Success Story
International School of Aruba
San Nicholas, Aruba
Philosophy:
The community of the International School of Aruba believes:
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In the dignity and worth of all students.
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That all students at the International School of Aruba have the right to equal opportunities for learning, and be given due consideration with regards to their academic needs and personal development.
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That learning is a continuous process that needs to nurture critical thinking, exploration, and experimentation supported by a conductive and inviting academic framework.
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That students be given access to professional qualified staff and the appropriate educational materials and equipment necessary to adapt to the ever changing world so that they may lead productive lives.
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That education in an international school with students from diverse cultural, religious, and economic backgrounds promotes a respect for differences in relation to all cultures and the values of their citizens.
History: The International School of Aruba, was founded in 1930 as a private, nonprofit, college preparatory, coeducational day school for Pre-K through twelfth grade and provides an American/international education to dependents of Americans, Dutch Antillean, Dutch, and Venezuelans residing on Aruba. A student-centered challenging academic program accompanies the student to teacher ratio of 12:1. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accredits the school. School hours are 7:50 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. daily. The school year is from August to June. The academic year has 180 instructional days, divided into four quarters having approximately 45 instructional days each. Report cards and progress reports are issued quarterly.
Organization: The International School of Aruba is owned and operated by the Stichting International School of Aruba, a locally-established foundation. The school is governed by a self perpetuating Board of Directors who work closely with the on-site director and tangentially with the school’s staff and parents to provide a superior international school environment.
Curriculum: The curriculum is based on learning outcomes developed and implemented in quality American and international schools and is designed to address the varying needs of the multicultural student population. Recognizing the diverse academic program the students will matriculate to after leaving the International School of Aruba, an international approach is fostered. Academic accountability is achieved through teacher-generated assessments aligned with the curriculum. The ITBS tests are given annually and are referred to as part of the continuous school improvement process. The goal of the program is to provide each student with challenging academic experiences along with personal growth. The learners are supported through a multitude of resources and approaches to develop competence, confidence, natural curiosity, and skills in the areas of effective communication, personal management, reasoning and problem solving, critical and creative thinking, while concurrently evolving into lifelong learners.
The educational materials, resources, and teaching practices reflect current best practices recommended for successful academic programs. Core courses include English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Spanish and Dutch. English is the language of instruction. Special curricular programs include art, computer/technology, distance learning, physical education, and ESL. Advanced Placement courses are offered in various subjects as well as preparation for advanced exams in Dutch language. Extra curricular programs include drama, excursions/expeditions, Yearbook, Model UN, Student Council, and other activities. A fundamental expectation is that all students will be involved in a balanced range of activities reflecting creativity, action, and service. The concept of service is especially encouraged at all grade levels. School sports include basketball, soccer, softball, and volleyball.
Faculty: In the 2007–2008 school year, there are 27 faculty members, including 11 U.S. citizens, 9 host-country nationals, and 7 third-country nationals. In addition to the teaching staff, the faculty includes a school counselor, a librarian, an ESL specialist, a business manager, an executive secretary, and a U.S. trained, U.S. certified chief administrator. Most staff members have previous international experience in education and 60% have Master’s degrees.
Enrollment: At the beginning of the 2007–2008 school year, enrollment was 169 students in PK (Montessori) through grade 12. Of the total, 44 were U.S. citizens, 70 were host-country nationals and 55 were third-country nationals.
Facilities: The school is located in a residential setting to which ISA moved in August, 2005. The new purpose-built campus includes 1 hectare with 4 buildings, 21 classrooms, 2 computer labs, 2 science rooms/labs, 80 instructional computers, a 12,000 volume library, and a Multi-purpose Room that also serves as a cafeteria. Age appropriate playgrounds are available and sports are played on the school’s field and covered gym which includes a stage.
View The International School of Aruba website
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