ISF Newsletter September 2023

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF FLORENCE NEWSLETTER , September 2023

Editor-in-Chief

Tanya Bruckner

Editor

Rebecca Oliver

Design and layout

Tess Hitchcock

Cover Photo

Bruce Baddeley (Grade 10 Orientation Trip to Norcia)

Printer

Tipografia Color Print

ISF alumni, families, faculty, and friends are welcomed and encouraged to submit ideas and articles for consideration.

Inquiries may be addressed to: t.bruckner@isfitaly.org www.isfitaly.org

FROM THE BOARD

MORGAN FIUMI CHAIR OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dear ISF Community,

I extend a warm welcome back to school to each member of the ISF community. This marks an exciting moment in our school’s rich history as we recently celebrated our 70th anniversary and actively work toward our future aspirations. Serving as the Chairman of the Board at ISF is both an honor and a significant responsibility. ISF has a special place in my heart, having deeply influenced me as a student and continuing to inspire me as a parent and as the Chair of the Board.

The Uniqueness of ISF

In 1991, after graduating from ISF, I took a leap into the world of Finance at NYU. Reflecting on my time at ISF over the years, it became evident just how remarkable that experience had been. Beyond enduring friendships, what genuinely distinguishes ISF is its commitment to nurturing global citizens with humanist values, underpinned by a spirit of curiosity and exploration. This ethos, described as ‘Internationally Minded, Uniquely Florentine,’ has influenced generations and was instrumental in my desire to enroll my own children at ISF.

Our Vision and Select Initiatives

The Board works in partnership with the Head of School to help ensure the school’s sustainability and long-term success. This is achieved through our focus on the school’s governance, financial health and commitment to our mission, vision, and strategic plans. These foundational elements not only define our school’s core purpose and long-term goals, but also provide a roadmap for our initiatives, policy implementations, and allocation of resources.

This year, we have many initiatives backed by the board that

build upon our mission and propel us forward as a “laboratory for learning.” Here are a select few that will bring tangible enhancements to our students’ experience:

• Curriculum Enhancement: Our committed implementation of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) bridges the gap between the PYP and IB Diploma program. This framework encourages students to explore challenging questions, think critically, engage in interdisciplinary studies, and develop essential research and learning skills. These tools are invaluable as our students progress into higher education and beyond.

• Duke of Edinburgh Program: An exciting new initiative that promotes experiential learning and personal growth by immersing students in outdoor activities, exploration, skill development, and volunteerism. It’s a holistic approach that complements classroom learning and nurtures well-rounded and self-confident individuals. This is a first at ISF and has already proven to be of great interest to our students.

• New Boarding House: I’m thrilled to announce that our new Boarding House is fully operational and has already relieved a taxing commute for a group of our students. The successful implementation stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, reflecting our school’s unwavering commitment to prioritize student well-being. We are delighted that these students will now have more time to dedicate to their studies, interests, and friendships.

• Potential Campus Expansion: As many may have heard, we are making significant progress towards securing permits for a transformative campus expansion. While there’s much work ahead, the Board and the leadership team are dedicated to the immediate goal of obtaining the necessary permits. If successful, this expansion would offer unparalleled opportunities for growth, exploration, and the creation of an aspiration ‘Valley of Learning.’ As we make progress, more information will be shared with the community.

These are just some of many exciting initiatives underway at ISF. Together, they paint a vivid picture of our school’s commitment and unwavering dedication to making ISF an even better place for our students.

Community Engagement

As part of our strategic vision to strengthen our ties with Florence and its surroundings, we’re delighted to welcome Francesco Casini, the Mayor of Bagno a Ripoli, as an honorary board member. Mayor Casini shares our values regarding education and a commitment to investing in youth and education, and he has been a key supporter of the campus expansion. His appointment marks the beginning of an initiative to include more honorary board members—esteemed leaders from our community who will provide valuable experience and insights to support our strategic plans.

Acknowledgments

Serving on the Board has provided me with a profound understanding of the complexities of modern education, and an appreciation for the challenges it presents. I am truly grateful for the dedication and vision demonstrated by our Head of School, Sharyn Baddeley. Sharyn’s arrival from a different school, country, and culture has brought a wealth of experience and innovative ideas to our institution. One aspect that deserves special mention is Sharyn’s unwavering commitment to student and staff well-being. Her initiatives have already begun to yield positive results in our school community. We look forward to supporting and working collaboratively with Sharyn as we pursue our strategic goals. A big acknowledgement goes to our dedicated teachers, who not only bring their expertise and experience to the classroom but also work tirelessly to cultivate joy and a love for learning in our students every day. We deeply appreciate your energy and passion.

I wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to our entire school staff: from the admissions team who welcome and introduce new families to the ISF family; the facilities team for constantly improving our learning environment; our marketing team for showcasing our magic and all our kids’ achievements; our finance team who manage the fiscal health and resources of the school; and to all other staff members. We recognize your dedication and thank you for being the backbone of ISF.

Additionally, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated Parents’ Association for their valuable contributions and unwavering support in enriching our school community. This year, I am particularly excited about the return of the Autumn Bazaar, and of course, the end-of-year School Gala. These are two events not to be missed, as they not only unite our entire school community but also showcase its remarkable spirit and generosity.

In an educational landscape where the trend is towards forprofit schools, I have deep gratitude for my fellow board members, a distinguished group of volunteers dedicated to the governance and long-term success of the school. This includes a special thank you to Cathleen Compton, our former Board Chair and current Board member, for all her passion and continued dedication to the school. She sets a high bar for all of us. The collective commitment by the Board helps maintain our accreditations and ensure our status as an independent institution.

Invitation for Collective Engagement

The vibrancy and success of our school are not the result of individual efforts alone but are achieved through the collective commitment of everyone involved. As we embark towards ambitious new goals, your active engagement is not just appreciated; it is essential. Whether it’s through fundraising, volunteering, or active involvement in the Parents’ Association – your meaningful engagement plays a pivotal role in defining our school’s success and serves as a powerful example for our students.

Thank you for being a valued part of our school community, and we look forward to your continued support and involvement.

Morgan Fiumi Chairman of the Board ISF Class of 1991

FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

SHARYN BADDELEY

WELCOME TO THE 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR! EMBRACE A NEW ACADEMIC YEAR OF DISCOVERY AND GROWTH AT ISF!

As the dawn breaks on the horizon of the 2023-2024 school year, a world brimming with potential and boundless opportunities beckons us at ISF!

Welcome to the unfolding chapter of a new academic year at ISF, where our identity extends far beyond being a conventional school. We’re a dynamic and vibrant community, thrilled to welcome new families and staff into our ISF family. Our mission stands strong: to foster a secure and intellectually invigorating space that empowers students to shine as imaginative thinkers, adept problem solvers, and seekers of inspiration in every nook and cranny.

Stepping onto our campus isn’t just entering a classroom; it’s stepping into a realm teeming with possibilities. Our central focus lies in nurturing growth, celebrating milestones, and fostering a deep sense of belonging woven with love and joy. Here at ISF, you’re not just a student; you’re a cherished member of our extended family.

Our spaces transcend the realm of mere learning; they serve as arenas for exploration, honing strengths, and relishing the sheer delight of discovery. We wholeheartedly believe that parents are integral partners in this journey. Together, we nurture young minds and hearts, molding future global citizens with habits that embody thoughtfulness and engagement.

Our curriculum programs are tailored for the presentday learner, ensuring the vivid tapestry of Italian culture is interwoven into every facet of our offerings. We don’t just convey lessons; we craft immersive experiences that enrich lives and make us uniquely Florentine.

While academic progression is paramount, we’re equally committed to fostering the holistic growth of each child. From leadership avenues and physical endeavors to cultural quests and community involvements, we stand ready to support your child’s evolution, happiness, and accomplishments. Lifelong friendships? They’re not just an extra; they’re a cornerstone of our philosophy.

Rest assured, we understand that children flourish best when intellectually challenged within an environment that offers emotional nourishment. We’re thrilled to embark on yet another remarkable learning journey side by side with parents, guiding and fortifying the children every step of the way.

Welcome to the dawn of a new academic year, where an adventure of a lifetime awaits – and you, our cherished community members, stand at the heart of it all. We take immense pride in being more than a school; we’re a closely connected community that thrives on collaboration, embraces inclusivity, and proudly embodies the distinct essence of Florence. Our collaboration with the vibrant Florentine community ensures our classrooms resonate with the rich history, art, and culture of this remarkable city, infusing children’s educational experience with the very spirit of Florence. Together with our dedicated staff, engaged parents, and the lively Florentine community, we’re crafting an educational journey that is unparalleled and distinctively individual. Welcome to another year of exhilarating adventures!

