Events

March 15, 2025

2025 Graded's Run Against Cancer

March 26, 2025

Visiting Author Kwame Alexander

March 29, 2025

Celebration of the World 2025

December 11, 2024

Graded Reels Film Festival

Our talented Film 1, Film 2, and Advanced Film students screened their productions on the during the Graded Reels Film Festival. From lively music videos to suspenseful and action-filled short films—featuring special guest appearances by Graded parent actors—our aspiring filmmakers competed for awards including Best Performance, Best Story, Best Music Video, Best Crew, and Best Short Film. 

December 6 and 11, 2024

Lower School Holiday Concerts

The holiday season arrived early in the lower school as the stage lights illuminated the musical talents of K3 to grade 5 students at the Lower School Holiday Concerts. The Haddad Center for the Performing Arts was filled with proud parents and family members, enthusiastically cheering on their young performers.

December 6-8, 2024

POAMUN

Graded MUN delegates showcased their debate skills in Porto Alegre, Brazil during the POAMUN conference.This year's theme, "Shared Goals, Shared Success," echoed the spirit of solidarity shown during the city's recent floods, and inspired students to unite for a common cause. Students discussed the rights of refugees and immigrants, addressed the Venezuelan humanitarian crisis, and debated the self-determination of the Kurdish people. Graded delegates won many honorable mentions and an award for Best Position Paper.

December 5-7, 2024

High School Production: The Great Gatsby

High school students transported us back to the roaring twenties with their captivating production of The Great Gatsby, directed by Bia Campos. This stage adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel brought the Jazz Age to life while exploring themes of wealth, power, class, and the American Dream.

November 26, 2024

Gradedpaloozinha

Grade 6 orchestra, choir, and band students took the stage during their own version of Gradedpalooza. The beginner musicians dazzled the audience with fun pieces, with special participation from Middle School Principal Rob Switzer.

November 20-24, 2024

SAAC Volleyball and Cross Country

Graded hosted SAAC Volleyball and Cross Country. It was an incredible display of talent, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Our girls cross country teams placed first (Graded Blue) and fourth (Graded Red), while the boys placed third (Graded Blue) and fifth (Graded Red). Individual athletes also clinched silver and bronze medals. Meanwhile, our volleyball teams shined on the court! The girls placed fourth, and the boys were silver-medalists.

November 20-24, 2024

SAAC Swimming

Graded Eagles flew to The International School Nido de Aguilas in Santiago, Chile, to compete in SAAC Swimming. The boys brought home the bronze medal, and the girls finished in fourth place. 

November 19, 2024

Gradedpalooza

The Haddad Center and BBT came alive as band, jazz band, choir, and orchestra students entertained a captive audience at this semester's Gradedpalooza.

November 19, 2024

Upper School Visual Arts Show

Talented visual art students discussed their creations on display with attendees at the Upper School Visual Art Show Opening.

November 10-16, 2024

AASB Little 10 JV Soccer, Basketball, and Cheer

JV athletes left their mark at Little 10. The JV boys soccer team won the AASB Little 10 Tournament with a final win in a penalty shootout, while the JV girls secured a well-earned silver medal. Demonstrating resilience and sportsmanship throughout, the JV boys basketball team finished in eighth place, the JV girls basketball team came in tenth, and our cheerleading squad earned seventh place.

November 9, 2024

Thanksgiving

We are grateful to the PTA and the Graded community for coming together to celebrate Thanksgiving. This year’s event marked a special milestone as the first carbon-neutral, low-waste Thanksgiving. The day started off with a Turkey Trot, followed by a delicious feast where guests enjoyed classic holiday dishes and desserts. The day was complete with fun activities, from the Thanksgiving Bazaar to pumpkin decorating to inflatable fun on the field.

November 6-10, 2024

SAAC Soccer

Graded athletes recently traveled to Lima, Peru, to compete in the SAAC Soccer Tournament hosted by FDR. Both the boys and girls teams finished in fourth place. We’re proud to share that three players from each team were selected for the SAAC All-Tournament Team: Ariel G., Anthony B., and Lucas G. represented the boys, while Emily C., Valentina L., and Maria Clara O. were honored from the girls' team.

