History
The Future of AOSR
AOSR's History Wall
October 16, 1947, OSR is born
When news came that U.S. military troops were being relocated to Trieste, three American mothers—Sylvia Horwitz, Marian Nadzo, and Estelle Stern—took action. Their children had been attending the U.S. military school in Rome, and with its closure, they saw an urgent need for a new educational option. Together, they founded what would become the Overseas School of Rome.
Their vision was clear from the start: an international, non-denominational school that combined the strengths of both the American and British systems. As the idea gained momentum, more people joined the effort. With strong support from the community, they brought on both the American and British Ambassadors as patrons and secured the palazzetto of Villa Torlonia on Via Nomentana—thanks to the Torlonia family—as the school’s first home.
The school officially opened its doors on October 16, 1947, with just 60 students—and a mission that still lives on today.
OSR Relocates to Via Cassia
In 1951, the school met the demands of a rising enrollment by moving to its current Via Cassia location, and from there, continued to grow. The United States government expressed its recognition of the school's quality educational program and therefore gave a grant to the school.
The new elementary school was constructed, additional high school classrooms were completed, and the gymnasium was built.
OSR Begins Offering Advanced Placement Courses
In the 1960s, OSR became the first school in Rome to offer the AP Program. To this day, AOSR offers Advanced Placement courses to high school students. Currently AOSR students have a choice of over 20+ extensive AP courses. More than 50% of high school students take an AP and IB class at AOSR.
Elementary School Extension is Built and the Hillside Theatre is added
In 1965, the elementary school extension was completed, as well as the leveling of the field. The Hillside Theater was added in the early 1970s, and the school took on its present day appearance.
OSR Becomes AOSR
During the 1970s, the Overseas School of Rome (OSR), officially changed its name to the American Overseas School of Rome (AOSR), and after 50 years, still retains this name. Many alumni who attended AOSR in the 1970s still refer to the school as the Overseas School of Rome, keeping the history alive.
AOSR is Recognized as an IB World School
In 1989, AOSR officially became recognized as an IB World School, offering the IB International Baccalaureate Programme to high school students. The program continues to offer a well-rounded, academic curriculum for our students, with over 20 IB classes available to Grade 11 and 12 students. The IB program is recognized internationally in over 150 countries worldwide.
AOSR is Accredited by MSA
In 1995, AOSR gained official accreditation from the Middle States Association (MSA). In the spring of 2018, AOSR successfully completed the reaccreditation process.
AOSR Celebrates 70 Years of History!
In April of 2018, AOSR celebrated 70 years of amazing history. Over 300 alumni from around the world came to celebrate AOSR’s birthday together with faculty, staff, and current AOSR families. Shortly after, thanks to many generous donations from alumni and community members, the Design Lab was constructed. In 2023, AOSR will celebrate 75 years.
AOSR CELEBRATES 75 YEARS of academic excellece
On October 15, 2022, the American Overseas School of Rome (AOSR) celebrated its 75th anniversary of academic excellence. Since its founding in 1947, AOSR has been a leader in providing a world-class American-International education in Rome, welcoming families from over 50 countries. As the first school in Italy to offer a comprehensive Advanced Placement program and among the earliest adopters of the International Baccalaureate program, AOSR is committed to preparing students for success in higher education and beyond.
The event celebrated the school's rich history and dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment that inspires students to meet the demands of a changing world. Guests enjoyed performances, speeches, and tours of the plans for the new Performance Center and Middle School Commons, as well as a glimpse into the plans for the beautifully renovated historical villa. AOSR's legacy of innovation and excellence continues to thrive, shaping future generations of leaders and thinkers.
