The WAB Podcast

The WAB Podcast brings you engaging and inspiring stories about innovative learning, school activities, and community initiatives at Western Academy of Beijing (WAB), a leading international school in Beijing. Join us for conversations that will connect you with the educators, students, parents, and staff who make our international school community unique.

Exploring AI and Learning with Visiting Expert Rita Bateson 11/13/2025

Grade 11 Students Connect with Ugandan School in Art Project 11/05/2025

What Does the Board of Trustees Do? 10/30/2025

Inside WAB’s Middle School House System 10/23/2025

Inside WAB’s Dual Language Program 10/16/2025

WAB Podcast | Digital Citizenship: Students Navigating Life Online 10/09/2025

WAB Podcast | Global Citizenship in Action with Angie Crouch and HS Students 09/25/2025

Student Takeover! Meet our new MYP Coordinator, Rebekah Hommel 09/18/2025

Flourishing Together: What’s Ahead for WAB This Year 09/11/2025

Year-End Reflection with Students and School Leadership 06/12/2025

Year-End Reflection with Students and School Leadership As the school year draws to a close and the summer holiday approaches, we bring you a special end-of-year episode and the season finale. In this episode, two Grade 11 students, Francesco and Grace, took the mic. They sat down with our Head of School, Marta Medved Krajnovic, and Stephen Taylor, WAB's Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, to reflect on the year’s highlights and look ahead to the future. A Year of Celebration and Connection From September 1, when our community came together to launch the 30th anniversary, this year has been a joyful celebration of WAB’s enduring spirit. Marta shared that alongside the opening ceremony and alumni profile awards, WAB hosted over 30 alumni reunions in cities around the world. These events offered opportunities to reconnect and reflect on what continues to make WAB feel like home, even decades after graduation. Another major moment was the #FOEN25: Future of Education Now conference in March, where WAB welcomed global thought leaders to engage with students, educators, and innovators around the future of learning. Student agency, the concept that students are powerful co-creators of their learning, was a central theme, as it has been since WAB’s founding. The unveiling of the Jane Goodall statue during Jazz and Chill also stood out. Jane, a long-time friend of the school, represents the values of curiosity, courage, and care that continue to shape our learning environment. Navigating Change and Transition Change is a familiar part of life at international schools, whether it's moving from school sections, starting the diploma program, or preparing to graduate. Stephen highlighted the importance of WAB’s traditions, like the Grade 8 bridge crossing or the Grade 12 graduation walk, in helping students make meaning of these transitions. These moments of reflection offer both a sense of continuity and celebration. Francesco reflected on his own transitions through WAB and how, even amid change, there is a comforting sense of familiarity and belonging. Grace shared how these traditions help tie the past and present together, allowing each new generation of students to feel part of something larger. AI in Education One of the most discussed topics this year was the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education. Stephen described WAB’s approach as “careful and considered,” striking a balance between the opportunities AI offers and the ethical considerations it demands, while maintaining a strong commitment to student agency. Rather than banning AI or adopting it uncritically, WAB encourages students to use AI as a tool to support and enhance their learning. "Who is doing the thinking?" is the essential question, Stephen emphasized. Both school leaders and students acknowledged the challenges and uncertainties surrounding AI, from data privacy to environmental impact. Nevertheless, they agreed that learning to use AI responsibly is essential for future success. As Grace pointed out, demystifying AI and understanding how to use it appropriately prepares students for a world where such technologies will be integral to the workplace. A Community of Lifelong Learners A consistent theme in the conversation was the shared commitment to lifelong learning among students, teachers, and school leaders. Marta noted that even school leaders regularly participate in upskilling sessions, underscoring that everyone at WAB is "learning together", adapting to new technologies and global developments as a unified community. This spirit of collaboration, curiosity, and resilience is what will carry WAB into the next 30 years and beyond, intertwining its past and future, its traditions and innovations. Don't miss this student-led conversation as we honor the past and look forward to what's ahead! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36970160

Toddle Comes to Middle School: A New Era of Learning 06/05/2025

Toddle Comes to Middle School: A New Era of Learning  Welcome to the WAB Podcast! In this episode, Kevin Crouch, WAB's Head of EdTech, IT, and Libraries, sat down with three students, Ville from Grade 5, Sophie and Ciara from Grade 7, along with Middle School Principal Marina Frias-Gavidia, to discuss the exciting rollout of Toddle in Middle School next school year. They also talked about how it can facilitate student learning, increase student agency, and incorporate AI-powered support. Why Toddle? For the past four years, Toddle has been a cornerstone of learning in the Elementary School, streamlining everything from lesson planning to student portfolios. Now, it's expanding to Middle School, bringing its all-in-one platform to older students. As Kevin explained, Toddle unites the entire learning process—teachers can plan, assess, and report in one place, while students gain more ownership of their learning through digital portfolios. Unlike Teams or other platforms, Toddle keeps everything connected, ensuring that learning goals, assignments, and feedback stay aligned. What Students Love About Toddle Grade 5 student Ville has been a Toddle user for many years, and he highlighted its functions and flexibility: Rubrics help students self-assess and improve their work. The Portfolio lets students showcase learning anytime, not just when teachers assign tasks. Toddle AI acts as a creative assistant, helping brainstorm project ideas. For Middle Schoolers like Sophie and Ciara, the move to Toddle will mean better organization across their eight subjects.  New Features for Middle School Kevin pointed out that Toddle has also evolved since some Middle School students last used it. Exciting updates include: AI-powered tutoring: Students can get instant feedback and practice at their own pace. Adaptive "Worksheets": Like Education Perfect, but integrated directly into Toddle. Parent access: While daily classwork stays private, parents can see assignments, feedback, and portfolio posts. Marina emphasized that Toddle supports personalized learning, whether a student needs extra practice or is ready to advance. What About Teams? Sophie and Ciara also wondered whether Teams will still be used. Kevin explained that Teams will remain for school-wide communication, while Toddle becomes the hub for classwork, assignments, and portfolios. Want to hear the full discussion and get to learn how Toddle can bring more student agency, clearer feedback, and better parent insight? Tune into this episode! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36864155

