What Your Kids Can Learn from The Olympics

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The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics will begin on July 26, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. Beyond the thrill of live sports, this global event presents a multifaceted learning opportunity for these incredible moments that transcend competitions. With the Olympics just days away, here are some of the valuable lessons for our children. 

The Olympics can inspire future generations.

Spirit of Sportsmanship

The Olympics Games exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship on a global scale. It is a powerful lesson for kids to watch athletes competing not only for victory, but also to celebrate the values of Olympism: excellence, respect, and friendship. These moments foster children’s mutual understanding of camaraderie, solidarity, and fair play, all essential for their personal development into well-rounded individuals.

Collaboration and Teamwork

The Olympics provide an excellent platform to enlighten children to collaboration and healthy competition. Events such as relay races and team sports educate children on the importance of working together towards a common goal. When children observe how a team succeeds, they realize that supporting and encouraging their peers is as crucial as individual achievements. 

Through teamwork , children learn to combine their strengths, negotiate ideas, and produce high-quality work.

Cultural Awareness

Since its emergence in Ancient Greece, the Olympics h ave symbolized a cultural gathering. As a global event bringing people from nearly every corner of the world, it communicates messages to all human beings. This grand event promotes children’s global awareness by demonstrating our shared humanity despite differences. 
This is particularly relevant for our bilingual students, who are already learning to navigate multiple languages and cultures. In following weeks, watch parties will be hosted for students in all language tracks at Tessa Summer Camp. When children see the vast array of unique flags, clothing, and skin tones, they gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world’s rich diversity. Cultural appreciation and awareness significantly contribute to a child’s positive self-image and encourage them to create a diverse social network as they grow up.

A class of primary students at Tessa International School holding up a poster of the earth written in Spanish.

At Tessa, children are introduced to other languages and cultures to enhance their cultural awareness.

 

“We must make sport available to all children, regardless of their personal situations and backgrounds, and the Olympic Games are the perfect way to inspire them.” 

– Aksel Lund Svindal, the two-time Olympic champion. 

 

What is unique about the Games is the capability to reach everyone, including the youth. As parents and educators dedicated to preparing children as happy and excellent world citizens, we can enrich and inspire our children through the Olympics. Let us encourage our kids to watch the Olympics not just as an entertaining sporting event but also as a global classroom, full of valuable life lessons.

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Turn Summer Learning Loss into Opportunities for Your Kids

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Summer is an important time for students to recharge from a demanding school year. However, the long summer months also raise concerns about students losing academic ground during the summer break. This phenomenon, also known as the Summer Learning Loss, has garnered significant attention from educators and parents alike.  What is it exactly, and how can we help children avoid it?

With the right strategies in place, parents can help prevent the summer slide.

Is Summer Learning Loss Real? 

Concerns about Summer Learning Loss date back approximately 100 years. With improved methods and larger samples to examine its reality, multiple recent assessments indicate that test scores flatten or drop during the summer. 

  1. With data from 3.4 million students in all 50 states from 2016 to 2018, research found that the median summer losses are fairly large in magnitude, ranging from losses of one to two months in reading and a little more than one to three months of school-year learning in math.  
  2. Across primary grades, between 70% and 78% of students experience a decline in math skills over the summer, and between 62% and 73% show regressions in reading.
  3. A longitudinal study by Johns Hopkins University researchers found that more than two-thirds of the reading achievement gap in 9th grade can be traced back to Summer Learning Loss accumulated during the primary school years.

Students’ learning patterns during summer break differ significantly from those during the school year, making it natural for them to learn less or forget some knowledge over the summer. However, it is also clear across recent studies that summer is a variable time for students. Educational experts advocate for additional summer opportunities to reduce the slowdown or stagnation in students’ learning rates. 