WELCOMING NEW STAFF

PAULA BERNAL

Paula is a native of Colombia and is relocating from Belgrade. She has her degree in Educational Psychology from New York University and is joining ISF as the Junior School Counselor. Her students would describe her as an open, available and supportive psychologist that helps students learn strategies to cope with their socio-emotional and learning needs. I like to be an available resource with whom children can communicate through play, talking, and reading. She loves hiking, nature, diving, and traveling to remote places. She can speak English and Spanish, at one point in her life she had 15 dogs, and she has also dived with 200 sharks.

BRENDA BIEKX

Brenda is a native of Canada and is joining us from her last assignment in Amman, Jordan. She has multiple degrees and is joining ISF as the Learning Support Coordinator and teacher at the Upper School. Her students would describe her as fun, fair, caring and helpful. She loves yoga, hiking, kayaking, cooking, and bird-watching. Three fun facts about Brenda are that she has her black belt in Taekwondo, she always claims to be 5’7” (173 cm) even though she’s not, and she loves to cook for other people.

FILIPPO BOSCOLO

Filippo is from a small island near Venice, Chioggia. He has his degree in Nursing from the University of Padua and is joining ISF as a school nurse. His students would describe him as dynamic, funny and friendly. He is very passionate about baking, because it’s relaxing but also techinically challenging. He loves to travel, and also loves photography. Three fun facts about Filippo are that he was going to participate in the Great Bake Off Italy, he’s worked in many different jobs, and his best workout is running to the lighthouse to climb it.

Michael is a native of Australia but is joining us from Seoul, South Korea. He has his Masters of Instructional Leadership and will be the new Dean of Students at the Upper School this year. His students would describe him as passionate, energetic, positive, loud, and firm. He loves hiking, bike riding, and a new hobby will be exploring the city of Florence. Three fun facts about Michael are that he was once a McDonald’s manager, he used to play the guitar, and he is half Australian and half Greek.

MICHAEL CALMER

GIANMARCO DONNINI

Gianmarco is a native of Florence but is relocating from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri in the United States. He has his Masters Degree in Educational Studies and is joining ISF as a PE Teacher at the Junior School. His students would describe him as positive, funny, humble, available, and passionate. Gianmarco’s main hobbies are sports, with his favorite being football. He also loves comedy, as well as traveling and discovering new cultures. Three fun facts about Gianmarco are that when he first moved to the USA to study, he could barely speak English, he once passed out during an exam because he didn’t know an answer, and he locked himself out of his room several times in college.

HOLLY GRAY

Holly is from Rhode Island in the USA, and is joining us from Ashville, North Carolina. She has her Masters in School Counseling and will be a Social Emotional Counselor in the Upper School. Her students would describe her as committed to student success, tenacious when searching for answers, and present in the moment when students are in her office. She loves yoga, travel, baking, and family time. Three fun facts about Holly are that she loves dark chocolate, primitivo wine, and the warmth of the sun.

BRIAN INSKEEP

Brian is from the USA but is relocating from Singapore. He has his MA in Educational Technology from Northern Arizona University and will be joining ISF as the Technology Coordinator. His students would describe him as engaging, supportive, and technologically proficient. He has a passion for travel, mountain biking, and building social connections. He has two teenage sons, Rex and Phoenix. Brian is a cowboy at heart and used to own a Jeep Wrangler. During the pandemic, he learned how to sail and got his yachting license.

CAREY KILLEN

Carey is from the USA and is relocating from Oregon. She has her Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and will be the new Upper School Principal. Her students would describe her as experienced, creative, and dedicated to student success. She loves vocal and instrumental music, camping and hiking to waterfalls, and words (poetry, languages, etc). Three fun facts about Carey are that she met her spouse in choir and went on to sing together for many years, they have three adult sons together, and she plays piano reasonably well and the folk harp badly.

JACOB MICHALCHUK

Jacob in a native of Canada and is relocating from Cambodia. He has his degree in Biology from Trent University and will be joining the Upper School as a Chemistry Teacher. His students would describe him as a mad scientist. He loves cooking, history, scuba driving, and drumming. Three fun facts about Jacob are that he has gone swimming in the Amazon, gone diving in the Great Barrier Reef, and can tie his shoes with his eyes closed.

