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.

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

Embracing Multilingualism through WAB's After-school Language Program 12/04/2024

Embracing Multilingualism through WAB's After-school Language Program Welcome to the eleventh episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast. In this episode. We're joined by Marina Frias-Gavidia, the Middle School Principal and Spanish teacher, Moana Teriitehau, the French language acquisition teacher, and three students: Dominic, Kenzie, and Zoe from Grade 8. Together, they explored the After School Language (ALP) Program, discussing its benefits, learning approaches, and how it supports multilingualism, cultural understanding, and diversity at WAB. Marina highlighted our diverse community values multilingualism and ALP provides students the opportunity to learn Chinese, Spanish, or French after regular school hours. Moana added that the ALP content mirrors the daytime language classes, offering two hours on Mondays and lunchtime sessions on Thursdays. Three enthusiastic ALP students also shared their experiences. Grade 8 student Dominic is taking French ALP and also learns Chinese during the day. He explained his motivation that since he is moving to Canada next year, where French is widely spoken, he hopes ALP can help him stay ahead in his French studies. His peer Zoe takes ALP Spanish and learns Chinese during the day. She shared her reason for committing to the additional language learning, was to help prepare herself for the future, as she believes speaking three languages is a great advantage. As someone new to ALP Spanish, Kenzie mentioned she is really enjoying the course. She shared her previous experience of studying Spanish in Elementary School before she came to WAB. After taking a break for two years, she is now happy that she can pick it up again in Grade 8 this year. Marina highlighted the program's unique approach by leveraging translanguaging and recognizing students' home languages and cultures. Moana provided an example in his recent class, where a student from Korea compared French speech formalities to her home culture, demonstrating how students' home languages can facilitate their language learning. Marina concluded by emphasizing the broader benefits of ALP, as learning multiple languages can help our students connect with more people, understand diverse cultures, and develop crucial skills like discipline and perseverance. As the conversation wrapped up, the students offered advice to potential ALP participants by emphasizing the time commitment and the importance of attending each class. If you want to learn more about our students' language learning exploration, please tune in to this episode. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/34298275

WAB Curated Showcases Student Artists 11/28/2024

WAB Curated Showcases Student Artists Welcome to the tenth episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Grade 11 student Francesco, Grade 12 student Anya, WAB's High School Visual Arts Teacher Daniel Avila, and Film Teacher Patrick Izing. Together, they explored the development of WAB Curated and how it not only showcases student work but also nurtures their learning, helps them focus on the creative process, and serves as a digital portfolio. They also provided insights into the challenging and rewarding moments of the DP Art program. WAB Curated, as Daniel explained, is a digital showcase for student artwork and films. It transforms classroom creations into public exhibitions, allowing for wider appreciation and feedback. This platform also encourages students to curate their own exhibitions and make connections between different works. Patrick emphasized the joy of seeing students proud of their finished work and eager to share it. Both teachers highlighted how art education fosters deeper connections between students and teachers. A key focus of WAB Curated is documenting the artistic process, not just the final product. Daniel stressed the importance of showing students' struggles and creative blocks, normalizing these experiences for aspiring artists. Patrick added that filming the creation process reveals the human side of art-making, showcasing both victories and challenges. Francesco notes that filmmaking relies on collaboration and trust among team members. He said, "Everybody's putting the work in together, making something together, and I think that's beautiful." Our guests provided advice to students who are considering taking Diploma Program Arts. Patrick advised prospective DP art and film students to speak with current students for realistic expectations and to understand the unique nature of these subjects. Daniel compared Visual Art to other subjects, noting its specific requirements and the impossibility of last-minute cramming. Francesco added that attentiveness in class is crucial for success. Anya concluded with a heartfelt message: if you truly care about art, pursue it despite the challenges. She acknowledged the emotional rollercoaster of the creative process but affirmed its ultimate worth, sharing "It's a lot of energy, it's a lot of time, it's a lot of yourself that you're putting into something, and it's worth it." WAB Curated is more than just a showcase; it's a tool for learning, reflection, and growth, offering students a platform to share their artistic journey and prepare for future creative endeavors. If you want to learn more, tune into this episode and listen! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/34190830

