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Institut Montana

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Institut Montana - My Place to Grow

  1. 1. Please mention about the school and its mission/vision and various infrastructural facilities.

    Institut Montana opened its doors to six students on May 3rd, 1926. It would grow into a much-loved Swiss international boarding school.  

    There are around 330 students aged 6 to 19 from more than 45 countries across our boarding school and day school. It is a supportive environment where we treat each other with fairness and mutual respect. 

    We have outstanding staff from all over the world and an average class size of around ten students. Teachers who are passionate about their subjects, caring house-parents, counsellors and mentors who support you through life’s challenges, people who keep our school clean, maintain it and prepare our nutritious food – everyone is part of the Montana Family. You are surrounded by companions who are sharing your journey. Some will be friends for life.

    We have built on our past. Modern advances in knowledge about learning have shown that educationalists like Pestalozzi were right. Intellectual development is best achieved by attending to each student holistically and as an individual; it all comes together to nourish your mental, emotional and physical health.   

    We look to the future. The world for which we are educating today’s young people will be very different by the time you graduate. We cannot predict what career opportunities await you, but we can prepare you for a changing world.  

    Our students will be clear thinkers, problem solvers and able to apply their thinking skills across a wide range of applications. They will be creative lovers of art, music, theatre and film, from the most classical to the most experimental. They will have a sound grounding in scientific method and use of technology. They will understand and appreciate cultural complexity and be able to make a good case for their beliefs. They will be equipped with a moral compass to act as a guide through the ethical questions of tomorrow.  They will be generous of spirit. And you can be one of them.

    2. Kindly mention about the prominent personality of the school and his/her role in the development of the school.

    The founder of Institut Montana, Dr Max Husmann, was ambitious. He dreamed of an international boarding school which would teach young people how to build a peaceful world.

    Dr Husmann’s core idea was simple. If young people of many nationalities went to school together, learning to respect different cultural backgrounds, and if they were taught to think clearly, they would grow to be tolerant and fair-minded. War would be history.

    He had a clear vision for his international boarding school. It would have natural surroundings and fresh air; it would be a sanctuary and an inspiration. Following the ideas of Swiss educationalist Johann Pestalozzi, it would see each student as a whole person and an individual. It would use the best of modern technology and teaching methods; it would be a caring community. With intelligence, ethics and compassion, these students would help towards the harmony that might, one day, achieve world peace.

    Dr Husmann’s ambition to strive for peace was put into action when, in 1945, he helped organise and mediate Operation Sunrise, the secret negotiations that brought the surrender of the German army in Italy and the end of World War II. Then, in 1947, the highly respected graphic artist Hans Tomamichel designed the emblem, with its eloquent representation of healthy growth towards a peaceful world, that we still use today.

    3. Kindly describe about the various courses offered by the school and their salient features.

    We offer a choice of academic paths, depending on whether your longer-term ambition is to graduate with the Swiss Matura or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. 

    Swiss Pathway

    Our Swiss programmes, in accordance with the decentralised Swiss education system, are based on the framework provided by the Canton of Zug. We adapt them to the context of our school and offer an international approach that includes bilingual (English and German) tracks. 

    Our Bilingual Elementary School is for children from age 6. The classroom is bilingual, German and English. Learning a second language at a young age helps cognitive development as well as encouraging understanding in how our world is made up of many different cultures.  

    At age 12, you can choose between our Swiss Secondary or High School sections, or our international section. 

    The Bilingual Secondary School follows the newly formulated Swiss school system curriculum, Lehrplan 21. It is designed to keep your options open as your ambitions develop, with the help of personalised academic and linguistic support. From here, you might continue to our Swiss high school, our international high school or work for a secondary school degree to attend a vocational, commercial or upper-secondary specialised college. 

    Our Swiss High School accepts international as well as Swiss students. They must have good English and some German; the required level can be reached by studying first at the Bilingual Secondary School. The bilingual track offers extra courses in English as well as the possibility to earn an IB English Certificate to support university applications. Your studies will be rewarded by the Swiss Matura. It opens doors to all Swiss universities as well as higher education opportunities around the world. The path towards the Matura you will follow with us is special. It is taught in an international community where you will grow into a global citizen with a prestigious Swiss education. 

    International Pathway

    At our International School your goal is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, highly respected by the world’s leading universities. The IB teaches students how to live well in a multicultural world and to become clear thinkers with a humanitarian outlook. The early grades, starting from grade 6, follow the Cambridge international programme, a strong foundation for a truly international education. 

    Whatever your ambitions, we will help you achieve them.

    4. Please mention what steps are you taking beyond the traditional curriculum to ensure overall development of the students?

    We have a variety of extracurricular activities, where every child will be able to find something, depending on what interests them. Those, who are into sports will take advantage of our splendid location on a mountain and can try running, mountain-biking, skiing, swimming, rowing, playing football and tennis in one of our tennis courts. The kids, who want to express their creative side, will profit from such activites as our school theatre, choir, art, cookery club, textile design and chess.  We also prepare the future leaders with such activities as our Model United Nations club, entrepreneurship, science and technology.

    We have a student council, which meets weekly to discuss school affairs and gets to meet the director once per month.

    5. What steps does the school take to motivate and develop the students’ interest towards education?

    Our personalised approach puts our students at the centre of everything we do, This means we see all our students as individuals with their own talents. We find their strengths and nurture them.  

    It means that we see education holistically in the belief that overall well-being enhances academic progress. So, your health and your happiness are of the utmost importance to us. 

    Below are practical ways we achieve this –

    ·         Small Class Sizes 

    ·         Individual Academic Support 

    ·         Dedicated Class Advisors 

    ·         Supervised Study Time 

    ·         Language Support 

    ·         College Counselling 

    ·         Rewarding Effort 

    6. What are the career opportunities available to the students after completion of their courses?

    Successful completion of our Bilingual Secondary School opens up three possibilities, continuing to study in the Swiss High School, in our International School or , you can use a Secondary School Degree based on the Lehrplan 21 to gain entry to a vocational training programme, commercial or upper-secondary specialised school, after grade 9. A bilingual education will help towards many different career paths. Successful completion of the Swiss High School will be awarded by the Swiss Matura. It opens doors to all Swiss universities as well as higher education opportunities around the world. Our International School opens up two possibilities – either The International Baccalaureate Diploma or a High School Diploma. The International Baccalaureate Diploma is an internationally recognised passport to the world’s top universities. Graduation with a High School Diploma keeps options open for students with diverse paths and academic goals, maybe working towards entrance to US universities or towards vocational training.

