Accent by Awty International School

ACCENT 2014-2015 at The Awty International School

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MRS. ALEXANDRA CLEAR ALATTAR MS. LISA DARLING, Head of School MRS. FRANÇOISE DJEREJIAN MR. PHILIPPE DOLIGEZ MR. SHERIF FODA MR. COLIN FULTON, Vice Chairman MR. JEAN-FRANÇOIS GENAY MR. BRIAN HENDRY MRS. KAREN JOYCE-MARIE, Secretary MRS. NILOUFAR MOLAVI MRS. JILL MUNK MR. JOHAN PFEIFFER MR. DAVID POWERS MR. JAY PRYOR MR. MARK SCHROEDER, Chairman MR. SUJIRO SEAM MR. DAVID WARDEN, Treasurer MR. MARC WATTS

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION MS. LISA DARLING Head of School

MME CHRISTINE CHOURRÉ Proviseure and Deputy Head of School MR. SAMUEL WAUGH Head of Upper School MR. THOMAS BEUSCHER Head of Middle School MR. STANLEY WAY Head of Primary School MR. DON DAVIS Director of Facilities MR. KEVIN McTERNAN Chief Advancement Officer MR. HANK NICODEMUS Chief Financial Officer

Ta b l e o f C o n t e n t s

Primary School

Middle School

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

Meteorology at Awty Spirit of Halloween We've Got Rhythm Library Fun! Lower School Spelling Bee Black History Month A Volcanic Eruption Mardi Gras Parade Fun & Games Texas Pride Ship in a Bottle The Living Museum A Little Song & Dance

4 The Awty International School

Bingo & Bears 6th Grader Wins Spelling Bee Know Your Geography? The 39 Steps Earth Day Art Contest Big Bend XXVII United States Capital

ACCENT 2014-2015 at The Awty International School

Upper School • • • • • • • • •

Scoping Out Colleges The BOO Crew A Game of Chess Rodeo Art Competition 2015 Career Fair Awty Rambots Robotics On the Awty Stage Music to the Soul A First for Awty

From the Head of School

From the Proviseure

Advancing Awty

Parent Volunteers

Highlights

Bravo!!!

Thank You! Merci!

ACCENT 2014-2015 5

From The Head of School

he 2014-15 school year is history, and in addition to the tributes to the Class of 2015 and faculty award-winners, we have much to celebrate. The new campus master plan, the One-School initiative, and more were highlights of the year, but beyond those official benchmarks were some wonderful human stories. Our alumni as well, as long-time faculty, use a phrase to describe something distinctive about the school, saying “That’s so Awty!” It is meant to celebrate the sometimes quirky stories we have about individual students and teachers that reflect the fullness of who we are and have always been – bright, happy, inquisitive, creative, and confident individuals who are willing to think and act outside the proverbial box to achieve goals. This past year has seen its share of “That’s so Awty!” moments, and I want to dedicate my message to all those individuals who contribute to the character and personality of the school. You each add a tile to our mosaic whether quietly or noticeably, and you are appreciated. Some quintessential Awty moments from the past year – • Our Upper School Robotics Club (aka, “Rambots”), with minimal fanfare or guidance from the administration,

6 The Awty International School

went out and won competitions at the regional and state levels, advancing to the World Championships in April where they made it to the semifinal round in their division. That’s so Awty! • After wowing us on the drums in the band and playing on the boys lacrosse team, Roni Midyat*, a junior of Turkish-American descent, went off on his spring break with his classmate Sami Diab to visit the Turkish-Syrian border refugee camps and see for himself the scope of the human disaster affecting his father’s home country. That’s so Awty! • In the Pre-K carpool line one morning, as I was greeting students and parents, a PK-3 student hopped out of the car with a toy horse in his hand. Marianne Andrewski greeted him with a lively “Bonjour!” and asked him in French if he could leave the toy in the car. He replied en Française that he indeed would. As he walked away, I asked her, “One of yours?” She replied, “Oh no, he’s in the Spanish section.” That’s so Awty! Many more of these Awty moments happen all across our campus. Please create and celebrate your own “That’s so Awty” stories in coming months and years. The character of the school thrives as we live out Kay Awty’s dreams for the school she founded in 1956, and our students leave here knowing they are part of a confident, hard-working, and fun-loving family of Awty Rams for life. *This student, along with these notable accomplishments, also has a ten-

dency to park in the space marked “For Head of School Parking only” from time to time…What can I say? That’s so Awty!

'année scolaire 2014-15, c'est du passé, et en plus des hommages à la promotion de 2015 et aux gagnants des prix des enseignants, nous avons beaucoup à fêter. Le nouveau plan directeur du campus, l'initiative « One-School » et bien d'autres ont été des moments forts de l'année, mais au-delà de ces dates officielles, il y a eu de formidables histoires humaines. Nos anciens élèves ainsi que les enseignants de longue date utilisent une phase pour décrire quelque chose qui caractérise l'École, ils disent « c'est si Awty ! ». Il s'agit de fêter les histoires parfois excentriques que nous avons à propos des élèves et des enseignants, qui traduisent l'intégralité de ce que nous sommes et serons toujours – des personnes brillantes, heureuses, curieuses, créatives et confiantes qui veulent penser et agir en dehors des proverbiaux sentiers battus pour parvenir à leurs objectifs. Cette année écoulée a vu son lot de moments « C'est si Awty ! », et je veux dédier mon message à toutes ces personnes qui contribuent au caractère et à la personnalité de l'École. Chacun de vous ajoute un fragment à notre mosaïque, de façon discrète ou visible, et vous êtes appréciés. Quelques moments typiques d'Awty de l'année écoulée – • Notre Club de robotique du lycée (alias, les « Rambots »), sans beaucoup

Head of School Lisa Darling (center) with Primary School staff/faculty Christelle Zaharatos, Jill L'Abbate, Lynn Chow, Crystal Vaught, Eliana Marchani, Lori Wagner, Colette McWilliams, and Cintra Horn at the 2015 Awty Gala.

de roulements de tambour ni de conseils de l'administration, a participé et gagné des compétitions aux niveaux de la région et de l'État, jusqu'à atteindre les championnats du monde en avril, où ils sont parvenus en demi-finale dans leur division. C'est si Awty ! • Roni Midyat*, un élève de Première d'origine turco-américaine, après nous avoir éblouis à la batterie dans l'orchestre et avoir joué dans l'équipe équipe masculine de crosse, est parti avec son camarade de classe Sami Diab passer ses vacances de printemps dans les camps de réfugiés de la frontière turco-syrienne et constater par lui-même l'étendue du désastre humain qui affecte le pays natal de son père! • Un matin, dans l'allée de covoitu-

rage de l'école maternelle, alors que j'accueillais les élèves et les parents, un élève de petite section est sorti de la voiture avec un cheval-jouet à la main. Marianne Andrewski l'a accueilli avec un vibrant « Bonjour ! » et je lui ai demandé en français s'il pouvait laisser le jouet dans la voiture. Il a répondu en français que bien sûr, il allait le faire. Alors qu'il s'éloignait, je lui ai demandé : « Un de vos élèves ? » Elle m'a répondu : « Oh non, il est en section espagnole. » C'est si Awty ! De très nombreux moments Awty se produisent sur tout le campus. Créez et fêtez vos propres histoires « C'est si Awty » durant les prochains mois et années. La nature de l'École prospère lorsque nous réalisons les rêves de Kay Awty pour l'école qu'elle a fondée en 1956, et

nos élèves partent d'ici en sachant qu'ils appartiennent pour la vie à une famille d’Awty-Rams confiante, laborieuse et qui aime s'amuser. *Cet élève, parallèlement à ces résultats remarquables, a également parfois tendance à stationner sur l'espace marqué « Réservé au directeur de l'École »… Que puis-je dire ? C'est si Awty !

- Ms. Lisa Darling Head of School

ACCENT 2014-2015 7

From The Proviseure

rrivée à Awty au début du mois d’octobre pour des questions de visa, j’ai eu l’impression de prendre un train en marche ; un train déjà lancé à vive allure! Grâce au soutien de Lisa et de toute l’équipe des Senior Admin (en faire partie m’a donné un petit coup de vieux au passage !) j’ai réussi à me tenir informée de ce qui se passait pendant mon absence et d’arriver avec le sentiment de pouvoir enfin m’atteler à la tâche, prête à relever les défis de ce poste de Proviseure (avec un E parce que Lisa pour Head of school elle ne sait pas trop où le mettre le E du féminin qui n’existe pas en anglais!) Cette énergie ne m’a pas quittée depuis et c’est avec le même enthousiasme que je vais aborder l’année prochaine car le nouveau défi à relever porte désormais un nom : “One school”. C’est une expérience unique pour une équipe de pouvoir dessiner avec le reste de la communauté les contours d’une école semblable et pourtant, nouvelle et innovante, dans un projet ambitieux. J’estime avoir beaucoup de chance d’arriver à ce moment où Awty a décidé de prendre un tournant dans son histoire. Je suis heureuse de pouvoir accompagner ce changement et je m’engage à y consacrer le temps qu’il

8 The Awty International School

faudra. L’important est de réussir pour nos élèves, pour nos familles et aussi pour nos enseignants qui au cours du processus vont apprendre à encore à mieux se connaitre et à partager encore plus de choses professionnellement et humainement. Lorsque Lisa est venue à Paris, pour me rencontrer la première fois, j’ai senti à l’instant où nous avons échangé notre première poignée de main, le plaisir que j’aurais à travailler avec elle (j’avais un peu triché en travaillant sa biographie !) Notre complicité n’a échappé sans doute à personne car en plus de beaucoup travailler ensemble nous avons beaucoup ri au cours de cette première année. Cette confiance mutuelle et cette loyauté réciproque dans l’équipe de direction sont nécessaires au bon fonctionnement de l’école mais une équipe c’est aussi deux personnalités qui se rencontrent et qui choisissent de travailler ensemble pour un projet commun avec des objectifs clairs. C’est en cela aussi que j’ai apprécié cette année: travailler aux côtés de Lisa rend les choses à la fois faciles et exigeantes. Elle m’a surtout permis de faire le métier que j’aime avec plaisir et j’espère que cette première année de fructueuse collaboration sera suivie de beaucoup d’autres !

ince I didn’t arrive at Awty until early October because of visa issues, when I got here I felt like I was jumping onto a moving train that was already speeding down the track! Thanks to the support of Ms. Lisa Darling and the entire Senior Admin team (being part of it made me feel a little older!), I was able to get up to date on what had gone on during my absence, and to feel that I was finally up to the task and ready to face the challenges of my job as Proviseure (with an E at the end, which Lisa does not have to worry about with her gender-neutral title as Head of School!) That energy gained hasn’t left me since then, and it’s with the same enthusiasm that I will begin the new year, because the new challenge now has a name: “One School”. It’s a unique experience for a team, along with the rest of the community, and an ambitious project to design the contours of a new and innovative school like this one. I think I’m very lucky to have come to Awty at a time when the school has decided to take a new direction in its history. I’m happy to be able to be a part of this change, and I’m committed to devoting as much time to it as necessary. The important thing is to succeed for the sake of our students, of our families, and also of our teachers, who in the process will get to know one another better and to be able to share even more things professionally and personally. When Lisa came to Paris to meet me the first time, I knew as soon as we shook hands what a pleasure it would

Mme. Christine Chourré read to Camille Bennet's CM2 class during Lire en Fête in the Lower School Library.

be to work with her. (I had cheated a little by looking at her bio beforehand!) No one could have failed to notice how well we get along; besides working together, we laughed a lot during this first year. This mutual trust and reciprocal loyalty in the management team are needed to keep the school running, but a team is also made up of two personalities who meet and who choose to work together on a shared project with clear objectives. So this is another thing I’ve appreciated this year: working alongside Lisa, it makes things both

easier and more demanding. Most of all, it’s enabled me to do the job I love with pleasure, and I hope that this first year of productive collaboration will be followed by many others.

- Mme. Christine Chourré Proviseure & Deputy Head of School

ACCENT 2014-2015 9

Advancing Awty STEWARDSHIP. PHILANTHROPY. ALTRUISM.

2014-2015 Annual Fund

s the new Associate Director of Advancement for Annual Fund and Alumni, I have been touched by the exceptional generosity of the Awty community. As of May 1, 2015, we have raised more than $721,383, and 59% of our families have participated. The faculty and staff have achieved 83% participation, and the board is at 100%. When I accepted this position, I knew that Awty was a special place. Witnessing the philanthropic commitment and dedication of our community confirms this belief. Awty brings together students from all walks of life and provides a world class education to this rich and diverse student base. Awty is preparing the leaders of tomorrow and developing minds that will change the world. Your support of the Annual Fund impacts the future by enhancing the educational opportunities our students receive. Thank you for changing the lives of every Awty student, faculty, and staff with your gifts. I want to say a special thank you to our Annual Fund volunteers and donors. Supporters of the Annual Fund share their time, talent, and financial contributions making Awty the outstanding educational institution that it is today. They understand that giving to the Annual Fund is the purest form of philanthropic giving. The very word philanthropy means â&#x20AC;&#x153;love of humanity.â&#x20AC;? They express their love for humanity and Awty by sharing their resources. For this we are truly thankful. I look forward to meeting many of

you in the coming months, and deepening the connections with those of you I have already met. Thank you again for supporting Awty's mission and vision through your philanthropy! Please join me in thanking the following 2014-2015 Annual Fund volunteers for their service, dedication, and leadership. Annual Fund Chairs: Mariella de Jong, Debbi Gadin, Genoveva Jeanneret, Amy Pierce, Florence Shaw, and Brian Williams and Le Hammer Class Representatives: Kristin Adler, Ginger Arwadi, Jennifer Christensen, Rama Clauss, Sandy and Kevin Cofer, Jane Dabney, Pablo Eisner, Courtney and Robert Ervin, Monica Fulton, Tiffany and Luis Gonazalez, Josh Grahmann and Ashley Amy, Liliane Haddad, Karen Haug, Nashat Latib, Maud Lhors, Merle Ligtenberg, Celine Louvrier, Karen Matthews, Sheri McDonald, Lisa Meacham, Shannon

and Mitch Reid, Sanjay and Lourdes Remond, Marsha and Aart Schenau, and Jose Suarez and Ana Gaviria Faculty and Staff Representatives: Emily Ambrosino, Jennifer Blessington, Joshua Culbreath, John Hoye, Anthea Lavergne, Franck Moroux, Beatrice Person, Karine Pousset, Maritza Ramos, Randle Seymour, Erika Watson, and Odile Zupan These individuals carried our Annual Fund efforts during staffing transitions in the Advancement Office. They made sure the Annual Fund progress moved forward and have worked tirelessly on behalf of the school. They are outstanding and we could not do our work without them. When you see them around, please join us in thanking them for all that they do! - Chantel Olufsen Associate Director of Advancement, Annual Fund and Alumni

Thanks to your continued support of Awty's Annual Fund, our students have access to the latest technology!

