2022-23
Our Mission
Table of Contents
The American Embassy School provides a balanced education defined by a joyful pursuit of excellence in academics, athletics, arts and service. We enable each student to be an inspired, lifelong learner and a responsible, compassionate global citizen.
Learning
Our Vision AES is a destination school for families and educators seeking personalized learning to cultivate intellectual and creative leaders who will make the world a better place.
Academics
5
Assessments
8
Arts
10
Activities and Athletics
16
Technology
17
Professional Learning
18
Service Learning Service Learning
19
Our Community Admissions
22
Faculty and Staff
23
Parent School Association
24
Marketing and Communications
25
Alumni
32
Summer Extension Program Summer Extension Program
35
Finances Finance
36
Message from Director 70th Anniversary Week A highlight of the 2022–2023 school year was celebrating our school’s 70th Anniversary. This was a highlight not only because of the incredible festivities which I will recap below but also because like any significant anniversary, it gave us an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come and where we want to go. Looking back and looking forward, the American Embassy School is as colorful and bright as our 70th Anniversary celebration illuminated. Day One: Here is a bit of a recap from the 70th Anniversary Week: AES really knows how to celebrate! Walking into the Administrative Office Monday morning—I was greeted with pink flowers cascading from the ceiling, urli filled with floating rose petals and lotus blooms, and rangoli—all signaling the beginning of this festive week to mark our 7oth Anniversary and Diwali coming soon after. After setting my things down in my office, the drumming and dancing began—yes, my kids will be thrilled to see another video of me dancing! And then it was time for the unveiling of our beautiful marble marker of these 70 remarkable years—logged as a community dedicated to the education of our kids, to their joyful pursuits of excellence, and to their service of our world. Day Two: The celebration continued with a colorful all-school gathering on the Tiger Turf to hear, for the first time in three years, the combined efforts of all three divisional bands, orchestras, and choirs. Under the still blazing, but relenting, sun, we were treated to a performance of “Sing” written by Joe Raposo. The musicians wore brightly colored kurtas—chosen from our school ’s Indian-inspired color palette—making the performance especially festive. The High School Poet Laureate, Lina El Bouzrati ‘24, then recited her poem, Seventy, which she wrote in honor of the School’s 70th Anniversary. After some remarks by me, the energetic music drew the Bollywood instructor to the stage and got us all on our feet. The whole school— students, teachers, staff, and guests—danced and jumped, waving our arms in the air, grinning ear to ear—sweat pouring but not in the least bit deterred by the sweltering heat. I absolutely love it when the whole community gathers like this; I can really feel our powerful school spirit in these moments. And as a last mention: no event would pass at AES without food. And this was no exception as we were each treated to the sweetness of a beautifully decorated 70th Anniversary cookie. Days Three, Four, and Five: A very special Evening Concert on Friday, the History Walk and Gala on Saturday, and the Family Mela & PSA Diwali Dhamaka on Sunday.
David Perry Director
Message from Board of Governors The American Embassy School community, including families, faculty, Interim Director David Perry, and the Board of Governors, joyfully took the opportunity in the 2022–2023 school year to fully transition to being back on campus. This past year, the Board accomplished many important tasks. The Governance Committee, led by Audrey Slover, implemented recommended improvements to BOG meetings and use of committees that allowed members to focus on work to ensure the long-term viability of AES. The Policy Committee transitioned to taskforce status under the Governance Committee and accelerated its review of the board policy manual under the leadership of Anjali Bissel. The Audit Committee, led by Ronit Sharkey, was renamed to be the Risk Management Committee and ensured board representation in child safety discussions. Aarti Rai, in collaboration with the Finance Committee, did important work to ensure AES’s fiscal health after several years of depressed enrollment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the departure of several board members, the Nominations Committee, led by Nicole Gupte, used an improved onboarding process to welcome two new board members. Kathrin Tegenfeld and Saskia Stegeman led a search for the next AES Director. Their work involved getting input from faculty, staff, students, David Perry, and the AES association members. It culminated with the hire of Dr. Rand Harrington. The input provided by the AES community as part of this process was used by the Board to begin development of a new strategic plan under the leadership of Subramanian Venkatasubramanian It is with great hope and excitement that we look expectantly to the coming year to continue to improve Board governance, develop a strategic plan, ensure financial sustainability, and support a smooth transition to a new Director. The Board is honored to do the work to partner with faculty, staff, and the community to ensure AES will long remain a place where students can Enter to Learn. Leave to Serve.
Daniel VanderEnde Board of Governors
Learning
Academics The 2022–2023 school year saw a return to a full MS program post COVID. This included travel around India for Week without Walls, ASIAC sport and music, AMIS (Choir) and ISTA (Drama). We continued community building through our Spirit Days, Fort Frenzy Fun days, and socials.