Exploring Minds, Shaping Futures in Middle School 05/30/2025

Exploring Minds, Shaping Futures in Middle School Welcome to the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we're learning about Middle School Individuals & Societies. Joining us were Grade 6 student Justin, Grade 7 student Frederic, Grade 8 student Iris, along with their I&S teacher, Claudia Gomez. Claudia explains how Individuals & Societies goes beyond traditional social studies. Rooted in the IB Middle Years Programme framework, it’s an interdisciplinary, skills-based subject where students learn to: Formulate meaningful research questions Design and implement action plans Reflect deeply on their learning journey This approach nurtures critical thinking, ethical action, and global awareness, preparing students for high school and a future shaped by complexity and change. What makes Individuals & Societies truly unique, Claudia noted, is its interdisciplinary nature. Students engage with history, geography, political science, economics, and psychology to understand how societies function, and how they can shape a better world. Real World Learning Our students shared how Individuals & Societies has influenced their learning across subjects and in their personal lives. Iris highlighted how the research skills she gained helped her distinguish fake news in her math and science projects. Justin found that the research and critical thinking skills he's developed are invaluable in debate competitions outside of school. Frederic appreciates how Individuals & Societies helps him understand the economic and political factors that shape history. The Individuals & Societies curriculum also centers on real-world issues through the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Students research topics like environmental, social, and economic sustainability, often conducting field studies within our school community. For example, Frederic studied the economic impacts of tourism, examining a whale shark tourism model in the Philippines. For the recent field studies, he chose to explore responsible consumption and production, focusing on how efficiently we use school supplies. While Justin focused on investigating the globalization of fast food and its effects on local economies, he shared that this made him realize how global businesses can hurt small restaurants and communities. Iris emphasized how Individuals & Societies has strengthened her ability to engage with current events. She also pointed out that through her learning, she could understand more about the news, discuss with her parents at the dinner table, and ask better questions. Curious About Middle School? Tune in to this episode to hear directly from our students about how Individuals & Societies is shaping their thinking, empowering their voices, and preparing them to face real-world challenges with ethical action and informed insight.   /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36782255

How Elementary School Student Council Shapes Their School 05/22/2025

How Elementary School Student Council Shapes Their School Welcome to the WAB Podcast. In this episode, we take a closer look at what student leadership looks like in our Elementary School, and how even our Elementary students are making a difference in their school community. We're joined by three members of the ES Student Council: Carolina and Maya from Grade 5, and Julian from Grade 3, as well as Elementary School Principal Catherine Pierre-Louis. Together, they reflect on what it means to be part of Student Council, why they chose to get involved, and how they’ve worked together to lead projects that matter to them and their peers. Building Leadership Through Action Catherine explained that the ES Student Council operates as an after-school activity (ASA), where students sign up through SchoolsBuddy. They can join one or all of the three activity seasons throughout the year. Looking ahead, there's a vision to expand the program into a year-long commitment to foster leadership development and support more student-led projects. Once they join, students collaborate to brainstorm, vote on, and implement ideas that enhance the school environment. Through this process, they learn how to express their thoughts, turn ideas into action, and develop essential skills in leadership, communication, and teamwork. Why and What They Lead When asked what motivated them to join, Carolina shared that she wanted to make a positive change in the school environment. Maya was inspired to contribute positively and help others. Julian joined out of curiosity and discovered a passion for leadership along the way. They also highlighted some of the projects they've led. Maya and her friends transformed an underused Grade 5 hangout spot into a welcoming space by cleaning and repainting it. Julian brought creative ideas to Spirit Week by introducing different themed dress-up days. Carolina led an initiative to build connections between students and cleaning staff, encouraging students to take responsibility for cleaning up after meals. Overcoming Challenges and Creating Impacts Catherine shared how students had faced actual challenges, like adapting when events don't go as planned, and learn to problem-solve and rally support from their peers. One success story is the Plant Squad, which reopened the school greenhouse for student use during breaks, overcoming initial hurdles related to supervision and participation. Student feedback has also played a key role in shaping larger school initiatives, such as the redesign of the ES playground, where many student ideas were incorporated into the final plan. Tune in to this episode to hear how WAB's ES Student Council empowers students to voice their opinions, build leadership skills, and take an active role in shaping their school community and learning spaces. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36668075

