Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the school's educational philosophy?
A: Our school believes in a holistic approach to education that fosters academic excellence, social-emotional development, and creativity. We prioritize individualized learning and encourage students to explore their interests through hands-on learning within the curriculum.
Q: What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
A: We maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, typically 12:1 (6:1 in PreK). This allows for personalized attention and support for each student.
Q: How does the school support students with different learning needs?
A: Our school provides differentiated instruction and individualized support plans for students with varying learning needs. We also have resources such as learning specialists and access to tutoring. Several lower school teachers are trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach for teaching literacy. It focuses on explicit, systematic, and direct instruction, breaking down reading and spelling into smaller skills involving letters and sounds.
Q: How does the school incorporate technology into the curriculum?
A: We integrate technology thoughtfully across all grade levels, using it as a tool to enhance learning. Students engage in projects that develop their digital literacy and critical thinking skills.
Q: At what grade do students begin learning a foreign language?
A: Students at SIS begin their Spanish language learning journey in Pre-K, with age-appropriate activities and exposure that gradually develop into more structured lessons in later grades. Students in fifth grade take Spanish and French and choose one or the other to study in Middle School. Our language instruction focuses on immersive, communicative practices that emphasize speaking, listening, reading, and writing. We encourage students to use the target language in real-life contexts.
Q: Where do students matriculate after 8th Grade?
A. Our students leave SIS prepared to be successful in any high school that they choose. We have some students who go on to boarding schools, local private schools, and local public schools. CLICK HERE to find out more about our Alumni.
Q: What extracurricular activities are available?
A: We offer a variety of extracurricular after-school activities, including sports, arts, music, and clubs that cater to diverse interests for Pre-K–8th grade students. In middle school, electives each trimester allow for new experiences, such as yearbook, yoga, trail building, photography, chess, coding, and more. This helps students develop their talents and explore new passions within the school day.
Q: Are there extended hours at school?
A: SIS provides before care (starting at 7:30am) and after-care (until 5:30pm) for a fee for all students. Before and after care options are available on a schedule or as needed.
Q: What opportunities are there for parental involvement?
A: We encourage strong partnerships with families through volunteer opportunities, our Parent Association, and events. We especially welcome parents to schedule visits to share their culture, profession, and passions with our students throughout the year. Parent involvement is key to our school community!
Q: Are there specific outdoor spaces used for learning at SIS?
A: Yes! We have dedicated outdoor spaces, including gardens, playgrounds, and trails that serve as natural classrooms on our sixty-acre campus. These spaces allow for diverse activities and exploration.
Q: What is the school's approach to diversity and inclusion?
A: Our school values diversity and strives to create an inclusive environment. We celebrate different cultures and perspectives, fostering a sense of belonging for all students. Our libraries, coursework, special projects and events embrace the diversity within our school community and beyond.
Q: What is the approach to discipline and behavior management?
A: We emphasize positive behavior reinforcement and a restorative approach to discipline. Our goal is to help students understand the impact of their actions and develop strong character. The school’s close community provides students with both accountability and support from multiple faculty and staff members.
Q: What safety measures are in place at SIS?
A: At SIS, we prioritize safety through comprehensive measures, including secure building access and regular safety drills. Our staff is trained in emergency procedures to ensure a safe environment.
Q: Can students take the bus to SIS?
A: Bussing is provided by your home school district, within fifteen miles of campus. Contact your district transportation office to secure a place on the SIS bus route. They prefer to hear from families by April 1, or as soon as possible.
Q. What is SIS's dress code?
A. While we don't have uniforms, we do expect all of our students to dress in a way that respects themselves and their classmates.
Q. Is lunch provided?
A. We have a cafeteria that provides lunches for a fee. Prior to every month, a lunch menu will be emailed home and you must pre-purchase the lunches of your choice through the FACTS Family Portal.
Q: How does the school handle transitions between grades?
A: We provide a supportive transition process to help students feel comfortable moving between grades. In fact, several of our classes are multi-age, supported by a team of teachers. Students already have a relationship with multiple teachers as well as students who are a year older and a year younger. Our buddy program encourages interaction between grades and within all areas of the building so that all students feel like they are a part of the whole school community. In fifth grade, students spend a ‘Move Up Day’ in the Middle School to experience having a locker, engaging in academic activities, and getting to know the teachers.
Q: What is the process for admission?
A: The admission process typically includes an application, interview, and assessment. A campus tour, a critical part of our process, allows families to see the school and learn about it firsthand. Prospective students also participate in a half-day visit to ensure SIS is the best fit for them.