Back to School Nights Highlight Dedication to Student Growth and Community at TAS

The recent Back to School Nights at TAS served as a dynamic and engaging touchpoint during the start of this academic year, offering parents and guardians a window into the vibrant learning environments where their children thrive. Held over several evenings, these events highlighted our commitment to fostering a lifelong passion for learning, well-being, and a sense of service—core pillars of TAS’s mission. 

Across Lower, Middle, and Upper School, parents and guardians were warmly welcomed into classrooms, humming with curiosity and creativity, allowing them to experience their children's daily routines firsthand. Each Back to School Night, tailored to the needs of each division, provided a unique opportunity to connect with the educators who play a vital role in their children's development. These evenings were more than just informational; they celebrated the collaborative partnership between TAS and its families, essential to nurturing students who strive toward our Schoolwide Learning Outcomes and embody the TAS values. 

Lower School: Building the Foundations of Character and Learning 

The Lower School Back to School Nights, held on September 10 and 11, offered parents a comprehensive look at the foundational years of their children’s education. These events began in homeroom classrooms, where teachers provided an overview of the curriculum and the resources available to support students' learning journeys. 

Parents of Kindergarten through Grade 2 students attended on September 10, while those with children in Grades 3 through 5 gathered on September 11. The evenings emphasized the importance of personal well-being and character development, key aspects of the TAS mission. Teachers shared how the curriculum not only builds academic skills but also fosters a compassionate worldview, instilling the core values of Honesty, Kindness, Respect, Courage, and Responsibility in every student. 

Middle School: Navigating Growth and Exploration 

The Middle School Back to School Night on September 12 offered parents a glimpse into the transformative Middle School years, a time of significant growth and exploration. The evening began on a high note, with parents warmly welcomed by a performance from the Middle School choir in the lobby, setting a joyful tone for the night. From there, the event was structured to mirror the students’ daily schedules, allowing parents to follow their child’s routine from class to class. This immersive experience gave parents a better understanding of how TAS’s American-based education, enriched with a global perspective, equips students to navigate adolescence with confidence and integrity. 

During each session, parents met our educators who are passionate about their subjects and committed to supporting the personal well-being of every student. Teachers shared how they create nurturing environments that encourage students to discover their interests and pursue them with purpose. Parents also received tips and resources to help them support their children’s learning and development outside of school, reinforcing the school’s commitment to a strong home-school partnership. 

Upper School: Preparing for the Future with Purpose 

The Upper School Back to School Night, held on September 5, was an interactive experience that allowed parents to step into their children’s shoes and navigate a typical school day. Beginning at 6:30 PM, parents followed their child’s A and B-day schedules, moving from class to class as their children do each day. 

The evening was not only an opportunity for parents to experience the daily rhythm of school life, but also a chance for them to engage more deeply with the community. Many parents expressed their gratitude to the teachers for their dedication, taking the time to personally thank them for the impact they have on their children’s lives. Others were particularly interested in exploring the learning spaces, curious to see firsthand where their children spend their days growing academically and personally. 

During the advisory sessions, teachers shared the goals and action plans for this year’s advisory program, focusing on fostering students' personal well-being and helping them develop a strong sense of care and belonging. This provided a clear picture of how the school’s mission—to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service—is put into practice every day. 

This experience provided valuable insight into the rigorous academic environment of the Upper School, where students are challenged to think critically, act responsibly, and prepare for the future with a sense of purpose. Teachers introduced themselves warmly, shared their excitement for the year ahead, and offered overviews of the learning goals and content that make their classes unique. The evening concluded with parents gaining a deeper understanding of their child’s daily experience and a renewed connection to the TAS community. 

By opening their classrooms, TAS educators showcased their dedication to creating an environment that nurtures both academic excellence and the holistic growth of every student.  

Overall, the events were a resounding success, providing parents and guardians with a clear view of the shared journey ahead. As the school year progresses, this collaborative partnership will continue to play a crucial role in supporting the growth and success of every TAS student. Thank you to all who participated and continue to contribute to building a stronger, more connected school community!