November 6-10, 2024

SAAC MUN

Graded delegates traveled all the way to Quito, Ecuador, to participate in SAAC MUN, where they tackled global issues such as empowering women politically in the Southern Cone, police and armed forces brutality in El Salvador, and ways to reduce urban energy’s environmental impact through AI. Their impressive efforts were recognized with three Honorable Mentions and six Verbal Mentions. Beyond the conference rooms, students explored Quito and visited historical landmarks, including the Intiñan Solar Museum, the Mitad del Mundo Monument, and the Catedral Metropolitana. 

October 31, 2024

Zombie Zoo

Graded students showcased their skills on stage at Zombie Zoo, the upper school talent show.

October 31, 2024

Halloween Parade

From New York City symbols to a swarm of Minions and even gym rats, this year’s Halloween Parade was one to remember!

Pre-primary started off the most exciting day of the year with a spirited morning parade. In the afternoon, the rest of the lower school and the upper school, faculty, and staff joined the fun and showed off their costumes on the field.

October 27 - November 2, 2024

AASB Big 8 Varsity Basketball, Soccer, and Cheer

Graded students brought great spirit and determination to the Big 8 tournament. In an intense final, the girls basketball team finished second, falling just one point short. Our cheerleaders placed fifth, while varsity boys basketball took eighth place.

During the tournament's second half, girls soccer secured sixth overall, and the boys soccer team clinched their third consecutive AASB Big 8 Championship title with a thrilling victory over Chapel in the final match.

October 24-25, 2024

AVEMUN

Graded delegates represented the school with confidence and distinction at the AVEMUN conference, tackling global issues like the Democratic Republic of Congo conflict, South China Sea disputes, freedom of speech in Brazil, and cyber security between Russia and NATO. Their exceptional participation earned them awards in multiple categories, including Best Delegate, Best Speaker, Outstanding Delegate, Best Delegation, and Best Position Paper.

October 21-22, 2024

Graded’s 21st Jazz Festival

Graded’s 21st Jazz Festival provided aspiring musicians with the unique experience of working closely with acclaimed Brazilian jazz talents, diving deep into the world of jazz through interactive band rehearsals, hands-on master classes, and jam sessions with the best of the best. ⁠

October 14-16, 2024

Teacher Appreciation Week

Every teacher at Graded felt like a gold medalist thanks to our PTA’s Olympic-themed Teacher Appreciation Week! From the delicious breakfast to the relaxing beauty treatments, unique gifts, exciting raffles, and the lively teachers’ party, every aspect made our teachers feel honored and valued for their dedication to our students.

September 25, 2024

Dinner with Strangers

Graded’s annual Dinner with Strangers brought together around 200 members of our community for an unforgettable evening of lively conversation, new friendships, and fun memories. Twenty-one Graded families opened their homes to mystery guests, whose identities were only revealed upon arrival, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the night.

September 6, 2024

Middle School Classroom Without Walls Trips

Middle school students stepped out of their comfort zones and into some of Brazil’s most stunning national parks and eco-tourism destinations. Grade 6 explored Socorro, participating in team-building activities like tree climbing, ziplining, and rappelling. Grade 7 traveled to Alto do Ribeira State Park (PETAR), where they explored caves, hiked past waterfalls, pushed their boundaries through rappelling and aqua trekking, learned about the preservation of the Mata Atlântica, and took part in workshops to learn traditional skills, including tool making, archery, and how to build a fire. Grade 8 students’ adventure in Itatiaia National Park involved stunning hikes, diverse wildlife encounters, and an “Amazing Race”-style team-building activity. Our students returned refreshed and ready to embrace new challenges.

September 6, 2024

Brazilian Independence Day Celebration

The PTA hosted a Brazilian Independence Day celebration with a special focus on Brazil’s achievements in the Olympics and Paralympics. The Student Center was adorned with patriotic decorations, and students proudly wore the colors of Brazil’s flag. Traditional snacks fueled the fun, while games and presentations highlighted inspiring Brazilian athletes and the country’s contributions to sports.

June 13, 2024

Grade 5 Recognition Ceremony 

Grade 5 celebrated the end of their lower school journey in a lively Recognition Ceremony.