As we celebrate offering the IB at AES since 1982, we salute our students and teachers for their commitment to teaching and learning and their perseverance in the face of challenges like the pandemic. Though scores are not the only way we measure success, we are proud of the Class of 2023 who were our first graduating class since 2019 to be accountable for all IB assessments for each course. We are open enrollment and allow any student who wishes to pursue the IB Diploma to do so, and 79% of the Class of 2023 chose that challenge. They achieved a 91% pass rate and eight students (11%) earned 40+ points with the highest Diploma points at the maximum of 45. Our Diploma points average was 34, well above the world average of 30 and comparable to many other international schools of our caliber. An additional 17% of the class chose to pursue one or more IB courses. In addition to these academic achievements, we are proud of their contributions to the life of our school and the larger community through their creativity, activity, and service. They Entered to Learn and pursued excellence in the arts, athletics, academics, and service, and they are Leaving to Serve new communities and to impact the World. Once a Tiger, Always a Tiger, and we look forward to watching them roar!
This year, our curricular work focused on continuing to develop our science programs’s scope and sequence to align with NGSS standards. Our social studies units evolved to include inquiry within the C3 framework. In our health and PE programs, this was the first year we had a Grade 6 through Grade 8 integrated health and PE curriculum. This ensures that every year MS students will be engaged in learning about healthy lifestyles and choices.
Iftekhar Syed
High School Principal
Anthea Clifton
Middle School Principal
The 2022–2023 middle school faculty and staff engaged in their second year of learning and working with Inspire Citizens, and now each grade level has an embedded service learning unit within their social studies classes. Each service learning unit is now connected to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. As an example of service learning, our sixth graders made use of our maker space to go through the design process to create upcycled products which they sold at a sustainability mela for peers and families. All profits were donated to a local NGO, Swechha. As part of the upcycling mela the MS also hosted our inaugural T-shirt swap for students. We continue to celebrate student learning through our weekly communications, MS assemblies, MS Showcase, and our social media accounts. Student agency has continued to be a focus for Middle School. It is celebrated through our Well-Rounded Wednesday program; students planning, presenting, and performing at weekly assemblies; and student-led After-School Activities.
Enter to Learn. Leave to Serve.
Academics The 2022–2023 school year marked a significant milestone for the Elementary School at AES. We completed the renovations of our Grade 1 and Kindergarten instructional spaces. This means that all of our grade levels are now collaborating and learning in dynamic, flexible spaces that provide many more opportunities for student agency. We also opened our Extended Services Program (ESP) which is designed to meet the needs of neurodiverse learners who may need an instructional setting that provides different opportunities. Another highlight in the ES was that we expanded our World Language program to allow students to attend classes five days out of six. The elementary school faculty and staff engaged in continuous professional learning with the Inspire Citizens organization to embed service learning into our curriculum at each grade level and to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Our faculty and staff continued to utilize the AERO and NGSS standards to provide students with differentiated standards-based instruction in the core content areas of literacy, math, science, and social studies. Students also attended two specialist classes per day that included music, art, Indian Studies, world language, and physical education. At AES, we value diversity and inclusion, and throughout the 2022–2023 school years, the Elementary School celebrated our diversity and promoted inclusion through assemblies and community celebrations. These included our India Week assembly, where we celebrate our host country, an assembly to recognize the United Nations International Day of Peace, and our own International Day celebration.
Charles Bellomy
Elementary School Principal
Assessments "AES is proud of the class of 2023 who fared extremely well with gap year, military, and university admission s option s. The cl a ss of 2023 demonstrated a diversity of passports, lived experiences, and academic interests a s evidenced by the rising trend in applying to programs in multiple countries and seeking multiple best-fit opportunities around the world."
8:1
11
73
Student Faculty Ratio
Average Class Size
% of 2023 Graduates pursued IB Diploma
English
Math
34
33
30
New in 2023, the Institute for Design and Innovation (IDI) at AES immerses students in project-based and real-world oriented learning experiences. IDI incorporates social science and English subject standards, in combination with 21st Century skills such as systems thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
AP Average Scores By Subject Group 1
World Average: 2.54 US History
AES Average Score: 3.3
AES High School phased in Standards-Based Grading starting in the 2016–17 school year. A 1-7 achievement scale was adopted in 2018–19. Students earn an overall score of 1-7 for each course each semester which is reported on the school transcript. We no longer calculate GPAs.
2023 Results
Director of University and College Counseling
AES offers a rigorous American college preparatory curriculum throughout Grades 9 and 10 that culminates with the option to do the full IB Diploma or IB Courses. In total, AES offers more than 40 IBHL, IBSL, and AP courses. The high school program includes opportunities for internships, fine and performing arts, service learning, and online options through Pamoja and Virtual High School. A full list of courses is available on our website.
IB Diploma Results
ACT Scores - Class of 2023
Warren Emanuel
Curriculum
Standards-Based Learning
36
31
AES has an open enrollment policy for students wishing to take AP or IB courses or the full IB Diploma. Approximately 75% of students will pursue a full IB Diploma each year. Students may not exceed three HL and/or AP courses in a year.
35
Reading
Science
Composite
31
33
33
27
35
30
36
30
Group 1 Mean
Mid 50%
SAT Scores - Class of 2023 Math Section
Total
642
690
1331
570
720
660
770
Mean
Mid 50%
1220
1470
Group 3
Our students have had less access to standardized tests because of fewer test dates abroad, fewer sites offering the test, score cancellations, and technological difficulties.Please take this into account when evaluating our students’ applications.
