Mickalene Thomas, Le Jardin d'Eau de Monet, 2012
Words of the Month: Milestone
Literally, a milestone is a physical marker placed along roadsides to indicate the distance to a particular destination. Today, however, the term is often used figuratively to describe significant events in life that mark important progress or change. A milestone represents a meaningful moment, often a transition point that signals the start of a new chapter. For example, graduating from high school is a major milestone for many, serving as a moment of reflection on past achievements and anticipation for the future. Recognizing these moments helps us appreciate the journey so far and prepares us for what lies ahead (Vocabulary.com).
DEIG Commitments
In this section of our newsletter, we highlight our DEIG commitments: Engagement, Self-reflection, Equitable Learning, Meaningful Relationships, and Transparency.
COMMITMENT #3 - MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS
In this month's newsletter, we address our commitment to meaningful relationships- Building meaningful relationships with inquiry, intention, and compassion. Watch as Upper School DEIG Practitioner, Maria Graciela Alcid, explains this commitment in more detail.
What do 'meaningful relationships' mean to you? Please share your thoughts through this form
Happy Pride Month, and heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025!
We have wrapped up yet another vibrant and meaningful year, and we want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who has supported the work of the DEIG Office so far.
To our graduated seniors, we are so proud of all you’ve accomplished, and so excited for what lies ahead. Your joy, energy, and commitment have left a lasting impact on our commuKNIGHTY, and you will be greatly missed!
Wishing you all a restful, joyful summer. We look forward to reconnecting in the fall!
Reuben Tam, The Shores of Light, 1960
Features: Global education Trips
MOROCCO (UPPER SCHOOL)- During BB&N’s Spring Break trip to Morocco, U.S. students participated in a memorable homestay exchange with Round Square’s Elaraki School in Marrakech. Highlights included exploring the vibrant souks, experiencing a breathtaking sunset ride in the Agafay Desert, visiting the majestic Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat, wandering the stunning blue streets of Chefchaouen, and immersing themselves in the historic medina of Fes.
SPAIN (UPPER SCHOOL)- Over Spring Break, Upper School faculty members Carrie Rose and Jorge Delgado led twenty BB&N students on an unforgettable exchange trip to Spain. The journey began in Barcelona, where students explored iconic landmarks such as Parc Güell and the Sagrada Familia, participated in a cooking class, and discovered the city’s vibrant street art scene on a guided tour. In Madrid, students engaged in a meaningful exchange with peers from BB&N’s sister school, Las Rozas. Living with host families, attending classes, and immersing themselves in Spanish culture, they embraced authentic experiences. Highlights included visits to the Prado Museum, a flamenco dance class, a tour of the Real Madrid Stadium, and a day trip to the historic city of Toledo. Upon their return, BB&N warmly welcomed students from Las Rozas for a ten-day visit, continuing the cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds formed abroad.
FRANCE (UPPER SCHOOL)- In March, Mr. Sennette and Mr. Sprayregen chaperoned 18 Upper School students on an enriching exchange trip to France, in partnership with the École alsacienne in Paris. Students lived with host families and fully immersed themselves in French language, culture, and daily life—strengthening their language skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for French traditions and perspectives. While based in Paris, the group also explored beyond the capital, including a day trip to Strasbourg and a two-night stay in Avignon. Highlights included a visit to the historic Pont du Gard and a private French cooking lesson. This meaningful exchange allowed students to build international friendships and return home with lasting memories and a broader global outlook.
MEXICO (MIDDLE SCHOOL)- During Spring Break, Mr. Berhane Zerom and Carolina Gómez-Kramer led a group of 7th- and 8th-graders to Yucatán, Mexico. The group visited historical sites like Chichén Itzá, where students experienced firsthand the legacy of the ancient Maya civilization—but also came to understand that the Maya people are still here today, and their culture and traditions continue to flourish. As a language teacher, Ms. Gómez-Kramer found it fascinating to watch some students step out of their comfort zones, using their Spanish skills to communicate and connect. Seeing students try new foods, ask questions, and engage with the culture was a joy. What she appreciated most about the trip was that it wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about experiencing and understanding the rich history and living traditions of the region.