    7. Please enlighten us about the school’s major awards/achievements, its accomplished/renowned alumni, remarkable collaborations, and major accreditations.

    From scientists to politicians, artists to adventurers, our alumni are a lively group of passionate people who share educational values. They stay connected for life.

     With over 7000 members, some of our notable alumni include: John F. Kerry, 2004 US Presidential Nominee and 2013-2017 Secretary of State; Nicolas Hayek Jr., CEO of the Swatch Group; Pierre Mirabaud, former President of the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA); Willem P.C. Stemmer, Dutch scientist and inventor of biotechnologies, including pioneering contributions to directed evolution that won him the Charles Stark Draper Prize in 2011; Marc Forster, filmmaker known for directing feature movies such as James Bond: Quantum of Solace, Finding Neverland and many more.

    As a Swiss International Boarding school, we are accredited by the most important organisations who award their recognition to schools that meet the highest standards. We are an accredited member of the Council of International Schools, member of the International Baccalaureate Organisation and an accredited IB World School since 1987, accredited Cambridge International Examinations Centre. Our Bilingual Elementary School, Secondary School and Swiss High School are recognised by the Canton of Zug.

    8. Kindly elaborate about the future plans of the school in the same.

    In 2026, Institut Montana will be 100 years old, a milestone to celebrate. It is also a catalyst that inspires our plans for the future of our school. Our centenary will cement our position as one of the most respected Swiss international boarding schools in Switzerland.

    We cannot predict where technology will take employment prospects, but we can prepare students, help them develop attributes and strengths that will enable them to succeed intellectually and emotionally. The plans that will take us to our centenary and beyond are shaped by this ambition.

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College Champittet

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Collège Champittet - The Swiss School Open to the World

Collège Champittet, is a private day and boarding school in Switzerland, on the edge of Lake Geneva – close to the centre of Lausanne and the Olympic Museum.  Founded in 1903, we are known as The Swiss School Open to the World and we have provided an outstanding education to both local and international students for over 117 years. We welcome day students as of 3 y.o. and we have a dynamic and vibrant boarding community, which caters for up to 80 girls and boys, aged 11 to 18.

Three diploma programmes are available at Collège Champittet:

– International Baccalaureate (IB), taught in English

– Bilingual Swiss Maturité

– French Baccalaureate

Students who would like to improve their French can take our intensive French immersion course – the FLE programme (French Foreign Language); students who need support in English, can benefit from the EAL programme (English as an Additional Language).

We strive to strike the perfect balance between formal education, sports, culture and leisure.  Various extra-curricular activities are offered after class and local and overseas excursions are planned during the year, with students’ interests in mind.

Each summer, during July and August, we offer the Champittet Summer Leadership Course: a residential course, for 11 to 16-year-olds.  The course was designed in collaboration with the renowned Swiss Leadership Academy and focuses on helping students develop the communication, organisational and teamwork skills that make for great leaders. English is the language of instruction for the Champittet Summer Leadership Course.

At Collège Champittet we work every day to inspire our students to be the best they can be and we are ambitious for all of them to achieve more than they thought possible in their personal, social and academic endeavors. This aspiration is underpinned by a commitment to always act with courage, ambition, integrity, respect and openness.

It is with our eyes turned towards the future that, together, teachers and staff pledge to give Collège Champittet the full measure of its particular spirit. We want to further reinforce academic excellence, and also build up confidence: confidence in our own capacities, as well as trust among our community.

Courses Offered

Collège Champittet welcomes students from preschool to 14th grade and teaches three specific diploma programmes: the Swiss Maturity, the French Baccalaureate and the International Baccalaureate.

Whichever of these programmes students decide to follow, our private high school experience is designed to prepare them to apply to some of the best universities in Switzerland and worldwide. Our Swiss private school supports them every step of the way as they solidify the skills and knowledge they will need to achieve their goals.

Our approach to teaching enables students both to learn, and to understand how they learn. It helps them develop into inquisitive and highly skilled lifelong learners. They develop the teamwork and leadership skills they’ll need to succeed in all their future endeavours.

Our French-English bilingual programme is also available in secondary school and becomes optional from the 9th grade. There are also two levels of German language teaching: standard and advanced.

Ideal Address for Education

We provide opportunities for students to build their skills, broaden their interests and participate in interactive team activities on an international and a local level. Our school offers a variety of extracurricular activities such as athletic programmes, arts, music, dance, skiing, languages and many others. Though these extracurricular activities, students bring their classroom learning to life and become connected to the larger community. Extracurricular activities provide a physical, social and mental outlet. They teach students to engage in active learning both inside and outside of the classroom. In addition to after-school clubs, Collège Champittet hosts frequent outings that complement what students learn in class.

Our students benefit from collaborations with world leading organisations, such as: The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), who worked with us to co-develop our multidisciplinary STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Maths) program; The Juilliard School for the Performing Arts, with whom we developed our world-class performing arts program for our younger students; and UNICEF, with whom we work so that our children can use their knowledge to help tackle important, real-world issues. Finally, Nord Anglia’s bespoke Global Campus offers our older students the uniquely valuable opportunity to collaborate online and around the world with their peers from the other Nord Anglia schools across the globe.

We are running three terrific new programs available to all our boarding students:

  • A proven leadership training program to build positive leadership skills for the 21st century
  • In collaboration with the Lausanne Hotel Management School, our students will learn good manners and etiquette needed to function gracefully in any type of society
  • The health & wellbeing of our students will be optimized thanks to our new program which includes personalized coaching

We educate the whole child – we want our students to achieve outstanding academic results but also to become confident, principled, respectful and open-minded young people who are ambitious for their future and who will make a difference in the world. Thus we enrich learning and encourage social responsibility through one of a kind opportunities, such as our humanitarian expeditions to Madagascar, Cambodia and Thailand as part of the Collège Champittet Foundation.

