An international baccalaureate primary years program student in a science class

Benefits of the IB Primary Years Program in Early Education

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Choosing the right early education program for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. At Tessa International School in Hoboken, we understand the significance of this decision, which is why we offer the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program. 

This comprehensive and dynamic educational framework is designed to nurture young learners and set the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Here, we explore the benefits of the IB PYP and what makes our implementation at Tessa International School uniquely impactful.

Introducing the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program

What is the Primary Years Program in IB? The IB PYP is a curriculum framework that goes beyond traditional subject-based learning. It encourages students to explore topics through various lenses, fostering a transdisciplinary approach that draws on all subjects. This method allows students to seek patterns and make real-world connections, creating a richer and more meaningful learning experience.

Chiffres relatifs à l'apprentissage des élèves du programme primaire du baccalauréat international

The International Baccalaureate Primary School Program promotes a rich learning experience.

Benefits of the IB Primary Years Program

What are the benefits of IB PYP? They are manifold! The benefits of the IB PYP include deeper thinking, enhanced communication skills, and responsibility in young learners. Evie’s parents highlight the benefits they’ve seen:

“Our family chose Tessa International School for many reasons. At the top of our list were the world cultures focus and dual language opportunities that the school provides for our daughter in her daily life. At Tessa, our daughter is able to grow and learn in an environment that is accepting and open. Learning two languages allows her to engage in a way that shows her there is more to the world than her local surroundings.

We also love that the Tessa team takes the time to understand the children and adapt learning activities to fit their learning profiles. We couldn’t be happier with the program and are excited to grow with Tessa.” 

Fostering Deeper Thinking

One of the primary benefits of international baccalaureate education is its ability to help students think deeper. Students develop a more comprehensive understanding of the world by seeing connections between seemingly separate subjects. This interconnected approach ensures that learning is broad and deep, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Enhancing Communication Skills

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program framework also helps students become better communicators.  Children learn to articulate their thoughts clearly and effectively as they express their knowledge and ideas across different disciplines. Whether through writing, speaking, or artistic expression, students gain confidence in their ability to communicate, a crucial skill for success in all areas of life.

Developing Responsible Individuals

At Tessa International School, education should impart knowledge and develop responsible individuals. The IB PYP framework encourages students to grapple with complex issues and learn to take action. Through inquiry-based learning and real-life scenarios, students engage with topics that matter, fostering a sense of responsibility and a desire to impact the world positively.

The Unique Approach at Tessa International School

Our emphasis on real-world connections sets the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP) at Tessa International School apart. Students actively engage with real-life scenarios, exploring concepts through hands-on experiences. This approach makes learning more engaging while helping students understand the relevance of their education to the world around them.

The ultimate goal of the IB PYP at Tessa International School is to equip students with the skills and knowledge to become lifelong learners. By going beyond subject boundaries, our students learn how to think. This critical thinking ability prepares them for success in an ever-changing world, ensuring they are ready to face future challenges with confidence and creativity.

A pair of international baccalaureate primary years program students doing a sensory activity

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program at Tessa fosters holistic learning.

Prepare for Success With Tessa International School

At Tessa International School, the IB Primary Years Program provides a unique and enriching educational experience that nurtures young learners and prepares them for a lifetime of success. 

We ensure our students receive a comprehensive education by fostering deeper thinking, enhancing communication skills, and developing responsible individuals. With our unique approach to real-world connections and transdisciplinary learning, we are proud to offer a  program that sets our students on the path to becoming lifelong learners.

Are you ready to enroll your child in one of the leading Hoboken private schools? 

Contact Tessa International School for more information! 

FAQ

Question: What is the Primary Years Program in IB? 

Answer: The IB PYP is a curriculum framework beyond traditional subject-based learning.  It encourages students to explore topics through various lenses, fostering a transdisciplinary approach that draws on all subjects.

Question: What are the benefits of IB PYP? 

Answer: They are manifold! The benefits of the IB PYP include deeper thinking, enhanced communication skills, and responsibility in young learners.