ACCENT 2014-2015 11

1001 Nights

early 600 guests enjoyed a magical time at the 2015 Awty Gala, 1001 Nights: A Flying Carpet Ride Through the Middle East on March 14. From the belly dancers to the bright colors and rich textiles

2015 Gala Co-chairs Sujata Venkatraman and Nessa Sanei

that filled the ballroom, to the festive sounds of Silk Road during dinner, it was a glamorous evening for all. The annual fundraiser brought the Awty community together as a family and reminded everyone of what the Awty spirit truly represents. A big thank you to Nessa Sanei and Sujata Venkatraman for chairing Awty's largest event of the year. The gala chairs and their superb gala committee worked around the clock to make it a night to remember. Also, a special thank you to the members of our board of trustees for their leadership in this fundraising effort. Many thanks to the sponsors and underwriters, especially Chevron, Aramco, ConocoPhillips, TOTAL, Schlumberger, ExxonMobil, Baker Hughes,

12 The Awty International School

and Air Liquide, who were our lead sponsors for the evening. The complete list of event sponsors included Sultan's Pavilion sponsor Chevron; Shahrazad's Tales sponsors Aramco, ConocoPhillips, and TOTAL; Aladdin's Lamp sponsor Schlumberger; Ali Baba's sponsors Air Liquide, Baker Hughes, Mr. Samer Danial and Mrs. Lama Bchara, Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hendry, Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Sanchez III, Mr. and Mrs. Suhail Sikhtian, and Mr. and Mrs. Salim Zakhem, Mr. and Mrs. Brent de Jong, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Meacham, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pierce, and Mr. and Mrs. Alfredo Vilas, Mr. and Mrs. W. Colin Fulton, and Mr. Vahid Shariatzadeh and Mrs. Nessa Sanei and Mrs. Sujata Venkatraman; and Sinbad's Voyages sponsors Bailey Architects, Inc. / Cardno Haynes Whaley / BDMI, Cheniere Energy Shared Services, Inc., Dr. and Mrs. Daher - Cardiovascular Medicine Associates, FMC Technologies, Inc., Mr. and Mrs. Robert Glaser, Mr. and Mrs. Jake Gopinath, Mr. and Mrs. Bryon Rice, and Mr. and Mrs. Ricky Thethi, Monty & Ramirez LLP, Dr. and Mrs. Andrey Omeltchenko, Mr. Fayez Sarofim, Dr. and Mrs. Jay Shenaq, Mr. Bryan Stanley, and Tellepsen. Couple sponsorships included Dr. Kamran Ahrar and Dr. Judy Ahrar, Mr. and Mrs. Yuri Baidoukov, Dr. Justin Brock and Dr. Renee Brock, Mr. Luis Cabrera Vega and Mrs. Zenia Quintano Razo, Mr. and Mrs. Sacha Clark, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin C. Cofer, Mr. John Devins and Dr. Ronda Devins, Mr. and Mrs. Tarek Fahl, Mr. and Mrs. Eric J. Gadin, Mr.

Patrick Hahita Garcia and Ms. Tiffany L. Garraton, Mr. and Mrs. David Haug, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Heintz, JP Morgan Chase, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Kanewske, Dr. and Ms. Alexander Lazar, Dr. and Mrs. James Martinez, Mr. and Mrs. John C. Powell, Mr. and Mrs. Mitch A. Reid, Mr. Bryan Sanchez and Ms. Anna Rotman, Dr. Yasser Shaib and Mrs. Dania Dandashli, Dr. Shahin Tavackoli and Mrs. Nadia Tajalli, Ms. Nicole R. Vogel, and U.S. TRUST, Bank of America Private Wealth Management. Underwriters for the evening included Baker Hughes (auction software), Mr. John Devins and Dr. Ronda Devins (reception music), ExxonMobil (décor), Dr. and Mrs. Tarek Fahl (photography), Ronda Fenn, Ph.D. (teahouse), Mr. and Mrs. David Haug (underwriters reception), Locke Lord LLP (valet services), Metlife (printing), Mr. and Mrs. Robert Pierce (white wine), Pisco Portón (cocktail reception), and Mr. Vianney Savajol (belly dancers). Thank you to all who donated auction items and to the Awty families who are hosting sociables. We appreciate everyone who had a part in donating or purchasing an item as part of our online auction this year, which raised over $60,000. A special note of thanks goes out to all who participated! One important highlight at the gala this year gave guests the opportunity to participate in Paddles Up! and make monetary donations to the school’s financial aid program. A special appeal was launched during the live auction asking our community to support

Becky Johnson, Bonnie Hoggatt, Nessa Sanei, Aitou Moyer, Helga Quint, and Mirra Darby

this program so that no child should go without an education so richly deserved. If you were not able to participate on Saturday, you may do so by visiting www.awty.org/financialaid. Your generosity will help us provide more students with an extraordinary Awty education that engages, inspires, and excites. Your donation is fully tax deductible, so please join us by making a donation today! Leading up to the big event, the gala team also hosted a number of student and community outreach events, in-

cluding Middle East Day on January 30 which raised nearly $4,000 for Doctors Without Borders, a beautiful fashion show featuring Awty moms as models, and a series of Upper School debates centered around the Middle East from the Awty debate club. Because of the generosity and support of the Awty community, we raised over $500,000 for the school. Thank you for making this a glamorous, exciting, and memorable evening for Awty. From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!

ACCENT 2014-2015 13

1001 Nights

Iyad Daher and Nicole Daher

Bella Donna Dancer entertains the crowd.

Jill Munk, Trevor Munk, Stephanie Germain, and Pierre Germain

Board of Trustees Chairman Mark Schroeder and Head of School Lisa Darling

Oscar Martin, Marysol Martin, Miri Wilkins, and Shannon Harrington

Silk Road performs during dinner.

Patrick Gaussent and Sophie Gagey

Amy Pierce and Laura Lasco

Primary School FUN. CREATIVE. ENERGETIC.

M e t e or ol o g y at Aw t y

he 2nd grade students in the

sured.â&#x20AC;? Mr. Yanez concluded the unit

hurricanes meet each other, it is known

international section received

with a detailed lesson on the water cy-

as the Fujiwhara effect. Most impor-

a visit from KPRC Meteorolo-

cle. He also talked about tornadoes and

tantly, the students learned that it is

hurricanes with the students.

never safe to play in flooding waters.

gist Anthony Yanez on September 25. The first Inquiry Learning Unit in the

The students learned all kinds of in-

At the end of his visit, the 2nd grad-

2nd grade's science/social studies

teresting things about weather from

ers and their teachers presented a gift

curriculum was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Life is influenced by

Mr. Yanez. They learned that the width

to Mr. Yanaz, which included an Awty T-

weather and seasonal changes which

of a lightening bolt is only 3/4 of an inch

shirt, an Awty coffee mug, an Awty pen,

can be explained, predicted, and mea-

wide. They also learned that when two

and an antique barograph.

KPRC Meteorologist Anthony Yanez visits with the 2nd grade International students.

KPRC Meteorologist Anthony Yanez teaches 2nd grade about the water cycle.

Mr. Anthony Yanez with 2nd grade teachers Mrs. Christine Megarity, Ms. Ruthanne Greenwood, and Ms. Connie Masera

ACCENT 2014-2015 17

Caroline Tcholackian (PK-4)

Preschool teachers Lynn Chow, Elaine Clopton, Brittani Morales, and Kathryne Hickok

Spirit of Halloween Keeping with tradition, the Preschool students were given the privilege of dressing up in their favorite costumes for Halloween on Friday, October 31. They wore them proudly as they paraded through campus for all to see. Princesses, dragons, ninjas, and superheroes were just a few of the most popular costume choices among the Preschoolers. Of course, it wouldn't be Halloween without a few witches, goblins, and ghosts thrown into the mix. Always a popular event, the parade gave dozens of students, teachers, staff members, and parents the opportunity to watch and marvel at the cuteness on display. You could hear plenty of "awwws" along the parade route.

Justus Morris (PK-3)

It's no secret that the Preschool teachers and administrators had a lot of fun getting into the spirit of Halloween too, donning some of the most creative costumes!

Primary School administrators Cintra Horn, Julie Loisel, Karine Pousset, Stan Way, Marylyn Raia, Hedy Mankarios, and Colette McWilliams

Paul Abounohra (MS)

We've Got Rhythm

or the first time, Awty's Lower

on in Dorian. Both groups performed

semble. Both the choir and the music

School Choir and Music Ensem-

together to close the show with their

ensemble perform at various school

ble presented a Fall Concert to

rendition of the song Neesa.

events throughout the year. The choir

family and friends on November 13 in

A special thank you goes to Zulfia

also sings at public events and ven-

the Fine Arts Recital Hall. Under the

Finigan for accompanying the student

ues. Earlier this year, the group sang

direction of music teacher Lori Wag-

performers on piano during the con-

the United States National Anthem at

ner, the Lower School Choir performed

cert.

the Rockets game at the Toyota Center,

two songs, Side by Side and Route 66.

Students in 4th grade/CM1 and 5th

and performed at the opening of the

The Lower School Ensemble also per-

grade/CM2 audition for selection into

French Cultural Festival at Discovery

formed two songs, Halloween and Can-

the Lower School Choir or Music En-

Green.

Lower School Choir

Lower School Music Ensemble

Lower School Choir & Music Ensemble

ACCENT 2014-2015 19

Library Fun!

t was a busy year in the Lower School Library: from a super-sized pizza party to welcoming guest readers during Lire en Fête week, to Bluebonnet Books and ice cream to a special visit from an author/illustrator. Summer Readers Pizza Party The year started with the annual Summer Readers Pizza Party on September 5. A record number of 166 students attended the event. While they enjoyed a slice of pizza, a soda, and a cookie, Ms. Darling read Giggle Giggle Quack by Doreen Cronin and Mr. Way read Today I Feel Silly & Other Moods That Make My Day by Jamie Lee Curtis. Congratulations to all the summer readers! The program encourages reading for pleasure. To be invited to the pizza party, students are required to read a certain number of books or pages depending on their grade level. Lire en Fête In October, several guest readers

5th grade/CM2 students Alex Brown, Elliott Lazar, and Jules Winter

20 The Awty International School

joined the Lower School students in the library during Lire en Fête and read their favorite stories to them. Guest readers this year included Hadeel Anan, Diana Armentor, Myra Arslan, Brigitte Chabal, Christine Chourré, Dawn Cole, Kneale Culbreath, Lisa Darling, Adama Diarra, Véronique Douet, Mathilde Duprieu, Lucy Earl, Aimee Flood, Monica Fulton, Alberte Gajewski, Anshula Greene, Khairunisa Hashmani, David Haug, Bénédicte Hertereau, Milla Jourdeuil, Faranak Kamali, Cécile Lanoes-Derriennic, Anne Sophie Laurent, Julie Loisel, Ana-Maria Nicolae, Linda Palermo, Céline Poirier, Karine Pousset, Marylyn Raia, Emmanuelle Roussel, Jessika Smith, Betsy Suit, Stan Way, and Soizic Weber. Bluebonnet Books New this year was the creation of the Bluebonnet Books Wall. The Texas Bluebonnet Award represents a collection of 20 books for 3rd through 6th graders chosen every year by a selec-

tion committee. After reading one of the Bluebonnet Books, students had the special privilege of adding their name to the Bluebonnet Book Wall. Once students read five books from the collection, they then voted for their favorite one. In February, the librarians organized the Bluebonnet Ice Cream Party, where students were served delicious Blue Bell ice cream while discussing their favorite books from this year's Bluebonnet Award collection. During the party, the students also watched the official announcement of the winner, The Day the Crayon Quit. Author Visit The libraries on campus had the great pleasure of hosting author/illustrator Nathan Hale. He presented an exclusive Lewis and Clark story and autographed students books. The students enjoyed lots of laughter while learning many historical facts during Mr. Hale's visit.

3rd graders Gwen Kirst and Malak Hamza

Mr. Stan Way reads to Mrs. Herendeen's 4th grade class during Lire en FĂŞte.

2nd graders Sofia Dunkel, Zayna Dilawar, and Yasmine Chraibi

Mr. Nathan Hale

4th grade teacher Mrs. Mary Herendeen, 4th grade winner Paloma Villaseñor, 4th grade runner-up Carmen Backx, and Head of Primary School Mr. Stan Way

4th grade teacher Mrs. Mary Herendeen, 5th grade runner-up Alex Moyer, 5th grade winner Sumair Nibber, and Head of Primary School Mr. Stan Way

Lower School Spelling Bee Both 4th grade/CM1 and 5th grade/CM2 students participated in the 2015 Lower School Spelling Bee, which was held on January 8. In 5th grade/CM2, Sumair Nibber won by correctly spelling the word phenomenon. The 5th grade/CM2 runner-up was Alex Moyer. Paloma Villaseñor was the 4th grade/CM1 winner. Her winning word was tsunami. The 4th grade/CM1 runner-up was Carmen Backx. Congratulations to all four students! They each did a great job and went on to represent the Lower School in Awty’s Annual 4th-8th Grade Spelling Bee on January 16, where they competed against eight Middle School students. 4th graders Carmen Backx and Paloma Villaseñor during the final round.

It was all about the congratulatory huddle when Sumair Nibber won the 5th grade/CM2 Spelling Bee.

5th graders Alex Moyer and Sumair Nibber during the final round.

Black History Month

n honor of Black History Month

American women have passed down

Wiseman hosted a dynamic, interactive

during the month of February, the

the quilting tradition for many genera-

presentation demonstrating oral tradi-

Lower School planned two events

tions. Today, their unique quilts hang in

tions of African and African American

museums all over the world.

ancestry through storytelling and song.

to celebrate this year's theme, "A Century of Black Life, History, and Culture."

Later that same day, students in PK-4

She taught the students songs like the

On Friday, February 6, Lower School

through 5th grade took an adventure

South African Xhosa folk song Mama

students were invited during afternoon

through time when they attended a

Tiembo's Getting Married Tonight and

recess to participate in a special art

special presentation of The Children's

Koko lio ko (Chicken Crow f'Days), which

activity inspired by the quilts of Gee's

Griot performed by Kijana Wiseman,

was adapted from a traditional Liberian

Bend. Quilts are found in many cul-

M.Ed. A versatile performer of theat-

folk song.

tures; quilting is an art form that can be

rical and communicative arts as well

used to tell stories and share personal

as an award-winning lyric coloratura

history. In Gee's Bend, Alabama, African

soprano with a 3.5 octave range, Ms.

Lower School students participate in art activity for Black History Month.

Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed. performs for Primary School students.

Kijana Wiseman, M.Ed.

CE2 students Arthur Huon de Penanster and Marylou Chalas

ACCENT 2014-2015 23

A Volcanic Eruption n February, learning of seismic

Over the course of a few weeks, the

proportions erupted in Mrs. Lisa

students created their own volcanoes

Wolff's 3rd grade classroom dur-

with the help of their teachers and a

A few days later, the time the stu-

ing the unit on Planet Earth. As part

group of parent volunteers. In small

dents had all been waiting for had

of the unit, Mrs. Wolff's students stud-

groups, they constructed the volca-

come. They took turns erupting their

ied everything there is to know about

noes using an empty bottle, some

volcanoes. The students were able to

volcanoesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from the different types of

cardboard, and a paper-mache tech-

observe how the eruption changed

volcanoes and volcanic rocks to plate

nique. Once the volcano models were

the original form of their volcano mod-

tectonics, magma, and lava domes, to

created, they were set aside to com-

els. They were able to see first hand

historical volcanoes and geological

pletely dry over Winter Break. After

how this type of phenomenon can cre-

hazards.

the break, the students finished the

ate physical change to our planet.

construction of the models by painting them to look like the real things.

