The WAB Podcast

In this week's episode, Middle School Counselor Solomon Cruz sits down with students Sarafina (G8) and Thomas (G7) for an open, honest conversation about what it means to be a responsible and respectful digital citizen. From managing group chats to navigating online friendships, our students share how they make thoughtful choices in a constantly connected world and what they wish adults better understood about growing up online. Throughout the discussion, Solomon and the students explore practical strategies that parents can use at home, including: Starting early: Having ongoing, non-judgmental conversations about online habits before problems arise. Focusing on trust, not control: Setting clear boundaries while giving children space to make responsible choices. Modeling balance: Showing kids that healthy tech use starts with adults who also put their devices down. As Sarafina and Thomas remind us, digital citizenship isn't just about safety, it's about empathy, responsibility, and understanding the impact…

In this episode of the WAB Podcast, hear how students are putting Global Citizenship in Action: leading projects that empower communities, build empathy, and develop future-ready skills.

Grade 8 hosts Hugh and Emma interview WAB's new MYP Coordinator, Ms. Rebekah, in a lively conversation about learning, community, and curiosity.

As the school year draws to a close and the summer holiday approaches, we bring you a special end-of-year episode and the season finale. In this episode, two Grade 11 students, Francesco and Grace, took the mic. They sat down with our Head of School, Marta Medved Krajnovic, and Stephen Taylor, WAB's Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, to reflect on the year's highlights and look ahead to the future. A Year of Celebration and Connection From September 1, when our community came together to launch the 30th anniversary, this year has been a joyful celebration of WAB's enduring spirit. Marta shared that alongside the opening ceremony and alumni profile awards, WAB hosted over 30 alumni reunions in cities around the world. These events offered opportunities to reconnect and reflect on what continues to make WAB feel like home, even decades after graduation. Another major moment was the #FOEN25: Future of Education Now conference in March, where WAB welcomed global thought leaders to engage with…

Welcome to the WAB Podcast! In this episode, Kevin Crouch, WAB's Head of EdTech, IT, and Libraries, sat down with three students, Ville from Grade 5, Sophie and Ciara from Grade 7, along with Middle School Principal Marina Frias-Gavidia, to discuss the exciting rollout of Toddle in Middle School next school year. They also talked about how it can facilitate student learning, increase student agency, and incorporate AI-powered support. Why Toddle? For the past four years, Toddle has been a cornerstone of learning in the Elementary School, streamlining everything from lesson planning to student portfolios. Now, it's expanding to Middle School, bringing its all-in-one platform to older students. As Kevin explained, Toddle unites the entire learning process—teachers can plan, assess, and report in one place, while students gain more ownership of their learning through digital portfolios. Unlike Teams or other platforms, Toddle keeps everything connected, ensuring that learning goals, assignments, and feedback…

Welcome to the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we're learning about Middle School Individuals & Societies. Joining us were Grade 6 student Justin, Grade 7 student Frederic, Grade 8 student Iris, along with their I&S teacher, Claudia Gomez. Claudia explains how Individuals & Societies goes beyond traditional social studies. Rooted in the IB Middle Years Programme framework, it's an interdisciplinary, skills-based subject where students learn to: Formulate meaningful research questions Design and implement action plans Reflect deeply on their learning journey This approach nurtures critical thinking, ethical action, and global awareness, preparing students for high school and a future shaped by complexity and change. What makes Individuals & Societies truly unique, Claudia noted, is its interdisciplinary nature. Students engage with history, geography, political science, economics, and psychology to understand how societies function, and how they can shape a better world. Real World Learning Our students shared…

Welcome to the WAB Podcast. In this episode, we take a closer look at what student leadership looks like in our Elementary School, and how even our Elementary students are making a difference in their school community. We're joined by three members of the ES Student Council: Carolina and Maya from Grade 5, and Julian from Grade 3, as well as Elementary School Principal Catherine Pierre-Louis. Together, they reflect on what it means to be part of Student Council, why they chose to get involved, and how they've worked together to lead projects that matter to them and their peers. Building Leadership Through Action Catherine explained that the ES Student Council operates as an after-school activity (ASA), where students sign up through SchoolsBuddy. They can join one or all of the three activity seasons throughout the year. Looking ahead, there's a vision to expand the program into a year-long commitment to foster leadership development and support more student-led projects. Once they join, students collaborate…

What happens when students combine creativity, community values, and real-world challenges? You get student-led initiatives like Empowering Entrepreneurs and ProFarmer, socially driven projects supported by Parent Link with promotions, and through Tiger Den, WAB's parent-run shop. Co-led by EJ and Morgan and run by a group of dedicated parent volunteers, Tiger Den opens weekly and hosts pop-up shops at school events. They sell WAB-branded apparel and merchandise as well as student-developed products that raise funds and awareness for community partners. EJ emphasized the idea to start this support emerged from Parent Link's vision to foster student engagement and social innovation by offering a pathway for students to raise awareness and funds for causes they care about. Tabea, from the Empowering Entrepreneurs Club, shared how they focus on sustainability by recycling old WAB PE kits into hair ties and bags, which are then sold at Tiger Den. Their partnership with Helping Hands supports single mothers while…

