A Quick Overview of Our Elementary Program at
North American International School:
At NAIS, our elementary program is designed to encourage the wellbeing and development of your whole child. We use the California Common Core State Standards to lay a solid base of academic learning at the elementary stage. The instructional program makes a variety of provisions to support individual learning and all teachers strive to meet the needs of all students. The program supports a co-operative approach to inquiry and problem-solving through interaction.
Students are provided opportunities to demonstrate their many talents, communication skills, and leadership qualities through curricular and co-curricular activities. Teachers encourage and assist students in becoming active learners, integrating their ideas, feelings and experiences into the instructional program. Students are encouraged to accept responsibility for their conduct, thereby enhancing their feelings of self-esteem and self-confidence.
A diagnostic test is held in each subject early in the academic year to identify areas of strength and weaknesses. Thereon formative assessments are used to track the progress of the child. These assessments are also graded and contribute towards the final grade in the Report Card. In grades 1 to 5, MAP and NGRT exams are held three times per year to determine student progress towards international targets in reading, math, and science.
In Grades 1 to 5, an approach focused on continuous progress is used in the core curricular areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science, Arabic language for native and non-native speakers, Islamic education for Muslims, and social studies. In addition to the core subjects, students receive instruction in physical education, music, art, and information technology. Guided by our philosophy of fostering curiosity and independence, we embrace a holistic approach to education, blending academics with social-emotional learning to develop well-rounded, confident learners.
Our curriculum is supported by caring empathetic teachers who are looking at the whole child, and how to best support their academic and socio-emotional wellbeing needs.
An orientation for parents is held in late August or September to introduce and guide the parents on how to support their child’s progress. Parent Teacher Conferences are held 2 times per year. Parents are encouraged to stay in touch with their child’s teachers through the school’s student information system.
Special Programs:
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After School Activities
A variety of fun clubs and activities that students can register for after the end of the school day. There are a mix of free, and additional cost activities available.
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After School Intervention
Extra support classes available in key academic areas to support student progress. Included in the cost of tuition.
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Music and Art Integration
Weekly classes led by specialized teachers to foster creative expression. All students grade 1 to 5 take Art and Music class at least once per week during their school day.
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Celebrating Diversity
Emphasis on global cultures through themed activities and stories.
Traditions and Celebrations
Our Elementary program is enriched with unique events and traditions that create lifelong memories, including:
- National Day: A celebration of this country and the culture. A range of activities and foods to share the rich history of the UAE.
- International Day: Celebrating the diversity of our school by celebrating the many cultures that our students come to us from with costumes, music, and food from around the world.
- 100th Day of School Celebration: A fun milestone with engaging math and art activities.
- Student Talent Show
- Sport Day
- Special Assemblies to support positive student behavior.
- School Spirit Dress Up days to support student well-being and to build a sense of school community.
- Field Trips to a range of educational locations around the UAE.
- End-of-Year Performance: A showcase of student talent and growth.
Our elementary curriculum follows the California Common Core State Standards and is designed to ignite a love for learning and provide a strong foundation in key academic areas, including:
- Language and Literacy: Reading, phonics, and storytelling to develop communication skills.
- Mathematics: Hands-on activities that build numeracy, key mathematical skills, and fostering a problem-solving mindset.
- Science: Exploration and experimentation encourage curiosity about the natural world.
- Social Studies: Understanding community, culture, and the world around us.
- Creative Arts: Expression through drawing, painting, music, and movement.
- Physical Development: Gross and fine motor skills development through play and structured activities.
- Arabic and Islamic Studies: Students continue to develop Arabic language fundamentals and Islamic values, fostering cultural understanding and a strong connection to local traditions. Non—Muslim students take a study hall lesson in place of Islamic studies.
Our classrooms are intended to encourage and expand young minds:
- Bright, welcoming spaces filled with interactive learning materials.
- Small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. A maximum of 25 students is allowed in any grade 1 to 5 classroom.
- A diverse student mix allows students to experience many cultures and develop friends from many backgrounds.
- Learning centers for hands-on activities in literacy, STEM, and art.
- Access to outdoor learning areas that support physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
Our Learning Community
At NAIS, we believe that students are most successful when our whole community is strong. We encourage our students to participate in After School Activities (ASAs) and families to attend or volunteer to assist at school events. In addition, we invite parents to join us at school for Back to School Day, Parent Conferences, Coffee Mornings, special celebration days, and workshops. Participation may look different for every family, however, students and our entire community benefit when a true partnership between students, parents, teachers, and school leaders develops.