 

“Summer learning loss is common and substantial, but not inevitable. ”

– Megan Kuhfeld, Senior Research Scientist at Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA), 2019

 

What Parents Can Do to Help Students

Summer break is not something to overly worry about. It can become an opportunity for students to learn, catch up, or build certain interests. A 2020 American Educational Research Journal (AERJ) study found summer learning outcomes “vary dramatically from child to child,” based on factors including summer activities and parental involvement. 

There are many activities that parents and families can do to mitigate Summer Learning Loss, spark a love of learning in kids, and ensure an engaging summer vacation: 

Travel as a catalyst to children’s growth and development: 

A summer trip can spark your child’s passion for learning and foster a global perspective like no other. Life on the road is the perfect time to develop children’s social skills and cultural appreciation in a language-immersed environment. 

Engage with educational activities from community resources: 

Libraries, museums, and natural parks are trusted places where children make discoveries, expand their knowledge, and connect their natural curiosity to the real world. Learning experiences in these institutions are self-directed, experiential, and content-rich, promoting executive function skills that shape a child’s success in school and life. 

Use the Internet wisely for home-based education: 

A handful of online platforms, services, and publishers have made their content accessible to keep students learning nowadays. Not only does virtual learning allow flexible scheduling, but also a wider range of courses are offered across the Internet to satisfy different children’s levels and interests.

Summer Camps and Programs Can Help

Structured summer programs can provide a balanced mix of learning and fun, ensuring that children stay intellectually engaged while also enjoying their break. 

One of the biggest differences between Tessa Summer Camp and other camps is that we are a language immersion camp, offering a unique and enriching experience for children. At the camp, students continue their language development throughout the summer. Campers love to learn Spanish, French, or Mandarin!

Hear more from our campers’ parents here. 

Tessa Summer Camp enables children to have fun while keeping learning in an immersive environment.

 

Rethinking Summer Learning Loss reinforces our goal of preparing lifelong learners. When schools are out, the whole world becomes our child’s classroom. With the ideas above for inspiration, parents can help students focus on the joy of learning during this golden period. These efforts will serve as a critical bridge for students transitioning between school years, ensuring they return to school ready to progress and excel.

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken?

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Learning Math

Unlocking Math and Science Potential in Tessa Primary Program

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Have you ever wondered how a rocket blasts off to space, or how a tiny cell becomes a whole you? Understanding the world around us is an incredible adventure, and math and science are the tools that unlock its secrets!

At Tessa International School, we don’t just teach math and science, we ignite a passion for discovery! That’s why we have a Math & STEM Specialist on our faculty – a unique advantage you won’t find at most primary schools. Our specialist creates a fun and engaging environment where kids become curious explorers, asking questions, solving problems, and building the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Importance of Math and Science in Primary School Education

The early years of education are critical for children’s ability to handle key concepts and shape their belief in lifelong learning. Math and Science education at the primary level serves several important purposes:

  1. Building Blocks for Future Learning: Early STEM exposure significantly influences later educational outcomes. Incorporating STEM into early learning helps children develop fundamental knowledge that will be built upon in subsequent school years. Research also shows that early STEM instruction leads to better language and literacy outcomes, all of which are essential to children’s current and future potential. 
  2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Math constitutes a fundamental part of human thought and logic, and STEM learning encourages logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These cognitive abilities are crucial not only for understanding the content of other school subjects but also for enhancing their life chances.
  3. Creativity and Innovation: STEM fields are at the forefront of innovation. By engaging with these subjects early on, children learn to think creatively and approach problems with innovative solutions. Studies indicate that young learners are already capable of using engineering habits of mind in their free-play STEM activities.
Primary STEM Education at Tessa

It’s never too early to dive into STEM learning.