Empowering Students Through Social-Emotional Learning 11/22/2024

Boosting Confidence & Fostering Connections through Theater 11/14/2024

Boosting Confidence & Fostering Connections through Theater Welcome to the eighth episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast. In this episode, Grade 9 student Sophie, Grade 10 student James, and their Theater teacher Leah Bramley joined us to discuss the Middle School and High School Theatre programs at WAB. They talked about how theater can improve communication and collaboration skills, their memorable experiences in theatre, and how they built self-confidence and fostered friendships along the way. Leah discussed the structured progression from Middle School to High School theater. In Middle School, all students rotate through a a unit of theater, with the opportunity to specialize at the end of the year. As students transition to High School, they can opt for a semester of theater in Grade 9 and specialize further in Grade 10 for a full year. Leah further emphasized the significance of theater in developing essential life skills like collaboration, communication, and confidence—skills that are invaluable and not easily acquired elsewhere. Through ensemble building, trust exercises, and collaborative show productions, students learn to express themselves vocally and physically, honing their storytelling abilities and fostering strong interpersonal connections. Reflecting on her personal growth, Grade 9 student Sophie shared how theater has bolstered her self-confidence since joining in fifth grade. She said taking part in theater helped her build her strength, overcome stage fright, and be courageous to put herself more out on stage. Grade 9 student James highlighted his journey over three years in the program, shedding light on memorable experiences such as his participation in the Middle School play “I Hate Shakespear” and APAC Theater. He underscored different plays have diverse themes to explore and he has fostered many friendships during a theater trip to Guangzhou last year. If you want to listen to more of our students' theatrical experiences, please tune into this episode! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/33926392

Exploring Math Learning in Middle School 11/06/2024

Exploring Math Learning in Middle School Welcome to the seventh episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast. In this episode, we were joined by four Grade 8 students - Adrien, Elsa, Gustav, and Veronica, along with their Maths teachers Tracey Brown and Karen Jewett. Together, they had a comprehensive discussion about maths learning in WAB’s Middle School, diving into the differences between self-directed learning and teacher-directed learning. The students also highlighted their favorite aspects of learning maths at WAB and the reasons behind them. Tracey provided an overview of the personalized maths learning in our Middle School. She emphasized how each student is a unique learner, acknowledging their diverse learning preferences, styles, and interests. She introduced that every student is paired with a math mentor with whom they regularly collaborate to craft a customized learning plan tailored to their individual needs. In their class, students are offered Teacher-Directed Learning (TDL), characterized by traditional teacher-driven instruction, and Self-Directed Learning (SDL), where students engage in small group or individual learning guided by a teacher. Regular progress check-ins occur, and math mentors aid students in making optimal learning decisions. Grade 8 student Veronica expressed her appreciation for SDL, emphasizing the freedom to progress at her own pace. She noted the flexibility to study independently, irrespective of others' levels of understanding. Her peer Gustav highlighted the freedom of choice in SDL, and he shared he personally favored TDL. In terms of learning environments, 8th Grader Elsa shared her fondness for studying in the booth, a designated space where students can gather around a table to create a learning-focused atmosphere. She mentioned this helped her focus on her studies, but also allowed her to also easily reach out to her peers for help. Karen outlined the process of integrating new students into the Middle School math program, emphasizing a comprehensive onboarding process. New students are paired with a partner and work closely with a math mentor to navigate the transition. The school also makes an effort to understand students' prior learning backgrounds to identify similarities and differences, ensuring a smooth adjustment to the personalized learning plans and meeting individual needs. When discussing their aspirations for High School, Veronica expressed interest in Advanced Calculus, Elsa leaned towards Geometry, and Adrien emphasized the significance of giving his best effort and remaining open to diverse learning opportunities as he progresses in his mathematical journey. Tune in to listen to more student insights on how they learn maths and how their teachers support them. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/33814998

Student Magazine Illuminating Social Issues 11/01/2024

Student Magazine Illuminating Social Issues Welcome to the sixth episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast. In this episode, we were joined by three Grade 12 students - Polly, Lily, and Sophia - who are the driving force behind the Youth Magazine, Utopix. Together, they discussed the development of this student-founded magazine, its organizational structure, its mission, and the challenges they have overcome along the way. Polly introduced Utopix as an online magazine dedicated to raising awareness about various social issues and highlighting changemakers through submissions from teenagers worldwide. Submissions can take various forms to tell stories, including written projects like poems and articles, paintings, photography, and other art. She also discussed how the magazine's publication, design, outreach, and communication teams collaborate. Explaining the meaning behind the name "Utopix," Polly described it as a fusion of "utopia," symbolizing a perfect society, and "pics," representing pictures. The aim is to work towards a more equal and joyful environment for everyone to live in using art to convey this message. Lily elaborated on the magazine's mission, emphasizing that it is driven by their passion and aims to address diverse social issues through submissions from teenagers worldwide and amplifying their voices. Sophia, part of Utopix's graphic team and a magazine leader, shared some of the challenges faced when starting the publication. Initially struggling to receive submissions, they relied on friends and people around them for content. Later on, they leveraged social media platforms and collaborations with community partners to expand their reach and get their publications noticed. Polly added that through social media outreach, their latest issue received 30 submissions from teenagers worldwide. "It's really nice to see the magazine grow and evolve into what it is we initially wanted it to be," said Lily. For those interested in contributing, individuals who are passionate about art and storytelling are invited to submit through . Submission guidelines and details can be found on the website. To learn more from these students on how they founded a magazine to spread awareness and create positive change through art and storytelling, don't miss out on this episode. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/33721157