Student Social Entrepreneurship Partners with Tiger Den 05/16/2025

Student Social Entrepreneurship Partners with Tiger Den What happens when students combine creativity, community values, and real-world challenges? You get student-led initiatives like Empowering Entrepreneurs and ProFarmer, socially driven projects supported by Parent Link with promotions, and through Tiger Den, WAB’s parent-run shop. Co-led by EJ and Morgan and run by a group of dedicated parent volunteers, Tiger Den opens weekly and hosts pop-up shops at school events. They sell WAB-branded apparel and merchandise as well as student-developed products that raise funds and awareness for community partners. EJ emphasized the idea to start this support emerged from Parent Link's vision to foster student engagement and social innovation by offering a pathway for students to raise awareness and funds for causes they care about. Tabea, from the Empowering Entrepreneurs Club, shared how they focus on sustainability by recycling old WAB PE kits into hair ties and bags, which are then sold at Tiger Den. Their partnership with Helping Hands supports single mothers while promoting eco-friendly practices. She highlighted that Tiger Den plays a crucial role in marketing and selling these recycled goods, helping the students bring their ideas to life and raise funds. Berat and Anneke co-lead ProFarmer, a long-standing student initiative that brings Fair Trade eggs and mystery produce bags from . They manage sourcing, logistics, and marketing, including building their own website, to ensure ethical, sustainable food sources are available on campus. For these students, the work isn't hypothetical. As Berat explained, the skills he's developing, logistics, marketing, leadership, and ethical decision-making, directly connect to his IB Business Management course. Tabea and Anneke spoke to the personal growth and teamwork involved, and how collaborating on real issues has deepened their learning. Looking ahead, EJ shared that Tiger Den will continue to focus on strengthening community connections and supporting student-led initiatives. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all parent volunteers whose time, energy, and enthusiasm make this possible each week. To hear the full conversation, be sure to listen to the podcast. To learn more about how Parent Link empowers student changemakers, see the story on the . /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36587755

From Idea to Impact: How STEMx Club Sparked Science Day 05/09/2025

From Idea to Impact: How STEMx Club Sparked Science Day Welcome to a new episode of the WAB Podcast. Today, we’re exploring how student leadership, innovation, and the power of science come together to connect and inspire. Joining us are members of WAB’s High School STEMx Club, Grade 11 students Hannah, Utkarsh, and Shane, along with their teacher and advisor, Paul Wagenaar. Together, they share how a group of passionate students reimagined what science learning could look like, culminating in WAB’s first-ever interschool Science Day. STEMx began as a student-led initiative aimed at making science more engaging for younger learners. The group started by running hands-on workshops in the Elementary and Middle Schools. As Hannah, the club's leader, shared: “Last year, we decided to expand our impact.” For her, what makes the club meaningful is its inclusivity: "Some members aren’t planning to study STEM in university or pursue it as a career. They joined for their interest." Driven by curiosity and a desire to break stereotypes, like the idea that STEM is only for the ‘smart’ or mathematically inclined, the club set out to create a platform that showcased science as creative, hands-on, and socially relevant. The result was Science Day, an inter-school event exploring how science can help solve real-world issues, including challenges faced by refugees. Utkarsh, who joined after being recruited by Hannah at the club fair, shared his motivation: “I wanted to see if I could use what I learned in the classroom and help other people enjoy it.” Shane added, “We’re both very passionate about science and math, so we joined together.” With encouragement from their advisor, science teacher Paul Wagenaar, the club took ownership of the planning process. “They’re very self-motivated,” Paul said. “Many of them even contacted the administration themselves to organize the event.” But bringing Science Day to life wasn’t without setbacks. Faced with low early registration numbers, the team considered cancelling. “It was disappointing, especially for our grade 12 students and Mr. Wagenaar, who wouldn’t be here next year,” said Hannah. She recalled nearly giving up—until a mentor reminded her that this was just their minimum viable version. “It won’t be perfect, but it’s a first step.” It reframed the challenge as part of the process, not the end of it. The team stepped up their efforts, sending out “a hundred messages a day,” and managed to rally enough interest to make Science Day a reality. “The moment the opening ceremony began, it came to me that it’s actually happening,” Hannah reflected. “A very small idea turned out to be so big and successful.” Utkarsh saw the impact in real time: “I saw them actually having fun and being creative. That’s what we wanted, people having fun doing science and solving real problems.” Shane, who led a catapult-building activity, added, “I could tell the participants had a lot of fun. That was great.” For Paul, the highlight was witnessing the students lead the entire process: “Seeing the club members sharing their passion, figuring out ways to solve problems when things went wrong was a joyous moment for me.” Science Day was about testing ideas, navigating challenges, and seeing how student-led learning can have an impact. It’s a reminder of what students can accomplish when given the space to lead. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36503410

WAB Wild Takes Learning Beyond the Classroom 04/30/2025

WAB Wild Takes Learning Beyond the Classroom Welcome to the latest episode of WAB Podcast! In this episode, we explored WAB Wild, WAB's very own outdoor learning program, and one that's all about adventure, teamwork, and connecting with nature. We were joined by Stephen Boyko, the coordinator of WAB Wild, and two Grade 8 students, Gustav and Kenzie, who shared their unforgettable experiences. From abseiling to cooking breakfast under the open sky, we uncovered how this program builds resilience, fosters community, connects with classroom learning, and changes perspectives on sustainability. Led by coordinator Stephen Boyko, WAB Wild's philosophy is rooted in experiential education. Stephen explained that the goal of the program is to build a lasting appreciation for nature, strengthen community bonds, and develop personal resilience through challenges. When Gustav first arrived at WAB in Grade 7, he felt unfamiliar with the environment and the English language. But everything changed when he joined WAB Wild. The outdoor experience helped him build connections with both his peers and his teachers. The program's trust-based activities-like hiking in small groups through the woods or navigating a lake by canoe, helped him feel both independent and supported. Gustav added that you could feel a trust in yourself and a kind of community trust with your classmates and teachers. For Kenzie, returning to the same campsite each year brought back memories while creating new ones. From geocaching adventures in Grade 6 to an abseiling challenge in Grade 7, each activity pushed her boundaries and brought her closer to her peers. She also recounted her memory of completing the water trip on canoes with her friends, where they had to trust each other to avoid tipping over and getting wet in the lake. Stephen emphasized the deeper lessons behind this program, which is helping the students develop a love for nature and the skills to protect it. From composting food waste to understanding the impact of their actions on the environment, the students carried these values and learnings back to their classrooms and homes, along with deeper friendships, shared memories, changed perspectives on sustainability, and newfound resilience. Tune in to find out more! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36367615