June 12, 2024

Grade 8 Moving On Ceremony 

Grade 8 hosted a memorable Moving On Ceremony to celebrate the end of their middle school journey. The event featured musical performances and recognition of outstanding students with core values and character awards before officially welcoming the class of 2028 to high school.

June 10, 2024

Graded's Got Talent

Students from grades 3 to 5 showcased their talents, performing both solo and in groups for the entire lower school. The audience enjoyed energetic dance and gymnastics routines, beautiful pieces on various musical instruments, and heartfelt singing.

June 4, 2024

Gradedpaloozinha

Graded middle school musicians hit all the right notes in their final in the second edition of Gradedpaloozinha.

May 29, 2024

Graded Outreach Program Graduation

Our Hitoshi Castro Outreach Program students, known as the Eager Eight, completed 18 months of English studies and campus activities at Graded. In a heartfelt ceremony attended by their families and the Graded community, outreach graduates received personalized awards and special gifts, and heard inspiring speeches.

May 25, 2024

High School Graduation

At a beautiful commencement ceremony filled with inspiring speeches, music, and memories, members of the class of 2024 turned their tassels, officially becoming Graded alumni.

May 24, 2024

Bell Ceremony and Senior Awards

On the day before graduation, seniors donned their silliest hats and marched down the hallways to cheers and chants from students, parents, faculty, and staff for the Bell Ceremony before gathering in the Athletics Center for their Awards Ceremony.

May 22 - 26, 2024

AMIS Latin American Honor Band, Choir, and Orchestra

Our talented performing arts students headed to Bogota, Colombia, to participate in the AMIS Latin American Music Festival.

May 21, 2024

Graded Reels Audiovisual Festival

Our upper school students showcased their projects on the big screen last month. From sock puppets coming to life to thrilling chases, musical videos, and emotional chess games, these original productions competed for the Oscars of Graded in categories including Best Screenplay, Best Acting, and Best Editing.

May 20, 2024

Athletics Banquet

At the annual Athletics Banquet, Graded athletes were recognized for their outstanding skill and sportsmanship across a wide range of sports, including basketball, cheer, futsal, soccer, softball, swimming, volleyball, tennis, and track and field.

May 18 - 19, 2024

AASB Final Four Futsal & Volleyball

Our Varsity Girls' Futsal and Boys' Volleyball teams traveled to Belo Horizonte to compete in the AASB National Championships, where both teams earned bronze medals.

May 18, 2024

Festa Junina

This year’s Festa Junina, organized by the Graded PTA, honored the tradition of "cordel" from Brazil’s northeastern region. Dressed in plaid outfits and straw hats, guests enjoyed a lively "quadrilha" performed by pre-primary to grade 2 students, as well as games, prizes, live music, and traditional foods.

May 14, 2024

Vivas Palavras

On May 14, Graded unveiled the 18th edition of “Vivas Palavras,” a faculty-selected collection of student work written in both Portuguese and Spanish. Students created beautiful short stories, poems, visual poems, and illustrations around the theme “last chance.” The book was presented to students and shared with the Graded community.

May 9 - 11, 2024

Upper School Musical: Into the Woods Jr.

Upper school students illuminated the stage with an energetic and magical performance of Into the Woods Jr. This production marked a momentous occasion, being the first musical in the newly renovated Haddad Center for the Performing Arts.

May 6 - 9, 2024

Lower School Brazilian Literature Week

Lower school students embarked on a literary journey delving into the rich world of Brazilian literature! The "É Tudo Brasil" (This is all Brazil) theme featured visits from inspiring local authors Kiusam de Oliveira and Otávio Junior, who captivated students with read-alouds from their books. Throughout the week, students also strolled around campus reciting beautiful Brazilian poems they learned in class as well as their own creations to community members of various departments.

May 5 - 8, 2024

Little 10 JV Girls Futsal, Boys Volleyball & Softball

Graded JV Teams recently traveled to NR to compete in the Little 10 tournament alongside nine other schools from AASB. Our athletes gained valuable teamwork skills and returned home ready to excel in the upcoming season. Additionally, several Graded athletes received well-deserved sportsmanship awards, and our JV Softball Team proudly secured the bronze medals.