Transforming Education: WAB's Award-Winning ES Library Redesign 10/25/2024

Transforming Education: WAB's Award-Winning ES Library Redesign Welcome to the fifth episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast, where we're excited to announce that WAB's Elementary School (ES) Library has won an Interior Design Award. Joining us in this episode are Architect Erica Borsa from Studio Vapore, Catherine Pierre, WAB's Elementary School Principal, and Beth Rohrbeck, Elementary School Librarian. Together, they talked about the redesign journey of our ES Library, discussing the collaborative efforts behind this community project, its impact on learning experiences, and the feedback received from our students. Erica shared that the Interior Design Award is a platform that recognizes innovative design spaces on a global scale. Notably, our ES Library has also been shortlisted for two other awards. One is the Plan Award, which is a prestigious Italian architecture and design award hosted by the Plan magazine. We have been also nominated at the World Festival of Architecture (WAF) for the interior category. Catherine reflected on the redesign of the ES Library, driven by the necessity to address acoustic challenges, refresh the collection, and create a conducive environment for reading. Through the collaborative effort, the redesign increased natural light by leveraging the adjacent Chinese garden and created a magical and welcoming place for reading. Beth shared the students' enthusiasm for the redesigned library, emphasizing the design elements that cater to various age groups. The updated collection includes a diverse range of literature and award-winning books. The library is also a hub for reading events, hosting visiting authors, engaging parent volunteers, and promoting multilingualism through its varied language offerings. Erica also mentioned the evolving landscape of design awards, noting a recent focus on educational spaces tailored to specific needs. She commended WAB's innovative teaching approach, emphasizing that the library serves as more than a mere repository of books but a dynamic space for student learning and exploration. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/33607697

Middle Schoolers explore Science through Hands-on, Personalized Learning 10/18/2024

Middle Schoolers explore Science through Hands-on, Personalized Learning Welcome to the fourth episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast. In this episode, Grade 7 student Karina and Grade 8 student Sam shared their experiences learning science in Middle School, shedding light on how they are challenged and the support they receive. Middle School science teachers Kamil Rudolf and Greg Brown emphasized the exploratory and personalized approach to science learning at WAB and shared some tips on how parents can support their middle school scientists. Kamil used an example from the study of the solar system to illustrate the hands-on learning approach. Students engage in activities such as simulating nebula clouds using various materials and constructing models of comet and asteroid bombardment. In the unit of space exploration, students select a celestial object within the solar system for further investigation based on their own interests. This exemplifies the personalized learning experience fostered at WAB. Personalized learning is also evident in the Science Showcase. Grade 7 student Karina expressed the freedom students have to choose their topics. She is considering a project related to cigarettes for the showcase, driven by her curiosity about the effects of smoking on the human body. Grade 8 student Sam highlighted the diverse learning opportunities at WAB, noting the flexibility to work independently, in groups, or under teacher guidance. He appreciates the autonomy granted to students, allowing them to pursue independent research while receiving tailored support from teachers. Discussing parental involvement in their children's science education, both Kamil and Greg advocated for engaging in dinner-table conversations to inquire about their children's learning experiences. They also recommended that parents explore the library, and find the many wonderful books on diverse scientific topics, renowned scientists, and their inspiring narratives. Take your child to the library borrow some books, and use these resources to inspire interesting conversations about science. Greg emphasized that learning science at WAB is not just about learning the knowledge, but also learning the scientific method and how to think as a scientist. This will best prepare students for High School studies and future scientific endeavors. In this way, students recognize that "science is occurring all around them at all times, not just within our classroom, within our lab." They are also equipped with skills to navigate scientific inquiries effectively when facing real-life scientific issues. If you want to learn more about how our learners explore science at WAB Middle School, don't miss out on this episode. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/33509282