91%
Average Score
34
Highest Score
45
# Earning 40+
8
Conversion Chart to Traditional Letter Grades
Studies in Language & Literature
A
5
B
4
C
World Average: 5.24
3
Language Acquisition
D
1&2
F (No Credit)
World Average: 4.74
World Average: 4.35 AES Average Score: 4.64 World Average: 4.37 Mathematics
AES Average Score: 5.33 Group 6
Pass Rate
6
AES Average Score: 5.78
Group 5
57
World Average: 4.82
Science
Testing Limitations for international students & US citizens abroad
# IB Diploma Candidates
A+
Individuals & Societies
Group 4
70
7
AES Average Score: 5.33
ERW
# IB Candidates
Recommended Conversion
AES Average Score: 5.20 Group 2
2023 results
AES Level of Achievement
IB Average Scores By Group
35
Year
World Average: 4.38 The Arts
AES Average Score: 4.75
University Acceptances Class of 2023
APPLICATION GUIDELINE
AES students are encouraged to submit ten university applications or less. Universities receiving an application from AES can be assured that the student is a sincere applicant.
AI GUIDELINE
AES follows the IB guidelines for appropriate use of AI in academic work and college essays.
United States American University Bates College Bellarmine University Brandeis University Brown University BYU Carnegie Mellon University Claremont McKenna College Columbia University in the City of New York DePaul University Emerson College Emory University Florida International University Fordham University George Washington University Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Hope College Indiana University-Bloomington Kenyon College Lewis & Clark College Manhattan College New York University North Carolina State University at Raleigh Northeastern University Oberlin College Oklahoma State University-Main Campus Purdue University-Main Campus Saint Mary's College of California Santiago Canyon College Stanford University Stony Brook University
AMERICAN EMBASSSY SCHOOL
Texas A & M University-College Station Tufts University University of California-Berkeley University of California-Davis University of California-Irvine University of California-Los Angeles University of California-Merced University of California-San Diego University of Chicago University of Florida University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of Oregon University of Rochester University of Southern California University of the Pacific University of Virginia-Main Campus University of Washington-Seattle Campus Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Wellesley College Xavier University of Louisiana
Canada
United Kingdom
Other Countries
City, University of London Durham University King's College London The University of Edinburgh University of Bristol University of Greenwich University of Stirling Queen Mary University of London
University of Cassino, Italy International Medical University, Malaysia TEC de Monterrey, Mexico Al-Faisal, Saudi Arabia CEU San Pablo University, Spain IE University - Madrid Campus, Spain University of Navarra, Spain
Chandragupta Marg Chanakyapuri,New Delhi 110021 India
Algonquin College Huron University Memorial University of Newfoundland Ryerson University The University of British Columbia Vancouver The University of British Columbia Okanagan Toronto Metropolitan University Trinity Western University University of Calgary University of Ottawa University of Toronto University of Waterloo
Korea Korea University Hongik University Seoul University Sogang University Ewha Womans University Yonsei University
+91 11 26888854
www.aes.ac.in
Bold indicates multiple enrollments This list does not include 2023 graduates who pursued a gap year and applications after graduation that are still in progress, most notably to Korean universities.
Arts Music The American Embassy School Music Program wa s robu st in ever y division , with several concerts throughout the year engaging entire elementary school grades. Elementary School had students involved in active music-making through Choir, Orchestra, and grade level performances, as well as iPop activities after school. Overall, the AES program engaged nearly all of the elementary school students, more than 200 middle school students, and m any specialized high school musicians including 20 in the Music National Honor Society and 40 in Middle and High School Band and Strings. Music groups from all divisions were involved in a variety of public performances beginning with a cross division performance of Elementar y, Middle and High School Choir, Middle and High School Band and Strings, and guitar programs to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the School.
Other mu sical performances included International Day, Arts in the Atrium, assemblies, MS Drama Shrek Jr, Fall Fiesta, and Middle School ’s Crossing the Bridge ceremony. Middle School Showcase concerts and High School music concerts represented the choir, guitar, band and strings programs each semester as culminating events. High School Band and Strings performed at pep rallies and at the Prom and Graduation ceremonies. Mu sic students represented the American Embassy School at the ASIAC (Middle School) music festival in Mumbai, AMIS choir festival in Luxembourg (Middle School), and the MESAC Senior Fine Arts Festival in Dubai (High School).
Arts Visual Arts Elementary School In 2022–2023, we welcomed Anne Dwinell to the elementary art team as our new art teacher, joining Clare Gibson who was continuing in her fourth year in the department. Anne brought a wealth of knowledge about ceramics and helped u s create even better cl ay studio spaces. Each grade level made a variety of clay creations and had a wider choice when using tools and glazes. We h ad a goal of m aking our PreK and Kindergarten classes even more exploratory and inquiry based. Student engagement increased, and we found we were able to coach students with their own particular learning needs. At the end of the year, the senior students each completed their own pieces of work to exhibit. It demonstrated their own journeys through the artistic process—idea generation, research, experimentation, producing, and refining. They also took inspiration from a visit to the IB exhibition in the High School Atrium.