May 3, 2024

Band Concert

Our Junior, Senior, and Jazz Bands dazzled the audience during the last Band Concert of the semester.

May 2, 2024

Hearty Bowls

Graded community members gathered for a heartwarming evening in support of a great cause. Organized by Upper School Arts Teacher Lucinha Ariani, the Hearty Bowls event featured delicious soups from around the world, ranging from cappelletti to caldo verde and pumpkin ginger, all savored in handmade ceramic bowls crafted by our students, faculty, and staff. All proceeds from the event were donated to ACTC — Casa do Coração.

May 2, 2024

IB TOK Exhibition

At the IB TOK Exhibition, students explored a profound question about knowledge using three carefully chosen objects alongside insightful commentaries. Visitors engaged with thought-provoking presentations, interacted with students on their chosen topics and objects, and discussed how the Theory of Knowledge (ToK) applies to our world.

April 27, 2024

Graded's Run Against Cancer

Graded's Run Against Cancer brought the community together for a day filled with fun, activities, inspiring speakers, and delicious food in support of Casa Maria Helena and in memory of friends and family members of those who registered to run in the event.

April 25 - 26, 2024

Think Tank 2.0

Graded faculty, administrators, students, parents, and board members gathered alongside international thought leaders for Think Tank 2.0. During this two-day event, 40+ participants explored the future of education and how Graded can equip its students for success in a rapidly changing world.

April 23, 2024

ABBA Night

ABBA: An Orchestra and Choir Collaborative Extravaganza was a night to remember. The choir and orchestra students danced, jived, and had the time of their lives!

April 20, 2024

Celebration of the World

The Graded community went on a delicious world tour this past Saturday at the PTA’s annual Celebration of the World (COTW), the school’s biggest event of the year! 

An energetic parade punctuated with cheers unfolded, showcasing the incredible diversity that makes Graded special. Delicious food from 23 countries was featured at beautifully decorated booths. Attendees enjoyed live music, cultural performances, and plenty of fun and games for kids.

April 17 - 21, 2024

SAAC Basketball, Tennis, and Track & Field

Our Graded Eagles left their mark during SAAC season! In an amazing week of competition in Lima, Peru, Basketball and Track & Field athletes brought home many medals and honorable mentions. Congratulations to the Girls Basketball team, who won Silver, Boys Basketball, who took Bronze. Meanwhile, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, our Boys Tennis B athletes won gold while the Boys Tennis A players and the Girls Tennis team placed fourth.

April 15 - 19, 2024

Visiting Author Rob Buyea

Graded book lovers welcomed Rob Buyea, author of the Mr. Terupt series, to campus. Students in grades 3-7 heard about his writing journey, explored his books, participated in engaging activities, and even had the opportunity to eat lunch with Mr. Buyea.

April 7 - 13, 2024

AASB Big 8

Our Graded Eagles demonstrated true sportsmanship on Big 8! Our Boys' Volleyball team clinched the silver medal, while our Boys' Softball team and Girls' Futsal team brought home the gold! Congratulations to our cheerleaders, who won the Best Team Award during the cheer camp. Our Girls Volleyball team came in fifth place and the Boys Futsal team placed sixth. In addition, several Graded athletes were recognized for their incredible performances with sportsmanship awards.

April 5 - 7, 2024

Graded Model United Nations

Delegates from Graded, the International School of Curitiba (ISC), and the American School of Rio de Janeiro (EARJ) put their diplomacy skills to the test during the Graded Model United Nations (GMUN) conference. They tackled issues including nuclear proliferation, the death of Alexei Navalny, the near-collapse of government in Haiti, the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, crimes committed by UN workers, and the use of artificial intelligence for mass surveillance.

March 28, 2024

Visiting Author Dr. Stuart Lawrence

Educator, author, and advocate Hon. Dr. Stuart Lawrence, author of "Silence is Not an Option: You Can Impact the World for Change," joined Graded upper school students and parents for a day of engaging conversations and inspiring speeches about the importance of empathy.

March 25, 2024

Student TEDEd Talks

Inspired by TED’s mission to discover and spread ideas that spark conversation, deepen understanding, and drive meaningful change, Graded students Isabel S. '26, Stella M. '26, and Eunho H. '27 presented engaging talks to the Graded community.