JASON MOSS

Jason is a native of Canada and has his Bachelors of Education from the University of Alberta. He is joining ISF as an Individual & Societies Teacher at the Upper School. His students would describe him as fun, approachable, and knowledgeable. He loves scuba diving, tennis, hiking, and traveling. He has a Labrador, is a huge Arnold Schwarzenegger fan, and is in love with the Maldives.

FRANCESCA NINI

Francesca is from Italy and has her Masters degree in Special and Additional Learning Needs from East London University. She will be joining ISF as a Learning Support Teacher at the Upper School. Her students would describe her as a positive, energetic, and supportive teacher. One of her favorite hobbies is hiking and being immersed in nature. She enjoys drawing and reading. She once binge-watched six Game of Thrones seasons in just one week, she adores dogs and will always pet them, and as a child, had an irrational fear of ants.

REBECCA OLIVER

Rebecca is a native of the USA but is joining us from Florence. She has her BA in Fine Art from Bard College and will be joining ISF as the new Advancement Manager. Her students would describe her as kind and engaged. She loves hiking, cooking, reading and adventuring. Three fun facts about Rebecca are that she has been in Florence for so long that her children’s first language is Italian; in the summer, when near water, we have a “swim before breakfast” tradition; and she overcame her fear of heights at the Il Gigante ropes course in Pratolino.

PEGGY PERKINS

Peggy is from the USA but is relocating from Kazan, Russia. She has her M.Ed. from Louisiana State University and will be joining ISF as an Upper School Math Teacher. Her students would describe her as strict, but she just wants the best from them. She enjoys reading and participating in book clubs, learning new languages, cooking/baking, and doing puzzles. Three fun facts are that she bought a new phone just to take better pictures of snowflakes, she’s generally hot all the time, and has multiple piercings but generally faints when needles are involved.

MICHAEL ROBERSON

Michael is a native of the United Kingdom but is relocating from Florence. He has his Postgraduate Certificate of Education with iQTS from the University of Sunderland, UK. He will be joining ISF as a Grade 4 Teacher. His students would describe him as enthusiastic, caring, and calm. He loves to read and write everyday, has a passion for sports, really enjoys film photography, and is passionate about history. Michael is a beekeeper and has two beehives to make honey from. He is also learning Spanish and has Italian family heritage.

MONICA ROMAN

Monica is a native of Montreal, Canada, but is relocating from Florence. She holds a PGCE from the university of Essex and she will be the new Grade 3A Teacher. Her students would describe her as kind, curious, and organized. She loves visiting museums, exploring cities, reading, and walking in the hills of Florence. Three fun facts about Monica are that she is bilingual (she can speak French), has lived at both ends of Canada (Victoria B.C. and St. John’s Newfoundland), and she collects postcards.

JONATHAN RUELENS

Jonathan is a native of Canada and he is joining ISF as a teacher in both English and Individuals & Societies. He has his Bachelor of Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. His students would describe him as dedicated, caring, and fun. Jonathan loves to cycle, swim, and run. He is always learning about new species of birds from his wife, and also loves to study languages, read, and travel. Three fun facts about Jonathan are that he grew up next to someone who became famous in Star Wars, he once biked to the top of El Teide in Tenerife, and he has two cats who loved participating in his Zoom classes during the pandemic!

MICHELLE SMITH

Michelle is a native of the USA and is relocating from Idaho. She has her Masters of Social Science from Utah State University and will be an EAL Teacher at the Upper School. Her students would describe her as caring, respectful, and fun. She loves hiking, biking, reading, and bluegrass festivals. Three fun facts about Michelle are that she has never broken a bone, she had both her babies at home, and she always seems to wear inappropriate footwear.

ROBERTA UCCELLI

Roberta is a native of Genova and is relocating from Florence. She has her degree from the Università di Genova and will be an Italian Teacher in the Italian Programme at the Junior School. Her students would describe her as a volcano of ideas or a journalist teacher. She loves theater, art, and reading (books and newspapers). One fun fact about Roberta is that she has a cat thief who steals from the neighbours!

WELCOMING DR. CAREY KILLEN

What are your first impressions of ISF?

Both the Upper School and Junior School campuses are visually stunning, and it is such a pleasure to come to work every day. I have been impressed by the caliber of faculty and staff and the opportunities available for students to achieve academically, stretch their skills, and also explore new interests. The students themselves have been so welcoming, dedicated to success, and genuinely positive.