Grade 5 students used a blended learning model on their ipads for their painting unit. This helped them to navigate through their own learning journeys at their own pace using technology and the resources within the art studio space. Grade 3 students created beautiful displays of fish kites th at were hung in the outdoor elementary quad and Grade 5 students displayed their clay fantasy creatures in our ES office space. Each was an example of how we are starting to find ways to display and share our artistic works in more community spaces. It wa s al so exciting to see the ar t team integrate with other learning communities and specialists through several projects throughout the year.
Arts Visual Arts Middle School Middle School welcomed two fabulous new art teachers and the h all s were bu zzing with creative energy! MS and HS students used all of the shared art spaces, and it was wonderful to see everyone cross paths. Art work was continuously displayed throughout common AES spaces, and we made cross-curricular connection s when we could: dram a with artwork, social studies with art, and so much more. Students discovered the power of visual communication through six MS art classes: Art Exploratory, Art Design, Mixed Media, Ceramics, Studio Art, and Photography.
Arts Visual Arts High School Fresh ideas, new experiences, and the positive energy of student artists accompanied our days in the art studios. Inspired by global as well as Indian artworks throughout time, ancient techniques such as mosaic making and sculpting in clay were revisited with modern eyes. Upper level students retreated to a mountainside outside of Rishikesh for an extended weekend immersed in creating art pieces on-sight and also took a deep dive into curriculum. Several art students traveled to Dubai to take part in the MESAC Fine Arts Festival. Art displays were assembled throughout the high school building and a few other spots around campus. Countless viewers were able to delight and be inspired by the originality and creativity evident in each artwork.
Arts Theater Middle School Theater Over the course of the year, the middle school theater department flourished with an array of new classes and performances. Student participation and interest gained momentum, especially during the Spring Musical, “Shrek.” Here are a few of the highlights from the year:
• In collaboration with the MS Choir, students created an original pop-up performance for International Day of Peace on September 21, 2022. All Lit Up
• For the Fall studio production, students wrote and produced an original Diwali-themed mystery called “All Lit Up.” Audiences were captivated and intrigued to find out who had been behind the spree of arson s happening and who stole the ruby necklace. • In Januar y, middle school students traveled to the American School of Bombay for the ISTA (International School Theatre Association) Festival. Students creatively collaborated with students from ASB and Chennai to create an original performance about the legendary Dabbawallas of Mumbai. This was the first trip post-COVID. • For the Spring musical, over 40 students participated in "Shrek Jr." which included two sold-out performances. All ages loved to see Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona come to life on stage in their epic journey to get Shrek ’s swamp back.
ISTA (International School Theatre Association) Festival
• The musical was supported by the new MS Backstage Design & Tech class which was responsible for all aspects including lights, sound, costumes, props, and set. • In addition to a wonderful year of student work and performances, the Parent Booster Club was created to support the musical production including professional make-up tutorials, and workshops. (Both of these initiatives continue in 2023–2024).
SHREK JR. The Musical
MS Theater – Shrek
Arts
HS Theater Report
The HS mainstage theater production for the Spring was The Curious Savage by John Patrick, directed by students A. Nadguada and Kahani Malhotra. The 1950s era comedy was adapted into a 360 degree stage (“in the round ”) so the audience could sit close and feel immersed in the action. The show required realism and students delivered! They played violin live on stage in character, learned to play the piano, painted a real original piece of artwork on stage during the show, and dyed their hair blue for real! The commitment to character and storytelling was a testament to the care and passion for the arts at AES.
T h e T h e s p ia n s H o n o r S o cie t y create d a H a u nte d H o u s e f o r Fa l l F i e s t a w h i c h w a s v i s i te d by 3 5 0 g u e s t s a n d a n o n- l i n e F i l m Festival th at featured 10 shor t fil m s by students. High School Theater is also centered around curriculum, including the two-year IB Theater course, Moviemaking, Introduction to Theater, and Advanced Theater.
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Coming into AES, especially online, I didn’t have much of a landing point. Like a lot of kids here, I’d moved around a lot before, and had plenty of experience starting from scratch. Although everyone was really friendly, it was easy to feel like I didn’t have roots. Having Theater really helped me in that way: I had a craft to hone, skills to learn, new information to take in, and a group of creative, talented, outgoing people to support me while I did so. I’m incredibly grateful that when I was missing home, or just struggling with that same new circumstances that everyone adapted to, I had a new creative activity to focus that tension and energy on. Like a lot of people, I grappled with apathy throughout the pandemic, and Theater showed me that I still have the capacity to care for and work toward things that give value to me and my community.
Cyriac Charignon, class of 2024.
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The High School ’s Theater Program showed high levels of talent and commitment through putting on two mainstage theater shows (each with a cast/crew of 25–30 students) and impressive efforts of the Thespians Honor Society with 14–20 students. The mainstage theater production for the Fall was Much Ado About Nothing by William Sh akespeare, directed by HS students Cyriac Charignon and Mirav Mukherjee. It was an adaptation of the cl a ssic rom antic comedy through which students learned how to interpret and re-imagine Shakespeare’s work for modern times.