How Tessa’s Math & STEM Specialist Sets Tessa Primary Program Apart

  • In-depth Exploration: Unlike many primary schools, Tessa has a specialist that ensures students not only learn the basics but also explore more advanced topics that stimulate intellectual curiosity. Our school offers a curriculum that dives deep into Math and Science concepts. 
  • Engaging Activities: Learning at Tessa is far from rote memorization. Our specialist employs hands-on activities, experiments, and projects that make Math and Science come alive. This approach helps students see the real-world applications of what they learn, making the subjects more relevant and exciting. 
  • Strong Foundation: By focusing on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, our program prepares students for future academic and professional success. We aim to instill a love for learning that will last a lifetime, encouraging students to pursue STEM fields with confidence. 
Tessa Primary Program

Our dedicated Math & STEM Specialist provides rigorous and engaging instruction for students.

 

Choosing the right primary school for your child is a crucial decision that can shape their educational journey and future success. At Tessa, our commitment to excellence in Math and Science education sets us apart. With the guidance of our dedicated Math & STEM Specialist, we provide a stimulating and supportive environment where young learners can thrive in a technology-driven world. 

 

Ready to cultivate your child’s potential in the only international leading private school in Hoboken? 

Contact Tessa International School to learn more! 

We offer bilingual education.

Bilingualism at Tessa International School

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As communities worldwide become more interconnected, bilingualism has emerged as a crucial asset, enriching individuals’ lives in myriad ways. Bilingual instruction is also unparalleled compared to other learning strategies and has proven tremendously beneficial to students. 

At Tessa, bilingualism is one of the three core pillars of our school philosophy that craft our educational approaches. We challenge our students in English, French, Mandarin, or Spanish, empowering them to reach their full potential. 

Benefits of Bilingualism

Beyond facilitating cross-cultural communication, early exposure to bilingual education also offers a wealth of cognitive and academic advantages. 

  • Bilingualism improves executive functioning and builds cognitive connections in the brain – the parts responsible for multitasking, memorizing, focusing, and planning. Findings show that bilingual children are on average 6.5% more efficient in their thinking skills than monolingual children. 
  • Researchers at American University show that by the end of middle school, students in dual-language programs were performing one grade level higher on reading assessments than their peers who were not enrolled in these programs. 
  • In a large-scale study of Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Grade 1 students, bilingual students outperformed monolingual students in mathematical reasoning and problem solving.

Learn more about advantages to have a bilingual brain through the video below:

Our Immersion Progression Model

Bilingualism is integral to every stage of the education experience at Tessa. To ensure that our students develop strong language skills in both English and the target language, the Immersion Progression Model is strategically designed and applied. For an overview, our 80:20 immersion (Preschool) and 50:50 dual-language (Primary School) teaching approach is designed to promote students to become fully bilingual and biliterate. 

80:20 Immersion Stage: From Nursery through Kindergarten, the majority of instruction (80%) is conducted in the target language, allowing students to build strong, life-long foundations in the language.

“Bilingualism is an experience that shapes our brain for a lifetime.”

– Dr. Gigi Luk, the associate professor at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education

50:50 Dual Language Stage: Starting in Grade 1, students will receive instruction and absorb knowledge in English and the targeted language equally in order to gain proficiency in both. 

To meet this ideal, different language teachers – all of whom are native speakers of the language they teach – regularly collaborate to exchange their classroom observations and enhance the learning experience. Our teachers not only teach the language but also teach content through the target language, which enables students to gain linguistic competence while making academic progress in core subjects, including Science, Social Studies, Language & Literacy, and Math.

 

Check out this short video of our students talking about bilingualism: 

 

The power of bilingualism is undeniable, conferring a multitude of advantages that improve individuals’ lives and enhance society as a whole. By embracing bilingualism, our students are prepared to navigate the complexities of the globalizing world with confidence and proficiency.

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken? 

Contact Tessa International School to learn more! 

A preschool student at a French immersion school at a graduation presentation

Preschool vs. Pre-kindergarten: Similarities and Differences

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As you explore early childhood education options for your child, you may encounter terms like “preschool” and “pre-kindergarten” (pre-k). While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, you may wonder, what’s the difference between preschool and pre-k?

At Tessa International School, we understand the importance of knowing the subtle yet meaningful differences between various educational programs to choose the best one for your child’s developmental stage and learning needs.