ROUND SQUARE TRIPS
BANKOK, THAILAND (MIDDLE SCHOOL)- This Spring, a group of 8th-grade students participated in the Round Square Global Conference at Regent’s International School in Bangkok, Thailand. Centered on the theme “Embracing Change: Shaping the Future,” the conference combined workshops, service learning, and cultural immersion. Highlights included a pre-conference trip to southern Thailand and vibrant cultural activities that deepened students’ global awareness and inspired them to become thoughtful changemakers in their communities.
OXFORD, ENGLAND (UPPER SCHOOL)- In April, Upper School students traveled to Oxford, England, to attend Round Square’s Inspiring Voices: The Big Baraza conference. Set in iconic venues like the Oxford Union and Sheldonian Theatre, students engaged in dynamic conversations on global issues alongside peers from around the world. The experience offered a unique opportunity to develop leadership and public speaking skills while gaining deeper insight into diverse perspectives and the power of youth voice.
One School One World 2025
This year marked the much-anticipated return of One School One World (OSOW), BB&N’s flagship multicultural festival and a beloved tradition held every two years. Hosted in the vibrant NAC, the 2025 celebration brought together students, families, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends for a day filled with joy, connection, and cultural pride. With nearly 40 different BB&N cultures represented, the event featured lively student performances, beautiful traditional attire, delicious international cuisine, and fun-filled activities for all ages. The energy and heart that each participant brought made this year’s OSOW truly unforgettable.
More than just a festival, One School One World is a celebration of the rich tapestry of backgrounds that make up our BB&N community. It honors our shared values of inclusion, heritage, and unity, reminding us of the strength found in our diversity. A heartfelt thank you to the DEIG team for bringing this event together, to the dedicated OSOW committee, and to everyone else who played a part, Your efforts made all the difference. As we look ahead, we’re already excited for what 2027 will bring. With your continued support and feedback, we hope to make the next OSOW even more vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring!
HIGHLIGHTS
LS AWAARE Gathering (Anti-Racist White Allies Advancing Racial Equity)
In 6th grade AWAARE, students brainstormed and designed posters to showcase what they’ve learned throughout the year during Racial Justice Community Time. Their creative work reflected key themes and takeaways from the course, highlighting their growing awareness, understanding, and commitment to racial justice.
WAaAG (White Awareness & Accountability Group) Session #5
The White Awareness & Accountability Group (WAaAG) held their fifth meeting, during which members discussed and reflected on Robin DiAngelo’s Nice Racism. The conversation focused on the behaviors white progressives may exhibit that unintentionally perpetuate racial harm.
LS JEDI Group Service Learning
Sixth grade students in the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Club partnered with Green Cambridge to support environmental stewardship efforts at Alewife Brook Reservation. Together, they helped contain invasive plant species and maintain the Alewife walking path.
LS DSC (DEIG Steering Committee) GATHERING & social
The Lower School DEIG Steering Committee (DSC) gathered in April to analyze a case study focused on socioeconomic status, drawing from Dr. Liza Talusan’s Identity Conscious Practice in Action. Later, some members of the LS DSC came together for the final social of the year.
MS Institute for Global Learning’s Virtual Student Dialogue
On April 24th, Middle School students took part in the Institute for Global Learning’s virtual student dialogue, exploring the topic AI: The Erosion of Learning & the Rise of Misinformation. The discussion offered students an opportunity to engage thoughtfully on the impact of artificial intelligence on education and the spread of misinformation in today’s digital landscape.
AsEA Conference 2025
Upper School DEIG practitioner Maria Graciela Alcid presented a series of workshops at the 2025 AsEA Conference, delving into themes of AI and culturally sustaining social emotional learning. The sessions explored the PEAiCE Framework and Lakbayan(Ai): Pilipina/x/o Futurism, blending generative AI tools with healing story-art-spirit-weaving and future world-building to reimagine inclusive educational practices.
US AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) Assembly
The co-presidents of AASA (Asian and Asian American Student Association) and SASA (South Asian Student Association) hosted a lively assembly in celebration of AANHPI Heritage Month. The event featured an engaging trivia game and candy giveaways.
SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) Session VII, viii
The seventh and eighth SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) sessions brought together new hires to deepen their understanding and application of equity work.