Celebrating Cultures and Community at the Student-Led Night Market 04/25/2025

Celebrating Cultures and Community at the Student-Led Night Market Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast, where we explore one of WAB’s growing student-led traditions: the Night Market. Joining us are Audrey and Rachel from Grade 11, and Chloe from Grade 10, three of the students who helped make this event happen. From cultural showcases and global cuisine to student performances and an all-new Open Mic stage, the Night Market was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and cultural connection. For the first time, the event also welcomed students from APAC schools who were visiting WAB for a badminton tournament, adding an exciting dimension to the evening. Audrey described the Night Market as a platform for student clubs to promote their missions, raise funds for meaningful causes, and highlight WAB’s cultural diversity. It also provides a stage for performers to express themselves. The event, she explained, was shaped through student input: “During club meetings, we hosted brainstorming sessions to gather input from all club members, which helped make the event more successful, engaging, and fun for the students.” Rachel reflected on why she got involved: “We all participated in last year’s Night Market and had such a great time. That’s why we wanted to help organize it this year.” Their goal was to carry the tradition forward and elevate it. This year’s event featured over 10 student clubs, two local restaurants, and five parent groups: Chinese Link, Korean Link, ASEAN Link, Tiger Spirit, and Tiger Den. Coordinating all these groups took time, teamwork, and clear communication. Chloe shared what made this year feel different: “It was a bit different because we hosted it at the same time as the APAC tournament.” Opening the event to visiting students created new opportunities for connection and cultural exchange. One of the most memorable additions was the Open Mic session. Though organizers weren’t sure if anyone would step forward, the response exceeded expectations as students from multiple schools joined in and shared the stage. Of course, organizing an event of this scale wasn’t without its challenges. When weather forced a last-minute change of venue, the team acted quickly to relocate the entire market indoors. Audrey shared one key takeaway: “Make sure that you always have a backup plan.” Tune in to this episode to hear more from Audrey, Rachel, and Chloe as they reflect on the planning, challenges, and community spirit behind this special night at WAB. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36302790

Student STEM Innovation: From Code to Cardiovascular Care 04/18/2025

Student STEM Innovation: From Code to Cardiovascular Care In this episode of the WAB Podcast, we take a look at STEM learning at WAB. Grade 9 student Zane and Grade 10 students Anna, David, and Xander take us behind the scenes of their robotics, game development, and biomedical engineering projects. What they share isn’t just about technology, it’s about creativity, collaboration, and learning with real-world impact. Building, Breaking, Rebuilding: Robotics in Action Xander and David have been working together to design a competition robot using the VEX V5 system. David focuses on 3D modeling with Onshape, while Xander brings the mechanical build to life. "Dex V5 is an educational platform where students design, build, and program the robots to compete in yearly challenges," explains Xander. "Every new season, a new game is released, which means teams must create brand-new robots to match updated growth in the field and objectives." When asked about challenges, David shares, "Testing parts and different designs of robots takes a lot of time, especially when you physically have to swap parts in and out. To solve this problem, we started using 3D modeling code Onshape, which has helped us reduce a lot of errors during the actual building process." Using AI for Health Innovation Anna's project is a low-cost cardiovascular risk detection device that uses AI to assess and rank heart disease risk factors. “The device uses an AI algorithm to analyze your risk factors that we’ll be extracting using the same device,” she explains. “It analyzes this risk factor and also ranks them in importance.” The hardest part, she says, was sourcing reliable training data. “Algorithms need an unbiased and balanced dataset. Patient data is hard to get due to patient privacy, but at last we found two, one from Kaggle and another from UCI.” Anna believes that accessible AI is opening doors. “A lot of the algorithms are open source, so you can get them from the internet, and you don’t have to code them on your own. With the help of AI language models, for example, ChatGPT, you’re able to code these things on your own.” Code, Graphics, and Game Design Zane is creating a top-down RPG using GameMaker Studio. “It’s free and it’s really easy to learn and use,” he shares. “It’s comfortable coding software that can be picked up pretty easily.” His biggest early challenge? "Getting used to the coding software. It has a lot of functions that are convenient once you learn how to use them, but don’t make much sense initially." Working in a two-person team, Zane focuses on programming while his friend Nick handles the graphics. “In the last month or so, we’ve kind of switched around, which is a good experience for me, and I think he’s having a good time working on his programming skills.” Reflecting on the process, Zane says, “Developing using code, I learned that mistakes are going to happen, and if you expect them, then it’s easier. Expecting mistakes, one of the best things I’ve learned.” Learning That Feels Real All four students shared how these projects have pushed them, technically and personally. They’ve built new skills, worked through challenges, and found confidence in solving problems that matter to them. They also spoke about how this learning is shaping their futures. For some, it sparked a clear career interest, robotics, game design, or biomedical engineering. For others, it’s the mindset that’s sticking with them: creativity, resilience, and the power of working with others. “I think more people can do this than they realize,” Anna says. “With open-source tools, AI models, and even things like ChatGPT, you don’t need to be an expert to start creating something meaningful.” These stories reflect the kind of purposeful, real-world learning happening all across WAB. Students are exploring big ideas, applying what they know in new ways, and connecting their passions to real-world challenges. STEM at WAB isn't about following a textbook, it’s about curiosity, collaboration, and creating with purpose. Listen to the full conversation in Episode 5 of the WAB Podcast. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/36216340

