The Elementary School (ES) at RIS is a warm, caring environment that focuses on student-centered learning and building character, preparing students from Pre-K 3 through grade 5 for middle school, high school, college, and beyond. Elementary school teachers are highly qualified and certified in their specific subject areas, with many having additional certifications in reading, language development, and learning support. RIS takes pride in establishing a strong educational foundation with a rigorous academic program that integrates social and emotional growth.
The ES curriculum has been developed from U.S. standards that RIS has adopted school-wide. Core subjects are based on the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards and taught by the grade-level classroom teachers. Across all grades, ES students have access to devices and lessons about the proper use of technology so teachers and students can safely use digital tools and resources in innovative and creative ways. In grades 1 and 2, each student has access to a class iPad, and from grades 3 to 5, RIS has a 1:1 Chromebook program. Reader’s and Writer’s Workshops are integrated into the curriculum to provide a balanced literacy model, while science and math are inquiry-based courses with a focus on critical thinking—all skills that are vital for success in the future.
Beyond the core subjects of math, reading, writing, science, and social studies, ES students have daily opportunities to experience and explore other interests and talents in subjects taught by specialists—art, music, physical education, a second language, and values. All elementary students are required to take Thai language and literacy, while non-Thai students also learn about Thai culture. Students are also introduced to skills and concepts in health and wellness. All of these subjects not only offer a well-rounded elementary school experience but also help students learn how to be considerate world citizens who are aware of the importance of caring about other people and the environment.
ES students’ social and emotional well-being is further supported by the Second Step curriculum. All RIS teachers are skilled at adapting learning to each student’s individual needs and developmental stage. In all grades, students are encouraged to make appropriate choices and exercise their independence, which promotes autonomy and a sense of safety—all of which are essential in developing well-adjusted, happy children who can focus on their learning.
Every day is a good day for learning and making friends in elementary school. Most days start with circle time, an opportunity to build community, when students and teachers can address issues in the class or in the world and share short lessons. From there, students move into core subject and specialist lessons. Each day has two blocks of reading and writing and an extended math period. Listening and speaking are integrated into all subjects. Students spend time throughout the day working in small groups and on shared projects, as ES emphasizes the importance of collaborative learning.
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Playground Bell |
7:15 am |
|
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Homeroom |
7:20 am - 7:35 am |
15 minutes |
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Block 1 |
7:35 am - 8:25 am |
50 minutes |
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Block 2 |
8:25 am - 9:15 am |
50 minutes |
|
Break |
9:15 am - 9:35am |
20 minutes |
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Block 3 |
9:40 am - 10:30 am |
50 minutes |
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Block 4 |
10:30 am - 11:20 am |
50 minutes |
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Block 5 |
11:20 am - 12:10 pm |
50 minutes |
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Lunch |
12:10 pm - 12:55 pm |
45 minutes |
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Block 6 |
1:00 pm - 1:50 pm |
50 minutes |
|
Block 7 |
1:50 pm - 2:40 pm |
50 minutes |
Field trips are an integral part of the elementary school experience. Hands-on, experiential learning in new environments can shift perspectives and often deepens students’ understanding of a topic. With each memorable off-campus experience, students are able to create a tangible connection between what they are learning in school and what is happening in the real world.
