacher evaluation, requests for report cards, MAP reports and new school assessments.
   
• Please note that all teacher/counselor or principal references are confidential.
  Our procedure is that the confidential teacher reference forms or letters are sent directly to the new school by the school counselors or counseling department.
   
• If forms have to be directly submitted electronically to the new school, the teachers will still provide the counseling office with a copy or screenshots.
   
• The counseling department coordinates all documentation requested by parents to be sent to the application school(s).
  References and records usually take 1-2 weeks to complete.
   
• Transition letter from Counselors
• Transition Information for Parents

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

With the weather warming up, the trees and flowers blooming, it is a great time to spend outside. Considerable research shows evidence that children’s mental health and wellbeing is enhanced by spending time outdoors. A connection to nature is a basic human need, boosting overall health and well-being.

A regular dose of time in nature can:

• Reduces stress levels
  Greatest impact coming from spending 20-30 minutes outside daily.
• Encourages exercise
  Exercise not only develops muscle, strength and a healthy heart and circulation, but also releases endorphins, which boost mood. 
• Improves mood and diminishes worry
  Spending time in nature helps minds rest by allowing presence in the moment.
• Facilitates improved sleeping patterns
  The result is that spending time outside in natural light helps to keep us awake and alert during the day, which makes it easier to go to sleep at night and enjoy better sleep.
• Provides big doses of the Sunshine Vitamin
  Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones and a strong immune system and low levels of Vitamin D have been associated with low mood and worry.

‘Play is the highest form of research’
– Albert Einstein

🏫  Recommendations for Changing Schools

At this time of year many parents ask for teacher reference letters to be sent to new schools.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for families and that placement in the next school is of utmost importance to families on the move. During these challenging times, we have been doing the reference forms at a rapid pace to assist families as they have scattered around the world.

Children can often sense the additional stress in the family that the idea of a move can bring so being as open and honest with your children can help them move through this time more successfully. Please know that children know when “something” is up and are stressed about wondering what the news might be.

If your family is approaching a possible transition please keep the following in mind:

• Please let your child’s counselor and teacher know of any potential move as soon as possible, and how your child is coping with the news, so we can be of support:
  elizabeth.souba@aas.ru and sharon.ronan@aas.ru
   
• Please contact your student’s counselor first for: reference letters, online teacher evaluation, requests for report cards, MAP reports and new school assessments.
   
• Please note that all teacher/counselor or principal references are confidential.
  Our procedure is that the confidential teacher reference forms or letters are sent directly to the new school by the school counselors or counseling department.
   
• If forms have to be directly submitted electronically to the new school, the teachers will still provide the counseling office with a copy or screenshots.
   
• The counseling department coordinates all documentation requested by parents to be sent to the application school(s).
  References and records usually take 1-2 weeks to complete.
   
• Transition letter from Counselors
• Transition Information for Parents

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

It is just one more week of school work in April until our May holidays.
 

⭐️  How To Praise Our Children

Instead of generic praise such as “good job”, “nice work”, “I love your drawing/music/sports”, let’s offer specific noticings for more meaningful encouragement.

Experts advise parents and teachers to make specific comments such as:

• “I noticed that you read that story with expression.”
• “I saw a  lot of different colors in your drawing.”
• “You seemed to have run that race nearly one second faster than last time.”
• “Your baby sister was so happy when you played with her.”
• “I noticed that you took all your dishes to the sink right away.”
• “You brushed your teeth on your own today.”
• When praise (or even neutral noticings) are specific, they are more genuine and rewarding. 
• When correction is needed, ask for the positive behavior.
• Say, “please walk” instead of “don’t run.”
• Say, “we sit when we eat” instead of “don’t stand to eat”.

If you have any questions about specific praise, please reach out to Elizabeth Souba or Sharon Ronan.
 

🏫  Recommendations for Changing Schools

At this time of year many parents ask for teacher reference letters to be sent to new schools.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for families and that placement in the next school is of utmost importance to families on the move. During these challenging times, we have been doing the reference forms at a rapid pace to assist families as they have scattered around the world.

Children can often sense the additional stress in the family that the idea of a move can bring so being as open and honest with your children can help them move through this time more successfully. Please know that children know when “something” is up and are stressed about wondering what the news might be.

If your family is approaching a possible transition please keep the following in mind:

• Please let your child’s counselor and teacher know of any potential move as soon as possible, and how your child is coping with the news, so we can be of support:
  elizabeth.souba@aas.ru and sharon.ronan@aas.ru
   
• Please contact your student’s counselor first for: reference letters, online teacher evaluation, requests for report cards, MAP reports and new school assessments.
   
• Please note that all teacher/counselor or principal references are confidential.
  Our procedure is that the confidential teacher reference forms or letters are sent directly to the new school by the school counselors or counseling department.
   
• If forms have to be directly submitted electronically to the new school, the teachers will still provide the counseling office with a copy or screenshots.
   
• The counseling department coordinates all documentation requested by parents to be sent to the application school(s).
  References and records usually take 1-2 weeks to complete.
   
• Transition letter from Counselors
• Transition Information for Parents

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents, 

It is hard to believe that we are welcoming the spring season this week.

For many, spring can be a time for renewal and growth after many months of winter. The days are getting longer and the weather is warming up. We do hope that the week off from school last week provided some rest for you and your family. As we begin a new season it is a good reminder to continue with healthy habits for our wellbeing.

One way to do that is as simple as short guided meditation. There are many free resources available that span across the age-ranges. Check the InsightTimer link below for some guided meditations that are for children.

Visit Insight Timer Here
 

🏫  Recommendations for Changing Schools

At this time of year many parents ask for teacher reference letters to be sent to new schools.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for families and that placement in the next school is of utmost importance to families on the move. During these challenging times, we have been doing the reference forms at a rapid pace to assist families as they have scattered around the world.

Children can often sense the additional stress in the family that the idea of a move can bring so being as open and honest with your children can help them move through this time more successfully. Please know that children know when “something” is up and are stressed about wondering what the news might be.

If your family is approaching a possible transition please keep the following in mind:

• Please let your child’s counselor and teacher know of any potential move as soon as possible, and how your child is coping with the news, so we can be of support:
  elizabeth.souba@aas.ru and sharon.ronan@aas.ru
   
• Please contact your student’s counselor first for: reference letters, online teacher evaluation, requests for report cards, MAP reports and new school assessments.
   
• Please note that all teacher/counselor or principal references are confidential.
  Our procedure is that the confidential teacher reference forms or letters are sent directly to the new school by the school counselors or counseling department.
   
• If forms have to be directly submitted electronically to the new school, the teachers will still provide the counseling office with a copy or screenshots.
   
• The counseling department coordinates all documentation requested by parents to be sent to the application school(s).
  References and records usually take 1-2 weeks to complete.
   
• Transition letter from Counselors
• Transition Information for Parents

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear ES Parents,

It is only a few more days until April break. Wherever you are in the world, take time to enjoy the outdoors and minimize screen time.

Celebrate the small things with your children and explore zoos and parks as much as possible.

I hope each family can take a few days to  relax and do things together to build positive memories.
 

⭐️  Placement Survey

Please do it soon, if you have not done one for PK - Grade 4.

Fill Classroom Placement Parent Survey
Open from now - April 11th
 

🏫  Recommendations for Changing Schools

At this time of year many parents ask for teacher reference letters to be sent to new schools.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for families and that placement in the next school is of utmost importance to families on the move.

If your family is approaching a possible transition please keep the following in mind:

• Children can often sense the additional stress in the family that the idea of a move can bring so being as open and honest with your children can help them move through this time more successfully.  Please know that children know when “something” is up and are stressed about wondering what the news might be.
   
• Please let your child’s counselor and teacher know of any potential move as soon as possible, and how your child is coping with the news, so we can be of support.
   
• Please contact your student’s counselor first for: reference letters, online teacher evaluation, requests for report cards, MAP reports and new school assessments.
   
• Please note that all teacher/counselor or principal references are confidential. Our procedure is that the confidential teacher reference forms or letters are sent directly to the new school by the school counselors or counseling department.
   
• If forms have to be directly submitted electronically to the new school, the teachers will still provide the counseling office with a copy or screenshots.
   
• The counseling department coordinates all documentation requested by parents to be sent to the application school(s). References and records usually take 1-2 weeks to complete.
   