WAB DP Artists: Advocating Through Art 04/10/2025

WAB Students Shine at TEDx Youth 03/28/2025

WAB Students Shine at TEDx Youth Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast. In this episode, we explored TEDx Youth at WAB. Joining us were Kristina and Jeremy, two senior students and co-organizers of TEDx Youth this school year, and Abril from Grade 12 and Elsa from Grade 8, who shared their ideas at this year’s event. They discussed their journeys, challenges, and favorite moments, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to bring TEDx to life, and how it is a platform for growth, courage, and self-discovery. Jeremy introduced TEDx Youth at WAB as a fully student-led initiative that has been running for over a decade. What made the event truly special was that every aspect—from organizing to speaking—was entirely managed by students. Kristina and Jeremy, both in their final year of high school, have been leading the TEDx Youth club for the past two years. They first joined as speakers, and over time, fell in love with the experience. Their passion eventually led them to become co-leaders of the club. Kristina emphasized that TEDx gives students the chance to share ideas they are truly passionate about. This year's theme, "Clarity in Complexity," reflected the increasingly complex world students navigate today, shaped by the rise of AI and other global changes. "Through this TEDx, we try to find clarity within that complexity," she said. For Abril, a first-time speaker in Grade 12, the platform offered an opportunity to explore a theme close to her heart: finding focus in a world dominated by social media. She had always been fascinated by self-improvement and the search for meaning amid digital distractions. Initially intimidated by public speaking, Abril gradually built her confidence through the rehearsals and feedback sessions organized by the TEDx team. She saw the event as a safe space to grow, learn, and challenge herself. Elsa, an eighth-grader, chose to speak about the courage to say no. Her idea stemmed from a challenging summer, during which she learned to set boundaries and overcome personal struggles. As a two-time participant, Elsa faced a new challenge this year—speaking alone at an event where most participants were high school students. However, with the support of her peers and the organizers, she found the confidence to craft her speech and deliver it with confidence. If you want to hear more about our students' inspiring TEDx journey, don't miss this episode! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35899095

FOENSpiratopn on Uncovering Students' Future Pathways 03/21/2025

FOENSpiratopn on Uncovering Students' Future Pathways The Future of Education Now 2025 (#FOEN25) festival, held at WAB from March 13 to 15, brought together students, educators, parents, and thought leaders to explore the evolving landscape of education (add link). In this special episode of the WAB Podcast, we have a recording from a very special panel from FOEN25. Moderated by Stephen Taylor, WAB's Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, this conversation was joined by three WAB students: Ryan from Grade 10 and Cali and Hannah from Grade 11, and global education leaders including:   Jason Cummings, Director of Member Engagement of Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC) Ellen Heyting, Project Lead for International Networks and Credentialing from Melbourne Metrics Trillium Hibben, Director of Commission on International Education at New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Jane Larsson, Executive Director of the Council of International Schools (CIS) Angela Meikle, Global Head of Private IB Schools of International Baccalaureate (IB) Together, the panel explored how education is evolving beyond traditional assessments, emphasizing competency-based learning and the recognition of student-driven achievements. Speakers highlighted how new tools and approaches are providing a more holistic view of student progress, moving beyond grades to assess real-world skills and competencies. Schools and universities are shifting towards formative, competency-based assessments that allow students to showcase not just what they know, but what they can do. Students shared how their projects—ranging from scientific research to organizing student-led initiatives—illustrate the impact of hands-on, real-world learning. Their experiences underscored how students thrive when given opportunities to apply their knowledge beyond the classroom. The discussion also emphasized the need for new ways to credential essential skills such as collaboration, ethical decision-making, and leadership. Another key theme was the increasing role of student voices in shaping education. Schools and organizations are moving towards more collaborative models, ensuring that students are active participants in designing their learning experiences. Accreditation processes are also evolving, focusing more on the impact of education rather than compliance, to better support students in a rapidly changing world. As the session concluded, the panelists expressed optimism about the future of education, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between schools, universities, and accreditation bodies to create learning environments that develop both knowledge and essential competencies. To hear the full discussion, tune in to this extra special episode of the WAB Podcast. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35801785

Empowering WAB Students to Make a Difference Through Global Citizenship 03/11/2025