March 23, 2024

IC3 Regional Forum

More than 100 educators from around the world gathered on the Graded campus last Saturday for the first-ever IC3 Regional Forum in Brazil. Hosted by our Office of College Counseling, the event empowered educational leaders and college counselors with training and resources and offered opportunities for them to exchange insights and best practices.

To complement the event, Graded students and parents participated in a college fair. Featuring 26 universities from across the globe.

March 21 - 23, 2024

MathCounts Competition

Graded shined at the Pan American School of Porto Alegre's MathCounts competition. Not only did our students dominate the individual rounds, but the Graded π-ONEERS captured 1st place among the twelve competing teams. Right behind them, the Ponte Aerea team (a Graded/EARJ combined team) secured 2nd place. Graded Googolplex rounded out the podium with a 3rd place finish.

March 15 - 17, 2024

Yale MUN-E

Twenty-seven Graded delegates traveled to Brussels, Belgium, to take part in Yale MUN-E. Over three days of intense debate, they addressed complex issues like the Frankfurt Assembly, Transnational Capitalism, Accountability of UN Workers, and Immigration and Passport Policy. Participants also had the opportunity to explore Brussels, touring the European Union headquarters and other culturally and architecturally significant buildings. Two Graded delegates, Skerry L. ‘25 and Isabella T. ‘26, received honorable mention awards!

March 13 - 17, 2024

SAAC Fine Arts

Graded artists traveled to Uruguay to participate in SAAC Fine Arts, where they celebrated the arts through the theme "Mosaic of Expressions." Our students collaborated with peers from SAAC member schools from across South America, diving into collaborative projects and workshops that explored the theme through visual and performing arts. The event also provided a platform for students to showcase a variety of pieces and performances they had created throughout the academic year at their own schools.

March 13 - 17, 2024

HACIA

Sixteen Graded students embarked on a diplomatic mission to Panama to participate in the Harvard Association for Cultivating Inter-American Democracy (HACIA) conference. As delegates representing various OAS (Organization of American States) member countries, they tackled real-world issues.

March 12 - April 12, 2024

IB Visual Arts Senior Exhibition

The Graded community celebrated the incredible talent of our IB Art seniors at the opening reception of their exhibition. Guests were captivated by a diverse range of artwork, from thought-provoking photographs to breathtaking paintings and installations.

March 12, 2024

Shades of Yale A Capella Performance

During an unforgettable afternoon of the arts, Graded was delighted to welcome Shades of Yale, an undergraduate a cappella group from Yale University, founded in celebration of the music of the African Diaspora. Middle school students clapped along to the beat in a lively assembly in the morning, choir students enjoyed an inspiring workshop in the afternoon, and at the end of the school day, the Graded community was treated to a historically and culturally enriching performance.

March 5, 2024

Dr. Wong Visit and Lecture

Upper school biology, chemistry, and psychology students received Dr. David T. Wong, the inventor of Prozac, on campus. Known for his groundbreaking contribution to the field of mental health, Dr. Wong answered our young scientists’ most pressing questions, sharing insight into his academic journey, his experience in the pharmaceutical industry, and the research that paved the way to Prozac’s development.

February 26 - 29, 2024

Classroom Without Walls

During Classroom Without Walls (CWW), students in grades 6-11 ventured beyond their comfort zones while exploring captivating destinations across Brazil, including Bonito, Itatiaia, Petar, Paraty & Mamangua, Lençóis, and Socorro.

From adrenaline-pumping activities like rafting, spelunking, and scuba diving to exploring conservation efforts in Brazil's Mata Atlântica and delving into the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous peoples of Brazil, students embraced learning experiences while strengthening their bonds with classmates and teachers.

February 20 and 22, 2024

Greats and Grands

Greats and Grands returned to Graded this year! Lower school students were bursting with pride as they introduced their cherished guests to their classmates and teachers.

After tours of their classrooms, grandparents and special friends joined students for fun activities, ranging from lively games of Bingo in the cafeteria to obstacle courses in the gym, and storytime under the treehouse in the Lower School Library.