• Transition letter from Counselors
• Transition Information for Parents

Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

Sharon Ronan | PreK - Grade 2
Elizabeth Souba | Grades 3 - 5
 

Dear Parents,

We are so happy to have the PK to Grade 2 students in Moscow back on campus. Their energy is amazing as they do inquiry and learning together.

As we all face challenging times right now, please do your best to keep your family routines as normal as possible.  If your students are doing distance learning, please make sure

• They have eaten breakfast
• They are wearing school appropriate clothing
• They have as few distractions as possible – remove toys, TVs, games, etc.
• They have a dedicated learning space

⭐️  Placement Survey

Please do it soon, if you have not done one for PK - Grade 4.

Fill Classroom Placement Parent Survey
Open from now - April 11th
 

🏫  Recommendations for Changing Schools

At this time of year many parents ask for teacher reference letters to be sent to new schools.

We understand that this can be a challenging time for families and that placement in the next school is of utmost importance to families on the move.

If your family is approaching a possible transition please keep the following in mind:

• Children can often sense the additional stress in the family that the idea of a move can bring so being as open and honest with your children can help them move through this time more successfully.  Please know that children know when “something” is up and are stressed about wondering what the news might be.
   
• Please let your child’s counselor and teacher know of any potential move as soon as possible, and how your child is coping with the news, so we can be of support.
   
• Please contact your student’s counselor first for: reference letters, online teacher evaluation, requests for report cards, MAP reports and new school assessments.
   
• Please note that all teacher/counselor or principal references are confidential. Our procedure is that the confidential teacher reference forms or letters are sent directly to the new school by the school counselors or counseling department.
   
• If forms have to be directly submitted electronically to the new school, the teachers will still provide the counseling office with a copy or screenshots.
   
• The counseling department coordinates all documentation requested by parents to be sent to the application school(s). References and records usually take 1-2 weeks to complete.
   
• Transition letter from Counselors
• Transition Information for Parents

Regards,
Elizabeth Souba and Sharon Ronan
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

☀️  Have a Great Summer!

From the MS Faculty we would like to extend a hearty thank you to all of our MS families for a great year.

Although it has been challenging, our community has worked together to find success. To those of you who are returning, have a safe, relaxing and wonderful holiday. To those of you who are moving on, farewell, but remember you will always be a part of the AAS family! Once a Penguin, always a Penguin!

🗓  Last Day Schedule

 Friday, June 17 

On Friday, 17 June we will be closing the 2021-22 school year.

Below you can see the schedule for MS students.

🐧  Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony

This Friday we will be celebrating our Grade 8 students who will be “moving up” to high school.

The ceremony will be held online and begin at 10:00 am. Grade 8 families may join using the link below.

Join Here

If you have not already RSVP’d for the ceremony, please do so here: Grade 8 Ceremony RSVP.

For those Grade 8 students and families who are in Moscow, we invite you to join us in the Maly to watch the ceremony on screen. Following the ceremony, there will be a small reception in the Hall of Flags for the Grade 8 students on campus.
 

📖  Yearbooks

The 2021 - 2022 yearbook is now available online, the password is Learning@AAS.

See the Yearbook Here

It is a fantastic celebration of our community and all the wonderful individuals within it.

Grade 8 students in Moscow will receive a printed yearbook at the Moving-Up Ceremony. Other MS students who are in Moscow may pick up a printed yearbook from one of the security booths starting Friday, 17 June.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please complete this form.
 

💙  A Final Thank-You

Because I will be moving on from AAS at the end of this school year, I do want to express my gratitude to the students, faculty and family of the Middle School.

It has been a real pleasure serving the AAS community as both MS Associate Principal and Principal over the last six years and the MS students and families will always hold a special place in my heart. I hope you all have a fantastic summer and take this time to read, relax, and rejuvenate!

Ms. Cormier
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

Thank you to all MS families.

We are grateful to have been part of such a fantastic community, and we hope next year’s transition goes well for all of you.

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

⭐️  Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony

This Friday we will be sending out more details for the Moving-Up Ceremony that will be held on Friday, June 17 at 10:00 am online.

We will be inviting Grade 8 families in Moscow to view the ceremony on campus.
 

📖  Yearbooks

The 2021 - 2022 yearbook is now available online, the password is Learning@AAS.

See the Yearbook Here

It is a fantastic celebration of our community and all the wonderful individuals within it.

Grade 8 students in Moscow will receive a printed yearbook at the Moving-Up Ceremony. Other MS students who are in Moscow may pick up a printed yearbook from one of the security booths starting Friday, 17 June.
 

📚  Library Materials

If you are in a position to do so, please consider how you might return library, or any other school materials to AAS.

There may be items that can be dropped off at school before the academic year is complete. If you have any questions about materials that are checked out on your account or that of your child, please contact the library.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please complete this form.
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

During these last few days of a very challenging school year, we encourage you to take some time to check-in with your child(ren) about the transitions they are experiencing.

It’s a time of significant change, and whether your family is moving on or staying in Moscow, times like this can leave us all feeling unsettled. Taking a few minutes in the car or at the dinner table to acknowledge this fact can go a long way towards opening a conversation with your child. It can help you understand your child's feelings at this point in their transition, and give you a chance to remind them how important it is to reflect on and appreciate all of their good memories of friends, of AAS, and of Moscow.

For additional ideas on supporting your family during this time of change, we invite you to watch the recording of the AAS counseling team's recent PK–12 Parent Transition Session below. If you prefer, you can look over the presentation's slideshow.

Watch the Recording Here

See the Presentation Here

Please get in touch with us directly, if you would like to speak about your child.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

🍿  MS Movie Night

 Thursday, June 16 

Mark your calendar because on Thursday, 16 June, AAS will host a movie night for MS students.

We will share more details in next week’s newsletter.
 

📸  MS Photo Contest

Last week we shared the first group of student photo winners. Students earned points for their house for both entries and winners.

Best Landmark Photo
Arkesh (grade 7) - Chinstraps

Best Being Active Photo
Yumiko (grade 8) - Galapagos

Best Sunrise/Sunset Photo
Aahan (grade 8) - Macaronis

Best Place to Read Photo
Lucie (grade 6) - Macaronis

 

🏫  Connecting with MS Leadership

 Tuesdays, 14:00 MSK 

MS Leadership is hosting drop-in office hours for parents each week.

This will provide a chance to ask questions or share feedback in an informal setting. We aren’t sharing any new information or presentations at that time. These meetings are every Tuesday from 14:00 - 14:30 MSK in Ms. Cormier’s Google Meet.

Join Here
 

🐧  Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony

 June 17 

This week a letter went out to all Grade 8 families with details regarding the Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony.

This ceremony will be held on Friday, June 17 at 10:00 MSK online. We will be inviting Grade 8 families in Moscow to view the ceremony on campus.
 

📚  Library Materials

If you are in a position to do so, please consider how you might return library, or any other school materials to AAS.

There may be items that can be dropped off at school before the academic year is complete. If you have any questions about materials that are checked out on your account or that of your child, please contact the library.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please complete this form.
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

Thank you to the parents that were able to attend the PK-12 Parent Transition Session last week.

It was wonderful to have you join us and engage in this conversation. If you were unable to attend, you are welcome to watch the recording or review the presentation.

Watch the Recording Here

See the Presentation Here

We hope that you are able to use this information to support a smooth transition for you and your child(ren) as you move on from AAS.

Please get in touch with us directly, if you would like to speak about your child.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

⭐️  MS Spirit Week

 May 23–27 

This week the MS has two more Spirit Week dress up days.

Students who participate in these days will earn points for their House.

Thursday
National Colors Day
wear your national dress or colors

Friday
House Colors Day
 

📷  MS Photo Contest

In today’s MS Assembly, the winners of the MS Photo contest were announced.

Students earned points for their house for both entries and winners. Here are the first few winners. We will share the others in the newsletter next week.

Best Pet/Animal
Aahan (G7 - Macaronis)

Best Food/Meal Photo
Ansiia (G7 - Chinstraps)

Best Nature/Landscape
Leo (G6 - Chinstraps)

 

📝  Grade 5-6 Transition - Parent Meeting

 June 1, 2022 

Next week, the MS Leadership team will be meeting with Grade 5 students to talk about the transition to Middle School.

