Preschool

An exploration of the world and preparation for Kindergarten

Child raising his hand in class

As children grow into early childhood, their world begins to open-up. Our Preschool program allows your child to explore, inquire, and prepare for kindergarten in a bilingual environment.

“Tessa has been a wonderful experience for our entire family.  We see our daughter advancing on so many levels and get excited about the learning development she is receiving at this school. The staff is extremely responsible, dedicated and demonstrates a strong level of professionalism. We love the teacher to child ratio and the curriculum is far superior to anything else we’ve seen in Hoboken. Our daughter has disliked any other drop-off programs we’ve tried – but she absolutely loves going to Tessa!”

Sienna’s ParentsPreschool StudentRead more parent reviews on Niche.com

Approach to Learning

A Bilingual Program

At Tessa International School, students are immersed at 80% in Spanish, French or Mandarin. When it comes to bilingualism, the earlier the better. The brain circuits associated with language learning are more flexible at a younger age. Daily exposure to various languages builds confidence and communication skills, and prepares our students to become bilingual, adaptable, and active citizens.

A World-Class Education

Guided by the International Baccalaureate and the French, Spanish, and Chinese Curricula, our program provides a solid foundation for academic and personal growth. Through hands-on exploration and inquiry-based learning, children are introduced to foundational concepts in Literacy, Math, The Arts, and Science, while also developing essential social-emotional and physical skills. These early experiences foster curiosity, independence, and a love of learning, setting the stage for future success.

A Play-Based Curriculum

Balancing structured activities and free play, we encourage children to learn while having fun, inquire and make discoveries for themselves.

Framework

The IB Primary Years Program (PYP) is a curriculum framework which centers around a series of transdisciplinary themes that address human commonalities.

The students are exposed to units of learning that promote inquiry, exploration, and investigation. These units integrate all subject areas and provide meaningful learning experiences for students. The goal is to connect the students’ learning to the real world, both locally and globally. We want our students to develop a deep  understanding of the concepts and topics being studied. Read more about the IB.

Click the links below to download our curriculum outline:

Our Music Specialist Teacher plays the ukelele for Kindergarteners in a joyful instructional way.

Specials

Tessa International School’s curriculum is supplemented by a multifaceted program of “Specials” classes, starting as early as Preschool. These specialized courses foster holistic student development and provide them with opportunities to delve deeper into specific domains beyond the traditional academic subjects.

  • STEM: Liberty Science Center Monthly visits
  • Physical Education (PE): 2×30 min/week
  • Library: 30 min/week
  • English Reinforcement: 2×30 min/week
  • Music: 2×30 min/week

Sample of Daily Schedule

Choose from half days, three full days or five full days options.

TimeSchedule
7.30am - 8.30amBefore Care
8.30amStart of the Day
8.45am - 9amCircle Time / Group Meeting
9am - 9.45amUnit of Inquiry
(Social Studies, Sciences, Math, Literacy, Arts and Movements)
9.45am - 10.30amSnack & Recess
10.30am - 11amUnit of Inquiry
11am - 11.50amSpecials
11.50am - 12pmHalf Day Dismissal
12pm - 1pmLunch & Recess
1pm - 2.30pmQuiet / Rest Time
2.30pm - 3pmLearning Centers
3pm - 3.15pmPack-up / Departure
3.15pm - 7pmAfter Care

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Tessa International School

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