Sergei Kudriavtcev, Courtney Smith, Leila Al-Amudi, and Defne Deliormanli

Enrique Vezga and Alexander Zsigo

24 The Awty International School

Samantha Reed, Amar Singh, Sarah Hendry, and Christophe Gadin

Kinder/GS students Dean Odom, Ysé Lelarge, and Elizabeth Hamichi

Isaac Owodunni (Kinder)

Mardi Gras Parade Despite the chilly temperatures February brings, Awty's Preschoolers celebrated Fat Tuesday with their own Mardi Gras parade throughout the campus. On February 17, they wore silly hats and masks of their own creation. Many of them brought the festive sounds of Mardi Gras to life as they shook noisemakers they made by hand. Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday” and is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday. It is the culmination of the carnival season that usually begins the day of Epiphany and ends on the Tuesday before Lent. Popular activities include wearing masks and costumes, dancing, parades, eating King Cake, and throwing beads. Jessi Renee Rodriguez (PK-4)

Kinder students Mariana Pulido, Sofia Ballestros, Sydney Goddard, Rohan Cullinan, and Ila Reed

Jack Campbell (MS)

Fun & Games

he Lower School students enjoyed two days of fun and excitement during Field Day 2015. The 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders competed on Thursday, February 19 while the 1st and 2nd graders took their turn on Friday, February 20. The opening ceremony was held Thursday morning as all of the students paraded into the stadium and around the track. Two students from each grade then participated in the torch

relay including 1st grade/CP students Alejandro Duran and Leila Ezeldin; 2nd grade/CE1 students Erina Maeda and Yacine Spiga; 3rd grade/CE2 students Indy Achy-Brou and Gaston Denichou; 4th grade/CM1 students Senator Flood and Lena Baniol; and 5th grade/CM2 students Connor Smith and Heloise Houillez. The teachers then teamed up and competed against each other in the obstacle course. Finally, Mme Pousset declared, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let the games begin.â&#x20AC;?

The torch runners during the opening ceremony with Mme Pousset.

26 The Awty International School

Each grade level participated in different competitions including speed race, sack race, long jump contest, partner races, obstacle course, relay race, scooters relay, and bounce relay. The winners in the speed race, sack race, and relay race then competed in the finals. On Thursday, the older students ended the day with a friendly competition of tug-of-war. Lots of fun was had by all!

5th grade/CM2 students Amit Samlal, Mathilde Louzada, Alexander Gray, LĂŠo Van Der Molen, Virginia Moran, and Elliott Lazar compete in the sack race.

Primary School Faculty after competing in the obstacle course

3rd grade/CE2 students MatĂŠo Benoit, Connie Sun, and Auguste Le Breton

Mouhammad Ba (1st grade)

Ralph Fisher shows an armadillo to 3rd grade/CE2 students Antoine Vernerey, Emma Miller, and Gabriel Nurko

Brittani Morales' Kindergarten Class

Texas Pride Giddy up Partner!! Red bandanas, straw hats, and cowboy boots were all the rage as the Primary School students celebrated Go Texan Day on March 6. Primary School students enjoyed a Texas-size day of fun and learning. They began their day with a little line dancing on the playing field. The Preschool students got an up close and personal look at several furry critters in the petting zoo including chickens, goats, rabbits, ducks, and a miniature pony. They also took turns riding the ponies. The Primary School students also enjoyed learning about longhorns, armadillos, wolves, and buzzards from Ralph Fisher. Screams of excitement could be heard as the students learned about snakes and lizards. They also learned a little history of the rodeo, the Texas cowboy, cattle drives, the cowboy hat, and the armadillo. Alexander Harkness (PS) and Antonio Gonzales

3rd grade/CE2 students learn all about the Texas Longhorn.

Overall, the students and teachers discovered traditions and customs (and a few varmints) unique to Texas. Yee Haw!!!

CM2 students Julie Paul and Agnes Raybaud

Ship in a Bottle

ongratulations to our Ship in

turns from its stellar journey, it will find

ning for a star-struck student who stops

a Bottle contest winner Cha-

a home here at Awty, framed and dis-

by the painting one day to do a little

tham Griffiths, 5th grade!

played. Like Chatham’s ship that bursts

dreaming.

Chatham’s artwork was chosen as the

to sail beyond the limits of its bottle,

winning entry in Awty’s first Art in

this painting will cross a new frontier,

Space competition. The selected draw-

one that remains a mystery to most

ing will be tucked away among experi-

people, but could be just the begin-

- Elizabeth Cummins-Martinez Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, Inc.

ments and supplies on a spacecraft destined for the International Space Station, where it just may catch a little stardust before returning to the halls of The Awty International School. In bringing art together with science and technology, Awty’s inaugural Art in Space initiative encourages students to reflect on the relationship between artistic creativity and scientific endeavors. How are the artistic process and the scientific method similar? Does art allow us to understand or express scientific ideas differently? In what ways are technological objects or scientific experiments beautiful? What can be gained by bringing art into the scientific and technological world of space travel? Fifth grade students in Ms. Lawson’s art class and Ms. Smith’s science class discussed these questions as the children imagined and created their artwork. The two teachers worked together to provide students with information about space flight and the International Space Station, and to guide them in a creative process that incorporated this information into artistic expression.

Chatham Griffiths (5th grade)

When Chatham’s Ship in a Bottle re-

ACCENT 2014-2015 29

The Living Museum

s part of our English curriculum in the Primary School French Bilingual Section, we work on four facets of language: writing, reading, speaking, and listening. Our department aims to cultivate these skills in an engaging and meaningful way for the students and allow them to take ownership of their learning. Our living museum is one example of the ways we attempt to provide students with language development instruction in an engaging and meaningful way. Through this project, they were able to take control of their learning through choice and creation. We, the teachers, acted as their facilitators and coached them through the learning process. This year, the topic chosen for the living museum was Greek mythology. The students then chose an entity from this topic be it, creature, god, goddess, hero, or titan. They researched their

CM2 students Enzo Poggioli, Gaspard Pezennec, and Leo van der Molen

30 The Awty International School

topic and then wrote an expository essay that discussed multiple aspects of their chosen individual. Next, they created posters and found costumes, such as togas, to dress up as their personage. The students practiced reading and presenting their research to the class to prepare for their culminating presentation. This presentation was carried out for parents, students, and staff. During this presentation, each student acted as a statue who could only talk once their “push” button was pressed. Once this button was pressed they came alive and spoke about their topic and responded to various questions regarding who they were. The English FBS department teachers decorated the purple hallway, transforming it into Mount Olympus. Ambrosia and peach nectar were served to audience members to replicate the food and drink of the gods. We really wanted to make the students

and visitors feel as if they had been transported back in time to this mythical era. The students enjoyed this project wholeheartedly and learned so much. One of the best comments from a student regarding their experience was, “It was so great because I learned and then I got to teach others about what I had learned. I was finally the teacher!” The parents and staff also enthusiastically commented on the excellent work that the students had done. This was a great project that empowered our students to take hold of their learning. It allowed them to express themselves using English while practicing and developing the four facets of language that are focused on in this program. They not only learned but they were also given the opportunity to help teach others.

CM1 students Faustine Tardieu and Clémentine Baumgartner

- Karen Ramos FBS English Teacher

CE2 students Tobias Vanderheyden and Arthus Dorlencourt come to life and answer questions during the Living Museum presentation.

Maxime Clauss (CE2)

Jasmine Wells (CE2)

Adelhia Ghonda (CM1)

A Little Song & Dance

he musical talents of Awty’s Primary School students are showcased each year during the grade level performances. Under the guidance of Ms. Lori Wagner, Mr. Gwenaël Toutous, and Mrs. Zulfia Bazylchuk, the students delighted audiences with their performances. The 3rd grade/CE2 students kicked off the performance season by showcasing songs and traditions from around the world on November 19. The students sang ten songs including Día De Los Muertos (celebrates the Day of the Dead), La Chanson du Carnaval de Quebec, Hamabe no Uta (celebrates Japan's Respect for the Aged Day), Blue is the Colour (Chelsea Football club song, London), Op de Kinderboerde Rij (Dutch folk song - celebrates World Animal Day), Ode to Joy (European Union Anthem in French), Singabahambayo (South African folk song - celebrates South Africa's Freedom Day), A la Volonté du Peuple (to the will of the people), Simple Things, and Over the Bridge and Through the Woods. On December 12, the PK-3/PS and PK-4/MS students brought the spirit of the holidays to Awty as they performed Santa's Helpers for family and friends. The PK3 French International students sang Les Animaux and danced to Sur Le Pont D’Avignon. Then the PK3 Spanish International students did a little Chicken Dance and sang Josephina La Gallina. The PK4 French International students performed Le Herrisson while the PK4 Spanish International students performed Co Mi Burrito Sa-

32 The Awty International School

banero. The PK3 French International took their turn dancing to Jai Ho and singing Elephant Song. The PK3 Spanish International students followed with Jingle Bells Dogs and My Dog Rags. The PK4 French International students showed off their musical abilities with Your Personal Penguin. The PK4 Spanish International ended the show with their rendition of I want A Hippopotamus for Christmas. The story and script were written by Preschool Music Teacher Zulfia Bazylchuk. Mrs. Cintra Horn served as the narrator throughout the show. On February 4, the 2nd Grade/CE1 students took to the stage with Once Upon a Time, singing songs from famous fairytales. The students performed eight songs including Tale as Old as Time (from "Beauty and the Beast"), La Luna Y El Toro ("The Moon and the Bull"), Le Château en Gâteau ("Castle Made of Cake"), Sont les Filles de la Rochelle, I've Got No Strings (from "Pinocchio"), Monsieur Le Chat Botté ("Puss in Boots"), The Mad Hatter (from "Alice in Wonderland"), and Sing a Song! (from "Sesame Street"). The month of March saw two performances. The 4th grade/CM1 students shined during the first one when they took us to the movies on March 10. They sang ten songs from some of our favorite motion pictures including I Got Rhythm (from "An American in Paris"), Sous le Ciel de Paris (from "Sous le Ciel de Paris"), Bouba (from "Bouba"), Begint Het Leven Vandaag Voor Mij? (from "Tangled"), Moon River (from "Breakfast

at Tiffany's"), High Hopes (from "A Hole in the Head"), El Hombre de la Mancha (from "Man of La Mancha"), Dancing Queen (from "Mamma Mia"), Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (from "Mary Poppins"), and Everything is Awesome (from "The Lego Movie"). At the end of March, the 1st grade/ CP students moo-ved the audience with their performance of "Moo...sical". Performing as various farm animals, the students performed nine songs including L'Oiseau et la Bulle, Ham It Up, Olifantje in het Bos, Baa Baa Blacksheep, La Gallina Turuleca, Il Etait une Bergère, C'est un Loup qui Chante, Betty the Butterfly, and Cow's Chorus Line. The Kindergarten/GS and 5th Grade/ CM2 students end the year by giving special musical performances during their graduation ceremonies. All of these performances would not have been possible without the help of the teachers, aides, and some key parent volunteers. On behalf of the Primary School students, thank you for giving them the opportunity to experience the performing arts.

3rd grade/CE2

2nd grade/CE1

1st grade/CP

PK-3 students Isell Marin Millan, Maya Fahl, and Millen Thethi

Middle School GROWING. CURIOUS. LIVELY.

Bingo & Bears

stablished in 2007, Bingos &

before the holiday break. The students

Bears was the brainchild of

then spend a couple of hours playing

Mrs. Kneale Culbreath. It has

several rounds of bingo.

become an annual tradition and a fast

belle Driel’s advisory). Over 330 bears were collected this year, and they were distributed to

This year, they played for several fun

several local charities including Santa

prizes including movie tickets, iTunes

Maria Hostel, Ridgecrest Elementary

Each December, the Middle School

gift cards, a football, a soccer ball, and

School, Casa Juan Diego, Spring Branch

office asks every student to donate

more. The grand prizes included free

Head Start Center, and Piney Point Ele-

a teddy bear. The teddy bears serve

dress for the winning grade (Winner

mentary School. The bears brought an

as their entry into the popular bingo

- 6th Grade), and a pizza party for the

abundance of joy and plenty of smiles,

game, which is held on the last day

winning advisory (Winner – Ms. Isa-

just in time for the holiday season.

favorite among the students.

8th grade/4ème students Alexandra Wolff, Quinn Casey, Aksh Patel, Adriana Morales, William Ohrt, Diego de Patoul, Sherwin Rasekh, Adrian Barbir, Gabrielle Balthazar, Katerina Arellano, and Ruben Backx

7th graders Eric Aase, Mohammed Alawami, Leo Valentin Mose, and Kyle Pierce

5ème students Serine Elbakly and Chloé Ruzzo

ACCENT 2014-2015 35

Mr. Tom Beuscher, Head of Middle School with Laetitia Guerin (5ème) and Cristobal Ramirez (6th grade)

2015 Spelling Bee Champion Cristobal Ramirez (6th grade)

6th Grader Wins Spelling Bee Awty's annual 4th-8th Grade Spelling Bee was held on Friday, January 16. Twelve students competed in the bee, spelling a wide range of words from the easy (cute, also, grey) to the more complex and challenging (whippoorwill, mellifluous, billabong).

2015 Spelling Bee Runner-up Laetitia Guerin (5ème)

After 12 rounds, 6th grader Cristobal Ramirez was named the winner of this year's spelling bee. He correctly spelled heuristic and cygnet to win the bee. Laetitia Guerin, 5ème, was named the runner-up. Congratulations to both of these students, as well as all of the other contestants who participated in the competition including Paloma Villaseñor (4th grade), Carmen Backx (4th), Sumair Nibber (5th), Alex Moyer (5th), Maurits Deman (6th), Didi Zhou (6th), Eric Aase (7th), Dalal Daher (5ème), Sherwin Rasekh (4ème), and Alexandra Wolff (8th).

2015 Spelling Bee Contestants: Sherwin Rasekh (4ème), Alexandra Wolff (8th grade), Eric Aase (7th), Dalal Daher (5ème), Laetitia Guerin (5ème), Didi Zhou (6th), Cristobal Ramirez (6th), Maurits Deman (6th), Alex Moyer (5th), Sumair Nibber (5th), Paloma Villaseñor (4th), and Carmen Backx (4th)

2015 Spelling Bee Contestant Eric Aase (7th grade)

Know Your Geography?

o you know your geogra-

ists were asked as they competed for

grade, came in as runner-up in the bee.

phy? Would you know the

the title of school champion during

Congratulations to both Millad and

answers to the following

the annual Geography Bee on January

Alexandra, as well as all of the student

22, 2015.

contestants who participated in the

questions? Which state that is bordered by Louisiana to the South and

After several rounds of questions,

competition including Eric Aase (7th

Missouri to the North is the leading

8th grader Millad Moradi was named

grade), Stella Coulom (4Ă¨me), Tess Har-

producer of rice in the U.S.? Arkansas

the winner of Awty's annual Geog-

mon (6th), Valeria Keuser (7th), Nicho-

What river forms much of the western

raphy Bee. Millad gave the correct

las Perry (8th), Tyler Presswood (8th),

border of New Hampshire? Connecti-

answer of Shanghai to the following

Hani Shaib (6th), and Zane Tannir (7th).

cut River The Red River forms a border

question: "Bicycles are a common form

between Oklahoma and which state?

of transportation in the most popu-

Texas These are just a sample of the

lous city along the East coast of China.

questions the ten Middle School final-

Name that city." Alexandra Wolff, 8th

Mrs. Linda Doolittle, 2015 Geography Bee Champion Millad Moradi (8th grade), 2015 Geography Bee Runner-up Alexandra Wolff (8th grade), and Mr. Brent Lamers

ACCENT 2014-2015 37

Sebastien Chenin

Anna Malygin, Jonah Lamerie, and Auguste Pfeiffer

The 39 Steps Under the direction of Mrs. Amy Bruce, Awty's 8th Grade Theatre gave two performances of scenes from Patrick Barlow's The 39 Steps on March 19-20. A fastpaced whodunit, the production was packed with nonstop laughs and zany characters. The cast, with many playing different roles, included Ruben Backx, Kara Best, Jade Bouffard, Sebastien Chenin, Henri Duprieu, Celine Farhat, Nico Feder, Alejandra Gerlach, Emma Greenwood, Jonah Lamerie, Doreen Litvak, Anna Malygin, Yasmeen Mawlawi, Millad Moradi, Adriana Morales, August Pfeiffer, Misha Salashoor, and Joshua Santurbano.