Beyond Traditional Curriculum

Our educational methodology equips students to harness their resources and find their own solutions. We also offer comprehensive tutoring programmes to assist students who need additional one-on-one attention. By the time they graduate, Champittet students will demonstrate technical competence and academic success.

Students learn best when they believe they can succeed. Collège Champittet faculty and staff employ a positive discipline mindset to encourage self-sufficient learners. Positive discipline is based on encouragement and helps teachers and staff members build a healthy, balanced relationship with students. We collaborate with our students and work together to find solutions, rather than using negative forms of discipline.

This collaborative approach helps students discover their skills and develop a sense of confidence and belonging. As they grow, this positive discipline shapes them into independent adults who are engaged within their communities.

Our students rise to the challenge. They’re innovators, problem-solvers and enthusiastic learners. For every student, it’s important to establish healthy study habits and encourage an optimistic attitude. Through learning support and after-school tutoring, Champittet helps promote student success in all endeavours.

Our programme is designed to provide one-on-one attention for students outside of class. Students are encouraged to have a vision beyond their assignments and grades by setting goals and identifying why they are attending school. After-school tutoring also encourages good time management skills and helps students set concrete goals for each day, week and month. Students have the opportunity to receive individualised support, ask questions and focus on their strengths and weaknesses.

An Environment Empowering Holistic Growth

At Champittet we have a dedicated Careers Counselling and Guidance Service, which supports all students from Class 9 to 14 with the decisions that they make regarding their secondary private education, examinations, preparing for university and career choices. A range of questionnaires and discussions are organised to help our students start to make decisions about their future. By understanding their likes and dislikes, talents, abilities and interests, we can work with them to understand which subjects and interests they should pursue and how best to do this.

Every year we organise university fairs to help our students choose the destination and their degree. We also have the Career Fair with our alumni who are now working in different organizations and companies in Switzerland such as the Red Cross, Edwards Lifesciences, Nestle, IUCN and others. We invite professionals in different fields such as doctors, dentists, lawyers, HR professionals, entrepreneurs, musicians, producers, journalists to presents to our students and inside of their profession and which path to take to reach it.

Our counsellor helps students with their applications to these different universities and destinations-  advising them on their application letters and essays, answering queries from universities on behalf of students, she also communicates with different university admissions officers all over the world and keeps them updated on student progress and on other matters pertaining to our students applications. 

We maintain excellent contacts with some of the world’s leading universities to help us give our students the best opportunities in life. We are proud that our students enter top universities in the world including EPHL (Switzerland), Bocconi (Italy), University of Toronto (Canada), UCL (UK), Kings College (UK), McGill (Canada), UNIL (Switzerland), EHL (Switzerland) and many others.

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The 10 Best Schools in Cambodia 2020

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The 10 Best Schools in Costa Rica 2020

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St. Jude School

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St. Jude School - The international school that encourages amazing learning through educating both mind and heart!

St. Jude School has been supporting society with quality professionals with a clear social commitment, for nearly 60 years through a high quality, fully authorised international education, culminating in the International Baccalaureate’s Diploma Program (IB DP), the premier of high school qualifications. As a UNESCO partner school, our priority is to educate students who respect individual differences, different beliefs, and different cultures, but who have a special respect for national identity and the dignity of people. The wide ranging and rigorous program, with its focus on high expectations, thinking critically, effort and 21st century skills, prepares students to enter university successfully, no matter where in the world they wish to go.

St Jude School is well-known for the ability, commitment and care of its teaching and administration staff, which ensures that students are individually known and supported. The staff look for ways to identify the talents of our students to guide them in the fulfillment of their goals and dreams.

Outside of the classroom, St Jude School offers your children a wide range of opportunities through its extensive cocurricular program, which includes support for the major Catholic sacraments of First Communion and Catechism, after school activities, music, sport, community service, Model United Nations and student leadership; all of which help build a well-balanced confident student with an array of professional and personal skills. 

Mission and Vision

Mission: St. Jude School is a well-established, active, multicultural and inclusive educational community that promotes universal and Christian values within a culture of peace.  It forms citizens who are virtuous, happy, creative, respectful towards the environment, critical, knowledgeable about global realities, and who lead their learning process with the skills to impact their environment and positively leaving a distinctive legacy that lasts for generations.

Vision: To be the country’s best educational institution with international impact; known for its continuous innovation and excellence in forming students who will make a positive change in their environment. 

We are an outstanding PK- 11 international school. Our facilities include chemistry and physics labs, a fabrication lab (unique in a school environment), dance, music, drama and visual arts rooms, an amazing library with a media center, a one of a kind gymnasium that also can be adapted as a large auditorium. Our rooms are designed to fulfill all student needs and work in different ways, both through collaboration and for individual work.

We have a soccer field and two artificial fields. Preschool has music, arts and technology rooms. The playground is unique as it integrates students’ play with nature. Our collaborative learning corridors help us towards having different spaces for fun and amazing learning as well as individual support.

From the Leader’s Desk

Our school culture is based on a ‘family’ concept. We call it ‘The St Jude Family’ and we try to make everybody feel like an important member of it. You can see this reflected on the way teachers and other staff members work together and the set of beliefs, values, and assumptions they share, also between parents, staff and students. There is a positive school climate and the school culture promote students’ ability to learn.

We are an IB Diploma School offering an IB foundation year where we prepare students for the skills needed to face a challenging and rigorous program. We recently became members of the Fieldwork Education programs for early, elementary and middle school years.

The programs all focus on student learning in three areas – subject learning goals, personal student goals and international mindedness goals. Students are able to link and transfer learning between subjects as there is a conceptual big idea that is the center of their learning. We look to create an impact in our local and global communities. Our students have strong values that they apply in their everyday lives. Our students are creative, critical and innovators. We also offer the CASE V Program which supports student Athletes, artists and high academic achievers to continue their education while still focusing on their talent being top achievers in both their activity of choice as their academics. 

Proclaiming Holistic Development

Our learning definition is: “Learning is wondering how the world works, and through amazing experiences, getting better to create a positive impact”.  What we want each student to understand is that “Through learning I become knowledgeable, cultured, empowered, confident and happy”. Student choice is a big part of our school. We want students to find their “element”, that talent that makes them unique and that they feel passion for. Our program focuses on providing attention that will have an impact on each student. Our academic tracking seeks to be a strong support in all areas of student lives. We provide international experiences that result in Amazing Learning for all our students.