February 9, 2024

Lower School Carnaval Parade

Lower School students, dressed in colorful Carnaval costumes, danced to the beat of Brazilian music at a lively assembly.

February 1 - 2, 2024

Graded Jazz Festival

Upper school musicians delved into the captivating realm of jazz during the 20th Graded Jazz Festival! Guided by some of Brazil's top jazz musicians, students participated in improvisation workshops, master classes, and jam sessions, immersing themselves in invaluable learning experiences. For the festival’s grand finale, the Graded community was treated to performances by the Graded Jazz Band and Choir, alongside the All-Star Clinician Group.

December 12, 2023

Graded Reels Audiovisual Festival

Digital Video, Film 1 & 2, and Advanced Film students showcased their work on the big screen during the Graded Reels Audiovisual Festival, held for the first time in the Haddad Center for the Performing Arts. The short films ignited a range of emotions, from laughter to tears, some even prompted thought-provoking moments of self-reflection. 

Congratulations to the award-winners: “Let Her Go” for Best Digital Video, “Sisters of Salvation” for Best Cinematography and Best Art Direction, “Running Through My Mind” for Best Story, “Delete” for Best Editing, and Gabriela A. for Best Actor. A special shout-out to the Advanced Film students, whose creation, "Lethal Blush," left the audience impressed.

December 8 and 13, 2023

Lower School Holiday Concerts

Lower school parents were treated to a delightful morning filled with festive melodies at the much-anticipated Holiday Concerts. Students enchanted the audience with the season’s catchiest tunes, including an adaptation of a popular Taylor Swift song.

December 7-8, 2023

Middle School Production: The Witch, the Lion, and the Wardrobe

Middle school actors led a captivated audience through the wardrobe on a magical journey to a winter wonderland. The middle school production brought the C.S. Lewis classic to life through intricate set design and heartfelt performances.

December 7, 2023

Visiting Author Series: Hannah Lindoff

First- and second-graders were delighted to host author Hannah Lindoff as part of Graded’s Visiting Author Series, sponsored by the Graded Annual Fund. Hailing from Alaska, Ms. Lindoff introduced students to her homeland— from its mountains and wildlife to the intricacies of fishing life. Ms. Lindoff's authentic narratives offered a glimpse into how different communities get their food. At the end of the session, students had the opportunity to engage with the author and ask questions.

December 6, 2023

Dinner with Strangers

With over 1500 parents at Graded, it may be impossible to get to know everyone. However, the Dinner with Strangers event provided a unique opportunity to meet a few more. On December 6, 18 Graded families graciously opened their homes to fellow community members to cultivate new friendships around their tables. Each dinner carried an element of intrigue, as the identity of each host and their guests remained a mystery to participants until they arrived for the meal. The anticipation and surprise heightened the experience, making the night truly memorable.

December 6, 2023

Superintendent Speaker Series - The Science of Learning: A Look into Practice and Research

Superintendent Richard Boerner, Deeper Learning Coordinators Andrew Hossack and Karli Lomax, and High School Social Studies Teacher Adam Pierce met with parents to discuss the principles of deeper learning. As part of the Superintendent Speaker Series, the sessions demystified the science of learning, providing parents with a unique opportunity to experience what happens inside the Graded classroom.

December 3-4, 2023

AASB Final Four

Graded Varsity athletes wrapped up their season triumphantly at the AASB Final Four tournament, proudly securing a collection of medals and trophies. Both Boys and Girls Basketball teams earned bronze medals, the Boys Soccer team won silver, and the Girls Soccer team brought home the gold.

December 1-8, 2023

Upper School Visual Arts Exhibition

Ceramics, collages, Photographs, and other vibrant artistic masterpieces were on display at the Lemann-Tully Arts Center for the Upper School Visual Arts Exhibition. Students and parents enjoyed a special reception for the opening night of the colorful event.

December 1-2, 2023

Graded STEM-A-THON

Middle school students from Graded, St. Francis College, and St. Nicholas came together for an immersive journey into the realm of technology. A choose-your-path adventure, STEM-A-THON provided participants with many opportunities to engage in STEM activities, from competitive robotics to the world of Esports. The event was complete with hands-on workshops that explored STEM's boundless possibilities, including augmented reality, coding, computer assembly, digital music, and drone racing!

