On April 13 and 14, Pan American - The International School of Porto Alegre welcomed Rosalind Wiseman, an American educator and author internationally recognized for her work on children, parenting, and social dynamics. Across two days, Wiseman engaged with students, families, and staff in sessions exploring peer culture, communication, and the challenges young people face today.

Wiseman introduced the concept of the "mentor mindset," an approach that combines high expectations with high support. She emphasized the importance of genuine listening in building trust between adults and young people.

"My definition of listening is being prepared to be changed based on what you hear," Wiseman shared.

In a workshop with Grade 7 and 8 students, Wiseman invited participants to reflect on social dynamics and everyday interactions with peers. "The session helped me see that almost everyone goes through the same things, that we are normal," shared a student.

The parent conversation brought together Pan American families alongside representatives from the municipal and state education secretaries and the Private School Union. "The talk made me reflect on how small actions can impact others, especially regarding bullying and social media use," shared Ms. Patricia G., PAC President.

Faculty sessions offered educators practical strategies for supporting students' social and emotional development, with emphasis on connecting with the context of students' lives beyond the academic curriculum.

"At Pan American, we understand education as something that is continuously shaped through relationships among students, educators, families, and the communities they are part of. That is why moments like this matter. They invite us to pause, reflect, and deepen our understanding of the social dynamics that shape our students', and all of our, experiences every day," shares the Superintendent, Ms. Shaysann Kaun.