This blog post defines preschool and pre-k, highlights their key differences, and explains how our preschool program prepares children for future academic success.

Defining Preschool and Pre-kindergarten

Preschool at our French international school and its other two bilingual tracks, Mandarin and Spanish, is an early childhood education program designed for children aged 2 to 4. It focuses on social, emotional, and cognitive development through play-based learning and structured activities. Preschool aims to nurture a child’s curiosity, creativity, and social skills, laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Pre-Kindergarten, on the other hand, is a program specifically designed for children aged 4 to 5, typically the year before they enter kindergarten. Pre-K emphasizes school readiness with a curriculum that includes early literacy, math concepts, and social skills. The goal is to prepare children for the structured kindergarten environment and beyond.

Students at a French immersion school working together at a table

The main difference between preschool and pre-kindergarten is the age of students.

What’s the Difference Between Preschool and Pre-K

What’s the difference between preschool and pre-k? Preschool programs are for younger children, usually between 2 and 4, while pre-k programs are for children 4 to 5. What is the best age to start preschool? Preschool programs are for younger children between ages 2 and 3. The average age to start is three; however, this depends on the child.

The curriculum focus also varies; preschools concentrate on play-based learning and socialization, whereas pre-k programs have a more structured curriculum emphasizing academic readiness.

Additionally, preschools offer flexible duration options, including half-day and full-day attendance, while pre-k programs often follow a more standardized schedule, similar to a full school day.

Lastly, while both programs aim to foster holistic development, preschools focus more on social and emotional skills, creativity, and basic cognitive abilities. Pre-k programs emphasize preparing children for kindergarten academic demands, focusing more on literacy, numeracy, and school readiness skills.

The Preschool Program at Tessa International School

At our French immersion school program and its other two bilingual tracks, Mandarin and Spanish, we believe early childhood education is the cornerstone of a child’s academic journey. Our preschool program is designed to nurture the whole child, providing a warm, multicultural environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning.

We offer bilingual education, allowing children to learn in English, Spanish, French, or Mandarin, fostering early language acquisition and cultural awareness.

A French immersion school class learning math with their teacher

Preschool at our French international school prepares children to excel in kindergarten.

Our preschool program focuses on social-emotional development, prioritizing developing social skills, emotional regulation, and empathy. We emphasize cognitive growth through play-based learning and hands-on activities, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Physical well-being is another key component, with activities and outdoor play incorporated to promote healthy development and motor skills. As an international school, we celebrate cultural diversity, encouraging children to appreciate and learn from different cultures.

By providing a holistic and nurturing preschool experience, we prepare our children not just for pre-K or kindergarten but for a lifetime of learning and discovery.

Choosing the right early childhood education program is crucial for your child’s development. Understanding the differences between preschool and pre-kindergarten can help you make an informed decision that best suits your child’s needs.

At Tessa International School, our preschool program offers a unique blend of play-based learning, language immersion, and cultural diversity, preparing children for academic success and global citizenship. If you want to learn more about our preschool program, we invite you to visit our campus and experience the Tessa difference.

Are you ready to explore one of the best Hoboken private schools?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the best age to start preschool?

Answer: Preschool programs are for younger children between ages 2 and 3. The average age to start is three; however, this depends on the child.

Question: What’s the difference between preschool and pre-k?

Answer: Preschool programs are for younger children, usually between 2 and 4, while pre-K programs are for children 4 to 5.

A teacher and her student on Graduation Day

Excellence in Education

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Excellence, by definition, is the unwavering commitment to do anything to the best of our ability. At Tessa International School, it is not an abstract ideal. Excellence is one of the three pillars of our fundamental philosophy that underpins everything we do. 

Cultivating excellence in our students goes beyond academic achievement. It encompasses developing positive character traits, fostering global visions, and instilling a lifelong passion for learning. We are committed to helping students internally embrace the notion of excellence and strive towards it. 