Adriana Morales

Yasmeen Mawlawi and Auguste Pfeiffer

This production would not have been possible without the help of many including Tod Bailey, Ema Forbes, Jocelyn Kirby, George Parker, Lydia Pfeiffer, Cristina Feder, Marissa Gerlach, Nicole Malygin, Yvonne Gonzales, Helen Backx-Palsgraaf, The Alley Theatre, and Stages Theatre. Thank you!

Henri Duprieu

Earth Day Art Contest or the second year in a row, 6th

Her acrylic painting will be on dis-

with Earth Day Houston, the Houston

grader Natasha Morgan’s art

play in a traveling exhibition through-

area’s premier celebration of our plan-

was selected as a winner in her

out the Houston area for a year.

et, which celebrated its 10th Anniver-

grade level in the Earth Day Art Con-

Developed by Air Alliance Hous-

test held by Air Alliance Houston. Her

ton in 2007 and produced in partner-

For more than 25 years, Air Alliance

piece won 3rd place in the 8th annual

ship with Skyline Art, the Earth Day

Houston has worked to improve the

art contest.

Art Contest has encouraged students

quality of Houston's air. They are com-

Natasha was honored at a recep-

in grades 3 through 12 to show what

mitted to delivering clean air for a

tion on April 23, where her piece was

they see when they think of clean air,

healthier future in Houston. Through

auctioned off for $500. Fifty percent

water, and land. Their artistic vision

research, education, and advocacy,

of the proceeds will benefit Awty with

demonstrates how we can honor, cel-

they empower Houstonians to take

the other 50% supporting Air Alliance

ebrate, and protect our environment.

charge of their health and environ-

Houston‘s educational programming.

The contest was held in conjunction

sary on April 11, 2015.

ment.

Natasha Morgan (6th grade)

ACCENT 2014-2015 39

Big Bend XXVII

his yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excursion to Big Bend marked Awtyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 27th time to visit West Texas! On March 27-April 2, 104 French and International 8th grade students, along with a team of 16 dedicated faculty and staff members and one Awty alumnus (Alex Forrest), set off to discover the pleasures of life in the west, the great outdoors, and beautiful starry skies. It was a genuine adventure in direct contact with nature, in complete autonomy, without electronics, and without parents. Students set out to discover not just the environments of Big Bend National Park, Garner State Park, and South Llano River State Park; they set out to discover themselves. They learned about the necessity for rules in communal living and about the responsibilities involved in cooking for over 100 people, but above all, they learned to adapt to the fabulous desert surroundings, hiking trails, and pathways of all lengths. The trip remained true to its peda-

gogical intentions thanks to a booklet The Big Bend Guide, sponsored by BHP Billiton Petroleum. The booklet allowed students to learn about human history. Thanks to the participation of Sam Clayton, they also learned about geology and botany, for which the park is renowned. The students spent Tuesday morning canoeing down the Rio Grande River and then traveled to Terlingua to have lunch with the students from Terlingua High School. The students shared a hike with 8th graders from Terlingua who were eager to share the petroglyphs, pictographs, and secrets of their own Indian trail. The students from Terlingua also showed the Awty students how the Indian natives of the area were able to start fires using the sotol plant, which is native to the Big Bend area. In the evening, before dinner, various teacher-led activities allowed students to discover astronomy and other sciences, as well as art and drama and how they can express their experiences

Ava Pleczko, Raquel Haddad, Adrian Barbir, Jeanne Bourgogne, Ruben Backx, Awty Alumnus Alex Forrest (Class of 1997), Apolline Taxy, Nicholas Perry, and Auguste Pfeiffer

40 The Awty International School

through the visual arts, but above all, the discussion would inevitably turn to activities to come and what the next day would bring. Since it is difficult to predict the exact amount of food the group will consume on the trip, there is typically food left over at the end of the trip. The school was able to donate its remaining food to a group in Seguin called Apple Seed Kids, which assists low income families and individuals through food distribution, children's services, community referrals for assistance, education, and advocacy programs in Guadalupe and the surrounding rural counties. The 8th graders on this 27th annual Big Bend trip showed great enthusiasm, an inquisitive spirit, and a positive, willing approach, as much in their discovery of the parks as in their execution of the daily chores essential to the wellbeing of the group. - Angela Glidewell & Miranda DeVries Big Bend Coordinators

Alex Baumgartner and Remi Messier

Apolline Taxy, Nathalie Jeanneret, Jade Bouffard, Louise Ichanjou, and Anna Al-Homaid

Eduardo Dagnino, Thomas Bunch, and Remi Messier

Sherwin Rasekh and Baptiste Pelletan

Un i t e d S tat e s C a p i ta l

ne hundred and fifteen 7th graders, along with a team of nine dedicated faculty and staff members, embarked on Awty's second annual journey to Washington, D.C. this past spring. On March 30, they set off on a four-day trip to the United States capital to explore, learn, and connect with its rich culture and history. Together, they followed the steps of the country’s founders and presentday policymakers with visits to the most popular and important sites in Washington, D.C. It was a genuine educational experience where students were able to trace the course of American history from its earliest settlers to today’s political leaders. After an early morning departure on day one, the convoy arrived in Washington, D.C. around noon and spent the first day exploring The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex, in small self-guided groups. The National Air and Space Museum, The National Museum of American History, and The National Museum of Natural History were among some of the museums they visited. Day two was packed with exciting activities. It began with a visit to the Arlington National Cemetery, where the students had the opportunity to witness the impressive synchronized changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and the gravesite of John F. Kennedy. Four Awty students Thomas Bathellier,

42 The Awty International School

Lucile Caucheteux, Yamini Roy, and William Ward were selected to take part in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. After stopping at the United States Marine Corps War Memorial for a group photo, the group traveled to the Virginia countryside to Mount Vernon, which is situated on the Potomac River, and where George Washington called home for more than 40 years. The students ended their day at Madame Tussauds Washington, D.C. wax museum, taking fun photos alongside famous personalities. Day three started with a visit to the impressive United States Capitol Building, where students took a tour of the city’s epicenter and heart of the American legislature. Awty students explored the Visitor Center, which features an exhibition gallery, orientation theaters, gift shops, and a 550-seat cafeteria where students had lunch. In the afternoon, small self-guided groups of students experienced a guided sightseeing tour of Washington, D.C. Most visited memorials such as The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial. There were also two photo opportunities, one at the Washington Monument and a second one at the White House. Last, but not least, students also had the opportunity to visit three of the most prominent historic buildings in Washington, D.C. including The Library of Congress, The National Archives, and The U.S. Supreme Court. After dinner, the group

ended their third day by experiencing the magic of seeing Washington, D.C. by night. Some of the highlights of the scenic downtown tours included The Vietnam War Memorial, The Korean War Memorial, and The Lincoln Memorial. The students were inspired and moved by the history behind each of these testaments of courage. Day four, their last day in Washington, D.C., students visited the 250,000-square-foot Newseum, one of the world’s most technologically advanced museums, offering a handson experience that let the students explore five centuries of news history and go behind the scenes to see how news is produced. The modern facility featured an interactive newsroom and seven levels of galleries, theaters, retail spaces, and visitor services. After lunch, the students traveled back to Houston. Exhausted, but filled with beautiful memories, the group arrived at the airport late Thursday evening. On this second trip to Washington, D.C., the 7th grade students displayed an enthusiastic and curious spirit. Each one was eager to learn and discover the deep history of the U.S. capital. - Nelson Bonzi Washington, D.C. Coordinator

7th grade/5Ă¨me students in front of the Marine Corps War Memorial during their trip to Washington D.C.

Marc Delelis and Tanguy PomarĂ¨des

Hermine Comte, Adam Hussaini, and Ludovica Duchini

7th grade/5Ă¨me students pose in front of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Upper School AMBITIOUS. BRIGHT. INSPIRING.

Scoping Out Colleges

wty's College Counseling Of-

Upper School a chance to visit with

versity of Calgary (Canada), Ameri-

fice, in collaboration with

the attending college representatives

can University of Rome (Italy), McGill

the Council of International

and ask them vital questions about the

University (Canada), Trinity University

Schools, hosted the 2014-2015 CIS In-

school itself, their programs, the appli-

(USA), Universidad de Navarra (Spain),

ternational College and University Fair

cation process, and admission require-

Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (France),

on September 15.

ments, as well as their scholarship and

Nagoya University (Japan), Trinity Col-

financial aid opportunities.

lege Dublin (Ireland), The American

All

International

Baccalaureate

schools in Texas, Arizona, Colorado,

More than 65 universities and col-

University of Paris (France), Università

Oklahoma, and Louisiana were invited

leges from all corners of the world

Bocconi (Italy), Syracuse University

to send students to the college fair.

were represented at the fair including

(USA), King's College London (UK), and

Approximately 250 students were in

York University (Canada), Vanderbilt

Franklin University (Switzerland).

attendance at the event.

University (USA), University of Glasgow

The college fair gave students in the

(UK), University of Dundee (UK), Uni-

11th graders Julien Pham, Olivier Kuhn de Chizelle, and Kian Raissian

11th graders Jana Ihnen, Raven Schwam-Curtis, and Hugo Sivov visit with the rep from Sarah Lawrence College in NY.

Terminale students Nicolas Dekiouk and Darian Penichet talk with the representative from Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne in Switzerland.

2nde students Samuel Clonan, Julien Rampon, Yasmine Roye, and Elsa Pham

ACCENT 2014-2015 45

The BOO Crew

alloween at Awty is always a popular day amongst the Seniors. Besides the Preschoolers, the 12th grade/Tle students are the only students on campus who get the special privilege of wearing their favorite costumes each year. It's definitely no surprise that they have more fun than anyone on this day. A lot of planning goes into the costumes, some of the students taking

months to plan out their costumes. The seniors never fail with their creativity and cleverness when it comes to choosing their costumes and the Class of 2015 definitely did not disappoint. There were fairy tale and movie characters, a few hippies, scary skeletons, roaring 20's flappers, some fast food items, and a bottle of Sriracha sauce! The Flintstones and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made an appear-

ance. Even Waldo was spotted in the crowd! Keeping with tradition, this "boo" crew gathered in the Quadrangle during their break for a quick group photo, one they are sure to treasure for years to come. The senior moms then provided a delicious spread of Halloween treats! It was a fun and memorable day for each and every senior.

Senior Class of 2015

Matthew Mallon, Joseph Halow, Mena Barakat, Naia Daniel, Evelien Quint, Rohan Krishna, and Stefano Melchiori

46 The Awty International School

Japreen Kaur, Saunaz Moradi, Pauline Duhen, and Marie Corcoran

Mr. Marijan Jurcic and Adam Ali (11th grade)

Chess Master Warren Harper with Mohammed Jafri (10th grade), Stephen Wells (8th grade), and Mr. Olivier Steiner, the chess team that lasted the longest during the match.

A Game of Chess On January 9, chess master (and Awty chess coach) Warren Harper played several students and faculty members simultaneously, without looking at any of the boards! This type of event is known as a blindfold simul, one of the hardest feats in chess. To make it even harder, Mr. Harper was matched against five teams of our best student and faculty players, who collaborated on moves. Throughout the hour-long battle, students and teachers hoped distraction or the disadvantage of not seeing the board would give them a chance, but to no avail. The former High School National Champion and Texas State Champion saw teams resign one by one. With congratulations to the team which lasted the longest, Mr. Harper claimed a win in all five matches. 11th graders Olivier Kuhn de Chizelle and Arjun Saran

Chess Master Warren Harper concentrates on each move.

Jacob Berg (8th grade) and Devon Merz (11th grade)

Rode o A rt C om p e t i t ion

n January 8, Awty sent 12 art pieces to compete in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo's annual Art Competition. Awty competed against other private and parochial schools in the greater Houston area. A BIG congrats to Zoey Willoughby, 9th grade, whose colored pencil drawing "Billy the Kid" (shown below) won a Gold Medal. Zoey's piece was on display at the Hayloft Gallery throughout the Rodeo.

9th grader Zoey Willoughby with her winning art piece, "Billy the Kid"

9th grader Jason Yao's 1st place sculpture

48 The Awty International School

Congratulations also to Aliya Khan, 10th grade, and Nisriena Hanifa, 9th grade, whose colored pencil pieces were in the running for Best of Show and Gold Medals. Further congrats to 1st place winners Jason Yao, 9th grade and Amelie Roberts, 11th grade; 2nd place winners Valeria Mancera Fallone, 11th grade; Kaia Daniel, 10th grade; Bianca Rusu, 10th grade: Margaret Schroeder, 10th grade; Paula Ayala, 10th grade; Beatriz Gras, 10th grade; and 3rd place winner Ash-

ling Devins, 11th grade. Then on February 3, two Awty students entered artwork into the 3-D Art Competition at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. They were among 350 participants in the greater Houston area. Bravo to Jason Yao, 9th grade, who received first place for his clay sculpture of a rabbit, and to Eva Sload, 11th grade, who received second place for her sculpture of a Texas horned toad.

Zoey Willoughby's winning artwork on the big screen at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

11th grader Eva Sload's 2nd place sculpture

4ème students Danaé Penichet and Louise Veron visit with Dr. Azita Madjidi

Mr. Emilio de Matias Salces

2015 Career Fair Awty's College Counseling Office hosted the annual Career Fair on March 12 for the entire Upper School student body. Over 80 individuals, from a variety of professions, were on hand and eager to speak with our students about their careers including topics like college education in their field, day to day tasks, likes and dislikes of their job, and much more. The event began with panel discussions on engineering, law, business, and medicine.

Dr. Mahmood Moradi shows Corentin Menand (3ème) how a surgical microscope works.

Awty extends a BIG thank you to all of the professionals who took time out of their busy schedules to visit with our students. Many thanks also to Awty parents Janice Glaser, Nadia Tajalli, Claudia Fernandez, Monica Fulton, and Dr. Janice Beal-Geyen who, along with the College Counseling Office, organized the event.

11th graders Samuel Whitaker, Daniel Zuvic, Sarthak Kapoor, and Kian Raissian visit with Ms. Kathryn Uecker.

2nde students Indra Acogny and Paul Marande

Aw t y Ra mbots Robotics

wty Rambots Robotics Team, which is comprised of 11th grade/1Ă¨re students including Adam Ali, Toprak Eraslan, Maxim Gurevich, Lucas Jonasch, Hamidreza Nazemi, Kian Raissian, and Julien Ruzzo, has found success yet again this year. On April 15-18, four members of the team, Lucas, Maxim, Adam, and Toprak, traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, where they competed and were named a semi-finalist in the Vex Robotics World Championship. Competing against some of the top teams in the country, Rambots has participated in several Vex Robotics competitions this year including Galena Park VEX and Battle by the Beach. They placed in the top three out of 30 teams in the regional and statewide competitions. The team was a semifinalist and programming skills finalist in the South Texas Regional competition, which qualified the team for the

world competition. Vex Robotics is a competition between high school students where individual teams design robots to complete a specific objective. There are more than 10,000 teams from 32 countries across the globe. Supported and organized by the Robotics Education and Competition Foundation, it is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and fastest growing robotics competition among middle and high school students. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vex Robotics challenge was Skyrise, a game where students had to program and control a robot to pick up pegs and cubes and place them in various spots on a field. In order to score the highest points, each team had to place the most blocks and pegs in a specific amount of time. Each robot had to be made with VEX Robotics parts and was forbidden to have any third party technology. By analyzing past mistakes, Rambots developed

Rambots Robotics Team at a competition in November.