Empowering WAB Students to Make a Difference Through Global Citizenship Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we explored the world of Global Citizenship and the stories, ideas, and initiatives behind this program that make our student learning and community unique. Joining us were Angelia Crouch, WAB's Global Citizenship Coordinator; LeeAnne Lavender, an Educational Consultant specializing in storytelling and service learning; and two High School students, Ernest and Michelle, who are leading impactful community projects. Together, they discussed how WAB's Global Citizenship Program is empowering students to become change-makers and better learners. Angelia introduced WAB has a long-standing mission to make a difference, which has evolved into our Global Citizenship Program focused on empowering students to address global issues, particularly those related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She added that the program also emphasizes building reciprocal relationships with community partners to provide students with real-world experiences through their close collaboration. The program also emphasizes student agency, allowing learners to take the driver’s seat in their projects. Ernest , from Grade 10, is the new leader of High School student club ProFarmer. He shared how his club conducts egg sales to support local organic farmers and educate students from lower grades about sustainable agriculture through farm visits and hands-on experience in the Middle School Garden. Michelle, a Grade 11 student, shared her involvement in a partnership with the Happy School, a specialized school for students recovering from leukemia. As part of her IB CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) Project, Michelle and her peers conducted English lessons for the students every week, sharing not only language skills but also cultural insights, building connections, and providing support to the students in need. LeeAnne underscored the importance of global citizenship education. She highlighted how the experiences of Ernest and Michelle are amazing examples of how being involved in these types of projects empowers students to become active global and digital citizens. She emphasized that by providing learning experiences both inside and outside of the classroom, students can learn how to take their knowledge and skills and apply them in local and global situations. This helps students to see the relevance of what they're learning and “make learning real”. "When a school has those things in place, the curricular program, the co-curricular program, and rich, robust partnerships, it's like the most beautiful recipe for student empowerment and engagement ever," Leanne said. Global citizenship initiatives, she explained, answer the "why" behind learning, sparking engagement and leading to action. If you want to hear about how WAB's Global Citizenship Program empowers students to become change-makers and better learners, nurturing compassionate, globally-minded individuals. Don’t miss out on this episode! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35648270

A Celebration of Creativity and Individuality at Art Explosion 03/06/2025

A Celebration of Creativity and Individuality at Art Explosion Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we stepped into "Art Explosion" in WAB's Elementary School with Juanita McGarrigle, Visual Arts Head of Department. Let's discover how this exhibition empowered students to curate their own artwork and deepen their connection to the creative process, as well as how art fosters self-expression and helps students discover themselves. Juanita shared that the Art Explosion began as a way to give students greater ownership over their artistic journeys by allowing them to choose what they want to exhibit. Students played a central role in curating their displays - from choosing which pieces to showcase to designing how their work would be presented, every decision was theirs. Some students displayed their final masterpieces, while others showcased the creative process, including sketches, drafts, and experiments. Juanita said this process encouraged more reflection, and students could think about what they're most proud of and what they want the audience to take away from their work. Juanita also introduced how art education has been evolving globally, with a focus on research-based methods like Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB). This approach empowers students to see themselves as artists, fostering a sense of identity and responsibility. Students take charge of their workspace, selecting materials, setting up, and cleaning up, which builds respect for their creative environment. TAB also encourages exploration across mediums, from drawing and clay to collage and mixed media, allowing students to express themselves in ways that align with their strengths. Juantita added, "Not every artist excels in painting or sculpting", and TAB embraces this diversity, nurturing individuality and self-expression from an early age. This year, the exhibition also took on a new twist, transforming into a scavenger hunt style that invited parents, students, and teachers to explore the hallways and discover the artwork from different grade levels and classes. We also spoke to some of our student artists about their work and what they enjoy most about learning art at WAB. Grade 2 student Felix said he enjoys having lots of units and getting to do different things. Kitty from Grade 4 said she likes that they get to be really creative. "If it’s a painting unit, we can choose what to paint—like a landscape or a portrait," she said. Grade Five student Simon chose lettering pieces for his display. He shared that he enjoys they're learning a lot of different types of art at WAB. Listen to this episode to learn more about how art education at WAB gives student artists the freedom to explore, experiment, and express themselves! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35557485

Young Astronomers Explore Space 02/27/2025

Young Astronomers Explore Space Ever wondered what it’s like to explore the night sky like a real astronomer? In this episode of the WAB Podcast, we take a journey beyond the stars with the WAB Astronomy Club! Joining us were Kamil Rudolf, Middle School Science teacher, and three Grade 7 students—Helge, Wout, and Valentin. From hands-on telescope observations to building their own space probes, our students are exploring planets, stars, and other mysteries in the universe. They shared their recent discoveries, perspectives, and learnings about the night sky. Kamil shared that club members usually gather every Monday afterschool, and start their space exploration by watching documentaries, training on how to use telescopes, and planning their next observation based on the weather conditions. On clear nights, they head to a building rooftop and use a computerized telescope to observe planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus, as well as distant stars. Kamil explained that students learn to calibrate and align the telescope, mastering the tools needed for independent exploration of the night sky. This hands-on experience deepens their understanding of celestial knowledge and observational techniques. What have these young astronomers discovered? Helge learned that Saturn's and Uranus's rings are made of different types of ice, rather than rock. Even more intriguing, Uranus’s rings contain ice unlike anything known on Earth. He also built a probe designed to land on Venus, complete with parachutes to protect the rover. His peer Wout, also captivated by Saturn, learned that the planet once had a large moon that drifted too close, breaking apart to form its current rings. Valentin was particularly excited about their lunar observations. He described watching the red moon rise on the horizon, changing from red to yellow to white due to atmospheric effects. He also discovered that the nearest potentially habitable solar system is only four light-years away. The club has also sparked connections to the students' other interests and future goals. Helge and Wout, both fascinated by aviation and military vehicles, see space exploration as an extension of their passion. Valentin dreams of starting an astronomy business or hosting a podcast to share his love for physics and astronomy.   Kamil also highlighted how astronomy ties into their middle school science curriculum, particularly in studying the moon's phases and movements. By collecting data on the moon's location, phase, and direction, students develop a deeper understanding of lunar cycles. Want to hear these discoveries firsthand? Tune in to the latest WAB Podcast episode and embark on a cosmic journey with our young astronomers! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35448540

