Dear families,
Wednesday brought us a gift we don't see often in Madrid—snow falling on campus for a few hours! Students and teachers across all grade levels delighted in the wonder of the white dust, building tiny snowmen and snowballs and playing together in the snow. It was a perfect moment to pause, stop what we were doing, and be present in the wonder of it all.
Speaking of being present and observant, our Early Childhood educators spent Monday and Tuesday in collaboration with colleagues visiting from the International School of Prague. Together, they explored how young children develop, how the classroom environment itself can teach, and how students become researchers and documenters of their own learning. These conversations strengthen our practice and connect us to the wider international school community.
We also had a special visitor—Hilda, a retired guide dog from the Spanish Blind Guide Dog Foundation (ONCE). Hilda spent her first year of life training with Ms. Rebeca before going on to work for a decade supporting her owner. Now retired and back living with Rebeca, Hilda visited the office and the Grade 3 and 4 classrooms to help students learn about the important work guide dogs do. It was a wonderful connection between our school community and meaningful service in the wider world.
Have a great weekend!
Ms. Dani
Bringing Extra Clothes to School -- Especially during the rainy season, it is recommended that students bring an extra pair of clothes in case they need to change after OPAL. The playground can be wet, but we will often still have OPAL outside unless there is heavy rain.
International School Counselor Appreciation Week
This week we recognize International School Counselor Appreciation Week, and as school counselors, we want to share a little about the work we do and how we partner with families.
Our work as school counselors is deeply collaborative. Whether we’re supporting student well-being, problem-solving challenges or helping students navigate transitions we rely on strong partnerships with teachers, admin, and families every day.
Our partnership with parents and caregivers is essential and we encourage you to reach out whenever you have questions or concerns. Please continue to check Seesaw for our monthly social-emotional classroom lessons. Supporting students is most effective when school and home work together.
Helpful resources for families:
International School Counselor Association (ISCA): https://iscainfo.com/learn-about-school-counseling/
Child Mind Institute: https://childmind.org
Reach out to the LS counselors via email
Oceane Langreney (Grades K1, K3, G2, G4) - oceanelangreney@asmadrid.es
Melissa Marsh (Grades K2, G1, G3, G5) - melissamarsh@asmadrid.es
Upcoming Parent Education Sessions
Understanding Inquiry-Based Learning with Tania Lattanzio Tuesday, February 4th from 9:00-10:00 AM on the MS Steps
Join us for an engaging session with education consultant Tania Lattanzio, who is working alongside our Grade 1-5 teachers to develop Units of Inquiry and strengthen our LS curriculum. Tania will share what inquiry-based learning is, why we use this approach, and how it develops critical thinking and deep understanding in your children. This is a wonderful opportunity to see how inquiry unfolds in the classroom and understand the "why" behind what your child is learning.
RSVP here to confirm your attendance. Learn more about Tania here.
Navigating Daily Life with Nonviolent Communication Wednesday, February 11th from 9:00-10:00 AM
Join us for an interactive workshop with Carol Ruiz, an ASM parent, activist, and facilitator of Nonviolent Communication (NVC). Carol's approach aligns closely with ASM's core philosophy, bridging the gap between principles of nonviolence and the practical realities of modern parenting. This introductory session launches her initiative to share simple, effective strategies for navigating challenging moments with children. When traditional instructions or consequences fall short, NVC skills offer a way to strengthen communication, deepen the parent-child connection, teach values authentically, and support families as they navigate the complexities of a changing world.
We encourage all parents to join us for this insightful morning of learning and community growth. Register here
What else is Coming Up?
Upcoming Dates:
Feb 4 - Parent session - Tania Lattanzio
Feb 9 - Makeup school photos
Feb 11 - Nonviolent Communication Parent session.
Feb 16-20 - Semana Blanca (no school)