It is hard to overstate just how much the theater program at AES has made me grow as a person. At a personal level, I have met some of my closest friends acting in plays such as The Importance of Being Earnest or The Curious Savage, or taking part in theater related trips in London or Dubai organized by the school. The collaborative aspect of theater, on which AES places great emphasis, nurtures a strong community. I also deeply appreciate how I always feel like my creative input matters and is taken into account. The strong student initiatives and leadership opportunities created by the theater program in this school have helped me develop a wide array of skills that will help me tremendously in moving forward in life. Directing and producing Much Ado About Nothing, I have learned how to manage a project and solve unexpected challenges. I have learned how to interact with suppliers such as the tailor. I have learned how to create a schedule and meet deadlines. I have learned how to lead a big group while also giving individualized feedback, etc. Ultimately, being involved in many ways in the theater program has helped me in all areas of life. It has helped me develop my empathy and reach a maturity, confidence, and creative level that makes me proud of who I am today.
Curtain Call for The Curious Savage by John Patrick. Spring 2023.
From The Curious Savage by John Patrick
“
“
Theater
Billie Pine, Class of 2021. Lead actor in Juno Steel and a Student Director of The Importance of Being Earnest.
Lead actor in The Importance of Being Earnest and a Student Director of Much Ado About Nothing
Cast and Crew of Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare
Activities and Athletics American Embassy School, New Delhi Activities and Athletics 2022–2023 School Year Year End Activities and Athletics Director Report
Summary Introduction The 2022–2023 AES School year was once again filled with opportunities, challenges, and adju stment s a s we continued to return to normal programming and yet remain diligent in our steps for preventing COVID. The Activities a n d At h l e t ic s D e p a r t m e nt co nt in ue d to support the American Embassy School mission of providing a balanced education defined by a joyful pursuit of excellence in academics, athletics, arts, and service. Through careful planning, adjusting and modifying, we were able to run most of our AES co-curricul ar program s on-campus throughout the school year and sent off all scheduled co-curricular athletic and activity trips within India and internationally. The programs at AES have a strong tradition and along with our team in the Activities Department, we worked diligently throughout the year to meet the program needs that were both safe and meaningful for our students.
Scope of Work The scope of work in the Activities and Athletics Department is on co/extracurricular programs for AES students. The Activities and Athletics program plays a vital role in the school and student learning. In 2022–2023, the AES Co-Curriculars were able to run most program s here on campus, with minor modifications and adjustments to meet our standards for COVID-19 prevention. This is the first year since the spring of 2020 that we were able to send out all student trips and host all sch e du l e d M E SAC a n d A S IAC eve nt s o n campus. The general feedback and observations from faculty and students show that our AES students were very appreciative of our efforts and for allowing students to get back to normal programming.
Meeting our Goals in 2022–2023 St aying with in ou r s afet y a nd r isk m a n a g e m e nt g u i d e l i n e s f o r COV I D -1 9 prevention and other prevention efforts, the AES Activities Department worked throughout the school year to complete the following: Elementary School—i-POP • Four sessions/quarters of elementary iPOP activities in 2022–2023. • 338 different iPOP activities / Average of 83.5 iPOP sessions offered per quarter. • Average of 58.75 unique activities per quarter. • Average of 16.75 unique physically active activities each quarter. • Average of 347.25 elementary students registering for one or more iPOP activities each session. • We had 3,424 iPOP registrations for the year and an average of 856 registrations per quarter. • On average, students in iPOP meet 5.5 times per quarter session for each daily activity. Middle School—ASA (After School Activities) and ASIAC • Four sessions/quarters of ASAs and ASIAC activities in 2022–2023. • Over 130 different ASA/ASIAC activities / Average of 31+ activities per session. • Over 150 M.S. students registering for one or more ASA or ASIAC each session. • Sent out three student trips to three ASIAC events in Chennai (soccer) and Mumbai (badminton/table tennis and music festival). • Hosted two major ASIAC events (tennis/volleyball and swimming/basketball) on the AES campus. High School—Clubs and MESAC • Three full seasons of MESAC activities—36 different programs involving Varsity, Junior Varsity and program v MESAC events for all six MESAC schools—Academic Games, Varsity Boys/Girls Basketball and Speech and Debate. • High School Clubs—49 clubs in academics, service, athletics, and arts. • Over 90% of all high school students were involved in one or more co-curricular activities during the school year.
Other Initiatives and Collaborations • Managed athletic facilities and equipment for PE, athletics, and community groups. • Director of Activities and Athletics served on school-wide commivttees for Facilities and Master Planning, Service-Learning, Child Safeguarding • 19 AES faculty and staff certified by the Climbing Wall Association to supervise and run programs on the AES climbing wall. • Served on regional student activities conferences, including MESAC and ASIAC.