Student Takeover: Meet WAB's New Athletics & Activities Director 09/20/2024

Student Takeover: Meet WAB's New Athletics & Activities Director Welcome to the third episode of Season 5 of the WAB podcast. In this episode, Grade 12 student Victoria and Grade 11 student Tano have taken over as hosts to interview Mr. Kirby Boychuk, WAB's new Athletics & Activities Director. During the conversation, Kirby shared his experiences in education, his reason for coming to WAB, and his plan for further developing student leadership this year. Drawing from his beginnings in theater and music, Kirby recounted his journey from theater to physical education and then becoming an athletic director. He emphasized how this transition enabled him to cultivate a positive sports culture within the school community. He underscored the rich diversity he found at WAB after coming here, highlighting the culture of respect and inclusivity belongs to the school environment. Having resided in various countries around the globe, including Bahrain, Ethiopia, Haiti, India, Qatar, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, Kirby expressed how welcomed he feels at WAB, where individuals are encouraged to be themselves without fear of judgment. Kirby elaborated on his plans to enhance student leadership development this year, summarized as the Tiger Leadership concept. Under this initiative, he plans to introduce diverse branches such as teaching, community service, event management, etc, wherein students will have authentic opportunities to engage and gain real-world experiences. An example he provided was the backstage management aspect. He would expect students could know how to use the lightboard and professionally lead the project in other related aspects. He believes such hands-on experiences would equip students with valuable skills and competitive advantages for future employment opportunities. For further insights, tune in to this engaging student-led dialogue with WAB's new Athletics and Activities Director. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/33132927

A Student-Led Dialogue with Baba the Storyteller 09/13/2024

Student Takeover: School Leadership Sharing Insights on WAB's Past and Future 09/06/2024

Student Takeover: School Leadership Sharing Insights on WAB's Past and Future Welcome back to the WAB Podcast, this is the first episode of Season 5. In this episode, High School Student Council President and Grade 12 student Jeremy, and Grade 8 student Jai have taken over as hosts to interview WAB's Head of School, Dr. Marta Medved Krajnovic, and the Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, Mr. Stephen Taylor.   Highlights from the conversation included: WAB's 30th anniversary Marta shared her anticipation around all the 30th-anniversary events. She explained how these big anniversaries are a great opportunity for a school and the whole community to celebrate together who they are and connect past, and present. Another highlight was that all three WAB founders were on campus for our Community Picnic and Whole School assembly. They shared some of their memories of WAB’s foundation and also played a key role at both events by “waking” the tigers for a tiger dance by painting their eyes Their favorite memories at WAB Jai shared that one of the things he looked forward to is Rock in the Park, but "there are so many things that make WAB special". Jeremy expressed his affection for the new Tiger Field. Marta's favorite memory was from 2023, when WAB managed to open up the school again after three years of challenging years, "seeing the students coming in" was so powerful. She shared that at that moment, she deeply felt "We are coming back to school and it's starting, it's a fresh start." Stephen is proud of how WAB has held true to its core values,'s beliefs, and ensured the best possible WAB education for students. He shared that working with students and the community, especially in reflecting and thinking about what is the future is his unforgettable memory. When students were participating in renewing the educational strategy of the school, "it became very apparent throughout the whole community workshops that those core beliefs of WAB, to connect, inspire, challenge, make a difference, didn't need to be changed.’ What to look forward to this school year Stephen is looking forward to continuing our work, focusing on refining teaching and learning at school this year and continuing the work of Strategy 2022+ towards I-DEAS (Inclusion through Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism, and Social Justice) and sustainability. Marta also expressed excitement about WAB's upcoming 30 alumni reunions worldwide, some hosted by WAB leadership and others by alumni or parents themselves. "I'll be in London and Amsterdam hosting two reunions," said Marta. These gatherings serve as platforms for sharing stories that intertwine past experiences with current endeavors, demonstrating "how their past at WAB has influenced what they are doing now and how it's influencing what they will be doing in the future," Marta emphasized. Thank you so much Jeremy and Jai for facilitating this conversation. Make sure you listen to the full episode to learn more about WAB's foundation and how the spirit and values of WAB are continuing today. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/32938187

Students Share Journey of Learning and Yearly Highlights with School Leadership 06/14/2024

