Elementary School

Student happiness is at the heart of our mission. We believe that children flourish when they feel safe, valued, and connected to those around them. We foster this through small class sizes, strong teacher-student relationships, and our dedicated Social-Emotional Learning curriculum. Our unique "living classroom" in the forest also provides daily opportunities for fresh air and movement, creating an environment where children feel a deep sense of belonging and joy every day.

We believe every learner is unique and deserves to be both supported and challenged. Our expert teachers differentiate daily lessons to meet the specific level of every student in the classroom. This means that whether a child needs extra help or is ready for a greater challenge, the instruction is tailored to them. We also provide dedicated experts in Learning Support Services (LSS) and English as an Additional Language (EAL). These specialists work alongside students directly in the classroom to ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We maintain a safe and inclusive community through a proactive and well-established process. We define bullying as a pattern of behavior and recognize that it can take physical, emotional, or online forms. Our school addresses these situations through a clear, multi-step process that always prioritizes the safety and dignity of every child. Our Elementary Counselors work directly with students and teachers to foster a culture of kindness and mutual respect, ensuring that every child feels protected and valued.

At AISB, technology is a purposeful helper that enhances the learning experience. We empower students to use digital tools to support their research, engage in digital storytelling, and document their unique learning journeys. Every elementary student has access to an iPad during class specifically for these educational goals. While we embrace innovation, we also value focus and personal connection. We ensure that students keep their phones safely away during school hours, allowing them to remain fully present in their learning and social interactions. This approach teaches students how to use technology to their advantage in a balanced and healthy way.

We encourage every child to develop healthy eating habits that support their energy and focus. The school cafeteria provides a prepaid lunch option managed by our professional partners, Thomas Franks. Menus are available on our internal school portals and offer a balanced, nutritional meal that is both healthy and economical. If a child prefers a different option, they are welcome to bring a packed lunch from home, and microwaves are available for their use. Elementary students enjoy their meals in dedicated spaces, providing a comfortable environment for socializing with their peers.

We are proud to offer a language-rich environment that is rare in our region. Students can choose from three major world languages—Spanish, French, or German—starting in the elementary years. In addition to these options, we offer Hungarian language and culture. This program is an invitation for students to connect deeply with the heritage of our host country, fostering a sense of global citizenship and local belonging.

We believe that assessment should celebrate growth while identifying clear steps for future learning. To ensure a complete picture of every child, we use many points of data, including in-class performance, observations, projects, and daily work. Starting in Grade 3, students also participate in the NWEA MAP standardized assessments to provide an additional perspective on their academic journey. Parents receive two formal report cards each year, but communication is ongoing through formative assessments and daily conferring. A vital part of our process is the student-parent-teacher conference. These meetings empower students to take ownership of their performance, helping them understand their strengths and set personal goals for their own success.

A typical day at AISB is a balance of academic discovery, physical movement, and social connection. The morning begins at 8:30 a.m. with dedicated time for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). This is a crucial part of the day where our community focuses on building resilience and empathy. From 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., students follow a structured schedule of core and specialist subjects designed to challenge and inspire. For our youngest learners in Kindergarten, we use an inquiry-based approach where purposeful play is used as a powerful tool for academic and social discovery. Once the school day concludes, students may transition into our After-School Activities (ASA) program, which offers a variety of clubs until 5:30 p.m.

We provide a strong support system so every child can reach their full potential. Our school has experts for English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Learning Support Services (LSS). These specialists work inside the classroom to provide the tools and guidance each student needs. We also have an on-site Occupational Therapist and Counselors. We focus on supporting the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Our After-School Activities (ASA) program helps students find new interests and develop talents. We offer over 40 different options every week. Some examples include:

• Sports: Swimming, Basketball, Soccer, Gymnastics, and Karate.
• Arts: Rock Band, Drama, Creative Art, and Embroidery.
• Learning: Science Club, Chess, and Chinese Language clubs.
• Nature: Cycling, Bug Club, and outdoor exploration. 

Activities run from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm in a safe and supportive environment.