Technology We believe the bal anced , authentic , and intention al integration of technology empowers students and faculty and is a driver of AES innovation. It provides opportunities for voice, choice, collaboration, critical thinking, and content creation across grade levels and content areas. We also believe that a maker and a researcher mindset empowers learners to explore, create, discover, and define their learning journeys. We believe that engaged makers and researchers are: • Evaluative • Curious • Equipped with a growth mindset • Reflective • Responsible • Empathetic • Agents for change We make this happen at AES through a 1:1 device program: iPads for elementary students and MacBooks for middle and high school students. We also have a robust Ed Tech team with both technical and teaching staff including technology coordinators and teaching assistants in every division. There are several dedicated technology spaces throughout campus allowing everyone an opportunity to design and create. During the 2022–2023 school year, through our academic classes including Makerspace, Design Lab, Robotics, and IB Computer Science, we worked with all of our elementary and middle school students, and at least 115 High School students. We reached many more through our extra-curricular programs: iPOP in ES, ASA in MS and Clubs in HS. These offer a range of opportunities such as Macrame, Coding, 3D Paper Models, and 3D Design and Print. Activities incorporate a variety of tools from sewing machines to laser printers and inspire creativity through choices such as Lego Stop Motion and Game Development.
Professional Learning Professional Learning for AES Deep and focused professional learning is a key component of successful schooling. The American Embassy School throughout the 2022–2023 year continued its commitment to this by ensuring the school's structures, processes, and practices supported professional learning that was a collaborative endeavor to support the improvement of teaching and learning.
The 2022–202 3 school year saw the continuation of onsite professional learning primarily focused on student achievement and well-being. Four professional learning days at AES suppor ted school-wide and division al initiatives. Addition ally, our Wednesd ay afternoon professional learning structures fur ther suppor ted both school-wide and divisional needs.
Our ongoing relationships with international consultants supported our work to further develop and communicate a shared vision and common language around learning as well as strengthening a culture of reflective practice. This access to external expertise promotes growth within our faculty and supports our goal of ensuring a guaranteed and viable curriculum that enhances learners’ access to broad and meaningful learning experiences. Building the capability of teachers to be leaders who promote and support the improvement of teaching and learning is a key goal.
AES also supports access to professional l e a r n i n g f u n d s e a c h ye a r. T h e s e s u p p o r t professional learning and growth that is a l i g n e d w i t h t h e s c h o o l ’s p r o g r a m s a n d initiatives, as well as in support of individual professional goals. These have included but are not limited to workshops, conferences, and online courses that align with AES programs, goals, and initiatives.
AES continued its proud association with and commitment to NESA, Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools, often partnering with other schools to learn more about successful teaching and learning strategies and ways to promote effective professional learning planning.
Service Learning
Service Learning Enter to Learn. Leave to Serve. More than just our motto at AES, this speaks to the foundation behind our purpose for learning. Built upon a rich history of serving the needs of the community, our service learning program seeks to nurture reciprocal relationships—empowering AES students and stakeholders to act as agents of change. By embedding service within the fabric of our curriculum at all divisions through the ongoing development and enculturation of a consistent school-wide service learning cycle, service resides at the very core of who we are as a community of compassionate global citizens. Throughout the 2022–2023 school year, our continued partnership with Inspire Citizens contributed considerably toward building capacity within AES systems and structures to ensure the sustainability of our service partnerships, as well as making steady progress toward our program goal of at least one fully-embedded curricular service learning experience at each grade level. As subjects and grade level s across division s continued to identify curricular entry points within existing units for service learning, designed new units around a service-learning focus, or reflected on and iterated upon units already complete, the Teaching and Learning team actively supported this curricular work.
Below is a brief (though by no means comprehensive) list of curricular service-learning units that were in ongoing development during 2022–2023: • Pre-K continued development of Composting & Food Waste analysis • Kindergarten exploration of human impacts on the environment • Grade 1 “Biomimicry” unit adapted with service-learning & design focus • Grade 2 Introduction of US Sustainable Development Goals—Developing your “Why” as a learner • Grade 5 “Wellness” unit in second iteration focusing on dimensions of community & person wellness • Grade 6 “Upcycling” Social Studies unit, culminating mela event, and middle school clothing swap • Grade 7 Math “Probability” unit developed in partnership with the VVK Community Library Project • Grade 8 Exploration of migration—causes & effects on individuals and communities Within the high school program, students were provided extensive opportunities to engage with elements of service learning from a more holistic approach by incorporating the skills and knowledge gained in the classroom with co-curricular service activities, allowing students to have authentic impact in the broader community. As students and teachers continued to capitalize upon opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and integration of service, a wide range of courses made solid progress toward our service learning goals. While subjects such as art, design, drama, world history, physical education, health, and social studies actively incorporated elements of service learning into existing units; students were also able to apply the knowledge learned in m ath , world languages, and the sciences to real-world issues encountered outside the classroom.