Excellent Educational Practices: Our Global Accreditations

Tessa’s program has been built on the principle of incorporating the world’s best practices in education. Our school holds three premier global accreditations, which highlight the high standards we maintain and our commitment to academic excellence. 

These renowned accreditations ensure a seamless transition for students into similar institutions in the US and around the world, facilitating their global mobility and fostering their continued success.

Excellent Teachers: Our Foundation and Support

Central to our pursuit of excellence is our team of passionate and experienced teachers, who dedicate themselves to the educational experience at Tessa. Our teachers are highly credentialed professionals, mostly holding advanced degrees and specialized training in their subject areas. 

The group photo of teachers

Our teachers create a supportive community that inspires students to reach their full potential.

We provide a child-centered approach tailored to each student’s unique needs and interests. With a low teacher-to-student ratio, we prioritize personalized attention, ensuring that each student receives the support and guidance they need to thrive academically and emotionally. Simultaneously, language immersion, project-based learning, and an international perspective are integral to our curriculum. 

Each member of our team is a native speaker. With their diverse backgrounds, our educators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, enriching the learning environment and fostering multicultural exchange. At Tessa, we celebrate our differences. It is through understanding and respect that we cultivate knowledgeable, caring, and excellent individuals who are equipped to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Our teachers may have different origins, but they all share the same love of language and culture, and the common goal of empowering students in a warm and supportive environment. 

 

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”

– Will Durant, paraphrasing Aristotle.

 

By all means, we aim to motivate our students to pursue excellence intrinsically. It is not just a destination but a journey we embark on. Through the incorporation of world’s best educational practices and a team of highly credentialed native-speaking teachers, we strive to provide a world-class education that promotes students for excellence in an ever-changing global landscape. 

 

Are you ready to explore the only international leading private school in Hoboken? 

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Two students happily smiles

An Education Based on Happiness

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The pursuit of happiness is a fundamental human aspiration, demonstrably linked to positive life outcomes. Beyond subjective well-being, research increasingly reveals a causal connection between happiness and cognitive function, academic achievement, and social engagement. Happiness plays a key role in how well students learn and a child’s emotional well-being is the strongest predictor of adult life satisfaction. 

Any great school needs to foster a deep-seated love of learning. At Tessa, happiness is one of the three pillars of our school mission. Ensuring the well-being and happiness of our students is at the heart of everything we do. 

Understanding Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, also known as emotional quotient or EQ, is the ability to perceive and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. This ability is essential for preparing students for real-world interactions and becoming happy and effective global citizens. 

Emotionally intelligent individuals often cultivate fulfilling relationships that contributes to happiness.

Our school employs RULER, the renowned methods of the Yale Center for Social and Emotional Intelligence (YCEI), to guide students towards enhanced emotional awareness and interpersonal skills. RULER is an acronym for the five skills of emotional intelligence: 

  1. Recognizing emotions in oneself and others
  2. Understanding the causes and consequences of emotions
  3. Labeling emotions with a nuanced vocabulary
  4. Expressing emotions in accordance with cultural norms and social context
  5. Regulating emotions with helpful strategies

Research on the impact of RULER shows that emotional intelligence can benefit youth development by modeling people’s behaviors and maintaining positive school climates. Implementing RULER can also improve leader, educator, and student outcomes in schools serving PreK to 12 students. Specific outcomes include: 

  • Development of emotion skills
  • Fewer attention and learning problems
  • Greater social and leadership skills
  • Less anxiety and depression
  • Less stress and burnout
  • Better performance in school

Creating a Positive Learning Environment

 A healthy physical school environment promotes learning by ensuring the safety of students and staff. Additionally, researchers found that school facilities, such as lighting and space, can also affect students’ degree of happiness. 

Located on three floors of the Monroe Center, our facility has been designed to offer our students a modern, bright and warm space. The architectural features are designed to promote healthy learning, enhance students’ focus, and encourage a positive attitude. Through bright classrooms and purpose-built facilities, our community’s well-being is our priority.