Nature of Science Sparks Scientific Inquiry and Real-World Impact 02/20/2025

Nature of Science Sparks Scientific Inquiry and Real-World Impact   Welcome to the latest episode of WAB Podcast Season 5! In this episode, we explored the world of Nature of Science. Joining us were two Grade 10 students, Claire and Kabir, along with their teacher, Chris Hayden. Together, they took us on a journey through this project-based science course that allows students to dive deep into their passions, nurture critical thinking, sharpen their skills, and foster a love for scientific inquiry that goes beyond the classroom. Chris introduced that Nature of Science (NOS) allows students to choose and explore an area of science they're passionate about, and it covers foundational knowledge and key inquiry skills aligned with Middle Years Program (MYP) science objectives. He emphasized that learning science is not about memorizing facts, it should give students the tools they need to think like true scientists, including asking questions, solving problems, and making a real-world impact. Grade 10 student Kabir is a humanities enthusiast, who took NOS as a chance to bridge his love for economics with science. His project focused on the economic impacts of air pollution, a topic that allowed him to analyze data and uncover how environmental factors influenced global economies. He expressed he never thought he could enjoy science this much. With his teacher's help, he was able to process a large amount of data that he had collected for the project, boosting his analytical skills and making him more prepared for the Diploma Programme (DP) Economics. Claire from Grade 10 is very into biology, and she spent her time working on a project that combined her scientific passion with a desire to address societal issues. Inspired by conversations with some local women about the menstruation stigma in their daily lives, Claire designed an innovative project to detect gynecological diseases in a more convenient way. By using simulations, she explored how antibodies and antigens interact, aiming to create a diagnostic tool that could be integrated into sanitary products. Claire reflected this experience facilitates her DP studies and beyond, and more importantly, shows her how science can truly impact lives. Want to hear more about how our Grade 10 students are using NOS to sharpen their scientific skills and make a real difference in the world? Tune in to this episode! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35362025

How Day 9 Tailored to Students' Interests and Needs 02/13/2025

How Day 9 Tailored to Students' Interests and Needs Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Marina Frias Gavidia, our Middle School Principal, and Dr. Jaime Pustis, High School Principal, along with two students, Thomas from Grade 6 and Simo from Grade 12. They discussed WAB's Day 9, a program designed to promote student agency, personalized learning, and flexibility. From student-led workshops and community engagement projects to academic support and well-being sessions, they explored how Day 9 is designed and what it can offer, allowing students to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and take ownership of their learning. Marina explained that Day 9 was introduced to give students more control over their learning. By building flexibility into the schedule, this could allow students to explore their passions and interests. For High School students, Day 9 offers opportunities to deepen their studies, especially in Higher Level (HL) courses for the IB Diploma Program. Jaime also highlighted how the program prepares students for life beyond WAB, helping them develop time management and decision-making skills. "whether that is a study block, whether that is a well-being session, it (Day 9) provides the opportunity for them to really do some deep thinking about what is it that they actually need," said Jaime. Grade 6 student Thomas, new to the Day 9 program, enjoyed activities like Capture the Flag and Chinese history workshops. He also sees Day 9 as a great opportunity to catch up on his learning. For example, during a recent Day 9, he used the time to work on his project for design. Simo, a Grade 12 student, has participated in many Day 9s over the years. From selecting quiet reading time to leading student initiatives, he has learned to use Day 9 more effectively. He highlighted its flexibility and benefits, emphasizing how it caters to individual student needs and helps develop time management skills. As he progressed to high school, Day 9 became a valuable time for meeting with teachers and advancing his studies in the Higher-Level subjects he chose. To hear more about Day 9 and its impact on our students, tune in to the full episode of the WAB Podcast! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35268045

Explore WAB’s Festival of Learning and Innovation at #FOEN25 02/06/2025

Explore WAB’s Festival of Learning and Innovation at #FOEN25 Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast Season 5! In this episode, we are joined by Marta Medved Krajnovic, WAB’s Head of School, and Stephen Taylor, Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, as they discuss the Future of Education Now 2025 (FOEN25) conference. Scheduled for March, this festival of learning will bring together educators, students, and parents to explore the future of education through collaboration, inspiration, and action.  A Brief History of FOEN Marta shared the story behind the FOEN conference, which was first launched in 2019 as a way for WAB to learn from other innovative schools and share our innovative teaching and learning practices. Although the 2021 and 2023 editions moved online, FOEN25 marks a return to WAB’s campus. Students at the Center of FOEN25 A standout feature of FOEN25 is the central role of students. From giving input to the conference structure to leading keynote panels and workshops, students are at the heart of the event. She mentioned that WAB and ISB students are also collaborating on a pre-conference session focused on empowering younger generations to address global challenges.  FOEN25's Key Themes Stephen emphasized that this year's conference focuses on actionable steps toward the future of education, with four key streams:  Flourishing Hub: Focusing on well-being and resilience.  Sustainable Futures Collective: Exploring global citizenship and sustainability. Breakthrough Arena: Diving into AI, VR, and educational technology. Future Pathways Incubator: Focusing on personalized learning and career readiness. Shaping the Future of Education Marta shared that FOEN25 also brings together leading organizations shaping the future of international education, including ECIS (the Educational Collaborative for International Schools), CIS (Council of Schools), IB (International Baccalaureate), MTC (Mastery Transcript Consortium), Melbourne Metrics, and NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges). These organizations, known for driving innovation and providing professional development for educators, will collaborate to spark new ideas and synergies. She added by uniting in one space, they aim to inspire actionable steps in areas like future pathways and sustainable futures.  Action, Not Just Discussion Marta and Stephen emphasize that FOEN25 is not just about discussions but about taking real action. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing among educators, students, parents, and agencies, participants will leave with inspiration, new connections, and practical ideas to implement in their own educational contexts. The conference also highlights WAB's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global citizenship while offering a unique opportunity to experience our vibrant campus and community. To learn more about how FOEN25 is shaping the future of education, and to hear firsthand insights from Marta and Stephen, tune in to this episode of the WAB Podcast. For additional details, visit our official website at  . Don't miss this exciting festival of learning! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/35170625