50 The Awty International School

more efficient and stable robots of different builds. Changes included different block grabbing mechanisms, arm lifting mechanisms, and programming. Competing in VEX promotes an engineering mentality in students that can later benefit them in future, real life situations. In the past three years, Awty has qualified for worlds, earning a reputation as a successful and competitive school in the robotics world. Awty is known by most judges and event hosts around Houston. Rambots hopes to inspire underclassmen to take over and continue with the robotics team for years to come. Congratulations to the Awty Rambots Robotics team on the great success you achieved this year!

11th grade/1Ă¨re students Julien Ruzzo, Lucas Jonasch, and Maxim Gurevich

11th graders Lucas Jonasch, Maxim Gurevich, Adam Ali, and Sebastian Andrade

Battle at the Beach competition in December

Rambots' Robot

On T h e Aw t y S ta g e

heatre students delighted audiences with two theatrical performances this school year including Stories from Ancient Indian Sanskrit Theatre and The Drowsy Chaperone. STORIES FROM ANCIENT INDIAN SANSKRIT THEATRE... Under the direction of Martha Bawara, this year's theatre productions began in November when the students in the IB Theatre classes presented Stories from Ancient Indian Sanskrit Theatre on November 12-14. The production featured "Nagananda" by Harsha and "The Dream of Vasavadatta" by Bhasa. Director’s Notes - Learn along with us! The Director’s Notes are a must read for any experienced theatre goer. They are insight to the methodology of the performance including a director’s choices, messaging, and background information on the piece that will aid in an audience member’s understanding and enjoyment of the show. All choices made in the IB Theatre production are directly linked to the unit studied and the information learned regarding historical contexts, theatrical conventions, playwrights, and any additional dramaturgical information obtained. This year, the students were asked to provide this information to the audience. The Importance Of Rasa in Sanskrit theatre – Margaret Glaser Rasa is defined as a shared feeling

52 The Awty International School

between the audience and players. This communal feeling is achieved when the audience is immersed in the performance yet maintains a realization of witnessing theatre. Although difficult to achieve, it is an essential component of Indian Sanskrit theatre. The acting style is equally important as the script when it comes to achieving rasa. Performance Spaces - Adela DePavia The Natyashastra, a seminal Indian text about the performing arts, describes three types of theatres: square, triangular, and rectangular. Our performance space most resembles the medium-sized rectangle. However, ours is a thrust stage with audience surrounding three sides, rather than traditional Indian designs in which an audience directly faces the action. Our set features a nepathya, a curtained-off

backstage area for entrances. As with traditional Sanskrit damas, our performance space includes oil lamps, representing divine presence, and wooden carvings on walls, meant to reinforce the sacred nature of Sanskrit theatre. Language utilization - Conor Hogan In traditional Sanskrit drama, language was used to both characterize the characters of a show and to widen the tradition’s appeal. At least two different dialects were spoken in the plays, most often being the traditional, formal, and highly stylized Sanskrit, and the more colloquial Pakrit. Spoken Sanskrit was reserved for roles of gods and the upper echelon of society members, while Pakrit was spoken by the commoners. In essence, Sanskrit is to Pakrit as Shakespearean English is to our current dialect. Therefore, in our own piece, the nobles speak mainly in

Seniors Rik Holthuizen, Cathleen Burton, Nadine Reumer, Drew Bailey, Adela DePavia, and Yassim Jan

a poetic, stylized way while the commoners speak more naturally The cast included: Sebastian Andrade, 11th grade (as Prince Jimutavahana), Tucker Arrants, 11th grade (as Ascetic), Maria Baidoukov, 12th grade (as Vasundhara, a nurse), Drew Bailey, 12th grade (as Chamberlain), Pierre-Paul BaradatLiro, 11th grade (as Prince Mitravasu), Emma Bradie, 11th grade (as an attendant), Cathleen Burton, 12th grade (as Princess Padmavati), Adela DePavia, 12th grade (as Vijaya, an attendant), Margot Hasty, 11th grade (as Chaturika, an attendant), Conor Hogan, 12th grade (as King Udayana), Rik Holthuizen, 12th grade (as Yaugandharayana), Yassim Jan, 12th grade (as Hermit Woman), Olivier Kuhn de Chizelle, 11th grade (as Messenger), Matt Mallon, 12th grade (as Vasantaka, a jester), Michael Niemer, 11th grade (as Stage Manager), Matias Preti, 11th grade (as Vidushaka), Nadine Reumer, 12th grade (as Queen Vasavadatta), and Leonie Schmidt, 11th grade (as Princess Malayavati). Many thanks to the following people who made this production possible: Martha Bawara (director/production elements), Ashka Dighe (running crew), Emre Kilic (sound design), and Emre Tichelaar (lighting operation). THE DROWSY CHAPERONE Under the direction of Amy Bruce and Rob Dee, The Awty International School's Performing Arts students pre-

sented The Drowsy Chaperone on February 26-28. The Drowsy Chaperone celebrates musicals of the jazz age, ones which feature one song and dance number after another. The musical opens with the Man in Chair, a Broadway fanatic, putting on his favorite record: the cast recording of a fictitious 1928 musical, The Drowsy Chaperone. The recording comes to life and the man in the chair is transported into the musical. The characters appear in his dingy apartment, and it is transformed into an impressive Broadway set. Mix in two lovers on the eve of their wedding, an awkward best man, a desperate theatre producer, a not so bright hostess, two gangsters posing as pastry chefs, a misguided Don Juan, and an intoxicated chaperone, and you have the perfect blend for an evening of amusing delight. The cast included: Sebastian Andrade, 11th grade, (as Aldolpho), Rhett Cai, 9th grade, (as George), Matthew Chalcraft, 12th grade, (as Feldzieg), Malena Charreton, 1Ă¨re, (as Gangster #1), Adela DePavia, 12th grade, (as The Drowsy Chaperone), Ashling Devins, 9th grade, (as Trix), Rodolfo Fernandez, 11th grade, (as Robert Martin), Margaret Glaser, 12th grade, (as Janet Van De Graaff ), Joni Grommesh, 11th grade, (as Gangster #2), Eleanor Grosvenor, 9th grade, (Ensemble), Rik Holthuizen, 12th grade, (Ensemble), Olivier Kuhn de Chizelle, 11th grade, (as Man in Chair),

Chelsea Liang, 11th grade, (Ensemble), Armando Ortiz, 12th grade, (as the Super), Julien Ruzzo, 1Ă¨re, (as the Underling), Leonie Schmidt, 11th grade, (as Mrs. Tottendale), Raven Schwam-Curtis, 11th grade, (as Kitty), and Isabella Simon, 9th grade, (Ensemble). Many thanks to the Production Team including Amy Bruce (stage direction and set), Rob Dee (musical direction and program), Shaun Peacock (choreography), Martha Bawara (poster design), Ashke Dighe (stage manager), Clayton Meyer (costume manager), Paula Reumer (costume crew), Emre Tichelaar (lighting assistant and master carpenter), Matthew Chalcraft (master electrician), and Alex Pleczko (sound assistant). Thanks also to the following students for helping with the set/prop construction: Matthew Chalcraft, Chelsea Liang, Emre Tichelaar, Julien Ruzzo, Tom Grant, Vera Conrad, Clayton Meyer, Leonie Schmidt, Anne Schmidt, Rhett Cai, Raven Schwam-Curtis, Jana Ihnen, Tian-Tian He, and the 10th grade Drama students. Special thanks goes to Martha Bawara, Don Clarke, Tod Bailey, Drew and Nick Hoovler, The Alley Theatre, Stages Theatre, The Catastrophic Theatre, Rita Murdoch, Dennis Draper, George Parker, Kirk Markley, Tairong Zheng, Sean von Felden, Ruben Alanis, Patty, Emily, Calvin, and Jonas. Costumes were provided by The Costumer, Schenectady, New York. Music and lyrics by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison. Book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar.

ACCENT 2014-2015 53

On T h e Aw t y S ta g e

Olivier Kuhn de Chizelle (11th grade) in The Drowsy Chaperone

Margaret Glaser (12th grade) in The Drowsy Chaperone

Seniors Matthew Mallon and Conor Hogan in Stories from Ancient Indian Sanskrit Theatre

The Drowsy Chaperone

Stories from Ancient Indian Sanskrit Theatre

Adela DePavia (12th grade) and Sebastian Andrade (11th grade) in The Drowsy Chaperone

Pierre-Paul Baradat-Liro (11th grade)

Music to the Soul

tudents in the Secondary Music Program had a busy 2014-2015 school year, rehearsing and practicing for hours, attending auditions and contests, and performing for friends and family. The following details some of these events.

and performed with other talented students from public and private schools in Houston at Tallowood Baptist Church. Attendees were amazed at the quality of music these young singers created.

Fall Instrumental Concerts The Awty Music Department presentTexas Music Educators Association ed the 2014 Fall Instrumental Concerts (TMEA) All State Choir over two nights, featuring various styles Six Awty Singers advanced in the Tex- of music. The Middle School Fall Instruas Music Educators Association (TMEA) mental Concert was held on Monday, All State Choir process with success- October 20 and featured the 7th Grade ful auditions at Cypress Springs High Band, 8th Grade Band, and Honors School on September 20. Adela DePa- Band. The 7th Grade Band performed via (12th grade), Margaret Glaser (12th), Sakura, Sakura and Turbo Rock while the Shune Lett Myint Thu (12th), Claire 8th Grade Band performed The Band in Buehler (11th), Leila El Masri (9th) and the Square and Voodoo Dance, and the Lily Frautschi (9th) earned membership Honors Band performed Gypsy Dance in the Region Choir, which performed and The Tenth Planet. at Tallowood Baptist Church on NovemThe Upper School Fall Instrumenber 15. tal Concert was then held on TuesTexas Music Educators Association day, October 21 and featured the 9th (TMEA) Region 27 Honor Choirs Grade Band, 10th Grade Band, Awty Members of Awty Singers participat- Strings, The Wind Ensemble, and Jazz ed in the Texas Music Educators Asso- Ensemble. The 9th Grade Band opened ciation (TMEA) Region 27 Honor Choirs the night with Mission Impossible and on November 14-15. They rehearsed Theme to Peter Gun. The 10th Grade Band followed with (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction and Tastes Like Chicken. Awty Strings then performed Overture to Lucio Silla. The Wind Ensemble performed four songs including The Madrigals: Adela DePavia (12th grade), Paula Reumer (10th), The Pink Panther, Margaret Glaser (12th), Ashling Devins (9th), Amelie Roberts (11th), Claire Buehler (11th), and Jacqueline Buskop (12th) Salvation is Created,

56 The Awty International School

Courage by Henry Filmore, and I Got You (I Feel Good). The Jazz Ensemble ended the night with three songs including Crazy Train, Summertime, and Brazil. These musicians were directed by Jason Peguero, Director of Instrumental Music, and Gesina Thompson, Orchestra Director. Fall Choir Performance The 2014 Fall Choir Performance was held on November 6 under the direction of Choir Director Rob Dee. The Middle School Choir opened the show with two songs including Everlasting Melody and Brave. Featured soloists included Aiden Devins, Adriana Morales, and Ava Pleczko. The 8th Grade Vocal Group followed with Ombra mai fu and Arms. Jacqueline Buskop, pianist and IB music student, then performed Chopin's Mazurka, Opus 7 No. 2. The 9th Grade Vocal Group performed Sing We and Chant It. The Awty Singers followed with three songs including Bring Me Little Water, Silvy, Gentle Annie, and Mirrors and featured soloists Ashling Devins, Eleanor Grosvenor, and Shune Lett Myint Thu. The Madrigals closed the evening with two songs, Just the Way You Are/ Just a Dream (mashup) and Seize the Day. A special thank you to Hui Shan Chin (accompanist), Awty's Facilities and Maintenance Department, and the Fine Arts Booster Club. Association of Texas Small School Band All State Band Auditions On January 10, the audition process for the Association of Texas Small

Maxim Gurevich (11th grade), Julien Ruzzo (1Ă¨re), Lucas Jonasch (11th), Benjamin BarreraRothaus (9th), Roni Midyat (11th), and Director of Instrumental Music Jason Peguero

School Band (ATSSB) All State Band concluded. Some of Awty's band students had been preparing and auditioning since August. In October, Roni Midyat attended the All Region Jazz Band Auditions. This audition required him to perform two prescribed audition pieces on drum set and perform an improvised solo on the vibraphone. Roni Midyat made the Region 23 Jazz Band and qualified for the Area Jazz Band. His audition continued even further. A recorded audition was sent to the state contest against about 400 schools whereby he placed 5th

in the state of Texas for the 1A/2A/3A ATSSB All State Jazz Band Audition. Several Awty students auditioned against 14 schools to gain spots in the Association of Texas Small School Band All-Region Band. These students were to prepare two compositions and perform seven full range scales on their instruments for a panel of judges that ranks them amongst the many students auditioning for that instrument. Only the top students were placed in the Region Band, and only the top placed students of our 3A classification qualify for the all Area Band. All seven students who

signed up to audition made either the Region Band or the Area band. Members of the Region Band performed an impressive concert on November 15 at The Kinkaid School with the renowned conductor, educator, and composer Robert Sheldon. On January 10, Awty students had area auditions for the ATSSB All State Band, which included students from central Texas (stretching from Houston to Austin and Waco). The participating students had to again audition for placement into the area band. Those students who placed at the highest

ACCENT 2014-2015 57

Music to the Soul chairs in their section qualified to participate in the ATSSB All State Band. Although we did not have any students make it into the All State Band, we did have two students come very close, a grand achievement indeed. Awty's ATSSB participants and chair placements included: Maxim Gurevich - Flute (Area 8th, Region 7th), Claire Steakley - Clarinet (Area 36th), Lucas Jonasch - Trumpet (Area 17th), Jason Rehg - Trumpet (Area 14th, Region 9th), Benjamin Barrera - Tuba (Area 6th, Region 3rd), Julien Ruzzo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuba (Area 15th, Region 7th), and Roni Midyat â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Percussion (Area 14th, Region 3rd). Congratulations to all! Houston Area Private Schools All City Band Jason Peguero was selected by Houston Area Private Schools (HAPS) All City Band to be the conductor of a band with 97 of the best band students from The Kinkaid School, St. Laurence Catholic School, Epiphany Lutheran School, Trafton Academy, Awty, Calvary Episcopal Prep., The Grace School, and St. John Paul II Catholic School. They met at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, re-

hearsed, and then put on a concert, all in the same day. 2015 TAPPS State Instrumental Meet On Friday, March 27, Awty's Upper School Band students traveled to Mary Hardin-Baylor University to compete in the 2015 TAPPS State Instrumental Meet. All of the groups earned high accolades from impartial judges for successfully performing their concert music. The band classes performed selections they learned during their elective classes. The Wind Ensemble performed a very difficult contest piece, a lyrical ballad, and a concert march. The Jazz Ensemble performed the sophisticated jazz standards Brazil and Mack the Knife. The judges (veteran musicians, conductors, and band directors) used the following rating system: 1=Superior, 2=Excellent, 3=Average, 4=Fair, 5=Poor. Awty's results are as follows: Wind Ensemble Concert - 2, Wind Ensemble Sight-reading - 1, 10th Grade Band - 3, Percussion Quintet - 1, Kevin Ong - Piano Solo - 2, Roni Midyat - Xylophone Solo - 2, 9th Grade Band - 2, Wood Wind Trio (Claire Steakley, Alex Lloyd, Suleyman Amjad) - 1, Brass Trio

The Awty Band at the 2015 TAPPS State Instrumental Meet

58 The Awty International School

(Jason Rehg, Nico Motta, Martin Motta) - 1, and Jazz Ensemble - 1. Congratulations to all of the band students on this success. The students who competed included Sofian Abbasi, Hector Acevedo, Sebastian Adrianza, Suleyman Amjad, Benjamin BarreraRothaus, Cecilia Burns, Rhett Cai, Matthew Chalcraft, Suria Crabtree, George de Marigny, Toprak Eraslan, Tom Grant, Maxim Gurevich, Layla Hanusic, Lucas Jonasch, Alex Lloyd, Olivia Midy, Roni Midyat, Felipe Monteiro, Martin Motta, Nicolas Motta, Selin Oney, Michelle Ong, Kevin Ong, Julien Pham, Alex Pleczko, Jason Rehg, Dylan Rodriguez, Julien Ruzzo, Joep Schrameijer, Jingyi Song, Claire Steakley, Zoey Willoughby, and Dominic Zambonini. These student singers and musicians as well as their teachers, Mr. Rob Dee, Mr. Jason Peguero, and Mrs. Sina Thompson deserve a standing ovation for all of these great accomplishments.