In session seven, participants learned to recognize, analyze, and reflect on various power moves in real contexts, connecting these insights to both theory and practice.
The final session focused on applying these SEED learnings to their professional practice and exploring next steps beyond the program.
Global Learning Annual Conference
Dr. Karina J. Baum moderated a panel on “Global Learning in the K–6 Curriculum” at the Institute for Global Learning (formerly GEBG) Annual Conference held at Miami Country Day School in Miami.
Lower School first-grade teacher Patricia Muumba and Upper School Chinese teacher Yinong Yang also showcased their work at the conference. Their dedication to global learning and innovative teaching practices is truly inspiring.
US EcobashWorkshop "Rice is Life"
Natasha Wanjiru and Maria Graciela Alcid led an Ecobash workshop titled “Rice Is Life,” celebrating the cultural and environmental significance of rice. Students participated in interactive activities exploring rice’s role across cultures while learning about sustainability challenges and ways to promote environmental stewardship.
Resilient Voices 2025
Resilient Voices is a heartfelt annual showcase celebrating the art and performances of BB&N students of color. This year, under the thoughtful leadership of Rockie Yewendwossen and Ellora Roy ’25, the tradition founded by Nejma Reza ’23 beautifully continued. The show shines a light on the diverse talents of students through poetry, music, and other expressive performances, creating a meaningful space to share personal experiences and perspectives on identity and race. Congratulations to all the performers and organizers for bringing such powerful stories to life. Following the event, the Parents of Black Students (PBS) group warmly hosted an ice cream social, offering a joyful and welcoming space for community connection and celebration.
BSU (BLACK STUDENT UNION) Cookout at Thayer
The BB&N Black Student Union attended a Friday night cookout hosted by Thayer Academy. The event brought together students from BB&N, Dana Hall, CSW, Chapel Hill Chauncy Hall, St. Sebastian’s, and Belmont Hill for an evening of community, connection, and good food.
LS Have a Heart Food Drive
BB&N wrapped up its annual Have a Heart Food Drive, collecting and sorting hundreds of nutritious items for Boston Medical Center’s Preventive Food Pantry. Thanks to the thoughtful contributions from families and the hard work of community members, the drive continued BB&N’s longstanding tradition of supporting community health and food access with care and compassion.
US AASA/SASA AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) Celebration
The Upper School AASA and SASA celebrated AANHPI Heritage Month during CAB with delicious food and drinks, bringing students together to honor and enjoy the rich cultures and traditions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
REAL ASIA PARTNER VISIT FOR GLOBAL ED
Carol Wang, a partner from Real Asia, visited BB&N to reflect on past programs and explore exciting possibilities for future collaborations in our Global Education Trips.
Salomon Prize Recipients
The Institute for Global Learning (formerly the Global Education Benchmark Group, or GEBG) honored two Salomon Prize entries (Sound of Freedom and The Power of Candid Conversations and Cultural Revelations) with Honorable Mentions at the middle and high school levels.
Congratulations to Layla Li and Hale McGivern on this well-deserved recognition!
AS DEIG STAYTREAT 2025
While the annual DEIG Student Retreat was paused this year due to scheduling conflicts, DEIG student leaders from all three campuses came together for a special meal and gathering in the Upper School Community Room. This event gave students in grades 6–12 a meaningful opportunity to connect, reflect, and celebrate their shared DEIG experiences, while looking forward to an even stronger retreat next year.
Round Square King Constantine Medal
The Round Square King Constantine Medal is presented annually to an exceptional individual or group from each member school who has made remarkable contributions to their local or school community. Recipients of this award exemplify the Round Square IDEALS: International Understanding, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership, and Service. This year, Hale McGivern and Tillie Fischoeder were honored as the medal’s recipients in recognition of their outstanding dedication and impact.
US DEIG Affinity Alliance Interest Group End of Year Celebration
Students gathered in the Upper School Community Room for a joyful end-of-year celebration. This special CAB session brought together members of affinity, alliance, and interest groups to reflect on the year’s experiences and begin imagining new possibilities for the year ahead.
This month's newsletter was curated by Natasha Wanjiru, Education Fellow.
Credits:
Created with an image by nuchao - "paper art scene of pine tree on flat background,Minimal concept of forest,3D rendering"