Our students become lifelong learners. They enjoy learning through experiences that will make their minds wonder and inquire about the world around them looking to understand and make sense of their findings. Student choice, voice and understanding of their process makes learning fun, significant, powerful and appreciated by all students. They love their school because they love the learning happening every single day.

Exhibiting Academic Excellence

International Baccalaureate Diploma program School, members of IEYC, IPC and IMYC curriculum programs.

Future Ready School

After leaving St. Jude School students will be prepared to face any career of their choice. Student skills and results have been reflected in our students being admitted to some of the top international universities such as Cambridge, IE Business School, Cardiff amongst others. 

Because of our focus on creativity and critical thinking students will be successful in the area of their choice. We have a curriculum that is focused on students gaining the knowledge skills and understanding for any career. Our amazing facilities allow students to explore different areas and with support of our electives and our partnership with US Universities, they have an opportunity to study actual courses from their program of choice.

As an International School Partnership (ISP) school, we aim to continue growing and innovating, both our academics as our infrastructure to fulfill all student needs. We will offer further international opportunities, greater learning choices and opportunities, and even more links with our sister schools all over the world. 

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Costa Rica International Academy

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Costa Rica International Academy - Serving Diverse International Community

Costa Rica International Academy was founded as a private, English-language, co-educational, non-sectarian school. The purposes and standards of the school are comparable to selective U.S. independent and college-preparatory schools.

The School was founded in 2000 in a small facility near Flamingo Beach. In 2002, the School moved to a property with a near-finished building on the road between Huacas and Brasilito, near Reserva Conchal and the current Westin Resort. The building was remodeled, and a covered gym, pool, athletic field, staff housing and a cafeteria were built. 

In 2004, a new high school building with classrooms, science lab, library, computer lab and administrative offices were built. By August of 2007, the school completed a new elementary and early childhood building of 16 classrooms, administrative offices, and a new multifunctional cafeteria/auditorium. Since its founding, CRIA has grown from 40 students to 200+ in 2020.

CRIA is recognized throughout Costa Rica and by international university admissions officers for the academic excellence demanded of its students, its college preparatory program, the depth and range of its academic and co-curricular programs, and the quality and dedication of its faculty. Classes are small, averaging 18 students in the primary and 22 students in the secondary. An experienced faculty drawn from the United States, Costa Rica and other countries is guided by a teaching philosophy that challenges and supports students to be independent learners and thoughtful citizens.

CRIA is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and by the Costa Rican Ministry of Education (MEP). The school offers a U.S. high school diploma and a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. CRIA has an excellent track record of preparing students for top Costa Rican universities. In partnership with the Grand Canyon University dual enrollment program, CRIA juniors and seniors have the opportunity to earn college credit while still in the CRIA HS program.

CRIA respects all creeds, religions, and points of view. The school does not undertake religious instruction nor blend secular and sectarian education. At the same time, moral values and spiritual issues have a place in the educational process. Values such as fairness, justice, compassion, honesty, and the Golden Rule are taught without a religious label. Faculty and staff conduct reflect these values and serve as models for the students.

CRIA is proud to offer a specifically designed Early Years Program that utilizes the best researched-based practices.  The program is guided by internationally recognized organizations such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children and is in line with recognized standards of both international and American schools worldwide.

Our early years’ children are immersed in a dual language environment where all of the teachers give instruction and feedback in both English and Spanish.

The Early Years Program at CRIA supports children in developmentally appropriate groups:

Toddlers

2 years old by September 15 of the academic year enrolled. The Toddlers program is a multi-age class for two and three-year-olds.

Pre-Kindergarten

4 years old by September 15

Kindergarten

5 years old by September 15

Young children learn best through direct sensory encounters with the world, rather than through abstract and formal academic procedures. The program is supported by qualified, committed adults who guide young children in their acquisition of knowledge and their development of content, skills, and attitudes.

Toddler Program

Through years of experience, we know that play is a powerful tool for learning. Experiences with sand, water, building blocks, dramatic play, table toys, art materials, music, outdoor play, and games are integral to a child’s development. Play activities encourage exploration and experimentation, spark curiosity and imagination, and build children’s abilities to solve problems. In addition, play also provides children with opportunities to experiment with language and work cooperatively with others. Children enter school at various stages of social, emotional, physical, and academic development. Because of our holistic educational approach, our teachers strive to meet each child’s individual needs and learning styles within those four domains. Our teachers and teaching assistants (TAs) build safe and happy environments where the students have time for individual play and begin to work cooperatively in small groups to learn to listen to and respect others. The teachers and TAs structure activities and experiences based not only on developmental readiness but also on student interests.  Our ultimate goal is to create enthusiastic, lifelong learners.

Students enjoy specialist classes in art, music, physical education, and library.

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K)

The Pre-K child’s world is rapidly expanding. While the children are very much focused on themselves and their families, they also are excited to learn about the world around them. Children at this age are developing both their independence and social skills. Children in Pre-K have a lot of energy and curiosity and our Pre-K classrooms offer innovative and hands-on experiences to support their enthusiasm for learning. Play continues to be the vehicle through which children learn in Pre-K. Language, emergent literacy, math, collaboration, and cooperation continue to help the children build the strong foundational skills to succeed in school and life.

Students enjoy specialist classes in art, music, physical education, and library.

Kindergarten (KG)

The KG child learns new concepts through experimentation and discovery. Children solve problems and make predictions by observing objects and people in the world around them and by making connections to what they already know. Children at this age are able to think in more complex ways.

KG is both thematic and interdisciplinary. We incorporate social studies, art, mathematics, and science into all aspects of the curriculum. We study thematic units based on the interests of the children in the classroom. Units might include life cycles, teamwork, and other topics in science and/or mathematics. 

Students enjoy specialist classes in art, music, physical education, and library.

The Primary Program is a balanced, standards-based curriculum adapted from the Virginia State Standards of Learning (SoL).  The intent is to make transitions into our school and back to the U.S., to other American international schools, and from other elementary schools in Costa Rica, as smooth as possible.