Weaving Sustainability into Education: Tessa International School Earns EFE3D Level 1 Certification

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We are thrilled to announce that our school has achieved the EFE3D (Établissement Français à l’Étranger en Démarche de Développement Durable) Level 1 certification! This distinction recognizes our ongoing commitment to integrating sustainable development goals and practices into our educational approach.

Here’s a glimpse into how we have embraced sustainable development and the initiatives that earned us this certification.

Cultivating a Culture of Sustainability:

At Tessa, sustainability is a community effort. We have a dedicated Green Committee that initiates impactful projects such as our comprehensive recycling and composting programs. Right in the middle of our school, there’s a tower garden where students can learn about plants, animals, and how to garden without hurting the environment. Hands-on experiences complement classroom learning, where subjects like dental hygiene and healthy eating are addressed through engaging activities.

Our School Tower Garden

Students Earth Artwork. “Little hands can change the world”!

Weaving Green Initiatives into the Curriculum

Sustainability is not just an afterthought at Tessa. We actively integrate green initiatives across the curriculum, fostering environmental awareness from a young age. Here are some examples from this year:

  • Primary Students and the Water Cycle: Students learned about the water cycle, understanding the importance of water conservation and responsible waste disposal.
  • Preschool Waste Collection and Upcycling: PK classes participated in clean-up initiatives on the school plaza, instilling a sense of responsibility for their environment. Additionally, some classrooms learned how to reuse materials, transforming them into valuable resources or creative art projects.
  • Nursery Birdhouse Creation: Even our youngest learners get involved! Nursery classes designed and built birdhouses, promoting an appreciation for wildlife and habitat creation.

This is just a glimpse of how we integrate sustainability into our curriculum. We are constantly developing new and innovative ways to engage students in environmental stewardship.

Water Cycle Primary Science Class

Pre-K4 Students Reusing Scrap Paper

Fostering Well-Rounded Global Citizens

At Tessa, we believe that sustainability goes beyond environmental responsibility. We cultivate well-rounded global citizens who embody the values and attributes of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile. 

  • Promoting Civic Responsibility: Citizenship education emphasizes respect, cooperation, and cultural awareness, encouraging students to actively engage in community projects. Additionally, we cultivate an eco-conscious mindset through environmental education initiatives. These practices nurture the IB Learner Profile traits of open-mindedness, care, and being knowledgeable, encouraging students to understand diverse perspectives, act with compassion, and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
  • Encouraging Energy Conservation: Students are educated on the importance of energy conservation, promoting habits like turning off lights when not in use. This fosters thinkers who can analyze information and make responsible choices for the environment. It also cultivates informed citizens who understand the consequences of their actions.

 

Empowering Student Sustainability Leaders:

We believe in empowering our students to be responsible citizens. Our student council, in collaboration with the NGO “Pass the Bricks,” recently organized a Lego collection drive, promoting plastic waste reduction and global recycling efforts. Additionally, the annual food drive, led by our parent organization, fosters a spirit of community and social responsibility.

Student Council Lego Drive

Building Partnerships for a Sustainable Future:

Recognizing the importance of ongoing education and collaboration, Tessa actively seeks partnerships with local organizations. Working with the Community Compost Company and the North Hudson Sewerage Authority has provided valuable learning experiences for students and staff, demonstrating practical applications of sustainable practices.

 

Looking Ahead: Deepening Our Commitment

The EFE3D Level 1 certification is just the first step on our sustainability journey. As our school grows, we plan to expand our initiatives. This can include introducing student eco-delegates who will champion sustainability efforts within the higher grades. We’re also committed to deepening our engagement with the local community, leveraging partnerships to further our environmental and social goals.

Together, we are not only educating the future leaders of tomorrow, but also instilling in them the values and practices necessary for a sustainable world!

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! 

A boy is riding a horse.

Why You Should Send Your Child to Summer Camp

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Summer is a season of adventure, exploration, and growth. As the school year winds down, ensuring their children spend their time in an enjoyable and enriching way may become a challenge for many conscientious parents. One option that often stands out is sending children to summer camp. This choice can be very beneficial, offering advantages that extend far beyond the few weeks of summer.