Middle School Honors Band

Middle School Choir

Jacqueline Buskop (12th grade)

Nicolas Motta (10th grade)

A First For Aw t y

or the first time in the school’s history, giving even more emphasis to its international vocation, 17 students from Grades 9 and 10 went on a linguistic field trip to French Polynesia as part of an exchange established with the Lycée Paul Gauguin in Papeete. They were accompanied by Vaitea Grand (Spanish/French teacher and soccer coach), Houda Grand (French teacher), and Nadia Triki (French teacher and Grade 9 coordinator). In March, the 17 students who had registered for the exchange spent two weeks with Tahitian families, putting them in a total French language immersion environment. Their stay enabled them not only to practice and improve their French, but also to discover Polynesian culture and to participate in activities that are part of it. In addition to mandatory half-days of class work, their time was rounded out

with traditional pirogue, surfing, and diving lessons as well as an introduction to Polynesian dance and songs. For one weekend, they were even able to explore the island of Moorea, located ten miles from Tahiti. Sports, specifically soccer, were also a part of the trip. Thanks to John Hoye’s support, 13 Awty JV and Varsity team members were able to test their skills against the teams of Pirae’s Lycée Taaone and the Lycée Paul Gauguin, which has partnered with an outside team to make its players more competitive. This partnership between the lycée and the AS Tefana (the team from the city of Faa’a) is the basis of the success of their program, which is fully involved in becoming international. In addition, the commune of Faa’a did a lot to facilitate this exchange through its full support, by giving access to its athletic facilities, and by making a city bus available to Awty for

Awty students and teachers pose for a group photo after visiting the Museum of Tahiti.

60 The Awty International School

daily trips. Mr. Oscar Temaru, mayor of the commune and former president of French Polynesia, was pleased to meet the Houston delegation during a reception full of local color. After a few words in Re’o Maohi (the Polynesian language has co-official status), the Awty students and teachers were invited to taste fruits and other typical culinary preparations. This trip, combining immersion in language, culture, and sports, was a major event during the second semester at Awty and will certainly hold a special and lasting place in our students’ memory. Now we eagerly await the Polynesian delegation, which in turn will come and spend two weeks at Awty next year. We expect them this coming October 25! - Vaitea Grand Spanish / French Teacher & Soccer Coach

Awty students enjoy a reception hosted by Mr. Oscar Temaru, Mayor of the City of Faa'a.

Awty Rams and Lycee Paul Gauguin soccer players

Students discover the traditional Tahitian pirogues.

9th graders Nolan Kelly and Ben Barrera

Parent Volunteers ENTHUSIASTIC. HELPFUL. TALENTED.

Summer's End Soiree

he Awty International School

were encouraged to bring a bottle of

sa Rich, and the many volunteers who

and The Awty Parents and

wine or a six-pack of beer from their

helped organize the event.

Personnel Association (APPA)

native country. These drinks were add-

Celebrating Awty is just one of the

said goodbye to summer and hello to

ed to Awtyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tasting Room and shared

many fun events hosted by the APPA

a new school year when they joined

with everyone in attendance.

throughout the year. If you would liked

forces to host the Summer's End Soiree

This event would not have been pos-

to get involved with the APPA and vol-

- Celebrating Awty festivities on Sep-

sible without the help of event chairs

unteer at one of these events during

tember 5.

and Awty moms Ashley Amy and Mar-

the 2015-2016 school year, please visit

It was a wonderful evening of cel-

cia Vilas. Thank you for orchestrating

www.awty.org/appa or send an email to

ebration and community as dozens

an extraordinary kick-off to the school

appa@awty.org.

of parents, staff, and faculty attended

year. A big thank you also goes to the

and indulged in tasty hors d'oeuvres

APPA, Awty's Advancement Depart-

and delicious adult beverages. Guests

ment, Sage Dining, Tim Morgan, Loui-

Cyrille Levesque, Marie Levesque des Neiges, Damien Lhors, and Maud Lhors

Sabine Berthaud-Brehmer, Lucia Iniguez de Onzono, and Sarah Faivre-Ovion

Marcia Vilas and Ashley Amy

Maria Cuellar, Felipe Bayon, Todd Feder, and Pilar von Bismarck

ACCENT 2014-2015 63

Jérôme Faivre and Eric Gadin

Felipe Bayon, Trevor Munk, and Todd Feder

Cheers and Beers It was all about beer and good cheer when approximately 40 dads attended the annual Dads’ Night Out on September 18 at J. Black’s Feel Good Kitchen and Lounge. A regular staple for the Awty Dads’ Club, the happy hour event gave Awty dads, both old and new, a chance to take a break from the grind and connect with other dads for a few hours.

Sébastien Villert and Gwenael Allain

Mark Smithard, Jay Kalra, Ray Drexler, and Danny Bahrani

During the school year, the Awty Dads’ Club gives dads opportunities to socialize as well as to support the development and cultivation of the school and its mission. They organize fun and casual events that are not only open to all Awty dads, but often times they are also open to Awty moms. Past events hosted by the Awty Dads’ Club include weekend soccer and tennis matches, networking nights with the Awty Alumni Association, tailgating parties prior to a Houston Dynamo home soccer game, the annual Saint Arnold’s Brewery Bash, and the ever-popular BBQ at Awty’s Homecoming game.

Ed Hirs and Brian Oakley

A Race to the Finish

hree Awty teams, two Up-

nals, Awty's Middle School team, Blaz-

hard work. In our book, all of the pad-

per School and one Middle

ing Dragons, won 3rd place (01:35.36).

dlers and drummers are gold medal

School, participated in The

This year, Awty also won the Dragon

winners!

11th Annual Gulf Coast International

Boat Spirit Award! Congratulations to

Dragon Boat Regatta on Saturday, Oc-

all of the participants!

Many thanks to the APPA, the Awty Rams Booster Club, and all of the par-

There were 20 paddlers and one

ent volunteers who organized the

In the 250M U18 Youth A Grand Fi-

drummer on each team. The race start-

Awty teams and came out and cheered

nals, Awty's Rowing Rams (11th grade

ed around 10:00 a.m. Every team raced

them on to the finish line.

team) won 2nd place (01:17.02) and

three times including the finals. The

To learn more about dragon boat

Awty's Water Warriors (Upper School

students had a good workout and lots

racing, visit the Texas Dragon Boat As-

team) won 3rd place (01:20.98).

of fun! The Dragon Boat race required

sociation's website at www.texasdrag-

tremendous team collaboration and

onboat.com.

tober 18.

In the 250M UMIX Youth Grand Fi-

Upper School Team: Rowing Rams

Middle School Team: Blazing Dragons

Upper School Team: Water Warriors

Raven Schwam-Curtis (11th grade), Tim Schmidt (11th), Anne Schmidt (11th), Chelsea Liang (11th), and Emre Tichelaar (12th)

ACCENT 2014-2015 65

A d va n c i n g t h e A rt s

he Fine Arts Booster Club (FABC) is a group consisting of Awty parents, faculty, and staff who are dedicated to the advancement of the arts at Awty. The FABC's main goal is to provide financial and moral support to the various fine arts programs of the school. We are proud of our budding young artists. At Awty, we value the creative spirit of our students, offering lessons in visual arts, band, orchestra, photography, choir, drama, and theatre production. Students are given the opportunity to participate in performances and exhibitions at public venues and events, creating a bridge to the larger world outside of school life. Our talented artists have consistently earned

top-notch recognition and awards at most of these events every year. Join us! The Fine Arts Booster Club wishes to thank all parents, faculty, and staff who have generously supported its efforts during the 2014-2015 school year. Special mention goes to the following FABC members: Benefactors – Margaret and Charles Buehler, Patty Burns, Mirra Darby, Mariateresa and Mauro Fenoglio, Blanca Garza, Janice Glaser, Jennifer Hogan, Anastasia Lim, Rita and Warren Murdoch, Amy Pierce, Shamaine Pleczko, Carmen and Redi Roy, Barbara Schmidt, Adriana Silva, Huey-Wen Song, and Jason Van Loo and Noël Hudson; Patrons – Soraya Mohammed, Christine Preti, and Lorri Rehg; Partners - Celia Balli, Cheri Chalk,

10th graders Beatriz Gras, Margaret Schroeder, Elif Dundar, Phoebe Blott, and Gavi Silverman support Fine Arts Day by wearing a T-shirt that expresses the artist within.

66 The Awty International School

Mariella de Jong, Sarah Faivre-Ovion, Aimee Flood, Crystal Frommert, Marissa Gerlach, Catherine Griffiths, Patricia Seller-Wolff, and Julia Wellner. Become part of FABC's growing community of fine arts friends. We have many exciting projects throughout the year such as fundraisers, social events, and assisting in student performances. Together, we can help Awty's young stars continue to achieve excellence in the arts and even exceed their own expectations. Contact us at awtyfinearts@outlook.com. - Rita Murdoch Fine Arts Booster Club President

Upper School Musical, The Drowsy Chaperone

Becca Sax (10th grade)

Anahita Bordoloi (10th grade) and Ian Van Loo (6th)

Ashling Devins (9th grade)

Fa l l F un F or E v ery on e

hat better way to celebrate Halloween, the fall season, and cooler, milder temperatures than with a family friendly festival? The 2014 Fall Fun Festival, one of Awty's most popular events, had all of this and more. On October 25, dozens of Awty families came out and enjoyed good weather, good food, and good fun at this annual APPA event. The weather was perfect, the rides and games were plentiful, and the food was delicious, making this one of the most successful Fall Fun Festivals to date. This year's festival was an outof-this-world adventure featuring an 85-foot zip line, thrilling carnival rides including "The Houston Rocket", inflatables for all ages, a terrifying Haunted House, space-themed games and

1st graders Avery Smith, Anya Sarna, and Kate Frommert

68 The Awty International School

crafts, face painting, a balloon artist, a petting zoo, and the Spook Shop. A heartfelt thank you to the Fall Fun Festival Chairs Patti Gil, Talia Kallop, and Joanna Strachan for organizing such a SPOOKtacular event. This incredible event would not have been possible without their dedication, energy, enthusiasm, and hard work! Many thanks to all the amazing Awty faculty and staff, students and parent volunteers who helped with the booths, haunted house, decorations, wristband/ticket sales, set up and clean up, and more. Special thanks to Chef Tim Morgan, Louisa Rich, and the entire Sage Dining staff for creating and serving such a delicious lunch as well as Don Davis, Maritza Ramos, and the entire Awty maintenance crew and security team for making the

event possible. A very special THANK YOU to the Drama Club lead by Ms. Amy Bruce who, together with her students, created an amazing and super scary haunted house! A BIG thank you to Monica Fulton who helped recruit and organize the parent and student volunteers. Finally, thank you to our event sponsors Phoenicia Specialty Foods and Meredith Philipp-Tcholakian, Central Market/HEB Markets, and Whole Foods. Thanks also to Panera Bread, Costco, and Trader Joe's for their generosity. Thank you for making this a fun, festive, and memorable day for our Awty families.

Maxime Clauss (CE2), Matéo Benoit (CE2), Joan-Marc Flinch (CE1), and Pierre Poupard (CE2)

Inès Mugnier (7th grade)

2014 Fall Fun Festival

Aly Gamby (Kinder)

Green! Gold! Rams!

he Awty spirit was alive and

conjure a sense of pride among the

well this year as Awty stu-

student body in their athletic teams, in

dents, staff, and faculty dis-

their work, and in their school.

when competing. If you would like more information about the Rams Booster Club, or if you

played their school pride on three

The Rams Booster Club supports

are interested in becoming a member

different Spirit Days during the school

the school's athletics program by pro-

or a volunteer, visit www.awty.org/

year. It was clear to see their school

viding funds for new game uniforms,

ramsboosterclub or contact Melissa

spirit when they wore the designated

equipment, travel, and much more.

Halow, Rams Booster Club President,

Spirit T-shirt on September 23, Febru-

The Booster Club also sponsors an

at melhalow8993@gmail.com.

ary 3, and April 14.

end-of-season party for each sport.

Each year, a number of Spirit Days

Their continued support helps the

are organized by the Awty Rams Boost-

Athletics Department ensure Awty's

er Club, in conjunction with Awtyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

student athletes have the equipment

Athletics Department. The special days

and backing necessary to do their best

PK-4 students Brady Dickard, Kasey Roberts, and Hudson Brock10.5886 in

4Ă¨me students Jasmine Gray, Baptiste Pelletan, Nathalie Jeanneret, and Marguerite Good

70 The Awty International School

10th graders Sebastian Diaz, Paula Ayala, and Martin Motta

2nd graders Tassilo von Bismarck, Finnian Helman, Andres Ruiz, Dhruv Prathipati, Roshan Greene, Shivansh Velmurugan, Francesc Baizan, Sebastian Ballesteros, and Cooper Yi

Christine Chourré, Lisa Darling, and Ray Drexler

Quynh and Tuyen Nguyen

Beer, Bar-b-que, & An Awty Bash It doesn't any get better than Texas craft beer, Texas bar-b-que, lively music, and a night spent with friends! This was definitely the case for the 7th Annual Saint Arnold’s Bash, which was once again hosted by the Awty Dads’ Club on November 15. More than 150 Awty parents, staff, faculty, and friends kicked up their heels and enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Demeris Bar-B-Q, Saint Arnold’s beer on tap, and country tunes spun by DJ Ferbidden. Founded by Brock Wagner and Kevin Bartol, Saint Arnold’s Brewery is the oldest craft brewery in Texas. Their first keg of beer was shipped on June 9, 1994. They brew both year-round beers and seasonal beers. If you don’t have time to take a trip down to the brewery, Saint Arnold’s beers can be found locally in bars, restaurants, grocery stores, liquor stores, and warehouse stores. Jim Browne and Jeff Newhook

Many thanks to Jay Kalra, Ray Drexler, and the entire Awty Dads’ Club for organizing another great event. Cheers!

