Home › learning

Curriculum

Why connect learning to life?

SSIS curriculum connects learning to life.  A paramount goal of today’s education should be to foster and extend student’s understanding of their place in the modern world, and provide them with knowledge and skills which can be transferred to their everyday lives and future endeavors.

Although based on North American standards and pedagogy, the SSIS curriculum strives to provide a ‘total’ international experience, not just the content for instruction. Our diverse students gain knowledge and understanding, develop skills, and refine attitudes and values through their interactions, connections and reflections which result from their total school experience. SSIS develops students for life with a developmental and progressive program that increases student independence for learning and achievement as students progress from early childhood through grade 12. 

An important feature to our curriculum is our Expected Schoolwide Learning Results (ESLRs), which are derived directly from our Core Values.  ESLRs are embedded throughout the curriculum to foster highly educated young people who have a strong sense of self and purpose, who are balanced in their approach to life, who dedicate themselves helping others and sustaining their environment, and who are respectful of others regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, and social economic and cultural background.

The early childhood and kindergarten programs provide supportive, creative and dynamic environments for learning.  Children are encouraged to experiment and learn through play and hands-on experience and instruction.  Classrooms are organized into experiential centers with stations designed to support all learning styles.

Elementary school units are developed around integrated units of study, and are founded on clearly defined standards and benchmarks based upon an American-style education. The independent learning strategies emphasized in the SSIS elementary program prepare students for the increasing demands of grades 6 - 12.

The middle school curriculum (grades 6 – 8) is focused upon an exploratory model which provides students the opportunity to experience a wide range of courses.  A structured academic program complemented with arts, technology, world languages, and activities ensures students continue to explore, inquire and reflect upon their learning and learning styles.

The SSIS High School curriculum aims to prepare students for successful post-secondary learning and living, and includes the challenging International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Learning experiences are designed to bring relevance to what students observe, experience and question within their world.  In addition to rigorous college preparatory courses, students participate in an extensive community service and activity program (Creativity, Action and Service) which aims to cultivate a sense of responsibility and commitment to their community and their world.

For specific information about courses and curriculum, please visit the appropriate school section.

Theresa Flaspohler
Curriculum Director