What drew you to a career in education?

My lifelong aspiration has been to dedicate my professional life to education. I have always seen education as the key for positive change in society and in individual lives. I find it endlessly engaging, challenging, and meaningful. It provides an opportunity to affect a small corner of the world, but in ways that multiply far and wide and far into the future as students take their skills and knowledge and have positive impact of their own on their local and global communities.

If you didn’t become a teacher, what other plans did you have for your career?

I had considered becoming a surgeon, lawyer, or politician for various reasons, largely around having a positive impact on individuals’ lives. I have an enduring interest in poetry and literature, so becoming an author someday is still a possibility, perhaps down the road.

What has been your greatest contribution to the schools you’ve worked in?

I have been fortunate to work in a number of schools to implement the International Baccalaureate Programme from the ground up. I appreciate opportunities to create systems and build staff capacity to strengthen instruction and benefit students.

What do you hope to contribute to ISF?

I’m intent on supporting our ISF community’s efforts to ensure excellence for students every day, through high quality teaching and learning, inquiry-based approaches, and strengthening connections between the classroom and the community at large. Additionally, I find it is vital to foster deep appreciation for educators, families, and the students we serve. There are so many truly wonderful accomplishments happening for students individually and collectively, and building in ways to acknowledge everyone’s efforts and to foster appreciation within our community is a goal. Together, we’ll be striving to deepen student learning both in and outside the classroom to help them meet their goals and be the best version of themselves. I would like us to be able to find joy daily in that work we get to do together. We’re so fortunate to be able to work with students in this generation. They are amazing and are, indeed, future leaders and change-makers.

Photo above is of Rowan, Robert, Carey and Ethan hiking near Mt. Hood in the Pacific Northwest. My second son Liam isn’t pictured.

WELCOMING MR. MICHAEL CALMER

What are your first impressions of ISF?

A wonderful community with a vibrant and welcoming student body. The grounds are magnificent and a terrific opportunity to consider the beauty of the earth and our role to ensure its health and future.

What drew you to a career in education?

My own High School experience was a very positive one and my teachers were so supportive of me, I wanted to try and provide that experience for my own students.

If you didn’t become a teacher, what other plans did you have for your career?

It would definitely have to be working with teenagers in some capacity, perhaps social work.

What has been your greatest contribution to the schools you’ve worked in?

My ever growing joy of working with teenagers and providing them with a sense of belonging, security and a belief in themselves.

What do you hope to contribute to ISF?

As above: My ever growing joy of working with teenagers and providing them with a sense of belonging, security and a belief in themselves.

RELATIONSHIPS AS LEGACY

REBECCA OLIVER ADVANCEMENT MANAGER

I am delighted to introduce myself to the extended ISF community as the new Advancement Manager. I am coming into this role following many years of teaching experience, most recently at ISF’s Junior School as a cover teacher in all subjects. This has given me a unique inside perspective on the value of the school’s mission. I deeply respect my teaching colleagues and their tireless dedication to the learning and well-being of students here. It is with this in mind that I will strive to perform effectively in school development. It is my intent to continue to promote the goals of our whole school community, bringing recognition to the achievements of ISF and communicating these outside our school.

My role here will focus on creating and nurturing relationships and networking both within the Florence community as well as beyond. Developing a profound connection to this incredible Renaissance city that provides our home is essential to the value of education here. I hold a BA in Fine Art and this background has deepened my appreciation for our compelling city. Italian culture is admired and appreciated worldwide for its art, history, artisans, and culinary excellence. As an American expat who has made Florence my home for many years, it is my hope that familiarity with our city will help facilitate new networking opportunities and promote new relationships that can enrich our school. I will also be reaching out to ISF Alumni, confirming the notion that an ISF education doesn’t end at graduation and ensuring Alumni remain vital and integral members of our community.

I am married to a Florentine and we have three children. As a parent of teenagers from an international family, I am acutely aware of the importance of a dynamic education and the enrichment provided by an international environment. This

setting encourages both student and staff curiosity about the world and provides the foundation for cultural understanding. This exposure promotes an open-mindedness that naturally accelerates learning and engagement. I am strongly aligned with ISF’s vision for delivering this type of education and look forward to the opportunity to serve in this role.