Steve Coulom, Dean Zuvic, Sanya Zuvic, and Olivia Deman

Brent Kallop, Patti Gil, Talia Kallop, and Milena Newhook

A Touch of Dutch

Touch of Dutch...Go Orange" was the theme this year as the 17th annual International Festival paid homage to The Netherlands on April 16-17, 2015. Chaired by Awty moms Marcia Chamma and Monica Fulton and hosted by the Awty Parents and Personnel Association (APPA), this year’s festival kicked off with the opening ceremony on Thursday morning. Lisa Darling, Head of School, and Christine Chourré, Proviseure, opened the festival on Thursday and welcomed Mr. Jos Wellink, Honorary Consul of the Netherlands, and Olympic rower Sjoerd Hoekstra. The opening ceremony featured the traditional parade of flags, which were carried by the Class of 2015 and accompanied by the steady beat of the Awty drummers. Awty Madrigals then performed The Netherlands National Anthem. The crowd was entertained with a movie showcasing Dutch culture, history, geography, and more. The school hosted a VIP reception in the Sarofim Library for dignitaries prior to the opening ceremony. Members of the consular corps attending the event including representatives from Austria, Costa Rica, The Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and Switzerland. The festival featured 42 booths, with 35 representing different countries, hosted by Awty parent volunteers. These booths featured folklore and cultural information about each country and many offered delicious, exotic foods. In addition, their were six Up-

72 The Awty International School

per School club booths and the APPA hosted the Peace Booth for the fourth consecutive year. Each year, the Peace Booth has focused on a different article of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This year, the Peace Booth celebrated Article 24: The Right to Play! On Friday, students, staff, and faculty alike celebrated their heritage by wearing their national dress. During the day, Preschool and Lower School students took their turn visiting the booths. They collected stamps, accumulated souvenirs, and tasted delicious foods from around the world. Friday afternoon events included the annual Parade of Nations, where 90 students in their native dress represented approximately 39 different countries. Chantel Olufsen, Associate Director of Advancement - Annual Fund, served as emcee during the parade. Directly following the Parade of Nations, the crowd was entertained with several

talented performances beginning with the Lower School Choir under the direction of Lori Wagner, Primary School Music Teacher. Awty students Sarah Haji, Alina Hashmani, Zayna Dilawar, Zoya Zulquernain, Hamza Zulquernain, and Zohaib Khan performed a traditional Pakistan dance, followed by a ukelele performance by 9th graders Zoey Willoughby and Eleanor Grosvenor and a Chinese ribbon dance performed by 6th grader Angelina Sophia Lee. Romit Kundagrami, 5th grade, closed out the entertainment with a magic show. Awty’s own Chef Tim and his staff prepared and served a traditional Dutch meal to approximately 250 people at the International Festival Dinner following Friday’s activities. The dinner was a resounding success and the perfect end to an amazing two-day celebration of the many cultures and countries represented by Awty families.

Proviseure Christine Chourré, Olympic rower Sjoerd Hoekstra, Honorary Consul of The Netherlands Jos Wellink, and Head of SchoolLisa Darling

Karin Hemminga and Marianne Thissen

Awty moms Elena Garcia and Lucia Iniguez de Onzono with 3rd graders Gregory Gurevich, Elena Burgaleta, Leila Al-Amudi, and Sofia Forcella

Fede Everts (7th grade)

Candace Huijgen and Carmen Backx (4th grade)

A Touch of Dutch

Nicolas Dekiouk (Tle), Marie Farhat (12th), and Yassim Jan (12th)

Arda Arikan (4th grade)

1st graders Rosie Earl, Keira de Jong, Leah Kibsgaard-Petersen, and Adela Nicolae

Rocio Gras (4th grade) tries to grab the sandwich while her classmates watch.

Candace Huijgen, Michael Baker, Jessica Holland, Tom Beuscher, Josh Culbreath, Rob Dee, Kneale Culbreath, Emily Ambrosino, and Randle Seymour

Terminale students enjoying lunch during the International Festival.

Romeo Beaurain (CM1)

Justine Rives (Tle)

Highlights A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF 2014-2015’s MAIN EVENTS

Welcome to Aw t y!

t the beginning of each school

badges were then decorated with gold

cious cupcakes during their break time

year, Awty selects one day in

stars, either one big gold star for each

while Preschool and Lower School stu-

early September to celebrate

Newcomer or small stars for all return-

dents were treated to chocolate crois-

Newcomer's Day. This year on Sep-

ing students and staff. The small stars

sants during their snack time.

tember 9, an official warm welcome

represented the number of years the

was extended to Awty's new students,

student or staff member had been at

staff, and faculty members.

Awty.

In the morning, everyone on cam-

Later in the day, Middle School and

pus received a name badge. The

Upper School students enjoyed deli-

8th graders Clare Quarles, Gabrielle Balthazar, Kinza Siddiqui, Spencer Talbot, Katerina Arellano, Misha Salahshoor, and Doreen Litvak

PK-3/PS students Fernando Garbino-Carminati, Emerson Clark, and Justus Morris

9th graders Mario Melo, Uri Baron, Ruben Malvaez, and Kabir Samlal

ACCENT 2014-2015 77

Forever Green & Gold

wty's 2014 Homecoming and Spirit Week (November 3-7) commenced with everyone's favorite day, Pajama Day. Students, faculty, and staff got the chance to make the "Saints Go to Sleep" by wearing their favorite pajamas to school. Homecoming Week 2014 continued on Tuesday with Clash Day! It was a "Clash of the Titans" as students, faculty, and staff wore crazy mismatched clothes and shoes. It was all about school spirit on Wednesday with Homecoming Tshirt Day! Students, faculty, and staff rocked this year's tie dyed "Forever Green & Gold" T-shirts! It was a bright sight to see on Thursday as students, faculty, and staff dressed all in neon colors for Neon Day! Awty’s 2014 Homecoming Spirit Week culminated with the annual Homecoming game on Friday, November 7. The Awty Rams took on the St. Thomas Saints and walked away with a win, defeating the Saints 4-0! “Green and Gold” Day (aka: game day) started with a bang on Friday morning as the entire student body gathered in the PAAC for a fun and

exciting pep rally. Senior Alex Pleczko served as the DJ during the pep rally and got the crowd pumped as he spun upbeat tunes. The pep rally also featured music from the Awty Band, under the direction of Jason Peguero, including songs Fancy, All of the Lights, Yeah, and Happy. The Awty cheerleaders, dance team, and mascots kept the energy alive throughout the event. The Awty Varsity Boys Soccer Team, as well as the candidates for Awty's 2014 Homecoming Court, were also introduced during the pep rally. The highlight of the morning came when Awty’s “ram mascot” and Coach Sati Yuksek faced off in a push up challenge. When Awty’s mascot was the clear winner in the challenge, Director of Athletics John Hoye confessed to Coach Yuksek that he had been set up and then surprised him, the soccer team, and the entire audience by revealing who was dressed as the ram mascot…none other than Awty alumnus Stuart Holden. Stuart graduated from Awty in 2003 and went on to become a professional soccer player. He has played with the Bolton Wanderers

Awty's 2014-2015 Varsity Boys Soccer Team with Awty alumnus Stuart Holden (center), Class of 2003

78 The Awty International School

FC and the Houston Dynamo. The day concluded with the annual Homecoming game, where the Rams defeated St. Thomas Episcopal High School. Providing scores for Awty were senior Conor Hogan (1), junior Matias Preti (2), and sophomore Sebastian Adrianza (1). Defensively, the Rams were just as dominate, allowing only a handful of shots on goal the entire game. During halftime the Homecoming Court was announced, where senior Isis Acogny was crowned Homecoming Queen and Armando Ortiz was selected as the 2014 Homecoming King. Awty’s 2014 Homecoming Court also included Amelia Ward as 9th grade Princess, Elif Dundar as 10th grade Princess, and Alexandre Guirette Hentschel as 11th grade Princess The 2014 Homecoming and Spirit Week ended with the Homecoming Dance on November 8 at the J.W. Marriott on Westheimer.

Sebastian Adrianza (10th grade)

Green & Gold Day: Awty Teachers Jill L'Abbate and Charity Singletary

Clash Day: Kinder/GS students Maya Ramji, Clea Deschanel Pathman, Juliette Lascaud, Aicha-Maryam Ba, and Sarah Baklouti

Seniors Armando Ortiz and Isis Acogny

Forever Green & Gold

2014-2015 Awty Cheerleaders

Awty Mascot

Homecoming T-shirt Day: 5th graders Isabella Chamma, Yasemin Dundar, Jordan Fenske, and Zeynep Dundar

Awty Cheerleaders Naia Daniel (12th grade), Saunaz Moradi (12th), Pauline Duhen (Tle), Serena Tohme (12th), Lauren Galindo (11th), Claire Tedgui-Zagame (Tle), and Amanda Charreton (Tle)

Neon Day: Emily Zoorob (7th grade), Melissa Seecharan (7th), Anushka Colaco (7th), Isabella Evans (7th), Daniella Jimenez (8th), Gabriella Gonzalez (8th), Kinza Siddiqui (8th), and Doreen Litvak (8th)

Pajama Day: MS students Victor Francois, Sebastian Arwadi, Edouard Giampietri, Baptiste Chazalnoel, and Maxence Grapin

Neon Day: 11th graders Simona Everts, Michael Niemer, Sydney Arceneaux, and Rodolfo Fernandez

Homecoming T-shirt Day: Hanzo Sinambela (2nd grade)

'Tis The Season

wty rang in the holiday seasonwith the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 5, where students, staff, and faculty sang traditional holiday carols, greeted Santa Claus, and watched the lighting of the tree. Entertainment was provided by the Lower School Choir, Middle School Select Choir, Madrigals, Awty Singers, Orchestra, and the Wind Ensemble. Everyone in attendance sang along to some holiday classics including “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad.” Santa even made a special appearance during the ceremony, delighting students both young and old. Keeping with tradition, the students who have been at Awty the longest and the student who has attended Awty the shortest amount of time were honored with lighting Awty’s Christmas tree during the event. This year, the honor went to seven students. Six seniors including Nicolas Dekiouk, Marie Farhat, Japreena Kaur, Naia Daniel, Conor Hogan, and Giancarlo Vega began attending Awty as preschoolers in 2000 and have all been at Awty the

4th grade/CM1 students Benoit Mugnier, Emma Fulton, and Rowan Donachie

82 The Awty International School

longest. Henry Roche, a PS student, was the youngest student and the student who has attended Awty the shortest. These students were joined by Sam Waugh (the employee who has worked at Awty the longest), Chantel Olufsen (the employee who has been at Awty the shortest amount of time), Head of School Lisa Darling, Proviseure Christine Chourré, and Santa in lighting the tree. Many thanks to Robert Dee, Jason Peguero, Sina Thompson, and Lori Wagner for coordinating the event and providing the entertainment. Special thanks goes to Martha Bawara and the IB Theatre classes for providing light and screen technicians, to Becky Johnson and her art students for decorating the tree, and to the maintenance crew for setting up the PAAC. On December 8, Awty’s Performing Arts Department presented the Middle School Holiday Concert, where the 6th Grade Band, 7th Grade Band, 8th Grade Band, and Middle School Honors Band performed nearly a dozen songs. The following night on December 9,

9th grade Band, 10th grade Band, The Wind Ensemble, Full Orchestra, Awty Strings, and Jazz Ensemble took their turn on the stage. Under the direction of Jason Peguero and Sina Thompson, the two-night concert put everyone in a festive holiday mood. The holidays wouldn't have been the same without Awty's annual Toy Drive. Giving and helping others are two important qualities instilled in Awty's students at a young age. Through the toy drive, students support local charities by donating games and toys for children in need. At the end of the toy drive on December 17, several fire fighters from Houston’s Fire Department Station No. 38 along with their special friend Santa Claus stopped by the school to visit with the students, pick up the toys, and spread a little holiday joy. Many children in Houston had a happy holiday season thanks to the generosity of Awty’s students. Because of them, this year’s Toy Drive was a huge success.

Head of Upper School Sam Waugh, Director of Annual Fund Chantel Olufsen, Head of School Lisa Darling, Nicolas Dekiouk, Marie Farhat, Japreena Kaur, Naia Daniel, Henry Roche, Conor Hogan, Giancarlo Vega, and Proviseure Christine ChourrĂŠ

Fire fighters from HFD Station 38 load the toys collected during Awty's Toy Drive.

Raquel Haddad (8th grade)

Zeniah Foster (Kindergarten) tells Santa what she wants for Christmas.

Books and More Books

or three days in March, the PAAC was converted into a large bookstore with more than 4,500 books on display and for sale at Awty’s 2015 Book Fair. The Book Fair was open to all students, parents, staff, and faculty over the three-day period. Hundreds of books in mutliple languages including English, French, Spanish, and Dutch were offered with a wide selection available at all reading levels. Everyone from Preschool students looking for a picture book to adults shopping for the latest bestseller found a book or two to dive into. Parents of Preschool students were invited to visit the fair with their children, while students in Lower School visited the event with their homeroom teachers. Middle and Upper School

students spent time at the fair during their breaks, lunches, and before and after school. Many thanks to the Awty librarians Diana Armentor, Lucas Anderson, Jessica Holland, Céline Poirier, Myra Arslan, and Christelle Zaharatos, as well as all of the volunteers who helped to make this event a success—both as a promoter of reading for pleasure and as a profit-making enterprise. All of the help from Awty faculty, staff, students, and parent volunteers was truly appreciated. More than $6,000 was raised through sales at the Book Fair this year and 335 books were added to the library collection. Thank you to everyone who purchased a book (or many books!) at the fair. Your purchases added to the Book

5ème students Diane Leenhardt, Valentin de Loynes, Robert Rombouts, Thomas Bathellier, Eyimofe Ariyo, Alonso Palafox, Thibault Tonnel, and Philippe Lemieux

84 The Awty International School

Fair’s success and will help the library pay for books, author visits, and reading incentive programs Awty has three libraries on campus including two in the Primary School, one serving the Preschool students and one for the Lower School students. Awty's main library, the Sarofim Library, sits in the center of campus and serves both Middle School and Upper School students. These libraries welcome volunteers all year long. Help us to encourage and build a love for reading by volunteering in one of these libraries! Whether you are interested in volunteering in the library or at next year’s book fair, please contact Diana Armentor, Head Librarian, at darmentor@awty.org.