Empowering students through Inquiry 01/24/2025

Empowering students through Inquiry Welcome to the 14th episode of WAB Podcast Season 5! In this episode, we have invited two Grade 4 students, Gayi and Matteo to join us, along with their teacher Suzie Sizemore, and WAB's Curriculum Coach and PYP Coordinator Jenny Jin. Together, they explored the world of the Unit of Inquiry and their current unit Sharing the Planet. From understanding environmental issues to participating in hands-on experiments like building generators and wind turbines, they reflect on their inquiry, their critical thinking journeys, and the key takeaways from this unit. Jenny elaborated on the essence of the PYP framework, structured around six transdisciplinary themes, each housing a Unit of Inquiry (UOI). She highlighted that UOIs provide students with a chance to explore real-life challenges. These inquiries seamlessly integrate multiple subjects within a contextual framework, including Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Arts and Physical Education. Our Grade 4's current UOI is Sharing the Planet. Suzie introduced this unit by emphasizing its relevance in letting students understand how their daily lives intertwine with the environment and the broader world. Through this unit, students not only discover the origins of energy but also actively engage in hands-on experiments, fostering critical thinking and a realization that each individual can play a part in shaping a sustainable future. Grade 4 student Gayi shared that through the exploration of this unit, she felt she had enhanced her ability to differentiate between various energy sources such as solar power, muscle power and wind power. She prefers using renewable energy in her daily life. During a discussion on sustainable innovations, she also shared how she was inspired by a girl who created biodegradable plastic from banana peels Her peer Matteo shared he liked the process of constructing a wind turbine, recounting the challenges of crafting a sturdy base using Lego, building the blades using different materials and precisely measuring them at 14 centimeters high. He shared that after the exploration of unit, he could now distinguish different power sources, like wind power and water power, and try to stay away from using fossil fuels to make electricity. To learn more about how our students comprehend complex environmental issues, and ignite creativity and nurture critical thinking, tune in to this episode for an exploration of their UOI adventures. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/34988445

MS Design Showcase: Pushing Students' Creative Boundaries 01/17/2025

MS Design Showcase: Pushing Students' Creative Boundaries Welcome to the 13th episode of WAB Podcast Season 5! In this episode, we are joined by three Middle School students: Veronica from Grade 8, Claude from Grade 7, and Jasmine from Grade 6, along with their design teachers, Andy Cole and Simon Furmston. Together, they discussed the Middle School Design Showcase, highlighting the unique features of their projects, the challenges they encountered throughout the process, and the skills they developed along the way. Join us as we explore their creative journeys. Simon introduced the purpose behind the Middle School Design Showcase, which served as a platform for students to exhibit their creations, receive feedback from peers, and share their work with parents. The design projects are intricate, involving the entire design cycle, from research and material selection to sketching designs, crafting test prototypes, making the final selection, and producing the project. From August to December, students worked on their projects, deserving recognition for their learning and perseverance. Andy highlighted that students are required to familiarize themselves with various software tools to successfully complete their projects. Grade 6 students, who were tasked with designing banknotes, were introduced to the Adobe suite. They usually start with Photoshop, emphasizing the importance of understanding layers. The banknote project allows students to explore the complicated details and security features in the 2D graphic that is a banknote. This project also allows students to identify and integrate key elements from their culture or existing designs into their final product. Grade 6 student Jasmine shared her journey of creating a digital banknote, starting with hand-drawing different layers on plastic and transferring them to Photoshop. After learning about the different security features of banknotes, she implemented these elements into her design. Jasmine also found organizing layers in Photoshop challenging, but she managed to arrange and label them effectively at the end. Claude, a Grade 7 student, detailed his project of designing rocket packaging for NASA. He expressed his enjoyment throughout the process, highlighting the creative freedom to choose any brand and logo for the packaging design. Veronica from Grade 8 crafted a hexagonal Bluetooth speaker, pushing her creative boundaries. She shared how she addressed the shape-related problem with the teacher's help and her difficulties in housing all the components within a compact design. Despite the hurdles, Veronica made a functional speaker, testing it with multiple devices and playing music on it. If you're interested in discovering more about WAB's exciting student activities and inspiring learning stories, be sure to tune into this episode. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/34889885

Three students unveil their inspiring APAC Arts journey 01/09/2025

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