MULTILINGUALISM AT THE JS

One of the three pillars of international mindedness identified by the IB, together with intercultural understanding and global participation, is multilingualism (IBO, 2019). Multilingualism is acknowledged by the IB as a way we live, think about, and use languages to promote an international mindset, and it is seen as a fact, a right, and a resource in IB schools (IBO, 2011). By acknowledging this reality, schools are encouraged to consider themselves as learning environments with complex linguistic landscapes where students develop their own language profiles.

All our students bring a significant body of language knowledge to ISF and, being a PYP school, means we have a special responsibility to recognise and support language development in order to provide all students with the environment and language support they need to fully participate in the academic programme and the social life of the school, as well as to develop as individuals. Developing home and family languages is critical for cognitive development and sustaining cultural identity. It also has the ability to improve intercultural awareness and understanding, and it enables students to remain in touch with, and maintain esteem for, the language, literature and culture of their home country.

Multilingual learners’ development of multiple languages enhances their knowledge and cultural bases, their intellectual capacities, and their flexibility in language use. Their language development and learning occur over time through meaningful engagement in activities that are valued in their homes, schools and communities. Our multilingual classrooms have begun the year by creating language agreements by answering the following questions:

• What languages will you use or hear today? (At home, at school, after school)

• Why are languages important to us?

• How can we create a multilingual school together?

The discussions led to the creation of ISF’s first ever Language Council! The council’s first mission is to conduct a school wide language audit which will inspire students to make multiple languages more visible on our campus. In addition to the audit, the Language Council will be teaming up with other Councils to provide multilingual experiences for the entire school (including parents) to enjoy! Families are encouraged to read to their children in their home language and are always more than welcome to share any part of their home language or culture with our community.

As students develop understanding that other people communicate in ways that are the same and different from us, they strengthen and promote international-mindedness.

KELLY KERR & STEFANIA TERRELL ELL TEACHER, PYP COORDINATOR

TEAMBUILDING WITH TIM CARLIN

REBECCA OLIVER ADVANCEMENT MANAGER

The school year started with an uplifting team-building day that was a truly amazing opportunity for every member of the ISF staff. Head of School Sharyn Baddeley invited Tim Carlin from the Peak Expeditionary School in Colorado USA to guide a workshop leading to meaningful conversations, reflections and ideas about the ISF mission. Sharyn’s primary goal was to foster a sense of unity among the staff by aligning their values and acknowledging their individual worth and contributions. Her efforts were geared towards creating a positive and joyful work environment, with the aim of setting a vibrant and flourishing tone for the year ahead. Through these initiatives, she sought to cultivate a strong sense of teamwork and mutual appreciation among the staff, ultimately enhancing their collective well-being and productivity.

Known as the Principal of Fun, Tim has dedicated his career to enriching education in adventurous and dynamic ways. The relaxed and informal atmosphere of the day ensured a truly spectacular welcome to the start of our school year with the leadership team facilitating conversations about how each of us can best contribute to the school and strive to stay engaged and positive throughout the year. After dividing into groups, Tim introduced a variety of challenges where the effort of focused teamwork was essential. After each challenge leadership members, including school Principals Carey Killen and Tony Pascoe, met with groups to actively engage them in a discussion about how they worked together and how to apply these ideas to the context of an IFS education. This reinforced staff commitment to the team-oriented approach to achieving ISF’s goals and proved both energizing and entertaining. Throughout the day there was a deep sense of mutual respect and common purpose as team members learned more about each other and shared ideas.

After a delicious shared lunch, the day concluded in the Aula Magna where Tim presented awards to the teams for their outstanding efforts, creativity and enthusiasm at each challenge. When asked if he felt he met the day’s objectives, Tim replied “Yes! Everyone here has a joyful, learning attitude, that can remind everyone here that you need to keep dreaming as a school community every single year”. The event set the tone for an invigorating launch of the new school year and Sharyn gave staff and teachers gifts to remind them of her appreciation for their work and her commitment to supporting them. The event was a great success, strengthening the sense of the ISF community, and was greatly valued and enjoyed by all.

People genuinely want to be connected here and it was obvious through the positivity in their approach to every challenge that this is a place that wants to do great things for kids and their community.