We will also be hosting a Grade 5-6 Transition meeting online for parents on Wednesday, June 1st at 10:30 MSK. More details, including a link to the meeting, will be sent directly to Grade 5 parents next Monday. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Cormier, MS Principal.
 

🏫  Connecting with MS Leadership

 Tuesdays, 14:00 MSK 

MS Leadership is hosting drop-in office hours for parents each week.

This will provide a chance to ask questions or share feedback in an informal setting. We aren’t sharing any new information or presentations at that time. These meetings are every Tuesday from 14:00 - 14:30 MSK in Ms. Cormier’s Google Meet.

Join Here
 

🐧  Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony

 June 17 

This week a letter went out to all Grade 8 families with details regarding the Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony.

This ceremony will be held on Friday, June 17 at 10:00 MSK online. We will be inviting Grade 8 families in Moscow to view the ceremony on campus.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please complete this form.
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

The AAS counselors would like to invite all parents to a short presentation and discussion about Transitions. We will speak about some of the ups and downs of the transitions process, and share some resources that might be of interest to you. 
 
The meeting will take place this Thursday, 26 May, at 13:00 MSK. You can attend the meeting by using the link below at that time

Join Here

We will record and share out the session for those parents who are unable to attend.

If you would like to speak with one of us about how your child is doing, please email us, and we can set up a time to meet.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

✏️  NCTE Promising Young Writers

Congratulations to two Grade 8 students - Nour-Rita B. and Vihaan G. who were identified as NCTE Promising Young Writers with Certificates of Recognition.

This is based on submitting writing from students around the world.
 

⭐️  MS Spirit Week

 May 23–27 

Next week the MS will be having Spirit Week dress up days.

Students who participate in these days will earn points for their House.

Monday
Pajama Day
school appropriate

Tuesday
Crazy Hat
or
Crazy Hair Day

Wednesday
Sports Jersey Day

Thursday
National Colors Day
wear your national dress or colors

Friday
House Colors Day
 

🏫  Connecting with MS Leadership

 Tuesdays, 14:00 MSK 

MS Leadership is hosting drop-in office hours for parents each week.

This will provide a chance to ask questions or share feedback in an informal setting. We aren’t sharing any new information or presentations at that time. These meetings are every Tuesday from 14:00 - 14:30 MSK in Ms. Cormier’s Google Meet.

Join Here
 

🐧  Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony

 June 17 

This week a letter will be going out to all Grade 8 families with details regarding the Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony.

This ceremony will be held on Friday, June 17.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please complete this form.
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

As we enter these last weeks before the end of the school year, we would like to share some reminders to help ensure a smooth transition for you and your child(ren).

If you need supporting documents to apply to new schools for your child, please use the form below to do so. Once received, we will be sure to prepare the documents requested and send them to the appropriate schools.

Request Supporting Documents

AAS Counselors from all divisions recognize that, this year, students are transitioning under a variety of circumstances, in many cases leaving no time for the usual routines or traditions normally put in place to support these moves. The counselors, therefore, are offering a transition session for parents to provide information, resources, and strategies as you support your child and family through this next move. More information will be coming next week.

We all know how different we feel when we get a good night's sleep. Please enjoy this podcast on The Science of a Good Night's Sleep to learn more.

Listen to Podcast Here

Please reach out to us directly, if you would like to discuss your child’s well-being.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

We hope that everyone had a restful and relaxing break during the May holidays. Teachers and students are gearing up for the final push to the end of the school year.
 

📸  MS Photo Contest - Deadline extended to Friday

Yesterday in our MS Assembly, the Student Council extended the MS Photo Contest deadline until Friday, 13 May.

• These photos will be submitted on the Google Form shared on the grade level Google Classroom
• Each submission will be awarded house points
• The top 3 submissions for each category will be awarded extra house points.
• Photos are due Friday, 13 May, by 4:00pm Moscow time
   

⭐️  Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony

Next week we will be sharing more information with our Grade 8 families regarding the Grade 8 Moving-Up Ceremony.

This ceremony will be held on Friday, 17 June. A separate email will be sent with more specific detail information.
 

🖼  Grade 8 Art

Please check out the fantastic Grade 8 Art students who used symbolism to represent their personal identities by creating a visual life story.

See it here

We celebrate their resilient and creative approach, experimenting with new digital mediums and adjusting to the available materials during distance learning.

Huge thank you to Ms.Maria for putting together the video!
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

Welcome back. We hope that the time off was both relaxing and re-energizing for all of our MS students and their families.

The ongoing context, and the demands of these last weeks of school, may continue to feel stressful to many members of our community. One habit that may help is finding time to focus on the positive. This short video – How to Notice Good Things in Your Life – describes an easy way to integrate some positive thinking into our lives. The video is geared towards younger children, but the activity it describes is adaptable for all ages, including adults. For example, rather than doing the activity individually, families may consider incorporating the habit into their regular dinner conversations.

Please reach out to your child’s counselor, if needed. We are here to support you and your family.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

📝  Progress Reports

Families should now be able to see Quarter 3 progress reports.

Grades and Approaches to Learning are updated. Comments are only noted for quarter long classes as well as any areas for concerns. Any students who left AAS at the end of Q3 will see summary comments for their yearlong courses.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the MS Office.
 

📸  House Activities - MS Photo Contest

At today’s MS Assembly, the MS Student Leadership team launched an AAS MS House Photo Contest.

Rules are below:

• There are SEVEN categories of photos
  • Best Place to Read
  • Best Sunset Photo
  • Best Nature/Landscape Photo
  • Best Landmark Photo
  • Best Being Active Photo
  • Best Food Photo
  • Best Pet/Animal Photo
     
• Maximum one photo per student per category!
   
• Theses photos will be submitted on the Google Form shared on the grade level GoogleClassroom
   
• Each submission will be awarded house points 
   
• The top 3 submissions for each category will be awarded extra house points
   
• Photos are due Tuesday, 10 May, by midnight Moscow time
   

🐧  Athletics and Activities 

If your child didn’t get to sign-up for Penguin Life activities or athletics last month, registration is still open.

Please visit Penguin Life MS webpage for times and sign-up information. They have activities for students both in and out of Moscow.
 

🎉  Enjoy your break!

We hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday break.

As a reminder, after this week, classes will resume on Wednesday May 11.
 

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

We recently came across this quote by the American writer, Anne Lamott: "Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you." The quote put us in mind of the coming break from school, and of how many of us will be choosing to spend our time. It’s worth reflecting on the importance of time in our lives: time to work, time to relax, time to play, and time to heal. With so much happening in our lives right now, with the push to move forward and to find new paths and new answers, it isn’t surprising that we often overlook the importance of time just TO BE. And a reminder about "being in the moment" is not only helpful for adults during challenging times; it's also an important part of healthy child development.

This article, "The Benefits of Boredom," explores what our children can learn from managing their own free time. Here's a key quote from the article: Boredom "helps kids build tolerance of less-than-ideal experiences. “Boredom might not be super distressing...but it’s not fun. Life requires us to manage our frustrations and regulate our emotions when things aren’t going our way, and boredom is a great way to teach that skill.” The full text goes into additional detail about these ideas, and offers suggestions as to how parents can support this process for their children.

Read the article here

We wish you and your families all the best as you go into this week away from school. Please reach out, if needed. We are here to support you during your transitions.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

Welcome back!

We hope everyone had an opportunity to rest over the spring break and spend time with friends and family.
 

☕️  Grade 8 Parent Meeting

Thank you to the Grade 8 parents to attended the Grade 8 Families Transition meeting yesterday.

Below is the slide deck we shared if you were not able to attend.

See the Slides

Some questions came up from parents regarding advice on options for students either in Moscow, outside of Russia, or online programs. We are happy to share out specific resources with families directly. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms. Cormier, Mr. Lopez or Mr. Villers to discuss any of these options further.

Further, for Grade 8 parents. Just a note that more information will be coming out soon regarding the Grade 8 Hoodies. We are starting to make our plans for the Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony which will be re-scheduled to be held sometime during the last week of our school year, June 14-17.
 

🏫  MS Reporting

Teachers are currently working on Q3 progress reports for students.

Families will be able to access a Q3 progress report in PowerSchool at 16:00 MSK on Monday, 25 April.
 

⭐️  MS Distance Learning PE Challenge Competition

Our MS PE department has been running PE challenge competition and the results were shared at our weekly MS Assembly today.

