At mid-course it’s always good to pause for a moment, look up, and see with fresh eyes all that we’ve accomplished so far. During an afternoon of conversations, coffee, and reflection, we reviewed the progress of our school improvement goals and felt truly satisfied. Not only because of the objectives reached, but because these achievements remind us that when a community works together, it can go very far.
And on this occasion, we have much to celebrate. Here are some of the milestones that have filled us with pride:
1. Bilingual Journals and Reading Circles
Just a few months ago, we introduced bilingual journals and new reading materials in our classrooms. It’s wonderful to see how they have come to life in the hands of the students. What began as a simple idea—inviting students to express themselves freely in two languages—has transformed into a shared writing and reading exercise in which the students actively participate. Witnessing the enthusiasm with which they engage in these activities, exploring, playing, and expressing themselves in both Spanish and English, reaffirms our belief in the strength of this project.
2. Peer Observation and Teacher Growth
The peer observation program among guides, which we repeated again this year, has been a true success. It has created an environment of collaboration and mutual learning that exceeds our expectations. The guides not only observe and learn from each other, but also exchange strategies and discover new ways of doing things. Something truly wonderful has emerged: a culture of trust and reflection within the team—a genuine support network where everyone contributes their vision and experience, benefiting all.
3. New Teambuilding Activity: A Weekend to Connect
This year, we incorporated an innovative teambuilding activity: a group retreat that marked the start of the school year. Over a weekend, we stepped away from our daily routine and spent two days in the countryside, surrounded by nature. It was an unforgettable experience filled with board games, outdoor walks, laughter, and shared moments around the table. This gathering provided an opportunity to connect on a more personal level. It reminded us of the importance of knowing one another beyond the work environment, which undoubtedly reflects in greater cohesion and collaboration within the team.
4. Training in Literacy and Digital Security
In January, we launched a series of digital security workshops for Upper Elementary students. What surprised us most was the warm reception this initiative received from both the students and their parents. We recognize that the digital world presents many challenges, and it’s encouraging to see how seriously the students have taken this learning about the responsible and safe use of technology. It’s a first step, but we know that this knowledge will be essential for their lives, now and in the future.
5. Mid-Cycle MSA Report
Last December, we completed and submitted the mid-cycle MSA report—a document detailing the activities, progress, and transformations our school has experienced since receiving accreditation as an international educational institution. It has been a fascinating and revealing journey. Seeing in words the magnitude of the achievements reached, both academically and organizationally, invites reflection and allows us to fully appreciate the collective effort behind each goal. This process of gathering and analyzing data has led to profound introspection and motivates us to keep progressing as a school and as individuals. The road hasn’t always been easy, but the lessons learned serve as a powerful reminder of how far we have come and all that we can achieve together.
These past months have been intense, full of effort as well as satisfaction. We are filled with enthusiasm for everything we have accomplished, and we are convinced that the coming months will be just as exciting.
To our entire community, thank you for the constant support and for joining us on this adventure of building a school where we grow together.
