History

AISB's Beginnings
Starting an American school in 1962 in Communist Romania was an act of great daring and courage, carried out in an unfavorable, even hostile political environment. Relations between Romania and the United States were 'fragile'; consequently, the U.S. diplomatic mission in Romania held only the rank of Legation and contained a limited number of diplomats. The founding of the school was the initiative of the then American Ambassador and his wife, Bill and Barbara Crawford, and a group of dedicated American diplomatic parents.

AISB officially opened in September 1962 with two teachers and six children. The new school was equipped with American textbooks donated by families. Desks, blackboards, and other supplies were purchased in Frankfurt and brought to Romania on U.S. military planes. Despite the scarce materials and inherent hardships, there was a deep commitment to make the first year a success and to ensure a future for the new school.

From the beginning, academic results proved most gratifying, and parent-student morale was high. The Cuban Missile Crisis was the school's first big challenge outside of teaching. Instigated by the regime and infiltrated by security agents, mob protests against the Legation led to violence on the streets. Security for the students became the most pressing concern and students were not allowed out on the playground for almost one month. The school weathered this event and over the next three years enrollment continued to grow as we began to admit children from other foreign missions.


Dramatic Changes at AISB
The school triumphed over other dramatic events, from the earthquake of 1975 to the 'deep freeze' shortage of heating gas in 1983-84. The last and most threatening challenge was the Romanian Revolution in December 1989. The "hot spot" during the Revolution was directly behind AISB's campus fence - the headquarters of Romania's national television station. The military occupied the school during the Revolution and would not let any personnel near the building.

The school was left riddled with bullet holes, shattered windowpanes, and fallen plaster and was entirely unsafe to re-open. By the end of January 1990, however, classes were resumed by relocating in three different locations throughout the city. As in the past, the international community rallied to keep the educational program going and this spirit of community continues to be a driving force of AISB.

Over the years, as Romania has opened its doors to more foreign investment and has become a member of the European Union. The student population has continued to increase dramatically. AISB's new, purpose-built campus was opened in 2002 and continues to meet the needs of our community today.