Grade 6 topped Grade 7 and 8 with the most challenge points. And the first student from each grade to complete the entire challenge board was recognized: Max vT (6), Angie G. (7) and Tim M. (8).

Well done, Penguins!
 

📊  MAP Testing Update

AAS has decided to not administer MAP testing this Spring.

To ensure validity of assessment results, it is key that we offer a common, proctored environment to all participants. Because of the quantity of students and staff currently not able to be on campus, to offer the MAP assessment at this time would be inappropriate. For internal and external purposes, we will utilize our Fall 2021 assessment results and we hope to provide additional assessment opportunities when we are back on campus in the Fall of 2022. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kirsten Welbes.
 

📝  Requesting AAS Records and Recommendations

As you complete applications to other schools, please use the link below to let us know what documents the other school is requesting. 

Request the Documents

Please only complete this once you have made an application and the school has requested documents.

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

The number and size of the changes impacting the AAS MS right now likely has many of us feeling overwhelmed. And feelings like that can make it hard to stay focused on--or motivated to take care of--the needs of right here and right now. Decreased motivation is certainly understandable in the current context. But what can we do to help those students who may be struggling with it?

This short article from the Australian Department of Health is full of ideas and suggestions about getting motivated and staying motivated. Goal setting is a fundamental part of this process, because having goals gives us something to get motivated for. The strategies listed here are general, but can be applied to our unique situation. The article also links to additional resources that could be helpful in boosting motivation.

Thank you to those grade 8 parents who attended Tuesday’s meeting about supporting your transition to a new school. Please refer to the main section of the MS newsletter for the slideshow from that meeting.

If you would like to discuss the wellbeing of your child, please get in touch with us via email.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

🔺  Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences

Thank you!

Thank you to all the students, parents, and teachers who made our most recent conferences a success. We truly appreciate the opportunity to come together and talk about student learning. Once again, if you weren’t able to speak to a particular teacher, you can always reach out to set up a meeting to connect.
 

📝  Applying for a New School

We realize with the most recent news that some families will be changing schools sooner rather than later.

We have updated out procedures to streamline requests for families. If your family is moving to another school, please note the procedure below:

• Contact the admissions office of the schools you are applying to, in order to learn their application requirements
   
•  NEW STEP  Fill out the MS Application Request form
   
• AAS MS will take care of the following:
  • Ms. Skvortsova will organize and gather required reports
  • Teachers will complete our AAS Recommendation Form (that mirrors most private school application forms)
  • AAS MS will send necessary documents to the school(s)
     

☕️  Grade 8 Parent Meeting

 Tuesday, April 19, 14:00 MSK 

In an effort to support our Grade 8 families in finding a new school for their child next year, we will be hosting a Grade 8 Parent Meeting on Tuesday, 19 April at 14:00 MSK.

During this meeting we will discuss ways we can support you and your child in their transition. The session will be held in Ms. Cormier’s Webex.

Join Here

If you are not able to attend, and have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms. Cormier, Mr. Lopez or Mr. Villers.
 

🐧  MS Electives

When we return from the break, students will start their Quarter 4 Electives.

Today the new elective options were shared during our MS assembly and students were asked to sign up for their preferences. The form they should fill out is on the grade level Google Classroom. Elective options can be found on the MS webpage.

Visit MS Page Now
 

📊  MAP Testing Update

AAS has decided to not administer MAP testing this Spring.

To ensure validity of assessment results, it is key that we offer a common, proctored environment to all participants. Because of the quantity of students and staff currently not able to be on campus, to offer the MAP assessment at this time would be inappropriate. For internal and external purposes, we will utilize our Fall 2021 assessment results and we hope to provide additional assessment opportunities when we are back on campus in the Fall of 2022. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kirsten Welbes.
 

🎨  Art Corner

Please check out the fantastic artistry of our Grade 6 and 7 students.

Watch Grade 6 Animations

Watch Grade 7 Half-Portraits

Thank you to Ms.Maria who made both videos!

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

Finding calm during a storm can be challenging.

The number and frequency of changes, the growing list of to-do's, the roller coaster of emotions, and the amount of multi-tasking required to navigate sudden changes often results in a sort of tunnel vision, where seeing outside of the immediate circumstance is difficult. Our ability to see the bigger picture and to move forward can both be greatly impacted.

The article below offers 4 practical ways to regain our mental and emotional balance: breathing, self-compassion, connection and compassion for others. These tools allow us and our children to gain control of our emotions and to broaden our perspective beyond our current troubles, and hopefully help us find some peace of mind.

Read the article Here
 

Please know, we are committed to being a continued support to you and your children through the remainder of the school year, and as you transition to new schools. Here are some of the ways that we can support you with your plans moving forward.

1. Family meetings to discuss schooling possibilities for next year, managing transitions, and the impact of choices on planning for the future, including university applications.
    
2. Student meetings to discuss the challenges that they are facing and to provide support and resources.
    
3. Application support for new schools:

• Contact the new schools’ admissions offices, in order to learn their application requirements
   
• Email Ms. Larissa Skvortsova and your student’s counselor (Mr. Villers for grade 8; Ms. Iana for grades 6 or 7) to receive a records request form
   
• Complete one form for each of the schools you are applying to
   
• Send your completed forms back to Ms. Skvortsova and the respective counselor
  • Ms. Skvortsova will organize and send the required reports 
  • The counselors will facilitate the sending of letters of recommendation
     

For any other needs, particularly any concerns about your child’s well-being, please reach out to us. We are here to support.
 

MS Senior Associate Principal, Karisti Cormier | karisti.cormier@aas.ru
MS Associate Principal, Alex Lopez | alexander.lopez-barton@aas.ru
 👍  Click here to like AAS MS on Facebook! 
 

🔺  Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences

 March 31 
 April 1 

Our spring conference days are planned for this Thursday and Friday.

Please use these days as an opportunity to connect with your child’s teachers via Webex and engage in meaningful conversations about their learning and next steps for this spring.

For technical reasons we have to transition our conference sign-ups to a new platform. You can still sign up for Friday conference appointments using the link below.

Sign Up Here 

We have also created a brief tutorial on how to use the new platform. Please review the video below to ensure that you are able to see a full picture of available times and dates for each teacher.

Watch the Tutorial here

The meetings themselves will still take place on Webex. Sign-ups will be available until 16:00 the day before the meeting. We will be able to take new appointments until 16:00 Thursday for appointments on Friday.
 

⭐️  American Mathematics Competition

Congratulations to all of the students who participated in the AMC 8 - the American Mathematics Competition for Middle School.

Among the group who participated, there were several students singled out for individual awards:

• First Place AAS & Honors (top 5% in the world)
  &
  School Certificate of Merit (team score over 50)
  Sangwoo P. (grade 8)
   
• Second Place AAS
  &
  School Certificate of Merit (team score over 50)
  Kyurim K. (grade 8)
  Jungwook H. (grade 8)
  Yuljin P. (grade 8)
   
• Third Place AAS
  Soheun L. (grade 8)
  Shangchen S. (grade 8)
   
• Certificate of Achievement
  (for students in grade 6 or below
  with an outstanding performance)
  Lucie L. (grade 6)
   

🐧  After School Activities for Kids

In a regular year, 90% of MS students engage in our Penguin Life program of after school activities and sports.

While we are excited to be able to offer opportunities at AAS for those students who are still in Moscow, if you are a family who has traveled back to your home country we encourage you to find ways for your child to engage in activities outside of the school day. This might be local art classes, club sports, or other activities for teens. Being able to socialize with peers in person as well as pursue their interests will be beneficial.
 

📝  Reference Procedures

We realize with the most recent news that some families will be changing schools sooner rather than later.

We are ready to support families with that transfer process. If your family is moving to another school, please note the procedure below.

Process for applying to a new school

• Contact the admissions office of the schools you are applying to, in order to learn their application requirements
   
• Email Ms. Larissa Skvortsova AND your child’s counselor to receive a records request form
  • Ms Iana Sigitova
    (Grade 6 and 7 Counselor)
  • Mr. Villers
    (Grade 8 Counselor)
     
• Complete one form for each of the schools you are applying to
   
• Send your completed forms back to Ms. Skvortsova and Mr. Villers
  • Ms. Skvortsova will organize and gather the required reports 
  • Mr. Villers will facilitate letters of recommendation (letters are sent directly to the school)
     

James Villers | Grade 8 | james.villers@aas.ru
Iana Sigitova | Grades 6 & 7 | iana.sigitova@aas.ru
 

Last Friday’s news has many of us feeling unsettled. Please know that we are available to support. The transition will mean a lot of changes. And this, for many of our families, will include the need for official school documentation in support of new school applications.
 