A bright and warm classroom at Tessa International School

Classrooms at Tessa are designed for a positive learning experience.

Take a virtual tour of Tessa International School here.

Providing Community Support

Beyond the walls of the classroom, Tessa boasts a vibrant parent organization (PTO), which plays a vital role in Tessa’s community-building efforts. It is the School’s and PTO’s joint mission to build a cohesive, global-minded community and work together to make a difference in every child. Our active and close-knit community provides a strong support system for families, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. 

Parent Organization organized Back to School Events to raise students' happiness.

Parent involvement can help students make social connections.

A sense of community is vital to help students feel engaged and connected to the learning process. By organizing events such as United Nation Days Celebration and Career Week, parents and teachers can foster social connections with students inside or outside the school. This can be especially important for children to practice their social skills, including learning the rules of conversation and age-appropriate behavior. 

 

To ensure that our education fosters happiness, we provide concrete support psychologically, physically, and interpersonally for students to thrive in this fast-changing world. We believe that happiness is a fundamental need – a key priority in our educational aims. It is one of the most important assets in fueling children’s life-long success and the achievement of many other goals. 

 

Do you want to explore education provided by one of the top Hoboken private schools?

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A girl is showing her IB Learner Profile activities to her mother.

A Closer Look at Student-Led Conferences

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Student-Led Conferences are an integral part of the assessment and learning process of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Unlike traditional school conferences where teachers primarily lead discussions, Student-Led Conferences place students at the center of their learning journey, encouraging them to share their progress with their families. But what exactly are Student-Led Conferences, and why are they so crucial? 

A girl is showing her IB Learner Profile activities to her mother.

Student-Led Conferences can be highly beneficial for students and their educational experience.

Defining Student-Led Conferences

Student-Led Conferences involve students and parents. The main purpose is for students to take the responsibility for their learning. Students are responsible for leading the conference and sharing their learning process with their family. The conference may involve students demonstrating their understanding through a variety of different learning situations. 

During conferences, students will discuss and reflect upon samples of work that they have previously chosen to share with their parents. These samples have been selected with guidance and support from the teacher. With their parents, students are expected to reflect on their own learning journey, showcase their current progress, and set goals for the future. 

A girl shows her samples of work to her parents during her Student-Led conference.

Students presents their work and guides the discussion in the conference.

Benefits of Student-Led Conferences

  1. Learner Agency: Student-Led Conferences encourage students to exercise more agency over their learning. Students will lead all stages of the conference. They prepare work samples, plan the agenda, and reflect on the feedback from parents. These conferences establish chances and conditions for students to have voice, choice, and ownership for their own learning. In turn, students can exhibit higher levels of motivation and engagement in their journey to become an IB Learner. 
  2. Self-Reflection: Student-Led Conferences require students to give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development. Students may reflect on the following topics during conferences: 
    1. Ways in which students learn: inquiry-based learning, visible thinking, etc; 
    2. What students have been learning: knowledge, skills, etc; 
    3. Outcomes arise from our learning: stories written, dramas performed, artworks, speeches, etc.
  3. Communication ability: Leading a conference helps students develop stronger communication skills. They learn to articulate their thoughts, share their accomplishments, and discuss their challenges. This experience can enhance their ability to express themselves effectively, both in and out of the classroom.
  4. Parent involvement: Student-Led Conferences enable parents to become partners who work alongside students in their learning process, giving parents an insight into the progress and process of their child’s learning. The conferences promote open communications between parents and students, where parents can realize the process in which students transfer concepts into actions. The conference is an opportunity to empower students and parents with an emphasis on growth, progress, and development.
  5. Teachers’ Partnership: Working as a facilitator to support students’ ownership of learning can give teachers new insights that allow them to make the learning environment more effective. By observing the interactions between students and parents and reading the feedback, teachers can also provide parents suggestions about how to support their children at home during Parent/Teacher conferences.
Student's self-reflection for their Student-Led Conference.