Continued growth and development of the AES service learning program was evidenced in the wide range of service-oriented initiatives t aken on by our student s through C AS (Creativity-Activity-Service) projects as an integral part of the IB diploma program. Many of these CAS experiences included active participation in our high school service clubs and served to deepen the reciprocal relationships developed as a part of those engagements. This year over 200 of our high school students across 12 diverse co-curricular student service organizations made positive impacts on the community through more than 4000 service engagement hours. As an institution that draws upon service as our foundation, the importance of AES staff as well as our parent community in supporting those efforts cannot be overstated. The growth of service-oriented organizations that include AES students, such as the Scout Troop 60, flourished in 2022–2023. Troop 60 saw several AES students ascend to the rank of Eagle Scout in part through service projects benefiting the Vivekananda community library and mobilized the swelling numbers of AES Scouts in these service engagements. The October PSA Mela featured a service showcase that brought together in celebration all the components that comprise our service program: students, parents, faculty, staff, and our community service partners. Through the devotion to the integration of service school–wide curricular and co-curricular programs in 2022–2023, the AES community continues to be strengthened through service.
#STRENGTHENEDTHROUGHSERVICE
Our Community
Our Community The American Embassy School boasts a rich histor y and an enduring legacy since its establishment in 1952. In the recent year, we marked a significant milestone, celebrating our 70th Anniversary with a community that has become more diverse than ever before. At AES, we wholeheartedly embrace individuals from a wide array of cultural backgrounds, fostering an environment that encourages open dialogue and the utmost respect for diverse opinions and ideas. Our commitment to inclusivity is evident in our deep-rooted Culture of Belonging Statement, which permeates every aspect of our school life: The American Embassy School is a community of diverse learners. We celebrate the strength of our diversity and are committed to nurturing a culture of belonging. All members of our school community actively support every learner’s academic, social, and emotional growth.
Top 10 Countries
Enrollment by divisions 2022-23
Elementary School
460 students
Middle School
243 students
High School
337 students
Schoolwide
1040 students
** An increase in enrollment by 8.4%
New students 2022-2023
258 students
Returning students 2022-2023
782 students
US
30.8%
South Korea
25.1%
Israel
7.5%
India
6.3%
Japan
4.7%
Canada
4.0%
UK
3.8%
Australia
2.6%
France
1.6%
Germany
1.3%
Faculty and Staff We have 368 faculty and staff on payroll. We have another 330 staff on Contractual (third party) payroll. That includes guards, bus staff, cleaners, gardeners, food services and others.
Alfons
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Our teachers come from all over. From the US, UK, Australia, and Latin America; from the Middle East, China, Russia, and Japan. A connection via a Zoom call with the Principal and Director, and they are ready to start brave new adventures into a strange and exciting new land. I enjoy being part of their journeys. Fantasy and fairyland are close to my heart and if anyone dares to dream, I enjoy partaking with them or just getting a glimpse into that vision or dream. AES brings the whole world together in our beautiful school. This is an amazing part of my job, and I love it.
18 79
EMPLOYMENT TYPES
151
120
Administrator 18 Faculty 151 Non-Teaching Staff 120 Teaching Assistant 79
3 32
FACULTY DEGREES
116
Masters 116 Bachelor Degree 32 Ph.D 3
Parent School Association During this first full year back from Covid-19, the goal of the PSA was to rebuild the community and concentrate on collaboration and celebration. As parents, we were excited to be back on c a m p u s fo r eve nt s t h at l e t o u r f a m il ie s experience India’s culture in the safety of our premises and also to celebrate the diversity of our community.
Events Committee The events were organized with pomp, and we had the opportunity to celebrate them with the same spirit as pre-COVID-19 days. We organized the Diwali Mela in partnership with the School as part of the 70th-year celebration. About 800 people attended this. The International Food Festival (IFF) was a much-awaited event that saw a footfall of about 1800 people, and we had a bake stall run by our elementary and middle school students. We were able to have a fun-filled wet Holi where the students were indulged as we organized raffle baskets specifically geared towards children. Our final event for the year was Staff Appreciation.
Our efforts included:
Student Flu Clinic The PSA brought back the annual student flu clinic in September in partnership with the Health Office and administered 240 flu shots.
PSA Meetings We held regular meetings with the entire PSA committee. These were open to the entire community of parents, leadership, and faculty.
PSA Communications In order to cater to parents with multiple children and not inundate their inboxes, we launched the PSA Broadcast Whatsapp Group.
Grade Rep Principal Meetings & Parent Coffee Mornings Our grade reps met regularly with the divisional principal s to discu ss issues and bring the voices of the community to the leadership.
PSA Student Enrichment Fund The PSA student enrichment fund (SEF) aims to complement and enrich community experiences at AES in support of the AES mission.
With the ability to use the Tigers Den, we saw an increase in the coffee mornings organized by reps for the parents. PSA Elections We set up a Nominations Committee and held formal elections to give opportunities to both existing and new parents to join the PSA. Welcome Committee We worked closely with Admissions to find Link families for our new parents and students and hosted the Information Mela. We worked with the events team to include an integration event for our new families. Spirit Committee Tigers Den opened its doors to parents twice a week and brought in new merchandise.