The process for applying to a new school

• Contact the new schools’ admissions offices, in order to learn their application requirements
   
• Email Ms. Larissa Skvortsova and your student’s counselor (Mr. Villers for grade 8; Ms. Iana for grades 6 or 7) to receive a records request form
   
• Complete one form for each of the schools you are applying to
   
• Send your completed forms back to Ms. Skvortsova and the respective counselor
  • Ms. Skvortsova will organize and send the required reports 
  • The counselors will facilitate the sending of letters of recommendation
     

For any other needs, particularly any concerns about your child’s well-being, please reach out to us. We are here to support.
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

As we come to the end of the year, we would like to wish everyone a wonderful summer break. We hope that you and your family are able to transition to your next school as smoothly as possible and we wish you well on this next chapter. 

Please continue to connect with one another and with the school, we remain an interconnected, global community. One way to remain in touch is through our alumni network.

Join Alumni Network Here

Should you have questions about school records or other areas next year, you can continue to contact us via email at hs.office@aas.ru or at admissions@aas.ru and a member of the staff will get back to you shortly.
 

🗓  Schedule for Last Day of School

 June 17, 2022 

On our last day of school, June 17, we will have a special schedule.

During our HS assembly we will be distributing the Outstanding Student Awards for grades 9–11, recognition the winners of the Russian Essay Contents as well as hearing from members of our community. Parents and family members are welcome to join us using the link below.

Join Here
 

10:00 - 10:40
High School End-of-Year Assembly

10:40 - 10:45
Break

10:45 - 11:15
Advisory

11:15 - 11:30
Break

11:30 - 12:00
AAS Closing Ceremony

12:00
Dismissal

 

📖  Yearbooks

The 2021 - 2022 yearbook is now available online, the password is Learning@AAS.

View the Yearbook Here

It is a fantastic celebration of our community and all the wonderful individuals within it.

Students that are in Moscow and who have requested a hard-copy leaving pack will have a printed yearbook included with the leaving pack. If you would like a yearbook but are not getting a leaving pack you can pick one up from one of the security booths.
 

📚  Library Materials

If you are in a position to do so, please consider how you might return library, or other school materials to AAS.

There may be items that can be dropped off at school before the academic year is complete. If you have any questions about materials that are checked out on your account or that of your child, please contact the library.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access transcripts and end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official transcripts and leaving packs will be available for pick-up beginning during the week of June 20th.

To request official records and leaving packs, please let us know here.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now as I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

🗂  Grade 11s – End-of-Year Records

Grade 11 students should make certain to maintain a record of all of their IB materials BEFORE the end of the year.

This should certainly include all IA material, EE work, TOK Exhibitions, IO recordings, and CAS work. Do not assume that AAS will be able to retrieve this material for you once the high school year ends. While we will transfer ManageBac CAS, TOK, and EE material to receiving schools, this can only happen if a receiving school requests the material. After July, there will be no one in the high school office, so again, to assure your materials are retained, please download any school work that you may need next year.
 

As you and your family transition to new schools and communities, we want to wish you all the best.

It has been a pleasure to work with you and your children and we know that once settled into your surroundings, you will find those important connections that will make your new "home" feel like "home".

Should you need further documents or records in the future, please reach out to AAS Admissions. They will be able to assist in gathering or preparing any documentation that you may need.

As a final note...

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

📖  Yearbooks

The 2021 - 2022 yearbook is now available online, the password is Learning@AAS.

View the Yearbook Here

It is a fantastic celebration of our community and all the wonderful individuals within it.

Students that are in Moscow and who have requested a hard-copy leaving pack will have a printed yearbook included with the leaving pack. If you would like a yearbook but are not getting a leaving pack you can pick one up from one of the security booths.
 

🗓  Schedule for Last Day of School

 June 17 

On our last day of school, June 17th, we will have a special schedule.

During our HS assembly we will be distributing the Outstanding Student Awards for grades 9-11, recognition the winners of the Russian Essay Contents as well as hearing from members of our community. Parents and family members are welcome to join us using the link below.

Join Here

🎞  Graduation Photos

In addition to the recording of graduation, we also would like to share photos that capture many of the moments from the celebration.

We have two albums that are available, one of photos taken in Moscow and another of photos from Zagreb.

View Photos from Moscow

View Photos from Zagreb
 

📚  Library Materials

If you are in a position to do so, please consider how you might return library, or other school materials to AAS.

There may be items that can be dropped off at school before the academic year is complete. If you have any questions about materials that are checked out on your account or that of your child, please contact the library.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access transcripts and end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official transcripts and leaving packs will be available for pick-up beginning during the week of June 20th.

To request official records and leaving packs, please let us know here.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now as I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

🗂  Grade 11s – End-of-Year Records

Grade 11 students should make certain to maintain a record of all of their IB materials BEFORE the end of the year.

This should certainly include all IA material, EE work, TOK Exhibitions, IO recordings, and CAS work. Do not assume that AAS will be able to retrieve this material for you once the high school year ends. While we will transfer ManageBac CAS, TOK, and EE material to receiving schools, this can only happen if a receiving school requests the material. After July, there will be no one in the high school office, so again, to assure your materials are retained, please download any school work that you may need next year.
 

During these last few days of a very challenging school year, we encourage you to take some time to check-in with your child(ren) about the transitions they are experiencing. Whether your family is moving on or staying in Moscow, times of significant change can leave us all feeling unsettled. Taking a few minutes in the car or at the dinner table to acknowledge this fact can go a long way towards opening a conversation with your child. It can help you understand your child's feeling at this point in their transition, and give you a chance to remind them how important it is to reflect on all of their good memories of friends, of AAS, and of Moscow.

For additional ideas on supporting your family during this time of change, we invite you to watch the counseling team's recorded presentation on the topic of family transitions. If you prefer, you can look over the presentation's slideshow.

Watch the Presentation Here

See the Slideshow Here

We continue to be a resource to you and your family in any way we can.

Please enjoy this short video below... It's amazing what we can learn from new friends.

Watch the video Here
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

⭐️  Staying Engaged and Motivated

With just a few weeks remaining in the school year, there is still a great deal of learning ahead of us.

Please anticipate that your child will also have cumulative AoLs in many of their classes. We are working with faculty to spread the assessments over the remainder of the school year so that your child has a balanced number of assessments each day. Should your child have three or more in-class AoLs scheduled for a day, please ask them to reach out to their teachers to reschedule one. 
 

📚  Library Materials

If you are in a position to do so, please consider how you might return library, or other school materials to AAS.

There may be items that can be dropped off at school before the academic year is complete. If you have any questions about materials that are checked out on your account or that of your child, please contact the library.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access transcripts and end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official transcripts and leaving packs will be available for pick-up beginning during the week of June 20th.

To request official records and leaving packs, please let us know here.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams

Congratulations to Sunoh and Anna B. on the completion of their May 2022 Exams!

Now we can all look forward to Results day on July 6.
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now as I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

⭐️  Grade 11s- TOK Exhibition

On Monday and Tuesday, May 23-24, all Grade 11 TOK students took part in their TOK Exhibition.

The Exhibition is the culminating experience of the TOK class and represents the sole assessment in the course. Students met in a virtual environment to present their Knowledge Question-based commentaries to an audience of their peers, faculty, and administrators. It was a great experience. Congratulations to the Grade 11s.
 

Thank you to the parents that were able to attend the PK-12 Parent Transition Session last week.

It was wonderful to have you join us and engage in this conversation with us. If you were unable to attend, you are welcome to watch the recording and review the presentation linked respectively.

Watch the Recording Here

See the Presentation Here

We hope that you are able to use this information to support a smooth transition for you and your child(ren) as you move on from AAS.

We are here to help with your and your child's transition.
Please reach out with any questions.

And because we all need a bit of "Joy" please enjoy this short video below.

Watch the Video Here
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

🎓 CONGRATULATIONS TO THE AAS CLASS OF 2022! 🎓

Thank you to all the families who have supported our graduates, and all of our students. This past weekend was a wonderful celebration of learning and the culmination of all of our joint efforts. 