4th graders Charles Vetters, Ahad Hashmani, Akbal Alvarez Avila, and Zade Shenaq

2nd graders Amelia Williams, Lola Bruzos, Ingrid Lu, Mariam Hamoule, and Amani Atiyyah

10th graders Tamara Bissat, Lily Grigorian, and Paula Reumer

Paul Malard (CM1)

2015 Francophonie

the International Day of Francophonie was celebrated at The Awty International School on March 20, 2015. Students of all ages enjoyed a day filled with fun events organized by the French Bilingual Section. Students, faculty, and staff members showed their support of the French culture by wearing bleu, blanc, et rouge or wearing the designated Francophonie bandana. Lower School students enjoyed a trip through the Francophonie Village, where they learned about customs, history, art, food and more from several different French speaking countries. Students from PK3/PS to 7th grade/5ème went "under the big top" and attended a special "cirque" performance complete with clowns, acrobats, and aerialists! Produced by Lone Star Circus out of Dallas, Texas, the performance put a unique Texas twist on traditional European circus acts. For the Secondary students, the day included workshops which focused on drama and poetry. Throughout the day, different Middle School and Upper School classes performed one act skits in the Fine Arts Recital Hall. During the afternoon, a Francophonie Music Concert was held in the PAAC. Awty's own House Brew, a band comprised of staff and faculty members, performed with several student and faculty singers taking turns at the mic. Following the concert, the award for Awty’s Short Story competition was presented to Anaelle Lahitte-Croharé, 2nde, for her

86 The Awty International School

story entitled L'envol. Later that evening, all Awty families were invited to a casual potluck dinner with traditional “francophone” dishes. The Francophonie events would not have been possible without the help of several people including a number of parent volunteers and for this, Awty says MERCI BEAUCOUP! Event organizers and volunteers included Michelle Abounohra, Samia Anane, Marianne Andrewski, Latifa Baklouti, Veronic Biebuyck, Bennis Bouchra, Maryline Chepda, Olivia Deman, Emmanuelle Denaclara, Mayamona & Christian Ghonda, Voahangy Grenier, Allen Hélène, Ferial Kharraz, Sylvia Lanz, Helene Lavrut, Clovis Lecuirot & Emilie Rigoli, Genevieve Letendre, Julie Loisel, Romuald Louyindoula, Maria Beatriz Malard, Jill Munk, Karine Pousset, Cecile Roux, Beatrice Seghezzi, Lorraine Talbot, Caroline Taxy, Belmokaddem Tima, Ariane Vaute, Belaiter Younes, and Sophie Zimmermann. Used by over 200 million people and

7th graders Zoe Slaughter, Yassmine Abba-Kaka, and Isabel Matthews-Elston

spoken on five continents, the French language unites countries, institutions, and individuals. The French-speaking community in different countries brings together people who not only speak French, a language of education, culture, and communication, but also people who love French culture. Since the 1970’s, the entire world has had a unique opportunity in March, the International Day of Francophonie, to appreciate and celebrate the culture of French speaking countries. Throughout the month of March in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, The French Cultures Festival featured lectures, films, theatrical shows, concerts, receptions, parties, wine lectures, and cheese tastings. For more information, please visit www.frenchculturesfestival.com.

CM2 students Angus Mustiere, Nicolas Alonso Sancho, and Nathan Abecassis

2nd graders Lella Wolk, Zara Moyer, Miriam Hussaini, Alina Hashmani, and Erina Maeda

Anna Roussel (CM2), Emma Fulton (4th grade), ElĂŠonore Shaw (CM2), Mason Abrell (5th grade), and Chloe Odorico (CM1)

Magali Larive

2015 Francophonie

Raven Schwam-Curtis (11th grade)

Trapeze artist with Lone Star Circus

5ème students Eyimofe Ariyo, Paul Novoa-Gueneau, and Thibault Tonnel

Eric Lavrut, Damien Lhors, Hélène Lavrut, and Maud Lhors

CM1 students Adélie Lorge, Chloe Odorico, Ambre de Loynes, and Lea Lobao Da Cruz

Noa Audetat (6ème)

CM2 students Yassin Issa, Max Vermet, and James Burns

Lonestar Circus Clown

OOGPUNT!

n February, Awty welcomed Yvette Groothedde and Patrick Schmitz from The Netherlands into the Dutch classes. Together, they form OOGPUNT, a musical group who likes to work with students of different ages. They worked with the Dutch students during the week of February 2127 on a project entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wereldwijdâ&#x20AC;? (Worldwide). They connected the students here at Awty with The Nether-

lands by examining its culture, nature, and people. On Saturday, February 21, the project started with a cabaret musical show in Dutch. The show focused on prejudices and tolerance experienced in the world today. The following week the Dutch students participated in workshops hosted by OOGPUNT, in which they reflected on the place where they live now, the United States. They wrote a rap or

Patrick Schmitz and Yvette Groothedde work with the Upper School Dutch students.

Yvette Groothedde works with Lower School students Carmen Backx, Margaux de Patoul, Larinde Ligtenberg, Celia de Patoul, and Jaira Ligtenberg

90 The Awty International School

learned a song and filmed a video in and around the school. OOGPUNT also filmed iconic sites of the country and found locals to sing pieces of the rap/ song or dance. For the students, it was a creative and linguistic way to present themselves and their home to their family and friends. Stay tuned for the finished product. Once the editing is complete, the final video will be posted on the school's website.

Yvette Groothedde and Patrick Schmitz film Philine Everts (10th grade), Paula Reumer (10th), and Simona Everts (11th)

Patrick Schmitz works with Maurits Deman (6th grade), Madeleine Crane (6th), Kath Donkers (1st), Lucas Backx (6th), Amit Samlal (5th), and Amar Samlal (5th)

Nathan Hale and James Parker (3rd grade)

Author and illustrator Nathan Hale

Nathan Hale Visits Awty Author and illustrator Nathan Hale visited with students in 3rd grade through 8th grade on March 24-25. He is the creator of Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales, a series based on real events in American history. One Dead Spy, the first volume in the series, was on the Bluebonnet Book Award List this year. During his visit, Mr. Hale first met with each grade in the Fine Arts Recital Hall and told an exclusive Hazardous Tales story rich in adventure about Lewis and Clark. He not only narrated the story, but also illustrated it using an iPad, stylus, and a digital projector. Afterwards, students had a chance to meet Mr. Hale and get their books autographed. Mr. Hale signed and added a special illustration in each book. Matthieu Louvrier (6th grade)

To learn more about Mr. Hale, visit his blog at hazardoustales.blogspot.com.

Nathan Hale autographs copies of his books for 3rd grade/CE2 students Nicole Young, Isabella Barbaroux, Frida Lopez, and SalomĂŠ Bathellier

Nathan Hale narrates and illustrates a story for Middle School students.

Br av o ! ! !

Angela Fan and Jason Yao

ongratulations to Awty violinists Angela Fan (12th grade) and Jason Yao (9th grade) on their successful auditions and membership in the TMEA Region 27 & 23 Orchestras earlier this school year. Jason Yao, was also selected to the TPSMEA All-State Orchestra for 2014-2015. Jason is new to Awty this year, coming to us from T.H. Rogers in Houston ISD. The TPSMEA All-State Orchestra clinic was held in San Marcos, Texas on January 29-31, with the concert presented at Texas State University on January 31. Ruth Ochs, musical director of the Princeton University Sinfonia, conducted.

92 The Awty International School

Jocelyne Ortiz, Raven Schwam-Curtis, and Chelsey Liang

n November 9, three of Awty's Upper School students competed in the 13th Greater Houston Chinese Speech Contest. Jocelyne Ortiz (11th grade) won Honorable Mention; Raven SchwamCurtis (11th grade) won 2nd place in the non-heritage group; and Chelsey Liang (11th grader) won 1st place in the Chinese heritage group. Chelsey's topic was “My Beautiful Hometown – Singapore”. Of special note: three of Awty's Lower School students also participated in the competition including Ingrid Lu (2nd grade), who placed 3rd, Cadence Lu (PK-4) who received Honorable Mention, and Siyuan Chen (1st grade). Congratulations to this group of enthusiastic and talented Awty students!

Sarah Mohammed

arah Mohammed, 11th grade, represented Awty this year at Via Colori® Street Painting Festival on November 22-23 on the streets surrounding Houston's city hall. Sarah worked side-by-side with dozens of professional artists as they transformed the pavement of downtown Houston into live art. This year's theme was "The Art of Sound", a new theme that inspired the artists to turn rhythm, music and sound into their unique designs. Over the past eight years, the Via Colori®, presented by LINN Energy, has grown into one of Houston’s signature art events. The festival attracts more than 25,000 visitors annually to witness the streets of Houston come to life through imagination and art. Go to centerhearingandspeech.org/via-colori for more information about Houston Via Colori®. Via Colori® benefits The Center for Hearing and Speech, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping deaf children listen, speak, and read.

Adriana Morales, Alexandra Wolff, Sandra Georges, and Sarah Mekha

n February 21, 2015, the Houston Museum of Natural Science held its annual Girls Exploring Math and Science (GEMS) event. GEMS is an outreach program of the museum, promoting STEM interest among young girls. Four 8th grade students from The Awty International School participated in the event by hosting a "Phun with Physics" booth. The four students, Sarah Mekha, Sandra Georges, Adriana Morales, and Alexandra Wolff, shared what they had been learning in Physics class by performing physics demonstrations for the girls who came to be a part of the GEMS event

Adela DePavia

dela DePavia, 12th grade, was selected as a Finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Although based on superior performance on the PSAT taken during the junior year, being named a Finalist also includes a review of the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transcript, school recommendations, SAT scores and an essay. Of the 1.55 million PSAT test takers from October 2013, approximately 8,000 were selected as Finalists. The following Awty students were Commended by National Merit: Gabriel Carolan, Rosina Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo, Joseph Halow, Kian Tavackoli, and Serena Thome. The following students earned National Hispanic Scholar Recognition: Benjamin Balthazar, Adela DePavia, Daniel Jason, Armando Ortiz, Morgan Stanley, and Serena Thome. Congrats to all!

Silvia Aldana

ongratulations to Silvia Aldana for being selected to participate in the 2015 MIT Science and Engineering Program for Teachers (SEPT) this summer! Teachers from all over the world are invited to apply to this week-long program, but only 25 exceptional teachers are selected each year. These educators teach science, technology, engineering, and/or math (STEM) subjects and are typically recognized as innovative, creative, and dedicated leaders in their schools and communities.

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Br av o ! ! !

Awty's Chess Team

Lucas Jonasch and Hamidreza Nazemi

wty's Environmental Club students partnered with the Bayou Preservation Association on March 7 for the 43rd Annual Buffalo Bayou Partnership Regatta. Awty students took home the 'Styrofoam Cup' (awarded for the most trash collected along the way) for the third year in a row. The winning team consisted of 11th graders Hamidreza Nazemi and Lucas Jonasch. They collected two shopping carts along with numerous other items along the course. Ten other Awty students also collected debris from the bayou for a total of about four cubic yards! Congratulations to all 12 students who paddled 15 miles in the cold weather and helped to clean up Houston's Buffalo Bayou.

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wty's Chess Team is the 2015 National High School Champion! On April 10-12, ten Awty students competed in seven matches each, some lasting up to four hours at the national championship tournament in Columbus, Ohio. The students who participated included Stephen Wells (8th grade) - 9th place, Arjun Saran (11th) - 22nd place (tie), Yian Wong (8th) - 22nd place (tie), Devon Merz (11th) - 57th place, Matt Mallon (12th), Burhan Qureshi (12th), Adam Ali (11th), Maxim Gurevich (11th), Olivier Kuhn de Chizelle (11th), and Jacob Berg (8th). The support of Mr. Sam Waugh, Head of Upper School, and Mr. Tom Beuscher, Head of Middle School, as well as the time and effort Mr. Anton Truong, Chair of the Science Dept., spent coaching the team coupled with the hard work of the players, has been instrumental in winning Awty's very first national competition. Congrats to the team and their faculty sponsor Mr. Lucas Anderson on this inaugural national championship for Awty!

IAM visits with Awty students

hile on tour in the United States, the legendary French rap group iAM made a stop in Houston in April. Prior to their show at the House of Blues, iAM visited with Upper School students at Awty. The students had been analyzing the lyrics of iAM’s hit song "Nés sous la même étoile" (or “Born Under the Same Star”). They worked on various projects based on the lyrics during their French classes. During iAM’s visit, students had the chance to present their projects to the rap artists. The song suggests that one’s destiny is dependent on the life one is born into. Former Board of Trustees member and Awty parent JeanFrancois Bonneté, who made this special visit possible, complimented the students' efforts. He emphasized that their work not only helped to develop their artistic dimension, but because of the content of the song, it also exposed them to a strong message for young men and women who aspire to become future leaders.

Kaitlyn Pflughaupt

e have a new author/illustrator in our midst. Miss Kaitlyn Pflughaupt, Awty's own Receptionist and Volunteer Coordinator, recently published her first children's book, The Scared Little Dragon. What happens when a little dragon is afraid of everything? Mayhem and shenanigans! This is the story of one little dragon's search for courage. Copies of The Scared Little Dragon can be purchased through Amazon. com.

Anaëlle Lahitte-Crohare

naëlle Lahitte-Crohare, 2nde, won first prize in the short story writing contest organized by the MLF for the Lycée category. She was in competition with students from other French schools in the MLF network around the world! In March, she also won the short story writing competition at Awty and was celebrated as such on Francophonie Day. Congratulations!

Christine Chourré, Gerard Araud, and Lisa Darling

hile in Houston, Ambassador of France to the United States Gerard Araud made a special stop at The Awty International School on Thursday, April 23, visiting with staff, faculty, parents, and students. He attended a reception in his honor, toured the campus, and visited several classes.

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Thank You! Merci!

he 2014-2015 ACCENT would not have been possible without the help of many. A special thanks to all who contributed an article, a quote, and/or photography. Thank you also to those who helped with the translations, reviewed and edited articles, identified photographs, conducted interviews, and/or covered events. THANK YOU! MERCI! Lucas Anderson Diana Armentor Awty Rambots Robotics Martha Bawara Camille Bennet Tom Beuscher Nelson Bonzi Lamis Boz Amy Bruce Christine Chourré Penny Cleveland Catherine Corcoran Kneale Culbreath Elizabeth Cummins-Martinez Lisa Darling Rob Dee Adela DePavia Jean-Luc Detchessahar Elise Devesa Miranda DeVries Adama Diarra Veronique Douet Deborah Drummer Chantal Duke Richard Durst Roger Edwards Zulfia Finigan Michael Flanet Sylvaine Follini Kathy Froelich Crystal Frommert

96 The Awty International School

Monica Fulton Margaret Glaser Angela Glidewell Kim Gowen Vaitea Grand Ruthanne Greenwood Ed Harris Mary Herendeen Conor Hogan Cintra Horn John Hoye Candace Huijgen Becky Johnson Lucas Jonasch Mary King Isabelle Labesse Beverly Lawson Anne Le Breton Fanny Lépine Lifetouch Photography Lauren Linn Julie Loisel Connie Masera Kevin McTernan Christine Megarity Corinne Micaëlli Franck Moroux Jill Munk Rita Murdoch Carol Nash Marie-Hélène Nguyen

Chantel Olufsen Jiayao Pang Jason Peguero Kaitlyn Pflughaupt Céline Poirier Karen Ramos Robert Reyna Sandrine Richard Barbara Schmidt Randle Seymour Fran Shearon Robert Sload Jessika Smith Sonal Penner Photography Catherine Sovany Sina Thompson Anton Truong Marie-Line Viart Denise Von Dohlen Sean Von Felden Lori Wagner Karen Waugh Sam Waugh Goly Wawrose Steve Willhelm Lisa Wolff Yearbook Staff Christelle Zaharatos

ACCENT 2014-2015 at The Awty International School

ACCENT is published at the end of each school year by the Advancement Department at The Awty International School. This publication is for students, staff, faculty, parents, alumni, and friends of the school. Communication may be addressed to the editor/designer*. MR. KEVIN McTERNAN

Chief Advancement Officer MS. GWEN CARIO

Communications and Editor/Designer* MRS. LAUREN LINN

Events MRS. CAROL NASH

Coordinator and Database Manager MRS. CHANTEL OLUFSEN

Annual Fund and Alumni Relations

ADDRESS CHANGE?

Please notify the Advancement Department of any address changes. PARENTS:

If this issue is addressed to your child who no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please send the correct address to: The Awty International School Attn: Advancement Department 7455 Awty School Lane Houston, Texas 77055 Tel: 713-328-5861 Email: cnash@awty.org The Awty International School is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Awty does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, national or ethnic origins, or handicap in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship, athletic programs, and other school administered programs or in its employment practices.

ACCENT is printed on recycled paper by Modern PrintShop, Houston.

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