Our student body represents the diverse community found in this area of Costa Rica. Primary classrooms are self-contained and foster a safe learning environment.

In the 2020-21 school year, the school day consists of seven 45-minute periods and two breaks, one mid-morning and one mid-day for lunch. The day begins at 8:00am and ends at 3:00pm, followed by after school activities.

The weekly schedule includes a variety of special classes. Every class visits the library at least once a week, which is located in the primary building. The library has a wide selection of children’s literature and general research materials that support the primary curriculum. Other specials including Visual Arts, STEM Lab (for grades 3-5), Music, P.E., Health, Swimming, and Costa Rica Social Studies are taught weekly. Primary teachers also schedule times to use the computer lab and tablets within their classroom, integrating technology into the curriculum.

Teachers are required to plan curricular field trips to enhance the learning experience and take advantage of the rich, natural environment of Costa Rica.

Math, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts, and Spanish are taught daily. There are leveled Spanish classes taught by native speakers. In grades 1-2, children are immersed in a dual language environment where all of the teachers give instruction and feedback in both English and Spanish. Primary subjects build a solid foundation of skills and abilities including cognitive, affective, and social skills.

Character development is an important part of primary education. Teachers work together to support student growth. Due to the nature of a small school, students receive guidance not only from the School Counselor, but also form their homeroom teacher the entire primary faculty.

The Secondary Program (Grades 6-12) is a standards-based curriculum culminating in a college preparatory Advanced Placement (AP) program and options for dual enrollment university courses while still a CRIA HS student. Academic subjects in the middle years provide a pre-AP foundation that prepares students to be successful in high school AP and dual enrollment courses. The curriculum foundation is adapted from the Virginia State Standards of Learning (SoL).  The intent is to make transitions into our school and back to the U.S. or transfers from other schools in Guanacaste and San Jose Costa Rica as smooth as possible.

Beginning in the 2020-21 school year, the school day consists of seven 45-minute periods and two breaks, one in mid-morning and one at mid-day for lunch. The day begins at 8:00am with homeroom by grade levels and ends at 3:00pm, followed by after school sports and activities. 

Off-campus field trips are an integral part of the Secondary Program. Generally these are planned to extend the curriculum to take advantage of our natural setting in Costa Rica. Community service is a regular feature of the program at every grade level.

The entire campus is a WiFi zone for wireless Internet. The Secondary Program utilizes a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program. The Secondary science program is supported by fully equipped labs for biology, chemistry, and physics. The school library includes general research materials and books and periodicals for leisure reading.

Electives are offered by each academic area and include Visual Arts and P.E. The Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered each year, dependent upon demand. These may include English Language and Composition, Calculus, World History, US History, Biology, Computer Science, Spanish Language and Culture, Human Geography, Macroeconomics, Statistics and others.

Other activities include yearbook, newspaper, drama groups, student government, the U.S. National Honor Society, The Model United Nations and various social service and ecological groups. The school is a center of social and cultural events for our community, and visiting performers, artists, and speakers are featured each year. 

The Secondary Program has a very strong Spanish component, with 1/3 of the classes each day in Spanish including 4 levels of language instruction from beginners to native speakers.

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New Gateway International School

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New Gateway International School - Preparing Generations Towards Growth and Prosperity

1. Please mention about the school and its mission/vision and various infrastructural facilities.

NGIS vision is to prepare a generation of thinking and committed citizens who are capable of contributing towards Cambodia’s continued growth and prosperity. Constantly revisiting the curriculum, the school ensures that the skills and knowledge taught meet the challenges of the 21st century and the millennium goals set by the Royal Government of Cambodia. Students are exposed to International Learning Standards while preserving and retaining their Cambodian traditions, culture and identity.

New Gateway International School empowers students to achieve educational, professional and personal success through lifelong learning in our dynamic environment. Students will be prepared to be future leaders and responsible and caring members of the Cambodian society. We provide specialized, comprehensive and supportive educational experiences to foster academic integrity and encourage lifelong learning. The school boasts of a three wing multi -storey building equipped with a library , playground, sports area, ICT Room , Music Room , Art Room , Lunch Area , Nap Rooms as well as a Sick Bay. Each Air-Conditioned Class is equipped with a projector for E-learning as well as students use laptops equipped with E-Books.

2. Kindly mention about the prominent personality of the school and his/her role in the development of the school.

New Gateway International School is led by the honourable Oknha Bun Nary , a visionary who places at heart the needs of her fellow Cambodians as she strives to provide affordable education without the compromise of quality, her aim is to make it a dream come true for most Cambodians to gain access to International Education without burning a hole in their pockets .

3. Kindly describe about the various courses offered by the school and their salient features.

Broad based Curriculum .The NGIS curriculum aims to nurture each child to his/her full potential, to discover his/her talents and to develop in his/her passion of life-long learning. Students go through a broad range of experiences to develop the skills and values they will need for their lives. The broad based curriculum imparts literacy, numeracy, trilingualism, the sciences, humanities, aesthetics, physical education, and moral education.
The curriculum has been revised to address the need for common set of values, knowledge and competencies and at the same time, allow differentiation to meet the need of students with different talents and abilities. To be able to achieve the learning outcomes of each specific subject and the DOE, three broad areas are considered, namely, the curriculum, teaching strategies and assessment.

New Gateway International School is nestled in the heart of Phnom Penh ,a trilingual school that places its focus on three curriculums mainly the Early Years Learn through Play Programme , Cambridge English Primary Checkpoint and Secondary Checkpoint . The Cambridge Checkpoint is an intermediary stage for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) students in which they build on their understanding and skills in English, Science and Mathematics. Examinations , the Cambodian Education Academic Programme which is endorsed by the Ministry of Education ,Youth and Sports of Cambodia (MOEYS ). The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport is the government ministry responsible for promoting and regulating education, youth and sport development, in Cambodia and followingly the Chinese Programme which accords the HSK certification .The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, translated as the Chinese Proficiency Test, is the standardized test of Standard Chinese language proficiency of China for non-native speakers such as foreign students and overseas Chinese.