Student-Led Conferences require students to be reflective, a key component to IB learning.

Expectations

Student

  • Demonstrate responsibility for their learning journey.
  • Plan the conference ahead of time.
  • Provide an oral and written reflection of their learning journey.
  • Lead his or her parent(s) through a variety of activities independently. 
  • Acknowledge their strengths and areas for improvement from parent’s feedback. 

Parent

  • Encourage and support their child in describing their learning journey by asking questions.
  • Provide feedback to their child; help them set goals for the future and create a corresponding action plan.

Teacher

  • Provide time for students to plan, organize, and practice for the conference. 
  • Mentor students when setting learning goals. 
  • Offer guidance and expectations for student reflection. 
A boy shows his samples of work to his parents during his Student-Led Conference.

Student-Led Conferences are an effective method for promoting parent participation.

According to this study by Cheryl Lambert of Austin Peay State University, Student-Led Conference “offers students the opportunity to take the lead in the conference using their own work evidence; thereby, encouraging ownership and responsibility for quality outcomes.” The conference is a way of letting students shine and for providing opportunities for transdisciplinary development in planning and evaluation across the school.

 

Do you want to explore how this works at one of the top Hoboken private schools?

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A class of students learning an international school curriculum posing together in a circle on a map carpet in a classroom.

What Is an International School and Why Should You Consider One?

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As a parent of a school-going child, you may wonder how you can provide an education that prepares them for our rapidly changing world. International schools offer children a range of unique benefits and competencies that they will continue to use throughout their education and far into the future.

At Tessa, we’re proud of the diversity within our community, and we understand that a quality international education offers so much more than language instruction. Keep reading for a comprehensive introduction to international schools, the special features they offer, and why you should consider enrolling your child. 

What Is an International School?

According to a report by ISC Research, the popularity of international schools has grown significantly in the past ten years. As of 2022, we’ve seen an astounding 60% increase in the number of international schools across the globe. Why is this? Since most parents today are involved in a global workforce, they are aware of the benefits an international education offers as the world grows more connected each day.

Forward-thinking parents seek an education for their children that provides the skills and attitudes necessary for navigating an increasingly connected society. That’s where international schools come in. What is an international school? 

International schools provide globalized education to students, often introducing them to different languages and cultures. Typically located in diverse, metropolitan areas, international schools are particularly appealing to expat families who may be seeking a familiar learning environment for their children. Of course, the benefits of international schooling apply to every child, no matter their background. What unique features do they offer?

A line of students learning an international school curriculum dressed in cultural attire speaking to each other at a cultural event.

An international school curriculum is transferable and diverse.

Special Features of International School

When you enroll your child in an international school, you can expect an enriched educational experience that provides the following special features: 

  • Transferable Curriculum: International schools often follow curriculums like the International Baccalaureate, which is the same all over the world. As a result, children who transfer from one international school to another can adjust seamlessly on an academic level. Tessa is proudly recognized as an IB school offering the Primary Years Program (PYP). Academic programs are certainly major factors to consider when choosing an international school. 
  • Familiar Learning Environment For Expat Students: Intentional schools can provide much-needed familiarity to expat students. For example, Tessa is accredited by the French Ministry of Education, providing a learning experience that our French expat families are acquainted with. As many students and their families are experiencing a new culture, international schools support the needs of the multicultural experience.
  • An Introduction To Global Citizenship: Global citizenship refers to a valuable quality that an individual possesses. It’s an understanding and respect for the world’s interconnectedness and diversity. A global citizen is aware of the world around them and takes meaningful action. These individuals display qualities that employers all over the world are seeking. At Tessa, students are immersed in a wide variety of cultures and are taught to appreciate the differences among them. 