November 30 - December 3, 2023

SAAC Swimming 

Graded was thrilled to welcome athletes from The American School of Quito, Colegio Franklin Delano Roosevelt, The International School Nido de Aguilas, The International School of Curitiba, Uruguayan American School, and Lincoln School for this year's SAAC Swimming. Our Boys Swimming and Boys and Girls Combined Swimming teams both won bronze medals. In addition, individual Graded athletes won an array of medals.

November 30 - December 3, 2023

SAAC Volleyball and Cross Country

SAAC Volleyball and Cross Country were in full swing at the International School of Curitiba! The Boys Cross Country team brought back silver medals while the Girls clinched bronze. Congratulations also go to the Boys Volleyball team, who won the bronze medal, and Girls Volleyball, who placed fourth.

November 29, 2023

Graded Alumni Wine & Cheese

Alumni ranging from the class of 1954 to the class of 2023 reunited at Graded's campus for an unforgettable evening of nostalgia, laughter, and connection.

November 28, 2023

Gradedpaloozinha

The Haddad Center for the Performing Arts was filled with cheerful melodies during the Gradedpaloozinha music festival! Middle school musicians in the beginner band, choir, and orchestra delivered enchanting performances – some containing fun surprises. In the spirit of collaboration, students and parents were also treated to a special piece performed by our four dedicated music teachers.

November 16-19, 2023

ISTA Festival 

A group of aspiring middle school actors traveled all the way to Colombia to participate in the International School Theatre Association (ISTA) Bogotá Upper MS/Lower HS Festival. Graded eagles joined students from the Anglo Colombiano School Bogotá and the International School of Havana to explore the theme “tuning into our community and what our community needs” through theater. This experience taught students to be global learners, fostering confidence, international-mindedness, and creative collaboration.

November 16, 2023

PTA Speaker Series: Safe Technology in Childhood and Adolescence 

How much screen time should a five-year-old be allowed? What’s the right age to give a teenager a cell phone? These were some of the pressing questions answered at the PTA Speaker Series: Safe Technology in Childhood and Adolescence. Dr. Florencia Fuks, a pediatrician, emphasized the importance of supervised screen time, suggesting that children aged 2-5 should have up to one hour per day, balanced with activities like imaginative play and outdoor time. Attorney Alessandra Borelli discussed the legal implications of digital access for children and parents, emphasizing open conversations about online activities. Both speakers highlighted the challenges of setting boundaries and stressed their significance for children's safety and real-life experiences.

November 15-19, 2023

SAAC Soccer 

Our varsity soccer athletes traveled all the way to Chile to compete in the SAAC soccer tournament hosted by the International School Nido de Aguilas. The boys secured third place by defeating UAS in penalties, while the girls clinched second place without conceding a single goal throughout the competition. In addition, six Graded athletes received sportsmanship awards for their outstanding performance. Congratulations, Eagles!

November 12-18, 2023

AASB Little 10 JV Soccer, Basketball, and Cheer 

Graded JV athletes had a blast at the AASB Little 10 tournament at NR! The Girls Basketball team demonstrated resilience and determination, finishing the tournament in 8th place. Both the Boys Basketball and the Girls Soccer teams finished the competition in 6th place. The cheer squad secured a remarkable second place, and the Boys Soccer team emerged victorious, bringing home the gold after a thrilling penalty shootout against EARJ in the final. Graded athletes also brought home many sportsmanship awards!

November 11, 2023

PTA Thanksgiving 

Members of the Graded community gathered on campus on a sunny Saturday for the Graded Thanksgiving. From the invigorating Turkey Trot to kick off the celebration to the delicious traditional feast, festive activities, and music, there was something for everyone to be grateful for at this annual tradition. A special thanks to the PTA for making it all possible!

November 9-10, 2023

High School Production: Antony and Cleopatra 

The Black Box Theater was transformed into ancient Egypt and Rome to tell the story of Antony and Cleopatra. A captivated audience watched in awe as talented high school actors eloquently performed the Shakespearean tragedy.