PSA Clubs Our parent-run clubs were expanded to include—Monuments and Museums Tours, Melas and Antiques for Shopping, Fitness, Health and Beauty, Parents Night Out, Community Service, and AES Cooks Club. These were moved from under the PSA banner at the end of the year. PSA Student Enrichment Fund The PSA Student Enrichment Fund (SEF) aims to co m p l e m e nt a n d e n r i c h co m m u n i t y experiences at AES in support of the AES mission. We relaunched the SEF fund and received applications and approved four. Next year, we will follow up on the status of the applications and offer funding again for fresh applications.
Anushree Chopra PSA Executive Chair 2022–2023
Marketing and Communications
It was a busy eventful year with a week-long celebration for the 70th Anniversary. A lot of us were part of the memorable and meaningful celebrations from October 7–9.
We let the celebrations begin with the unveiling of the stone-cut 70th Anniversary Logo.
A symbol of our school's rock-solid foundation and our founders' steady and defined journey. Thank you to all AES community members, past and present, for your ongoing encouragement and support.
70th Anniversary Assembly
70th Anniversary Concert
History Walk
Gala Event
Finale 70th Anniversary Diwali Mela
Alumni The Alumni Office site is a hub where you can stay updated on all AES news and alumni events while connecting with other alumni. We are here to help identify ways AIS/AES can continue to be a resource and network hub for career advancement while ser ving a s a platform to stay in touch with fellow alumni. AES alumni include all students (graduates and non-graduates), parents, and employees who have left AES.
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Total of 704 online registrations including alumni from the 1950’s to 2023 by August 2023.
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Alumni network grew by 206 alumni registered by August 2023 including the class of 2023.
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Number of Alumni visits 2022–2023: 32.
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Seven Alumni Spotlight stories.
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Our alumna Avni (class of 17') shared her valuable insights into the process of applying to medical school. Avni was accepted into the University of Connecticut School of Medicine class of 2026 after completing the 2021–2022 medical school application cycle. In her presentation, she discussed how to make the most of your time as an undergraduate, as well as an honest reflection on her journey and a logistical overview of the process.
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AES alumni from classes of 1965 to 1975 joined us for our 70th anniversary celebration! They attended the Gala Event and learned about AES's long history and culture during our History Walk. We were fortunate to have alumni celebrate with us and reminisce about their time at AES.
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Alumni Induction April 24, 2023—The induction ceremony began with Indian dhols and garlands to celebrate their journeys! The students wrote letters to their future selves which we will keep for them until 2033. They were also given Alumni cards and personalized gifts.
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Alumni events across the Globe—AES hosted alumni gatherings in Los Angeles, Washington D.C., New York, Boston, Vancouver, Chicago, and Portland.
Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!
Avni presented to HS students on her medical school journey
Alumni Induction Photos
Alumni attended our 70th Anniversary celebration
Alumni Event Photos
LOS ANGELES
NEW YORK
BOSTON
CHICAGO
Alumni Visit Photos
Summer Extensions Program—Turning Point In J u n e 202 2 , AE S o p e n e d Tu r n in g Point Summer Camp, a summer experience for AES students and children in the greater Delhi a r e a . T h e p r o g r a m w a s r ev a m p e d f r o m p revio u s yea r s wit h t h e g o a l of creat in g a transformational experience through engaging activities to develop the minds, bodies, and souls of campers. Additionally, many students participated in Elevated Experiences in areas such as sustainability, coding, marital arts, and Academic Language Institute (ALI).
Turning Point Summer 2022 by the Numbers: • • • • • • • • •
3 weeks or 15 days of camp 986 campers 108 Instructors and Staff 1,310 negative COVID tests 43 language learners in the Academic Language Institute 90+ hours of instruction 660 total classes taught 36 different activities that enriched the mind, developed the body, and nurtured the soul Countless laughs and new friendships formed
2022-23 Tuition and Fees (US$)
Financial Statement
Application Fee Registration Fee Pre-K(3) Pre-K(4) - Grade 12
Revenue (Operations)
$800 $10,000* $15,000
Tuition, Application, EAL Fees
$31.3M
Bus Fees
$0.9M
Food Service Receipts
$1.3M
*Balance of Registration Fees due in subsequent year
Tuition Pre-K (full day)
$20,585
KG-Grade 5
$27,450
Grade 6-8
$31,880
Grade 9-12
$33,605
Finance
$2,800
Middle School
$2,900
High School
$1,100
$33.5M
Revenue (Capital)
$3.8M
Total Revenue
$37.3M
Expenses (Operations)
EAL Fees ElementarySchool
Total
Salaries & Benefits
$25.4M
Instruction & Instructional support
$3.9M
School Services
$3.5M
Administration
$1.9M Total
$34.7M
Expenses (Capital)
$2.6M
Total Expenses
$37.3M
Miscellaneous Income added to Reserves: $2.5Mn
Bus Fees Receipts 2%
Tuition, Application & EAL Fees 84%
Food Service Receipts 4%
Capital Revenue 10%
Total Revenue (Operational and Capital): $37.3Mn
Instruction/ Instructional Support Receipts 11% Salaries & Benefits 68%
School Services 9% Administration 5% Capital Expenses 7%
Total Expenses (Operational and Capital): $37.3Mn
A Joyful Pursuit of EXCELLENCE