This week we are sharing an interview with one of the AAS parents - Courtney Sebold, who volunteered in the AAS Library. Volunteering for the school community offers a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact and is a fulfilling way to contribute, build relationships, and enhance the school experience, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Tell us more about yourself – where are you from, when did you come to AAS, how many kids do you have here?
I grew up in the United States and have lived in many different states, including New York, Texas, California, Ohio, and more! My two children started attending AAS in 2021.

What do you like most about the school?
That’s a tough question — there’s so much to love about AAS! From the dedicated teachers and supportive community to the international environment-it’s been a wonderful place for our family.

What inspired you to start volunteering at the school library?
I was looking for a way to become more involved with the school beyond just my children’s classrooms. I wanted to engage with students from all across the school and contribute in a meaningful way. I love to read, so volunteering in the library felt like a perfect fit!

How does the library reflect the diversity and international nature of the school community?
The diversity of AAS is clearly reflected in the library’s collection. While most of the books are in English, there are also titles in Bulgarian, French, Spanish, and other languages. More importantly, the content of the collection spans a wide range of cultures, voices, and experiences, which mirrors the international spirit of the school.

Can you describe a typical day when you're volunteering in the library?
Every day is a little different! Most often, I help students check books in and out and reshelve returned books so others can find and enjoy them. I also assist students in finding books that match their interests and reading levels. If there are no classes scheduled in the library, I might help with organizing or reconfiguring different sections to make the space more inviting. Ms. Morris, our head librarian, is always working to make the library more engaging for students — sometimes that even means moving furniture! I enjoy being part of that process.

What do you enjoy most about working in the library environment?
Volunteering in the library is a great way to connect with people across the whole school — from kindergarteners to high schoolers, and from admin staff to teachers. It’s helped me feel like a real part of the AAS community. But the best part, hands down, is when I can help a student find just the right book. Seeing a child light up as they dive into a new story is incredibly rewarding!

What advice would you give to other parents considering volunteering at the school?
Find a volunteer opportunity that matches your interests and personality! For me, the library was a natural fit, but there are so many other great ways to get involved. The PTO is always looking for volunteers. I’ve also known parents who’ve spoken at high school career day, coached CEESA teams, or even served on the Board of Directors. Whatever your passion, there’s likely a way to share it with the AAS community.

How do you see your role supporting students’ learning or reading habits?
The library plays an essential role in supporting AAS students — it fosters a love of reading, provides space for studying and collaboration, and offers guidance on research and information literacy. There’s even a class, Friday Features, that meets in the library! By volunteering, I get to support all of this in a small but meaningful way, and contribute to students' broader learning journeys.

What challenges have you encountered while volunteering, and how have you addressed them?
Occasionally, it can be tricky to help students find a book they’re excited about, especially if they’re unsure of what they like. I’ve relied on the librarians, who are incredibly skilled at helping students discover books that truly resonate with them.

Please recommend three books that AAS students would enjoy reading.
That’s a tough one — every student has different tastes! Some prefer fiction, others love nonfiction. Some enjoy fantasy and science fiction, while others gravitate toward humor or realistic stories. While I have my personal favorites, I think the real magic lies in matching each student with a book that suits them. That’s why the role of our librarians is so important — they get to know the students and help connect them with the right books at the right time.