A boy in the water game

At Tessa Summer Camp, students explore a range of fun multi-sensory activities in the target language.

Benefits of Summer Camp

According to the American Camp Association (ACA), the camp experience is recognized by child development professionals as valuable in helping children mature socially, emotionally, intellectually, morally, and physically.

A girl visiting the science center

Summer camps promote children to grow, learn, and thrive in a supportive and stimulating environment.

Gaining education outside a traditional school setting

Summer camp is an exciting opportunity for kids to fill long summer days with engaging activities and outdoor play. Kids learn and socialize in a community that is more flexible and vibrant than the traditional settings of school or home.

Dr. Peter Scales, internationally known as one of the world’s foremost authorities on positive youth development, described camp as “one of the few institutions where young people can experience and satisfy their need for physical activity, creative expression, and true participation in a community environment.” He believed that most schools don’t satisfy all these needs. Hence, camps are designed to maximize students’ summer vacations and improve learning in ways that schools often fall short.

Improving Academic Competence

Summer camps often integrate educational components into their programs, enabling children to learn in a fun and interactive environment. A review on multiple research indicates that students completing summer programs aimed at preventing summer learning loss can be expected to score about 20% higher than students who don’t participate.

Fostering Independence and Confidence

At summer camp, children have the opportunity to make decisions and navigate life away from the comfort of home. This independence fosters self-reliance as they learn to manage tasks and challenges on their own. Overcoming obstacles at camp boosts their confidence and helps them realize their capabilities.

Developing social skills and build friendships

Camp encourages children to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and friendship. Through collaborative activities and shared experiences, children learn valuable social skills such as communication, cooperation, empathy, and respect. According to a study on young adolescents from six different camps by the ACA, parents reported significant positive changes in their children’s social skills and happiness levels after attending summer camp.

Summer Camp at Tessa

Finding the best summer camp for children can be a real challenge. It is important to look for a camp that will suit your children’s needs and your expectations.

Tessa “Fun, Friends, and Discoveries” Summer Camps offer a perfect balance of academic and fun activities. One of the biggest differences between us and other camps is that we are a language immersion camp, offering a unique and enriching experience for children. Studying a language can be enjoyable and effective; at Tessa Summer Camp, campers love to learn Spanish, French, or Mandarin!

Tessa International School Summer Camp offers these advantages:

  • Excellent native speaking teachers
  • Varied outdoor and indoor activities
  • A new theme and adventure each week
  • Weekly registration and extended hours
  • A bright and inviting space
  • Rigorous safety measures with dedicated staff
  • Flexible cancellation and refund policies

Through exploring a range of multi-sensory and highly interactive activities with their teachers in the target language, our campers have fun while learning a language and being exposed to different cultures. All our teachers are native speakers with experience in bilingual education, able to emphasize the culture of their countries in an authentic fashion with support from a team of dedicated experts.

Learn more about why a language immersion camp can be a better choice for your child(ren) here. 

 

The benefits of summer camp can last a lifetime. It is an opportunity for children to grow, learn, and thrive in a supportive and stimulating environment. At Tessa Summer Camp, with excellent teachers and diverse activities, we strive to provide the most memorable and rewarding summer experience for our children.

 

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

Contact Tessa International School to learn more! 

An international school student smiling while drawing during an art activity

Why Opting for an International School Will Transform Your Child’s Future

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At Tessa International School, we understand that choosing your child’s educational path is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. Education is about acquiring knowledge that shapes a child’s future and prepares them for the complexities of the modern world. For this reason, there are many great reasons to choose an international school. 

Opting for an international school offers unique academic benefits that can profoundly transform your child’s future. What defines an international school? They are educational institutions that provide students with a globalized learning experience through multiple languages, cultural immersion, and curriculums that promote global citizenship. 

