Elementary
In the Elementary School, there are seven homeroom teachers, one teacher assistant and a number of part and full time specialist teachers (Spanish Language, Music, Art and Physical Education). Teachers are provided with materials and texts from the United States as well as local resources for Spanish classes. All subjects (English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Fine Arts (music and art), Technology and Physical Education) are taught in English. Spanish classes are added to the curriculum at the beginning of Grade One after students have developed a solid foundation in phonics and literacy in English.
Elementary teachers use a thematic based approach to education and are encouraged to integrate subject areas whenever possible. The Art teacher, Librarian and Technology Coordinator collaborate with the classroom teachers and provide additional instructional and student resources to support the needs of the classroom teacher and students. Real world lessons and experiences are incorporated within daily instruction to link theory with practice.
The wide ranges of language abilities among students at ISS require teachers to plan and to implement a variety of instructional strategies to engage the students in learning, help facilitate their growth, and encourage success. Spanish as a Second Language (SSL) classes are available for non-Spanish speakers and English language support is given to students who have just begun to learn English or need reinforcement in order to be successful in the classroom. In addition, a part-time staff member works with individual students within the classroom setting to provide more individualized instruction to promote success.
During the 2008-2009 school years, elementary students and teachers will begin the process of building portfolios to demonstrate student learning and achievement. Twice a year, the students will present selected work from their portfolio to their parents and discusses their progress and goals.
We encourage our parents to be actively involved in their child’s education. Parents are asked to read with their child nightly and to encourage their child to make their best effort and to strive for excellence. Parents are welcome to volunteer on campus in classrooms, the library or in other areas.