- Tim Carlin

FLOMUN

Florence Model United Nations (FloMUN) is a three-day conference hosted by the International School of Florence where students from a variety of schools across the globe can enhance their interpersonal skills whilst debating and conferring about current global issues. FloMUN is an event that allows young participants to build friendships with individuals of diverse backgrounds, nationalities, and beliefs while being exposed to many different perspectives. At FloMUN, students have the incredible opportunity to confront a range of problems the international community is facing and inaugurate themselves on the path to becoming global citizens. Participants enjoy a balance of fiery debate and humorous banter, and no matter what country a student is representing and the seriousness of their experience, the bond shared between members of a specific committee is a special one that extends beyond the room of debate into sustained friendships

Raya Nepal Gupta, the Best Delegate of the SPECPOL committee in 2022, stated “FloMUN was an incredible experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. I will never forget the electricity of a heated debate, or the solemn silence as a resolution is in voting. What I love about Model United Nations is the opportunity to see world issues from different perspectives and understand the viewpoints and difficulties of each nation facing a common problem. The most beautiful part, however, is how we can come together to fix those problems, a group of teenagers who have been given the momentary power of countries, working together to put their best foot forward at making the world a better place. The communication and relationship skills we build at MUN will carry us through the rest of our lives and, maybe, into our possible diplomatic careers.”

Following the success of FloMUN 2023, which took place in

April, FloMUN delegates will be returning to Florence in March 2024. FloMUN 2024 will be a larger-scale event, with delegates from all across Italy and the new addition of international participant schools. The FloMUN Secretariat has been working hard to prepare for a conference that is greater not only in terms of scale, but also in terms of opportunities provided for delegates, committees, and networking. Overall, the excitement and support for FloMUN 2024 is outstanding, with high hopes of facilitating a fruitful, interesting, and energetic conference that will be memorable for all attendees.

LEELA MENON GRADE 11

DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD

The International School of Florence has become a licensed Independent Award Centre for the Duke of Edinburgh International Award (DofE). Students in Grade 9 and 10 will have the amazing opportunity to broaden their horizons, discover new interests and talents, have fun with friends, develop essential skills for their future and achieve an Internationally renowned Award.

The DofE is non-competitive and open to all young people –participants learn about setting personal goals, confronting challenges and pushing personal boundaries. There are three levels of the DofE programme which, when successfully completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award.

The program is being run by Upper School Physical Education Teacher Bruce Baddeley.

We are thrilled to be running DofE at ISF. Students will make friends and memories and build traits like confidence, resilience and self-esteem, which can benefit mental health. They’ll gain skills and attributes for work and life, like problemsolving, team-working and self-motivation – and they’ll achieve an Award that’s recognised Internationally and can help them stand out when applying for university or later employment. This is an exciting new initiative and we can’t wait to get started!

VILLA IL FIENILE

ISF’S NEW BOARDING HOUSE

We are delighted to announce the opening of a new boarding house at ISF’s Upper School. For students from Grade 9 upwards, it is specifically tailored to accommodate students that have a long distance commute. This initiative reflects ISF’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where learning transcends borders and cultures as we strive to meet the needs of our growing student body.

“We understand that commuting for extended hours can be a considerable challenge for students, impacting their focus, energy, and overall well-being. With the introduction of the boarding house, we are alleviating this burden and providing an opportunity for our students to channel their energy into their studies, personal growth, and extracurricular pursuits.”

- Sharyn Baddeley, Head of School

This initiative signifies ISF’s commitment to meet the needs of our students. The boarding house will serve as a place where friendships will be forged, cultural exchanges will be promoted, and learning will flourish in an environment of shared goals and aspirations.

“[I have enjoyed living at the boarding house] because I have been so well cared for.”

- Carter

“It’s been great to be able to spend time with my friends.”

- Scott

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

WELCOME BACK COCKTAIL

SEPTEMBER 1, 2023

US ORIENTATION TRIPS

US ORIENTATION TRIPS

US ORIENTATION TRIPS

JS ORIENTATION TRIPS

GALA DONATION TO MEYER

CORRI LA VITA

ISF COMMUNITY DAY

Community Service Day is a meaningful occasion dedicated to raising awareness about our surroundings, the people in our community, and the challenges faced both locally and globally. At ISF, we believe in the power of education not only to enlighten young minds but also to inspire them to make a positive impact on the world. This day serves as a reminder of our commitment to fostering empathy, international mindedness, and a sense of responsibility within our students.

Our students will be partnering with 10 organizations (both local and global) and all funds raised will be donated evenly amongst them.