At Tessa International School, our distinctive educational approach nurtures bilingualism while seamlessly blending the globally acclaimed IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) Framework with the robust French National Curriculum and US Standards. This fusion, alongside our Spanish and Mandarin tracks, creates a holistic and dynamic learning environment that equips students with the skills and competencies they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

Bilingualism and Immersive Language Learning

What is the point of an international school? One key advantage of an international school education at Tessa International School is the emphasis on bilingualism. In today’s interconnected world, the ability to communicate in multiple languages is a valuable asset. 

Our unique approach enhances language proficiency while fostering a deep appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. Benefits of international education are well known and established, for example, bilingualism has been shown to improve cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving and multitasking.  

Students at our international school experience a rich, multilingual environment where they are encouraged to think, explore, and communicate in English in addition to a choice of French, Mandarin, or Spanish. This immersive approach ensures that language learning is natural and effective. Though language learning is a major benefit, there are other compelling reasons to choose an international school.

A pair of international school students doing a science experiment at a table

Students at our international school benefit from multilingualism and cultural immersion

The Comprehensive IB PYP Framework

At the heart of our globally conscious educational philosophy is the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), a transdisciplinary framework integrating various subject areas. The PYP Framework at Tessa International School emphasizes excellence in Science, Social Studies, Language & Literacy, Math, the Arts, Social-Emotional Learning, and Physical Education.

A pair of international school students doing a sensory experiment at a table

Our international school introduces students to holistic learning through the IB PYP curriculum

By exploring real-world challenges, students learn to apply their knowledge meaningfully, preparing them for future academic pursuits and career success. The PYP Framework’s emphasis on holistic development ensures that students are intellectually, emotionally, and socially well-rounded.

Nicholas’s parents have noticed the positive impact of our didactic methodology. They said: “We are very pleased with the education Tessa has been providing for our son. We feel they offer an environment in which he can thrive and shine. In the few months he’s been there, his knowledge of Spanish has grown tremendously. We love hearing him count and sing in Spanish! And we can tell the teachers and administration care about each and every one of the students; he is genuinely happy to go to school each day. We are very happy to be a part of the Tessa family!”

Essential Skills for Future Success

An education at Tessa International School equips students with essential skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Our inquiry-based approach fosters critical thinking, research, self-management, social skills, and effective communication. 

  • Critical thinking is cultivated through activities encouraging students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information from multiple sources. 
  • Self-management skills are developed through goal-setting, time management, and personal responsibility. Students learn to take ownership of their learning, becoming self-directed and motivated. 
  • Collaborative activities emphasize teamwork, empathy, and effective communication and nurture social skills. 
  • Effective communication is a fundamental skill that our students develop through our approach. They learn to articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively, in writing and verbally, through presentations, debates, and group discussions. 

These highly transferable skills are good reasons to choose an international school, as they are vital for academic achievement and are highly valued by educational institutions and employers in the global marketplace. 

Shaping a Brighter Future

At Tessa International School, we are committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are academically proficient, emotionally intelligent, and socially responsible. By choosing our Spanish, Mandarin, or French Immersion school, you provide your child with an education that transcends traditional boundaries. Opting for the Tessa International School will profoundly transform your child’s future. 

Enrolling your child in our school invests in their academic success, personal growth, and a lifelong love of learning. Together, we can shape a brighter future for your child, one filled with endless possibilities and opportunities.

Do you want to explore one of the leading private elementary schools in NJ? 

Contact Tessa International School for more information!

We offer bilingual education.

Le bilinguisme à 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 boy is reading a book.

How Bilingual Children Learn to Read

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It is a common misconception that bilingual students might lag behind their monolingual peers in reading proficiency. In fact, decades of research have proved that bilingual students may become advanced readers and show advantages over their peers in a single-language learning environment. With encouragement and practice, bilingual children are able to achieve full biliteracy! 

How Bilingualism Puts Readers at An Advantage

A bilingual student is reading.

Bilingual education enables students to develop key components of successful reading.