The Cambridge framework provides curricula for the key subjects of English (or English as an Additional Language), Mathematics and Science. Other subjects are based upon the English National Curriculum. They include Art, Geography, History, ICT (Computers), Music, Physical Education, and Personal and Social Education

4. Please mention what steps are you taking beyond the traditional curriculum to ensure overall development of the students?
-Focusing on Critical Thinking Skills which helps students to be Future Ready with the current global needs and demands of Practical skills.

-Combining both Practical Application and Theoretical Knowledge is essential for learning . For instance ,students are encouraged by teachers to apply the concept of knowledge in their daily lives and this is evident during a Mathematics lesson of Area and Perimeter ,students start of by measuring their classrooms or return home to measure and calculate a space at their homes to give them the ability to apply skills learnt in instead of solely solving Mathematical Problems in the Textbooks. Students also build 3D Mathematical shapes from recyclable materials in an aim to inculcate the healthy habit of recycling, stimulating creativity as well as being innovative. During an English Lesson, a cooking session enables students to use the Sequence Connectors to practice their speaking Skills to further harness their comprehension of the English Language as well as Proficiency. NGIS Teachers strike a fine balance between inductive and deductive lesson preparation in teaching and learning , possibly steering majorly towards the inductive methods .Our students are able to confidently present their findings on assigned topics related to a Subject or a Topic in English, Chinese and Khmer which promotes trilingualism besides preparing for the rigorous Examinations and Tests .
-At NGIS we integrate our Cambridge based Curriculum alongside Project Based Learning (PBL) a student-centered pedagogy concept ideal for our Adolescent learners and Young Learners alike. This enables students various opportunities to conduct projects, researches, findings and experiments based on topics learnt. For our young learners , Teachers are utilizing Visual Arts and Music to engage and stimulate learner’s interest for example the Time’s Table Rap and The Healthy Food Pyramid Chant.

21st Century Learning- Usage of E-Books , Laptops and Google Classroom as a Platform for E-Learning . Throughout the Covid-19 Pandemic NGIS was competent enough to continue Online Learning via an array of platforms such as Zoom , Telegram , Google Classroom , Google Hang Outs. Student enrollment was maintained as lessons were conducted as usual based on the regular on Campus Programmes. Classes are equipped with projectors and desktops in addition to students using their laptops.

5. What steps does the school take to motivate and develop the students’ interest towards education?

New Gateway International School or as it is reckoned as NGIS enhances the learners experience by engaging the concepts of STEM which is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four specific disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics this is an interdisciplinary and applied approach. Students take part in STEM SECONDARY exhibitions that range from PERFORM STEM Primary and Secondary, Performing Arts which includes song ,dance and the playing of instruments that revolve around a Scientific theme . STEM PRIMARY AND SECONDARY ART CONTEST which provides a platform for students to express their Scientific and Mathematical ability via Art.

NGIS students also engage in International Competitions such as the OWLYPIA – The Intellectuals’ Challenge is an international platform for students aged 9-11 (Owlins), 12-14 (Owlets) and 15-18 (Owlys). This platform is where you think, write, discuss and enjoy! . Subjects of interest includes Art and Design, Economics and Business, Literature and Culture, Science and Technology and Social Sciences which complements the subjects strand and sub strand in the Cambridge Curriculum . The aims are to inspire intellectual curiosity and develop research skills and academic confidence in young minds.

Besides applying the concept of STEM the school also focuses on holistic learning concepts that impart the importance of respect , understanding , empathy and our highly competitive students at NGIS enjoy partaking in the IMEC (International Mathematics Exam Center) a Mathematics Competition conducted annually and organized by the committee of IMEC. The mission is to advance the understanding of Mathematics.
NGIS partakes in Public Speaking Competitions organized by Springboard Cambodia which aims to improve the capacity of critical thinking, public speaking as well as debating skills. Students learn to engage academically, but also to think out of the box ,to learn and thrive in challenging academic settings beyond the classroom.
Our Senior Management Leaders possess extensive experience in the education arena enabling them to enhance and fine tune the curriculum development process . The capability of trilingualism is also evident as the Educators consist of a multinational team , most of who are competent to communicate in array of languages such as English , Chinese (Mandarin), French , Dutch ,Deutsch ,and Spanish .

6.How are you providing financial assistance to the students in need?

NGIS offers educational scholarships for potential students with stellar results students who are in Grade 9 .

7. What are the career opportunities available to the students after completion of their courses?

At NGIS our students are able to pursue conventional careers and non- conventional careers. Career fields include those in Science and Engineering , Liberal Arts and IT.

8. Other than traditional, occupations, what other career field options are available for them?

Biotechnology , Animation , Research and Development in Health Sciences, Fashion Studies , Digital Arts as well as careers in Green Energy hence the incorporation of STEM.

9. Please enlighten us about the school’s major awards/achievements, its accomplished/renowned alumni, remarkable collaborations, and major accreditations.

Under -12 Cambodian Cup
Participating STEM School
PERFORM STEM PRIMARY – Musical performance feature
PERFORM STEM SECONDARY – Scientific Rap performance feature
OWLYPIA GOLD AWARD (OWLETS) Category.
First Virtual STEM Challenge Award Category Winner- Social Sciences and Public Health
Finalist for MOEYS Mathematics and Science Olympiad held in Vietnam
Public Speaking Champion in Phnom Penh Cambodia
Full Band 6 Scores in Primary and Secondary Checkpoint Examinations.
Cambridge Exams Preparation Centre -Silver Certification and Accreditation by Cambridge
Collaboration with Bright Education Cambodia as the Local Host and Organiser of the Local Owlypia Rounds ,
Collaborations with Bright Education for Tertiary Education Opportunities.

10.Kindly elaborate about the future plans of the school in the same.

NGIS plans to possibly introduce Cambridge C.E.M and Cambridge IGCSE alongside the current Checkpoint Examinations , Chess Competitions , Fashion Studies ,Tertiary Education Counselling Club, Performing Arts, Upgrading of Science Laboratories and Sports ground. Introduction of STEM International Olympiad . Introduction of possible Foreign Languages , NGIS is in the process of building and establishing more campuses in the near future.