Visit the AAS Moscow Graduation 2022 page, where you can see either a full replay of graduation, or a brief overview of the festivities.

Visit the page now

In addition to our own academic awards, we’d like to highlight two seniors who received awards of distinction from beyond AAS.

Hahn
National Merit Scholarship Finalist and winner of a $2500 scholarship to a US university.
He is one of 7,500 finalists from approximately 1.5 million US students who take the PSATs

Elke
US Presidential Scholar.
With only 161 students overall, and only 3 from international schools, this prestigious award celebrates students achievement based on academic success, essays, community service and leadership.
 

⭐️  Learning this Week

It has been fantastic to speak with grade 11 students as they participate in this year’s Theory of Knowledge Exhibition.

Their insight, questions and topics were fascinating and provided us with wonderful and wide-ranging conversations.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access transcripts and end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official transcripts and leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please let us know here.

Request the records here
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams

Congratulations to Sunoh and Anna B. on the completion of their May 2022 Exams!

Now we can all look forward to Results day on July 6.
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

⭐️  Grade 11s- TOK Exhibition

On Monday and Tuesday of this week, May 23-24, all Grade 11 TOK students took part in their TOK Exhibition.

The Exhibition is the culminating experience of the TOK class and represents the sole assessment in the course. Students met in a virtual environment to present their Knowledge Question-based commentaries to an audience of their peers, faculty, and administrators. It was a great experience. Congratulations to the Grade 11s.
 

With just a few weeks left of this school year, we are hoping that each of you is finding a path forward for next year and a bit more ease with your upcoming transitions.

We are here to help you as you take these steps moving forward and to this light we are offering a PK-12 Parent Transition Session, this Thursday, May 26, at 13:00 MSK.

Join here

This will be a time to discuss the transition process from a social-emotional perspective, appreciate the uniqueness of our upcoming transitions and share important steps that you can take as a parent and for yourself as you transition to a new school, location and/or home.

We would love to have you join us!

This session will be recorded and emailed to all AAS Families, in case you are unable to make it.
 

⭐️ Summer Opportunities

If you and your child happen to be looking for opportunities, online or in-person, for summer programs or interested in engaging in university visits, in-person or online, this summer the AAS University Counseling page is a good resource.

Visit AAS University Counseling Page

This page is updated daily with new resources as we hear about them. If you do not see what you are looking for and need a hand, please reach out to your child's counselor. We are happy to meet with you and talk through some possibilities and resources. For summer programs, click on "pre-university experiences" and for university visits, click on "open days".

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

Congratulations to the Class of 2022!

This weekend marks the culmination of the High School learning experience for our seniors. The faculty of the HS look forward to celebrating this significant achievement with their students, family and friends.

Please join us on Sunday, May 22, beginning at 16:00 Moscow time as we have our annual graduation.

Join Graduation Here
 

⭐️  Keeping your Child Connected

We use Kumospace as a platform for students to be able to connect with one another in flexible groupings as they move through a virtual room.

In addition to being available for teachers during class, we have three dedicated periods each week in which students can join. Mondays and Thursdays after school from 15:45 - 16:30 and during lunch on Wednesday from 12:20 - 13:10.
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access transcripts and end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official transcripts and leaving packs will be available beginning the following week. To request official records and leaving packs, please let us know here.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams

Congratulations to Sunoh and Anna B. on the completion of their May 2022 Exams!

Now we can all look forward to Results day on July 6.
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

⭐️  Grade 11s- TOK Exhibition

 May 23, 24 

On Monday and Tuesday of next week, May 23-24, all Grade 11 TOK students will be taking part in their TOK Exhibition.

The Exhibition is the culminating experience of the TOK class and represents the sole assessment in the course. Students will meet in a virtual environment to present their Knowledge Question-based commentaries to an audience of their peers, faculty, and administrators. It should be a great experience.
 

A huge congratulations to the Class of 2022 as they celebrate their graduation this week.

They have completed four years of a very unusual High School experience, contending with COVID, geo-political issues, and lots of transitions between Distance, Hybrid, and In-person Learning. We are so proud of the seniors and everything they have accomplished. We wish them the best of luck in university and beyond!

As we enter the last push towards the end of this school year for all other grades, we would like to share some reminders to ensure a smooth transition for you and your child(ren).

If you need records to apply for new schools, please use this form to do so. Once received we will be sure to prepare the documents requested and send them to the appropriate schools.

If your child in is Grade 11 and considering requesting recommendations for university, this document outlines the process for doing this. Please note that in order to provide teachers with at least 30 days to complete letters, the deadline for this requests is THIS WEEK and Step 1 is for the student to meet with their counselor to discuss recommendation strategy.

AAS Counselors from all divisions recognize that students are transitioning under a variety of circumstances and timelines, in many cases leaving no time for the usual routines and traditions put in place to support these moves. As such, the counselors will be offering a transition session for parents to provide information, resources and strategies as you support your child and family through this next move. More information will be coming next week.

A tidbit for this week: We all know how different we feel when we get a good night's sleep. How prepared we feel for the day - a heightened level of tolerance and an air of flexibility and understanding. But do you know how sleep affects on our overall well being. Please enjoy this podcast on The Science of a Good Night's Sleep to learn more.

Listen to podcast here

We are here to support you and your child(ren) in any way we can.  Please reach out any time with concerns, questions or to share information.
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principalhttps://explore.kumospace.com/features
 

We would like to welcome everyone back from the May holiday. We hope you were able to have a restful, relaxing and rejuvenating break. We look forward to continuing forward positively as we move towards the end of the year. 

The next five weeks may have mixed emotions for many of us. There may be elements of this period which seem e to pass quickly and others which will take more effort. Please help your child remain engaged throughout this period. One way to help them do that is by chunking the next five weeks into smaller, achievable goals. Whether it is an upcoming AoL or a family event that your child is looking forward to; having milestones between now and June 17 may help your child be successful.

As always if you sense your child’s motivation is flagging or you are concerned about their wellbeing, please reach out to their counselor, we are here to support them throughout this time.
 

⭐️  Learning this Week

We would like to celebrate the learning of grade 12 students who are in the IBDP Visual Arts course.

Over the last two years they have worked tirelessly to complete outstanding portfolios of work. Please take some time to see what they have accomplished.

Click Here to see the IB Works
 

🗂  End-of-Year Records

At the end of the day on June 17 you will be able to access transcripts and end-of-year report cards in PowerSchool.

Official transcripts and leaving packs will be available after that, we will have more information coming in June about how to request those and the timeline for them to be completed.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams

We have two students who are opting to take the exams at alternative locations, one in Prague and one in Tallinn, Estonia.

We have worked with other schools to accomplish this transition in a timely manner. These students will still graduate as AAS students this year. Good luck Sunoh and Anna!
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

📝  Grade 11s – Extended Essay Extension

Mr. Sonderman extended the EE deadline to Monday, March 28, due to the obvious disruption to the school schedule.

The original deadline was March 11. We are still going to stay on track, but the schedule will get a little tighter. The objective is still to finish the 3,000-word first draft by the end of grade 11. We want this completed so that students do not have a great deal of EE work while they are juggling university applications in the fall.

The next deadline is the 2000-word draft due May 13.
 

Welcome back from break! We hope that you and your child found some peace, respite and relaxation and that you enjoyed time with family and friends.

As we make our way to these last 5 weeks of school and transition to new schools, this is a great time to stop and recognize that it is truly the small moments, those little things in life, that bring the greatest joy at even the toughest times. Below is a very short video that speaks to the POWER of taking a minute or two each day to recognize the positive things in our lives and the long-term happiness that it brings.

Watch the video here

You may consider incorporating this as a part of your dinner conversation, a daily diary challenge as a family or even a post-it challenge where each family member POSTS a couple of positive moments each day. So many fun ways to recognize the good in each day that is often overlooked or clouded, savour and share these special moments and bring happiness to our lives in the longer term too.
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principalhttps://explore.kumospace.com/features
 

We hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday break. As a reminder, after this week class will resume on Wednesday May 11.
 

🐧  Athletics and Activities

If your child didn’t get to sign-up for Penguin Life activities or athletics last month, registration is still open.

Please visit Penguin Life webpage for times and sign-up information.

They have activities for students both in and out of Moscow.
 

⭐️  Connecting Students

We continue to have Kumospace as a platform for students to be able to connect with one another in flexible groupings as they move through a virtual room.