October 31, 2023

Jane Goodall Visit 

The Halloween Parade was not the only exciting event happening at Graded on October 31! We were honored to receive the world-renowned anthropologist, primatologist, and conservationist Jane Goodall. Jane shared her remarkable journey with middle and high school students, discussing her path to becoming the "world's foremost expert on chimpanzees" and climate activist, including the challenge she faced as a woman who began in the field in 1960 without a college degree. Jane finished her talk with a message of hope, emphasizing that we can still work together to protect our planet and that every one of us can do something in our lives to contribute to a healthier climate.

October 31, 2023

Halloween Parade 

Graded students, faculty, and staff went all out with their costumes this year, transforming into adventurous pirates, graceful princesses, colorful M&M’s, courageous superheroes, and much more! Laughter and excitement filled the air as community members embraced the Halloween spirit with the much-anticipated parade.

October 2- November 4, 2023

AASB Big 8 Varsity Soccer, Basketball, and Cheer 

Graded Varsity athletes demonstrated exemplary teamwork during the AASB Big 8 tournament at NR. Boys and Girls Basketball teams both clinched silver medals, both Boys and Girls Soccer teams brought home the gold, and our cheerleaders placed 6th. At the end of a week of hard work, Graded athletes were recognized for their outstanding performance with individual sportsmanship awards.

October 28, 2023

Gradedpalooza 

The Graded community was treated to the enchanting melodies of the Gradedpalooza music festival. Talented students in the Jazz Band, Junior and Senior Bands, Junior and Senior Orchestras, and the Junior, Senior, and Varsity Choirs all took the stage and delivered unforgettable musical experiences around campus featuring beloved classics and fun contemporary pieces.

October 16-20, 2023

Teacher Appreciation Week 

Teacher Appreciation Week was a whirlwind adventure thanks to our incredible Parent Teacher Association! They transformed into travel agents, whisking our teachers away on unforgettable journeys from the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo and iconic New York City. 

September 28, 2023

Superintendent Speaker Series: Map Tests 

Director of Student Growth David Trajtenberg met with parents in the newly renovated Haddad Center for the Performing Arts to share information on understanding MAP test reports. Families enjoyed a welcome breakfast before delving into an overview of the MAP testing process and learning key insights on interpreting their child(ren)’s results.

September 18, 2023

The Haddad Center for the Performing Arts Inauguration 

On September 18, we inaugurated the Haddad Center for the Performing Arts. This newly-renovated building offers increased seating capacity, a mezzanine floor, redesigned stage sight lines, state-of-the-art acoustic engineering, multipurpose stage lighting, cutting-edge audiovisual technology, and central air-conditioning. Thank you to lead donors Claudio and Rosalie Haddad and all members of the Graded community who helped make this dream a reality.

September 14, 2023

Faculty & Staff Art Show Opening 

Inspired by seeing their own work displayed at the IB Visual Arts Junior Exhibition last year, seniors Maria N. and Rose T. wondered who else at Graded was an artist. To answer this question, the girls called for all faculty and staff to submit their best pieces. “After Hours,” an art show designed to showcase artwork created by Graded’s faculty and staff, is the wonderful result of these passionate student’s efforts to highlight the unseen artists of our community. A captivated audience explored the mesmerizing artwork curated by Maria and Rose during the show’s opening reception on September 14. 

September 6, 2023

Brazilian Independence Day Celebrations 

On September 6, the Graded campus was filled with green, yellow, and blue in honor of Brazilian Independence Day. Organized by the Graded PTA, this year’s festivities celebrated Brazil’s multiculturalism. Throughout the day, students delved into Brazilian history and enjoyed typical Brazilian snacks as well as treats from nations that contributed to Brazil’s rich heritage, including pastel de nata from Portugal and mochi from Japan. 

August 7, 2023

Dona Emília Cafeteria Inauguration 

The Graded campus was filled with the smiling faces of new and returning students eager to begin a new school year. But what they were most excited about this time was lunch, as they would enjoy it, for the very first time, in the Dona Emília Cafeteria. The newly renovated cafeteria honors Emília Suzuki, our former cafeteria manager, who dedicated 45 years to Graded. Parents enjoyed treats and refreshments as they explored the beautiful space in the morning, and by noon, students’ faces lit up as they sat down to enjoy their first meal of the semester.