Welcome to a new episode of the WAB Podcast. Today, we're exploring how student leadership, innovation, and the power of science come together to connect and inspire. Joining us are members of WAB's High School STEMx Club, Grade 11 students Hannah, Utkarsh, and Shane, along with their teacher and advisor, Paul Wagenaar. Together, they share how a group of passionate students reimagined what science learning could look like, culminating in WAB's first-ever interschool Science Day. STEMx began as a student-led initiative aimed at making science more engaging for younger learners. The group started by running hands-on workshops in the Elementary and Middle Schools. As Hannah, the club's leader, shared: "Last year, we decided to expand our impact." For her, what makes the club meaningful is its inclusivity: "Some members aren't planning to study STEM in university or pursue it as a career. They joined for their interest." Driven by curiosity and a desire to break stereotypes, like the idea that STEM is only for…

Welcome to the latest episode of WAB Podcast! In this episode, we explored WAB Wild, WAB's very own outdoor learning program, and one that's all about adventure, teamwork, and connecting with nature. We were joined by Stephen Boyko, the coordinator of WAB Wild, and two Grade 8 students, Gustav and Kenzie, who shared their unforgettable experiences. From abseiling to cooking breakfast under the open sky, we uncovered how this program builds resilience, fosters community, connects with classroom learning, and changes perspectives on sustainability. Led by coordinator Stephen Boyko, WAB Wild's philosophy is rooted in experiential education. Stephen explained that the goal of the program is to build a lasting appreciation for nature, strengthen community bonds, and develop personal resilience through challenges. When Gustav first arrived at WAB in Grade 7, he felt unfamiliar with the environment and the English language. But everything changed when he joined WAB Wild. The outdoor experience helped him build…

Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast, where we explore one of WAB's growing student-led traditions: the Night Market. Joining us are Audrey and Rachel from Grade 11, and Chloe from Grade 10, three of the students who helped make this event happen. From cultural showcases and global cuisine to student performances and an all-new Open Mic stage, the Night Market was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and cultural connection. For the first time, the event also welcomed students from APAC schools who were visiting WAB for a badminton tournament, adding an exciting dimension to the evening. Audrey described the Night Market as a platform for student clubs to promote their missions, raise funds for meaningful causes, and highlight WAB's cultural diversity. It also provides a stage for performers to express themselves. The event, she explained, was shaped through student input: "During club meetings, we hosted brainstorming sessions to gather input from all club members, which helped make the…

In this episode of the WAB Podcast, we take a look at STEM learning at WAB. Grade 9 student Zane and Grade 10 students Anna, David, and Xander take us behind the scenes of their robotics, game development, and biomedical engineering projects. What they share isn't just about technology, it's about creativity, collaboration, and learning with real-world impact. Building, Breaking, Rebuilding: Robotics in Action Xander and David have been working together to design a competition robot using the VEX V5 system. David focuses on 3D modeling with Onshape, while Xander brings the mechanical build to life. "Dex V5 is an educational platform where students design, build, and program the robots to compete in yearly challenges," explains Xander. "Every new season, a new game is released, which means teams must create brand-new robots to match updated growth in the field and objectives." When asked about challenges, David shares, "Testing parts and different designs of robots takes a lot of time, especially when you…

In this episode, we explored DP Art with student artists, Emmett and Bella from Grade 12, and their teacher, Daniel Avila. Together, they talked about the recent DP Arts Exhibition, the hard work behind completing the final portfolio, the enjoyment of experimenting with innovative mediums, and the passion and creativity that drove them through this two-year art journey. Emmett's work explores the irony of human development, using repetitive techniques like dot-making and woodcuts to critique industrialization and AI. He expressed that he became the instrument of labor in his own art, in which his hands-on process mirrored his theme. Meanwhile, Bella channeled her passion for animal rights into abstract pieces, experimenting with glass and wool. She explained the physical acts of cutting glass symbolized the pain animals endure. Daniel highlighted the DP Art program's unique balance of freedom and guidance. Students tackle ambitious projects—from stained glass to robotics—while connecting their mediums to…

Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast. In this episode, we explored TEDx Youth at WAB. Joining us were Kristina and Jeremy, two senior students and co-organizers of TEDx Youth this school year, and Abril from Grade 12 and Elsa from Grade 8, who shared their ideas at this year's event. They discussed their journeys, challenges, and favorite moments, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to bring TEDx to life, and how it is a platform for growth, courage, and self-discovery. Jeremy introduced TEDx Youth at WAB as a fully student-led initiative that has been running for over a decade. What made the event truly special was that every aspect—from organizing to speaking—was entirely managed by students. Kristina and Jeremy, both in their final year of high school, have been leading the TEDx Youth club for the past two years. They first joined as speakers, and over time, fell in love with the experience. Their passion eventually led them to become co-leaders of the club. Kristina emphasized…