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Dalat International School Malaysia

Co – Education
Day School
    +971 2 510 0100
    https://www.bisabudhabi.com
    Behind Abu Dhabi University – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
    info@dalat.org
Overview/Mission/Vision

Dalat International School, founded in 1929 in Dalat, Vietnam, is an American Pre-K-grade 12 school on the island of Penang in the northern region of the West Malaysia peninsula. The school relocated to Penang in 1971 to continue its mission to provide an education for life founded on a Biblical worldview. Dalat now educates more than 700 students from Malaysia and 25+ countries worldwide, and maintains an outstanding boarding program for students in grades 6-12 whose families may live and work outside of Penang. Dalat International School is the only school outside of the United States to achieve exemplary accreditation from the Association of Christian Schools International, and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. All Dalat students participate in service outreach, helping to demonstrate and model greater understanding and commitment to Servant Leadership. Students entering Dalat must have a good grasp of the English language before being admitted so that they can be successful in the rigorous academic environment. If financial aid is required for a student to attend Dalat International School, the family’s needs will be evaluated on a case-by- case basis. Dalat employs a professional workforce comprised primarily of American-educated teachers and administrators. The American teaching pedagogy accomplishes goals to prepare students for higher education, serve their communities, and to contribute to the workforce. In recent years, Dalat International School has grown at a pace like no other time in its 90-year history, the largest percentage of growth represented by native Malaysian students who now make up nearly one-third of the student body. Dalat maintains strong relationships with the families of students by hosting parent and family events, providing parents’ access to campus, and engaging an active Parent-Teacher Organization to support children and teachers. A commitment to excellent communication with families on all levels, including a world-class website and social media presence (www.dalat.org), is a hallmark of Dalat’s administration.

Facilities

Dalat implemented a campus development plan that has dramatically transformed the beautiful tropical seaside campus. The school was enhanced and strengthened for the future as new purpose-built, multi-story buildings replaced aging and obsolete structures. First to be completed in 2016 was the Center for the Arts, Sciences, Technology, and Learning Education (CASTLE), which includes a large library, science and technology classrooms, computer labs, and student services. In 2017, Dalat completed a new boarding facility called the Lighthouse, housing three separate dormitories for up to 48 students. The third and largest building, the Harbor, includes high school classrooms, administrative offices, a 500-seat auditorium, and accompanying parking areas. The newest building, The Galley, a cafeteria with a second-story multi-purpose recreation space, will be completed by January of 2021. These new buildings are added to existing single-level Elementary classrooms that surround a courtyard with a playground, a multi-level Middle School building, playing fields, and a large gym.

School Leadership

An active Board of Governors comprised of parents, alumni, and community members oversees Dalat International School. Dalat alumnus and Head of School Karl Steinkamp, and Deputy Head of School Shawna Wood manage daily operations. Three principals (high school, middle school and elementary school) lead their respective divisions.

Strategic Plan

Dalat’s Board of Governors and school leadership are entering the fourth year of a school-wide Strategic Plan that drives the school’s vision for the future. Four primary outcome objectives were identified, including 1.) Authentic Transformation, 2.) Innovative Learners, 3.) Passionate Personnel, and 4.) Intentional Community. Dalat aims to promote authentic community engagement, and attract and develop exceptional Christ-centered educators. Additionally, we will foster spiritual growth, create relevant and innovative learning experiences, and inspire students to have a Biblical and global perspective in order to influence their world.

Academics

Dalat’s American education curriculum and instruction provides a broad basis in general education and a strong preparation for entry into university systems worldwide. All students are given ample opportunities within the curricula and through daily extra-curricular programs to explore and develop a variety of interests and skills. In addition to the basic school day, Dalat offers an added optional extended curriculum in each division giving students topics of personal interest to explore. All grade levels benefit from an active and engaged team of Guidance Counselors who provide academic and personal assistance, as well as a Learning Supports team who aid students that need extra help with learning. Dalat assists advanced English language learners with an English as an Additional Language program. A deeper dive into Dalat’s American school curricula can be found at https://www.dalat.org/web/curriculum-archive/main-2/. ● Elementary (Preschool – grade 4) Elementary students are inspired to do their best, think creatively and critically, and to work cooperatively with their peers. Life skills development is important, as they learn to be respectful, responsible, helpful, and safe citizens. As a school, we value holistic education, character development, differentiated instruction, and active learning. In addition to core subjects, students in grades K-4 study music and art, Bible, and physical education. ● Middle School (grades 5-8) The Middle School years are some of the most formative in the life of a student. Grades 5-8 are key years where students learn to develop healthy relationships with peers, begin to explore diverse interests, and develop skills and habits that will serve them throughout their lives. At Dalat, our goal in these years is to guide Middle Schoolers through the maturing transformation from childhood through their teens and beyond. Middle School students at Dalat receive a well-rounded education, studying core subjects of English, Mathematics, History and Science, plus a wide variety of other subjects to explore. All Middle School students take band, physical education, Bible and art classes, and may take additional electives. Our goal is to present students with quality educational experiences in a diverse array of focus areas. ● High School (grades 9-12) Dalat’s high school curriculum provides 24 units of credit over four years, culminating in the American high school diploma. The curriculum and instruction provide a broad basis in general education and a strong preparation for university systems worldwide, but that is only the start of the broad array of learning provided to Dalat students. Students may also choose to study Mandarin or Spanish languages. Dalat kicks off a partnership with Grand Canyon University in the 2020–21 school year to provide qualified high school students enrollment in college courses prior to graduation. GCU offers more than 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs that are accepted by the vast majority of American colleges. All of these programs challenge high school students with classes and activities to prepare them for post-secondary education in any field they wish to pursue. Dalat is growing a mission-driven regional outreach program for high school students called IMPACT, designed to introduce and model best practices in 21st century American and Christian outreach. Integrating outreach efforts with organizations already working throughout Southeast Asia gives students life-impacting outcomes, alongside a sense of belonging and contribution.

