General Overview

The elementary school stresses the development of academic skills and thinking in a supportive atmosphere. The various disciplines are taught in a manner that focuses on their interrelationships, with teachers closely monitoring student progress and behavior.

Various support services are available to our students. Students for whom English is a second language receive special instruction in basic language skills, with the goal of integration into the regular academic program as quickly as possible. Academically able students may participate in the enrichment program, which offers activities ranging from advanced instructional groups to whole class instruction.

Co-curricular activities are a regular part of student life in the elementary school. Students celebrate holidays while learning about the host country, the U.S., as well as the many other cultures and nationalities represented at our school.  Elementary school classes participate in our field trip program and a rich after-school activities program.

These "extras" provide opportunities for young students at JAIS to reach out beyond their classrooms. Development of student responsibility is a primary goal at JAIS, and the elementary school  student council serves as a great vehicle for students to become leaders.

Research shows that children do better in school when parents and teachers work closely together and when parents become involved in the school. This is very important to us at JAIS.  In order to accomplish this, the faculty maintains frequent contact with parents through regular report cards, parent-teacher conferences, and additional meetings throughout the year. Teachers also send home weekly class newsletters designed to keep parents informed of class activities.

Another great way for parents to invest in their child's education is to volunteer. Depending upon parent's availability and interests, parents might come and read a book to a class, work as a library aid, be a classroom speaker on a specific topic of interest, or become a room parent.

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at JAIS is very strong and is another great way to become involved with the school.