Join Kumospace

In addition to being available for teachers during class, we have three dedicated periods each week in which students can join.

Mondays and Thursdays after school from 15:45 – 16:30
and
during lunch on Wednesday from 12:20 – 13:10
 

🏫  Support for Transfers

As you and your family make plans for your child’s schooling next year, please remember we are available to answer questions, provide guidance or talk through options you are considering.

Please reach out to your child’s counselor or a member of the leadership team to schedule a meeting.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams

We have two students who are opting to take the exams at alternative locations, one in Prague and one in Tallinn, Estonia.

We have worked with other schools to accomplish this transition in a timely manner. These students will still graduate as AAS students this year. Good luck Sunoh and Anna!
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

📝  Grade 11s – Extended Essay Extension

Mr. Sonderman extended the EE deadline to Monday, March 28, due to the obvious disruption to the school schedule.

The original deadline was March 11. We are still going to stay on track, but the schedule will get a little tighter. The objective is still to finish the 3,000-word first draft by the end of grade 11. We want this completed so that students do not have a great deal of EE work while they are juggling university applications in the fall.

The next deadline is the 2000-word draft due May 13.
 

⭐️  Grade 10s – IB Diploma Course and Options Choices

As we now know, AAS will not run a high school program next year.

However, we realize that many of our student will join other IB schools. Therefore, we would still like to give you some guidance towards choosing your IB courses.

Beginning on April 19, IB Coordinator Sean Sonderman and all High School Department Heads met with the Grade 10 students to introduce course choices for the Diploma Program for next year. Students choose 6 courses, 1 from each of the 6 subject Groups. In Groups 1 through 5 students are required to select 1 course. In Group 6, the Arts, however, students can select Music, Visual Arts, or Theater, or they could take a second Social Studies, Language, or Science. We held a parent meeting on April 21 to share more information to aid in the course selection process.
 

As we head towards May break we often hear the question, "What are your plans for break?".

Recently, we came upon this quote:

"Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you"
– Anne Lamott

It gave us pause to more deeply consider the importance of time: time for healing, time to reflect, time to process, time to relax and time to savor. With so much happening in our lives and the push to move forward and find new paths and answers we often overlook the importance of TIME to JUST BE. This is not only helpful for challenging times but it is also an important part of healthy child development.

The article linked below, "The Benefits of Boredom," explores what our children can learn from managing their own free time.

Read it here

Here's a key quote from the article:
"Boredom helps kids build tolerance of less-than-ideal experiences. Boredom might not be super distressing... but it’s not fun. Life requires us to manage our frustrations and regulate our emotions when things aren’t going our way, and boredom is a great way to teach that skill... The key is to help kids learn how to manage their boredom so they can develop independence and feel agency over their own happiness and well-being...”

The full text goes into additional detail about these ideas, and offers suggestions as to how parents can support this process for their children.

We wish you and your families all the best as you go into this week away from school. Please reach out, if needed. We are here to support you during your transitions.

We hope you find some time for "boredom"! 🙂
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

⭐️  Connecting Students

As initially shared last week, we are now using Kumospace as a platform for students to be able to connect with one another in flexible groupings as they move through a virtual room.

In addition to being available for teachers during class, we have three dedicated periods each week in which students can join.

Mondays and Thursdays after school from 15:45 – 16:30 and during lunch on Wednesday from 12:20 – 13:10.
 

🏫  Community Connections

 Thursday, April 21, 14:00 MSK 

This week HS Leadership will be speaking with parents in grades 9 and 10 who are interested in learning more about selecting courses in an IBDP program.

Where to begin, what to consider and questions to ask. Please join us on Thursday at 14:00. Please note that the meeting location has been updated from last week, we will now be meeting here:

Click Here to Join
 

📊  MAP Testing Update

AAS has decided to not administer MAP testing this Spring.

To ensure validity of assessment results, it is key that we offer a common, proctored environment to all participants. Because of the quantity of students and staff currently not able to be on campus, to offer the MAP assessment at this time would be inappropriate. For internal and external purposes, we will utilize our Fall 2021 assessment results and we hope to provide additional assessment opportunities when we are back on campus in the Fall of 2022.

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kirsten Welbes at kirsten.welbes@aas.ru.
 

🗂  Requesting AAS Records and Recommendations

As you complete applications to other schools, please use the link below to let us know what documents the other school is requesting.

Request Documents Here

*Please only complete this once you have made an application and the school has requested documents.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams

We have two students who are opting to take the exams at alternative locations, one in Prague and one in Tallinn, Estonia.

We have worked with other schools to accomplish this transition in a timely manner. These students will still graduate as AAS students this year. Good luck Sunoh and Anna!
 

☝️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We had an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily. Mr. Sonderman contacted families and students before the break to remind everyone of this important requirement.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

📝  Grade 11s – Extended Essay Extension

Mr. Sonderman extended the EE deadline to Monday, March 28, due to the obvious disruption to the school schedule.

The original deadline was March 11. We are still going to stay on track, but the schedule will get a little tighter. The objective is still to finish the 3,000-word first draft by the end of grade 11. We want this completed so that students do not have a great deal of EE work while they are juggling university applications in the fall.

The next deadline is the 2000-word draft due May 13.
 

⭐️  Grade 10s – IB Diploma Course and Options Choices

 Thursday, April 21, 14:00 MSK 

As we now know, AAS will not run a high school program next year.

However, we realize that many of our student will join other IB schools. Therefore, we would still like to give you some guidance towards choosing your IB courses. In April, IB Coordinator Sean Sonderman and all High School Department Heads will meet with the Grade 10 students to introduce course choices for the Diploma Program for next year. Students will choose 6 courses, 1 from each of the 6 subject Groups. In Groups 1 through 5 students are required to select 1 course. In Group 6, the Arts, however, students can select Music, Visual Arts, or Theater, or they could take a second Social Studies, Language, or Science.

There will be a Webex parent meeting on April 21, at 14:00 Moscow Time to share more information to aid in the course selection process.

Join the Meeting Here
 

The number and size of the changes impacting the AAS HS right now likely has many of us feeling overwhelmed. And feelings like that can make it hard to stay focused on – or motivated to take care of – the needs of right here and right now.

Decreased motivation is certainly understandable in the current context. But what can we do to help those students who may be struggling with it?

This short article from the Australian Department of Health is full of ideas and suggestions about getting and staying motivated. Goal setting is a fundamental part of this process, because having goals gives us something to get motivated for. The strategies listed here are general, but can certainly be applied to our unique situation. The article also links to additional resources that could be helpful in boosting motivation.
 

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

🎓  Celebrating the Class of 2022

Last Wednesday we held the first of our celebrations of the Class of 2022 and all that they have achieved.

Thank you to all the parents who attended to support their child and their peers. We would also like to share a visual representation of one aspect of student success, university acceptances. Please click below to see some of the universities where the senior class has received offers or acceptances.

See University Acceptances Here
 

🐧  Connecting Students

In the coming days we will share an option for students to be able to come together to socialize and mingle, regardless of location.

We will have times both during the school day and after-school where this space is available to any HS student, this is part of a trial through a platform called Kumospace. We have already utilized it as part of our first senior celebration and received very positive feedback from students.
 

⭐️  Community Connections

 April 7 

In our ongoing efforts to support families during this difficult time, the HS is hosting two family sessions tomorrow to discuss how we can support you and your child in their transition to another school.

We look forward to seeing grade 11 families at 14:00 and grade 9 and 10 families at 15:00. Both sessions will be in Mr. Groves’ Webex.

Join Here

For families in grades 9 and 10 who are considering an IBDP school as a potential option for next year, we are also hosting a meeting on April 21 at 14:00 to delve into the details of course selection and general information about the IBDP.
 

📊  MAP Testing Update

AAS has decided to not administer MAP testing this Spring.

To ensure validity of assessment results, it is key that we offer a common, proctored environment to all participants. Because of the quantity of students and staff currently not able to be on campus, to offer the MAP assessment at this time would be inappropriate. For internal and external purposes, we will utilize our Fall 2021 assessment results. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kirsten Welbes.
 

📑  Requesting Documents for Applications

Last Thursday we shared via email an outline of our updated process for requesting school records.

Please reach out to the office if you did not receive that email or have follow-up questions.

By the end of this week you will receive communication with school records that may be helpful in applying to other schools.