Empowering Artistic Exploration and Collaboration via MADfest 06/07/2024

Empowering Artistic Exploration and Collaboration via MADfest In this week's WAB Podcast, we're joined by three WAB alumni, Ava (Class of 2023), Carolina (Class of 2017), and Jennifer (Class of 2023), along with Middle School music teacher Jessica Chang. Together, they will be sharing their MADfest experience, how students took charge of this event, and how they collaborated with their peers while having fun exploring visual art, music, dance, and theater. Jessica provided an overview of MADfest, describing it as a vibrant month-long celebration of the arts at Middle School. She emphasized that students play a leading role in the event, making choices, expressing their voices, and taking ownership. They have the opportunity to select from music, visual art, theater, or dance to broaden their artistic experiences. Ava explained her reason for rejoining MADfest this year, mentioning that she returned home and decided to volunteer and assist her previous art teacher with the art classes. This experience gave Ava a fresh perspective on the program as a whole. Carolina expressed her delight in the experience she has had with the students who chose dance at MADfest this year. She has been working alongside her co-teacher, helping choreograph dances. She also recalled her journey of gaining confidence by performing dance solo for the first time when she was at Middle School. Jennifer reflected on her first time singing at MADfest, which inspired her to form a band in high school. She said this experience had a profound impact on her, as it opened her mind to explore other subjects and pursue a different path from what she initially planned. She believes this openness is valuable for students, as it allows them to discover new interests and talents. Don't miss out on this episode to hear how MADfest impacted our Alumni and their journeys. If you want to see this year's performance schedule on June 12 and watch playbacks from previous years, please visit the MADfest page.   /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/31641267

Students Reflect on Challenges, Growth, and Achievements during Middle School 05/31/2024

Students Reflect on Challenges, Growth, and Achievements during Middle School In this week's episode, we're joined by Grade 8 students Aliyah and Lucas, along with Middle School teacher Karen Jewett. Together, they shared their Middle School journey, the challenges they've faced, the choices they've made, and how they have grown. As a Middle School Science and Math teacher, as well as a Grade 8 Level Leader, Karen expressed her delight in seeing students grow over the years. She highlighted the noticeable increase in their confidence as they transitioned from grade 6 to 8. Karen observed how eighth graders assumed leadership roles, actively participating in student council and organizing the Grade 8 celebration. She observed their transformation from uncertainty to becoming school leaders within the community. Lucas, one of the Grade 8 students, acknowledged the need to adjust his study habits and time management skills in eighth grade. Aliyah remarked on the general changes she experienced during middle school. She noticed an improvement in her confidence levels, a greater focus on schoolwork, and the development of better study habits. When asked about the highlights of their Middle School journey, Aliyah shared her love for WAB Wild, which provided her with a fun and educational experience, while also enhancing her social skills. Lucas fondly recalled the China Studies trip to the Shaolin Temple and various other events and activities that brought him joy and created lasting memories with his friends. Karen also discussed the upcoming Grade 8 celebration, emphasizing that it is entirely student-led. The event serves as an opportunity for students to reflect on their experiences, and acknowledge their growth as middle schoolers. She expressed her excitement, stating that the celebration holds great significance for both the eighth graders and the teachers as they come together to commemorate the students' journey from sixth to eighth grade. For more insights into their Middle School journey, don't miss out on this episode. If you're a Grade 8 parent and like to participate in the G8 Celebration, please mark your calendar for June 14 and look out for the email with ticket purchasing and family photo reservation details. Tickets will be on sale by June 3.  /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/31543167

Exploring Global Issues at the PYP Exhibition 05/23/2024

Exploring Global Issues at the PYP Exhibition In this week's WAB episode, we're joined by Grade 5 students Michelle and Justin, along with Elementary School teacher Kelly Crysell. They shared their experiences completing the PYP exhibition, shedding light on their motivation for selecting their topics, the knowledge they acquired, and their preparation process. Kelly provided an overview of the PYP exhibition program, also known as PYPx, stating, "The PYP exhibition is a culminating project that students do that brings in all the different parts of their PYP experience." Throughout the year, they engaged in discussions around various United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), both local and global, to foster their interest. Students are divided into groups, collaborating to explore their chosen area of interest and its associated local or global issues, while considering actionable steps. During the final phase, they then thought about how to create art that inspired people to take action, setting the stage for PYPx. Kelly also emphasizes the challenges of the PYPx, while students may be passionate and enthusiastic about their chosen topics they also need to invest a lot of effort into the research process. Michelle, a Grade 5 student, shares her passion for consumer choices, which led her to select SDG 12, Responsible Consumption and Production. Michelle explained, "The central idea that I had was consumer choices influence the well-being of all living things." Her group aimed to examine how individuals adapt and utilize resources and explore opportunities for improvement, recognizing that both positive and negative choices can yield varying outcomes. Justin, another Grade 5 student, expresses his team's choice of SDG 14, Life Underwater, with a specific focus on overfishing and plastic pollution. Justin emphasizes the significance of their decision, stating "It is our responsibility to protect it" with the ocean covering 71 percent of our planet. Their exploration centered around the alarming consequences of plastic pollution. If you're interested in the exciting student learning behind the PYPx, be sure to tune in to this episode! /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/31417287