Boarding & Residence Life

The Dalat boarding community is a home away from home for families who want their students to grow in nurtured independence. Living in the dorms is a great way to make new friends and learn life skills while living in a supportive and encouraging environment. The home-like atmosphere helps students feel comfortable, secure and well cared for. Our dorms are family-style, which means each dorm includes both genders and a variety of ages (grades 6 to 12). This creates a close-knit family atmosphere, fosters healthy relationships between dorm students of different ages, and allows siblings to live together in the same dorm. Dorm family-bonding opportunities help students make lasting connections and grow a sense of belonging. Activities from birthday parties, special outings and activities, family devotions and cooking, to service projects, Christmas parties, and an annual dorm retreat make dorm life special. Parents traveling to Penang short-term can stay in with their children in a family apartment. Available to students in grades 9-12, Life Prep families may choose one-quarter or one-semester options for their students to live in the dorms while developing practical skills guided by adult dorm parents.

Community Service & Leadership Development

All Dalat students engage in active service projects, outreach efforts, and volunteer opportunities throughout the school year to learn team building, how to care for those less fortunate, and ways to impact their communities and the world for good. Student Care and Share volunteers learn the value of service working throughout the island of Penang and on the mainland with refugees, at orphanages, in local schools and in small rural villages. Dalat students are encouraged to apply for and serve in leadership positions. American governance models enable students to run and be elected by and serve their classmates by making key decisions through a democratic process. They are guided by advising teachers in every division, with more extensive leadership opportunities available during the high school years.
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USA International School

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USA International School - Transforming students into passionate, creative, and responsible citizens

1. Please mention about the school and its mission/vision and various infrastructural facilities.

United Standard Academy (USA) International School (USAIS) was founded by a group of Cambodian educators in 2001 in Battambang Province. USAIS opened its doors welcoming students in Phnom Penh for the first time in 2011.

 

Our Vision: USAIS aims to transform our students into passionate, creative, and responsible citizens that are empowered to actively engage in challenging and meaningful work in the world around them.

 

Our Mission: The mission of USAIS is to work in partnership with students, family, and community in order to unleash students’ full potential by giving them the tools to pursue their personal goals and to enrich their community.

 

Our Core Values: Respectful, Responsible, Resourceful (3Rs)

 

2. Kindly mention about the prominent personality of the school and his/her role in the development of the school.

The success of our school is attributed to the collective effort of our board of directors and the parents. Our board directors comprises of passionate individuals who believe in the power of the education, and more importantly they all believe that parents’ involvements is crucial to a child’s success in school. As a result, we have regular parent-teacher meeting in which parents are invited to school to discuss their child’s academic progress with the teachers. Besides this, we are open for constructive feedback from parents on a daily basis for the betterment of the quality of educational services provided.

 

3. Kindly describe about the various courses offered by the school and their salient features.

USA International School offer a bilingual program for students from pre-school to primary level. USAIS follows Cambodian National Curriculum and Cambridge International Curriculum for our pre-school and primary level program. We adopt a STEM-based curriculum of New Generation Schools, new reform inaugurated by the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport of Cambodia, for our secondary program. Our students are encouraged take part in academic and non-academic program within and outside the school such as Spelling Bees, Public Speaking Competition, Art Exhibition, Students Talent Shows, the National STEM Festival, and also exchange program with school partner abroad.

 

4. What steps does the school take to motivate and develop the students’ interest towards education?

 

Our school motivate and develop the students’ interest towards education by enhancing the practical knowledge of the students because we believe that once the students can use the knowledge they have earned from school in a meaningful way, they will be more interested and motivated in education.

 

Our project-based instruction, assessments, and opportunities that we offer for our students to expose themselves to the real world such as public exhibition, study tours, outdoor activities, as well as exchange programs abroad ensure our goal of ensuring the knowledge taught at school is practical and relevant. Our student club also serves as a platform for our students to practice the knowledge and skills learned in the class come in the real world. Furthermore, we have our community exposure program in which guest speakers are invited to come to school to give lectures as well as demonstrations to our students on various practical topics.

 

This program gives students an opportunity to speak to experts from different fields. Last but not the least, our international exchange program enable our students to interact and connect with their peers from other cultural backgrounds, and at the same time to learn about new practical knowledge and skills such as; cross-cultural communities, conflict resolution skills, and so on. More importantly, this program opens a door for our students to showcase their own capacity and creative minds to the world.

 

5. How are you providing financial assistance to the students in need?

 

Though our school is a pure private school without getting any subsidy from the government or any organization, we usually offer certain scholarship to students each year.

 

6. Other than traditional occupations, what other career field options are available for them?

 

USAIS is a K-12 school, so after graduating from our school, our students usually pursue their degree in different university in Cambodia as well as outside the countries before they start their career path. Within the time with us, our students are exposed to different career path through our career guide program so that they are able to make a well informed decision when choosing university major to pursue.

 

7. Please enlighten us about the school’s major awards/achievements, its accomplished/renowned alumni, remarkable collaborations, and major accreditations.

 

USA International School emphasizes not only academic excellence but more importantly character building. Our academic and non-academic teams always hold our students accountable for their own behavior and choices by consistently implementing our rigorous disciplinary procedures.

 

Academically, students are taught by our enthusiastic and experienced teachers who are continuously trained to be well informed about new teaching strategies and technique. Our up-to-date curriculum and teaching methodologies ensure that our students are well equipped with necessary knowledge and 21st century skills to become successful adults. Last but not least, students’ safety is our priority. We are working to ensure that each and every student is physically and mentally safe.

 

There is always at least one adult to supervise our students in the common areas including but not limited to school lobby, library, playground, hallway and stairway. Furthermore, our healthy food program is another example of our effort to be keep our students physically strong and at the same time build our students healthy living style. Students at USAIS are equipped with an ability that meets an international standard without neglecting Cambodian cultures and traditions. Remarkably, we have students who are studying at our school pursuing their studies in different countries such as the USA, Australia, New Zealand, and so on.

 

We also have partnership agreement and collaboration with local and international partners such as Robothink Cambodia, I.A.M.A Cambodia, Youth Ambassadors (Singapore), and schools in Singapore, Malaysia, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand. If parents are looking for a school where their children are multi-culturally competent, USA International School is the primary choice.

 

8. Kindly elaborate about the future plans of the school in the same.

 

USA International School aims to become a go-to inclusive international school operated by local educators. Currently, we are supporting our students with special needs to the best of our abilities and skills. In the future, we are expecting to be capable in accommodating more and more special needs children. We are building leadership and responsibility within our students at all levels. In short, we are committed to becoming a school where future leaders come from.