Metalinguistic Awareness Development

Research has shown that bilingual children possess more elaborate reading strategies than monolingual children, presumably due to higher metalinguistic skills. 

Metalinguistic awareness refers to the ability to reflect upon and manipulate the structure of language. It is a set of skills that are related to multiple linguistic elements, including phonological, morphological, syntactic, and lexical awareness. To some extent, bilingual children can transfer these skills involved in learning one language to another, consequently accelerating their language learning.

Literacy Acquisition

As bilingual children develop their metalinguistic skills and language proficiency, they can gain further advantages in literacy acquisition. Exposure to multiple languages from a young age enables them to better understand the word structure and build a broader vocabulary range. These foundational capabilities could explain the finding that bilinguals tend to spell more complex vocabulary words in later grades.

“Students in dual-language immersion programs perform as well as, or better than, their peers in core academic content areas by late elementary school. […] 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.”

– Researchers from American University, 2016

Cognitive Development

Bilingualism fosters cognitive development, providing students with a robust cognitive reserve. Bilingual individuals typically exhibit stronger working memories and attention spans, contributing to academic and behavioral enhancements. Moreover, their ability to switch between languages cultivates flexible thinking and problem-solving skills. By navigating between different linguistic systems, bilingual students become adept at critically evaluating and resolving complex tasks.

 

Bridging the Gap: How Bilingual Children Excel in Reading Over Time

Bilingual children’s journey to reading proficiency is shaped by unique factors, including their exposure to two languages. Research shows that bilingualism does not confuse or delay reading development—in fact, it can lead to advantages over monolingual peers. For instance, children exposed to two languages from birth (simultaneous bilinguals) often outperform monolinguals in phonological awareness tasks, such as identifying or manipulating sounds in words. Meanwhile, children who acquire a second language later, such as sequential bilinguals learning English in school, may initially rely more heavily on vocabulary skills. However, by the fourth grade, these sequential bilinguals typically catch up to their peers, demonstrating no lasting disadvantages in reading development. This highlights the resilience and adaptability of bilingual learners as they navigate two linguistic systems, ultimately fostering stronger cognitive and language skills.

How to Help Bilingual Students Gain Reading Fluency

Our teacher helps students in literacy acquisition.

With sufficient support, students can boost their reading abilities in both languages.

Even though bilingual education can provide students with many unique strengths, without proper instruction, their literacy in one language may become stunted. Here is a list of possible methods that adults can use to promote their students’ reading skills:

  • Recognize differences between the languages that may confuse emergent bilingual students. For example, extra support may be necessary for English-speaking students learning the Chinese writing system. 
  • Select strategically between the simultaneous and sequential dual-language programs for students. For instance, the Immersion Progression Model at Tessa International School facilitates a smooth transition from full immersion to balanced bilingual education, ensuring optimal language development.
  • Assign reading tasks in both languages to reinforce literacy skills across all languages in a student’s repertoire.
  • Encourage students to read aloud to each other, providing opportunities for collaboration and confidence-building.
  • Engage families in students’ bilingual language development by providing take-home library books and other resources to strengthen language skills outside the classroom. 

 

Fostering positive attitudes toward bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturalism is essential for creating optimal learning environments. While the journey may differ from traditional monolingual learning, bilingual education offers unique advantages that empower bilingual children to excel in reading and language skills for a lifetime.

 

Are you ready to explore the leading international 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!

FAQ

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 at Tessa International School

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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

Tessa International School: 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?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

Rejoignez-nous à Tessa International School

Découvrez pourquoi notre programme bilingue est reconnu comme l'un des meilleurs. Découvrez comment nous combinons l'excellence académique avec des expériences interactives et stimulantes qui favorisent la conscience mondiale.

Inquire Tour

Rejoignez-nous à Tessa International School

Découvrez pourquoi notre programme bilingue est reconnu comme l'un des meilleurs. Découvrez comment nous combinons l'excellence académique avec des expériences interactives et stimulantes qui favorisent la conscience mondiale.

Inquire Schedule a Tour

Office: (201) 755-5585

Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030

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