Students and Head of EdTach Discuss the Impact of AI 05/16/2024

WAB's High School Global Crisis and Sustainability Program 05/02/2024

Personalized Learning in WAB's Capstone Program 04/24/2024

Growth and Global Engagement through Model UN 04/18/2024

Growth and Global Engagement through Model UN In this episode of the WAB podcast, we have four special guests: Grade 7 student Mary, Grade 8 student Lachlan, Grade 10 student Ben, and Irina Karimova, the supervisor of WAB's Model United Nations (Model UN / MUN) Club. Together, they shared their inspiration for joining the Model UN club, how they prepare, their experiences, and personal growth along the way. Irina introduced how the Model UN is a platform for students interested in current affairs to learn and discuss global issues together. During Model UN conferences, students are assigned a country and role-play its delegation. Irina emphasized that the club aims to foster dialogue, broaden horizons, and highlight the importance of collaboration.   Ben, who joined the Model UN Club in seventh grade, described how it helped him learn about different countries. As a Grade 10 student, he now has been twice selected as the conference chair. Ben shared the extensive preparation required for this role, such as writing detailed reports to guide delegates' research and providing an overview of the topics. He encouraged other students to participate, assuring them that everyone starts with similar nerves and mistakes, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step.  Lachlan, a Grade 8 student, spoke about the significance of considering a country's stance when preparing position papers and opening speeches, particularly for important conferences like UNISMUN, the Model UN Conference held at the United Nations International School in Vietnam.  Grade 7 student Mary joined the Model UN Club due to her interest in Geography. And having participated for one year, she has won herself "Most Improved Delegate" at a recent Model UN conference in Beijing. Mary highlighted how her research skills, collaboration, and public speaking abilities have improved through her Model UN experiences.  If you're interested in the exciting story behind WAB's Model United Nations club, be sure to tune in to this episode!   /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/30880823

Student Takeover: A Journey into WAB Wild 04/11/2024

Student Takeover: HS Learners Share Insights on their IB Journey 03/28/2024

Student Takeover: HS Learners Share Insights on their IB Journey In this week's WAB podcast, Angelina and Hannah from High School Student Club Inkblot took over and produced their first episode titled "All about the IB". They opened up about their individual encounters with the IB program, sharing their challenges, turning points, personal growth, and insights gained along the journey. During their conversation, Hannah recounts a story from one of her peers who expressed that the IB program showed them the extent of their capabilities and motivated them to push themselves to achieve their potential within a limited timeframe. The two students also discussed their subject selection process. Angelina shares her initial struggle with three course clashes at the beginning of the IB program. However, she later discovered a newfound love for subjects she hadn't initially considered. Her IB learning journey, she explains, has been "evolving" and "challenging". Hannah explains that her passion for industrial design in university led her to choose Design Technology and Visual Arts. Although her first choice of history wasn't available, she luckily ended up in Geography, which has now become her favorite subject. Hannah describes her IB experience as both "empowering" and "driving". Angelina reflects on the significance of making independent decisions when choosing courses, stating "it was the first time that you're making a decision on your own." She recalls that the personal project in Grade 10 paved the way for this type of decision-making, but the IB program granted her even greater space and control.  For Hannah, one of the most empowering aspects of the IB program is the opportunity to pursue her interests. Her IB education has made her aware of her passion for social justice. She also mentions people need to pay attention to maintaining mental health. "We are IB students, but at the same time we're also teenagers", said Hannah. She emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between academic commitments and personal well-being. Both Angelina and Hannah feel that WAB provides an ideal environment for students to pursue their IB studies. "We're in such an incredible environment where your voice is really heard," said Angelina. To hear details about these students' IB experience, don't miss out on this episode presented by the HS student club Inkblot. /episode/index/show/wabtiger/id/30578738

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