The Future of Education Now 2025 (#FOEN25) festival, held at WAB from March 13 to 15, brought together students, educators, parents, and thought leaders to explore the evolving landscape of education (add link). In this special episode of the WAB Podcast, we have a recording from a very special panel from FOEN25. Moderated by Stephen Taylor, WAB's Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, this conversation was joined by three WAB students: Ryan from Grade 10 and Cali and Hannah from Grade 11, and global education leaders including: Jason Cummings, Director of Member Engagement of Mastery Transcript Consortium (MTC) Ellen Heyting, Project Lead for International Networks and Credentialing from Melbourne Metrics Trillium Hibben, Director of Commission on International Education at New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Jane Larsson, Executive Director of the Council of International Schools (CIS) Angela Meikle, Global Head of Private IB Schools of International Baccalaureate (IB)…

Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we explored the world of Global Citizenship and the stories, ideas, and initiatives behind this program that make our student learning and community unique. Joining us were Angelia Crouch, WAB's Global Citizenship Coordinator; LeeAnne Lavender, an Educational Consultant specializing in storytelling and service learning; and two High School students, Ernest and Michelle, who are leading impactful community projects. Together, they discussed how WAB's Global Citizenship Program is empowering students to become change-makers and better learners. Angelia introduced WAB has a long-standing mission to make a difference, which has evolved into our Global Citizenship Program focused on empowering students to address global issues, particularly those related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She added that the program also emphasizes building reciprocal relationships with community partners to provide students with real-world experiences…

Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we stepped into "Art Explosion" in WAB's Elementary School with Juanita McGarrigle, Visual Arts Head of Department. Let's discover how this exhibition empowered students to curate their own artwork and deepen their connection to the creative process, as well as how art fosters self-expression and helps students discover themselves. Juanita shared that the Art Explosion began as a way to give students greater ownership over their artistic journeys by allowing them to choose what they want to exhibit. Students played a central role in curating their displays - from choosing which pieces to showcase to designing how their work would be presented, every decision was theirs. Some students displayed their final masterpieces, while others showcased the creative process, including sketches, drafts, and experiments. Juanita said this process encouraged more reflection, and students could think about what they're most proud of and what they want the…

Ever wondered what it's like to explore the night sky like a real astronomer? In this episode of the WAB Podcast, we take a journey beyond the stars with the WAB Astronomy Club! Joining us were Kamil Rudolf, Middle School Science teacher, and three Grade 7 students—Helge, Wout, and Valentin. From hands-on telescope observations to building their own space probes, our students are exploring planets, stars, and other mysteries in the universe. They shared their recent discoveries, perspectives, and learnings about the night sky. Kamil shared that club members usually gather every Monday afterschool, and start their space exploration by watching documentaries, training on how to use telescopes, and planning their next observation based on the weather conditions. On clear nights, they head to a building rooftop and use a computerized telescope to observe planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus, as well as distant stars. Kamil explained that students learn to calibrate and align the telescope, mastering the…

Welcome to the latest episode of WAB Podcast Season 5! In this episode, we explored the world of Nature of Science. Joining us were two Grade 10 students, Claire and Kabir, along with their teacher, Chris Hayden. Together, they took us on a journey through this project-based science course that allows students to dive deep into their passions, nurture critical thinking, sharpen their skills, and foster a love for scientific inquiry that goes beyond the classroom. Chris introduced that Nature of Science (NOS) allows students to choose and explore an area of science they're passionate about, and it covers foundational knowledge and key inquiry skills aligned with Middle Years Program (MYP) science objectives. He emphasized that learning science is not about memorizing facts, it should give students the tools they need to think like true scientists, including asking questions, solving problems, and making a real-world impact. Grade 10 student Kabir is a humanities enthusiast, who took NOS as a chance to bridge…

Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Marina Frias Gavidia, our Middle School Principal, and Dr. Jaime Pustis, High School Principal, along with two students, Thomas from Grade 6 and Simo from Grade 12. They discussed WAB's Day 9, a program designed to promote student agency, personalized learning, and flexibility. From student-led workshops and community engagement projects to academic support and well-being sessions, they explored how Day 9 is designed and what it can offer, allowing students to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and take ownership of their learning. Marina explained that Day 9 was introduced to give students more control over their learning. By building flexibility into the schedule, this could allow students to explore their passions and interests. For High School students, Day 9 offers opportunities to deepen their studies, especially in Higher Level (HL) courses for the IB Diploma Program. Jaime also highlighted how the…

Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast Season 5! In this episode, we are joined by Marta Medved Krajnovic, WAB's Head of School, and Stephen Taylor, Director of Innovation in Learning and Teaching, as they discuss the Future of Education Now 2025 (FOEN25) conference. Scheduled for March, this festival of learning will bring together educators, students, and parents to explore the future of education through collaboration, inspiration, and action. A Brief History of FOEN Marta shared the story behind the FOEN conference, which was first launched in 2019 as a way for WAB to learn from other innovative schools and share our innovative teaching and learning practices. Although the 2021 and 2023 editions moved online, FOEN25 marks a return to WAB's campus. Students at the Center of FOEN25 A standout feature of FOEN25 is the central role of students. From giving input to the conference structure to leading keynote panels and workshops, students are at the heart of the event. She mentioned that WAB and…