Why You Should Consider International School

There are so many reasons to consider international school for your child. At Tessa, we provide Spanish, French, and Mandarin bilingual tracks in addition to lessons in English. However, the learning experience at Tessa goes beyond language proficiency. Our lifelong learning model sets the foundation for positive development and endows our students with skills that will continue to serve them throughout life.

A class of students learning an international school curriculum presenting an internationally-themed play in front of spectators.

Our international school curriculum prepares students to thrive.

Isabelle’s dad said of her experience with us: “It’s not just bilingualism. Tessa helped my daughter speak complete sentences in Spanish (which is amazing!), but every day, there’s something new and enriching: from the cultural speakers to Liberty Science Center visitors and music classes – it’s great knowing that your child is at an elite school that’s really pulling out all the stops to help them develop.” 

Are you curious about our international school curriculum? 

Contact Tessa for more information!

French Primary Student Smiling

Understanding the French National Curriculum at Tessa International School

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At Tessa International School, we are proud to offer a comprehensive program that combines the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework with the esteemed French National Curriculum. This unique blend of education, combined with specific adaptations for each language track, brings together the best of both worlds, focusing on academic excellence, cultural immersion, and global engagement. Let’s explore the benefits of the French National Curriculum and its significant role in fostering a vibrant French community within our multicultural environment.

French Class at Tessa International School

Elevating Academic Standards through the French National Curriculum

The French National Curriculum is known worldwide for its high academic standards. At Tessa International School, we integrate this curriculum seamlessly into our educational framework to provide students with a well-structured and comprehensive education. This helps students progress systematically and ensures a smooth continuity in their learning journey.

 

Building Strong Foundations in Mathematics and Sciences

The French National Curriculum emphasizes the importance of mathematics and sciences. This focus enables our students to develop a solid foundation in these essential subjects. By mastering these skills, students gain the tools they need to tackle complex challenges and thrive in future academic and professional pursuits.

Promoting Critical Thinking Skills

Developing critical thinking skills is a key aspect of the French National Curriculum. We encourage students to analyze, interpret, and reflect on information independently, enabling them to make informed decisions. Through engaging discussions, collaborative projects, and research-based activities, students cultivate their ability to think critically and articulate well-reasoned arguments.

 

Supporting Teachers with Established Resources

Our teachers at Tessa International School benefit from a well-established system of resources and teaching materials. This support empowers educators to deliver quality education and provides students with access to a wide range of educational materials, textbooks, and digital resources. This ensures that students receive a comprehensive learning experience.

 

Globally Recognized Education

The French National Curriculum holds international recognition and respect, opening doors to universities and educational opportunities worldwide. Students benefit from the globally recognized curriculum, enhancing their chances of admission to prestigious universities and facilitating seamless transitions between educational systems across different countries.

Creating a Vibrant French Community

The French Accreditation plays a crucial role in creating a seamless educational experience for French nationals or families who may relocate abroad. By aligning our curriculum with the French National Program and obtaining homologation, we ensure that students can seamlessly transition between our institution and any French educational institution worldwide. Moreover, the integration of the French National Curriculum fosters a vibrant French community within our school. This provides students with opportunities to engage with native French speakers, celebrate French traditions, and participate in cultural activities that deepen their understanding of the French language and its significance in the world.

 

 

Tessa International School stands as a beacon of educational excellence, combining the distinguished French National Curriculum with the globally recognized International Baccalaureate approach. Through this fusion, we provide our students with a well-rounded education that fosters academic rigor, cultural immersion, and global engagement. Our vibrant French community, supported by the French Homologation process, ensures a seamless educational journey for our French students, allowing them to maintain their cultural identity and educational trajectory. At Tessa International School, we strive to prepare our students for success in an interconnected world, nurturing their intellectual growth, cultural appreciation, and language proficiency. Schedule a tour or join our upcoming events to learn more about our programs.  

 

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is one of the best! Explore how we combine learning with fun, making new friends, and encouraging a global mindset.

Tessa International School

Office: (201) 755-5585 | Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030