Sponsored and written by the American School of Barcelona.
It’s hard to say who was more excited about starting the new school year at the American School of Barcelona—the parents, teachers, or students. One thing was sure: spirits were high as students returned to campus on September 2 for the first time since spring.
Director, Mark Pingitore, greeted ECC and elementary students on the school's opening in a staggered start, following clearly outlined government directives. Middle and high school students returned to campus the following day. “The health and safety of our community is of the utmost importance to us,” said Pingitore. “We strive to provide a healthy environment for the academic, physical and emotional well-being of our community.”
This year, the school-wide theme “Together” continues to serve as a guiding principle in everything the school does, with the common goal of supporting a community of learners with opportunities and resources to reach their highest potential in a safe and healthy environment.
Despite the new rules and restrictions, students and teachers are adapting well to the new routines after just a few days.
“Students have been really responsible, asking questions to help them understand and follow guidelines,” said fifth-grade teacher, Ms. Cheryl. “I’ve been so impressed with how they are handling the new procedures.”
“Students are following the new guidelines,” commented middle school teacher, Mr. Mike, “strengthening our sense of community on campus.”
“My sons came home with stories about teachers and students like they would any year,” shared parent and IBDP English teacher, Ms. Michelle. “Likewise, students in my classroom are so flexible and considerate; we are all rising to the occasion and making it work as best as we can.”
“In the science department, for lab-based classes, we split students into smaller groups and alternate activities, cleaning materials and work spaces after each use. It’s challenging as a teacher, but our team is focused on innovative ways to provide quality lab experiences according to the necessary safety and hygiene protocols for our students,” shared high school science teacher, Mr. Peter.
Health and Safety Priorities
ASB was one of the first schools in Spain to bring students back on campus with a wide range of new health and safety protocols that help reduce the risk of viral spreading. Daily entry to campus includes checking masks, taking temperatures, and hand sanitizing.
To enhance existing protocols and the standard three-tiered safety approach (masks, hand sanitizing, and temperature checking), ASB has reconfigured campus facilities to maximize health and safety procedures in the following ways:
- Optimized circulation and filtration of air conditioning units
- Room ventilation procedures
- Hallway and stairway signage for secure passing
- Replacement of water fountains with water bottle filling stations
- Deep cleaning, disinfection, and high-frequency cleaning of all educational spaces
The school reopened educational programs using a pod model, where a stable group of students spends most of their time in school together, both inside and outside of the classroom. The principal idea is to lower the risk of viral infection by reducing the mobility and number of contacts a student or staff member has during the day.
More details about the return to campus and reopening scenarios can be found at the American School's Guide to Returning to Campus.
Campus Enhancements
Over the summer, with support from a development initiative in the school, water fountains around campus were replaced with new water bottle refilling stations. Each of the fountains provides cold, clean filtered water for students and teachers and supports ASB’s collaborative efforts to reduce waste and create a more sustainable campus.
In addition, several new outdoor shades for the amphitheater, elementary playground, and outdoor seating area of the cafeteria are currently being installed. These installations will allow our students to spend more time outdoors and help keep social distancing. Other benefits for the shades include extending classrooms beyond the school walls, extended periods of physical activity within a safe environment, and making the school a more pleasant place to learn.
“Students are so happy to be back together.” said Ms. Jeannette in ECC, “It’s challenging for our younger students with the new protocols, but we are finding creative ways to be together and show we care. We still have fun.”
Campus life may differ in many ways this year; however, the fundamental attributes at ASB have not changed. Students continue to be taught and cared for by quality faculty. Parents are encouraged to continue to be involved in the school community. Teachers are empowered to innovate learning, just as they have always been.
ASB is excited to see students enthusiastic to be back in classrooms, ready to reconnect with one another and dive back into their studies. This is going to be an exciting school year with new beginnings. Welcome back, Lynx!
Sponsored by the American School of Barcelona.