If you are already in the application process for another school and they have requested a recommendation letter, please complete this request:

Complete Request Here
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams Update and Applications for Adverse Circumstances

Obviously now, we all know that AAS was granted non-exam status by the IBO last week.

Mr. Sonderman finalized the list of students who are opting for this route and sent it off to be processed. As a result, most classes will end for seniors today. Some will need to continue, as there is outstanding material, pertinent to AAS graduation and the IB Diploma, that is still due. Thank you for your contributions to the non-exam application process and for your patience as the IBO came to a final decision.

We also realize that we have two students who are opting to take the exams at alternative locations, one in Prague and one in Tallinn, Estonia. We have worked with other schools to accomplish this transition in a timely manner. These students will still graduate as AAS students this year. Good luck Sunoh and Anna!
 

⭐️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We have an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

📝  Grade 11s – Extended Essay Extension

Mr. Sonderman extended the EE deadline until this past Monday, March 28, due to the obvious disruption to the school schedule.

The original deadline was March 11. We are still going to stay on track, but the schedule will get a little tighter. The objective is still to finish the first draft by the end of grade 11. We want this completed so that students do not have a great deal of EE work while they are juggling university applications in the fall.
 

⭐️  Grade 10s – IB Diploma Course and Options Choices

As we now know, AAS will not run a high school program next year.

However, we realize that many of our student will join other IB schools. Therefore, we would still like to give you some guidance towards choosing your IB courses. In April, IB Coordinator Sean Sonderman and all High School Department Heads will meet with the Grade 10 students to introduce course choices for the Diploma Program for next year. Students will choose 6 courses, 1 from each of the 6 subject Groups. In Groups 1 through 5 students are required to select 1 course. In Group 6, the Arts, however, students can select Music, Visual Arts, or Theater, or they could take a second Social Studies, Language, or Science. There will be a parent meeting in April to share more information to aid in the course selection process.
 

Finding calm in the storm can be challenging as the high rate of information, list of to-do's, roller coaster of emotions, and amount of multi-tasking required to navigate sudden changes often results in tunnel vision (where seeing outside of the immediate circumstance is very difficult).

We are consumed by it all and our perspective to see the bigger picture and gain insight is greatly impacted. The article below offers 4 practical ways to regain our balance mentally and emotionally through: breathing, self-compassion, connection and compassion for others. These tools allow us and our children to gain control of our emotions and broaden our perspective to find a more calm state of mind.

Read the Article Here
 

Please know, we are committed to being a continued support to you and your children through the remainder of the school year and as you transition to new schools. Here are some of the ways that we can support you with your plans moving forward.

1. Family meetings to discuss schooling possibilities for next year, managing transitions and the impact of choices on university planning.
    
2. Student meetings to discuss the challenges that they are facing and provide support and resources.
    
3. Application support for new schools. We have streamlined with process as of April 1st:
    
   1. Complete one google form for up to 5 schools.
       
   2. Families will receive transcripts and MAP scores for their children this week so that you have them to upload directly for each school.
       
   3. Family resource for finding an IB school.
       

Matthew Groves | HS Principal
Andrew Wiese | HS Associate Principal
 

🔺  Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences

 March 31 
 April 1 

Our spring conference days are planned for this Thursday March 31 and Friday April 1.

Please use these days as an opportunity to connect with your child’s teachers via Webex and engage in meaningful conversations about their learning and next steps for this spring.

For technical reasons we have to transition our conference sign-ups to a new platform. You can sign up for conference times using the link below.

Sign Up for Conferences Here

We have also created a brief tutorial on how to use the new platform. Please review this video to ensure that you are able to see a full picture of available times and dates for each teacher.

Watch the Tutorial Here

The meetings themselves will still take place on Webex. Sign-ups will be available until 16:00 the day before the meeting. We will be able to take new appointments until 16:00 on Wednesday for Thursday and 16:00 on Thursday for Friday.
 

🏫  Supporting Families who are Transferring Schools

We recognize that in the coming period of time we will likely be supporting you and your child in seeking another school.

We are looking to update and streamline the process for families so that you are able to request multiple records on a single form. Additionally, we are working to ensure that applications are processed and sent out in a timely manner. We anticipate having an update on this in the coming days and we thank you for your patience as we are developing this new system.

If you have questions or concerns about this process please reach out to your child’s counselor. In addition to being available to meet throughout the week, they also have appointment times during parent-student-teacher conferences. Please use the link above to sign up.
 

From: Sean Sonderman
 

📝  Grade 12 IB Exams Update and Applications for Adverse Circumstances

Obviously now, we all know that AAS was granted non-exam status by the IBO last week.

Mr. Sonderman finalized the list of students who are opting for this route and sent it off to be processed. As a result, most classes will end for seniors today. Some will need to continue, as there is outstanding material, pertinent to AAS graduation and the IB Diploma, that is still due. Thank you for your contributions to the non-exam application process and for your patience as the IBO came to a final decision.

We also realize that we have two students who are opting to take the exams at alternative locations, one in Prague and one in Tallinn, Estonia. We have worked with other schools to accomplish this transition in a timely manner. These students will still graduate as AAS students this year. Good luck Sunoh and Anna!
 

⭐️  CAS completion

The IB’s Community, Activity, and Service program is a requirement for AAS graduation and for receipt of the IB Diploma.

We have an April 1 deadline for all CAS material to be completed. If you have not completed your CAS you need to contact Ms. Natasha right away. AAS will not graduate students who have not completed this important program satisfactorily.
 

🏛  Grade 12s – Protocol for releasing IB Results Transcripts to Universities

We're getting close to the end of the year. Ms. Natasha and I are getting the logistics set and plans in place while our teachers work with your kids to finish the year.

I will soon ask all students to supply Ms. Natasha with a form detailing the university they plan to attend, or those they are planning to choose from, so that we can send Results Transcripts to universities, regardless of the exam route they are on. For those applying to the US/Canada you can only name 1 or 2 universities respectively. This is not due until July 1 (although I want it before they leave AAS). However, for those applying anywhere else, the due date is May 1 in the IB system. I am letting you know this now a I believe everything will take a while longer to complete from a distance. So, these will be pressing soon.

After July 1, we cannot send IB Results transcripts for any student.

Therefore, I am adding the website access link here:

http://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/assessment-and-exams/requesting-transcripts/

Hopefully, you will never need this site. But, invariably some students have a need to release their transcripts for a variety of reasons. If you have any questions about exams please let me know.
 

📝  Grade 11s – Extended Essay Extension

Mr. Sonderman extended the EE deadline until this past Monday, March 28, due to the obvious disruption to the school schedule.

The original deadline was March 11. We are still going to stay on track, but the schedule will get a little tighter. The objective is still to finish the first draft by the end of grade 11. We want this completed so that students do not have a great deal of EE work while they are juggling university applications in the fall.
 

⭐️  Grade 10s – IB Diploma Course and Options Choices

As we now know, AAS will not run a high school program next year.

However, we realize that many of our student will join other IB schools. Therefore, we would still like to give you some guidance towards choosing your IB courses. In April, IB Coordinator Sean Sonderman and all High School Department Heads will meet with the Grade 10 students to introduce course choices for the Diploma Program for next year. Students will choose 6 courses, 1 from each of the 6 subject Groups. In Groups 1 through 5 students are required to select 1 course. In Group 6, the Arts, however, students can select Music, Visual Arts, or Theater, or they could take a second Social Studies, Language, or Science. There will be a parent meeting in April to share more information to aid in the course selection process.
 

In light of Friday's news, we want to reassure you that we are here to support you and your children as you transition to new schools through documentation, recommendations, conversations about possibilities and the emotional aspects of this change as well.

PLEASE reach out to us! 

We are available to meet with you and your children to discuss options and to process all aspects of this change.

To request records for your applications to new schools:

1. Please check the supporting document requirements with the admissions offices of those schools to which you are applying.

2. Complete a request form and include that information on this record request form.

3. Send the completed form(s) to Ms. Natasha (natalia.golovanova@aas.ru) and your child’s counselor:

james.villers@aas.ru
for students in grade 9
Make an appointment Here

lauren.zimmerman@aas.ru
for grades 10-12, A-K
Make an appointment here

bryn.will@aas.ru
for grades 10-12, L-Z
Make an appointment here

Feel free to reach out to us for support, guidance or questions - we are here to help!