Manifesto

Learning at AIS/D is guided by:

Trust
Students feel respected and secure so they are able to take intellectual risks in a safe environment.

Challenge
Students are engaged in the process of learning and are excited and motivated by using higher level thinking skills.

Collaboration
Students are actively involved, giving and taking, with classmates, the teacher, and with the material in an open manner that values all contributions and expands understanding of the topic.

Connection
Students actively participate in relevant activities that allow inquiry, problem solving, discovery, understanding, and learning in an independent and cooperative manner.

Empowerment
Students become independent learners with the support of parents, teachers and community members who promote differentiated learning and an internal dialog of self-discovery.

We want students at AIS/D to be international citizens.
So we:

• make service learning an integral part of the school curriculum
• include the study of local and global culture in the curriculum
• promote understanding and respect for a diverse range of cultural beliefs and values
• explore complex issues through multiple perspectives
• provide resources that highlight diversity and multiple perspectives
• encourage peaceful resolution to conflicts
• promote language learning in the curriculum
• include dispositions in the taught curriculum

We want students at AIS/D to be independent learners.
So we:

• focus on the process of learning
• teach students 21st Century Learning Skills: problem solving, critical thinking, communications, collaboration and technology
• use an inquiry-based teaching and learning model
• encourage students to make choices in their learning activities
• encourage and respect student voice
• give opportunities for students to take responsibility for their own learning
• guide students to set goals and reflect and monitor their learning
• offer regular opportunities for students to discuss their learning with peers, teachers, parents and the local and global community

We want students at AIS/D to be included, challenged and successful.
So we:

• create a supportive classroom community
• emphasize the importance of small class sizes
• provide support for diverse learners
• provide a community-based school
• promote learning
• facilitate professional development opportunities for faculty
• collaborate as a school community to enhance learning
• differentiate instruction and assessment to meet the needs of all learning styles
• provide relevant engaging curriculum.