International School in Washington DC

Washington International School:
Located in Washington D.C, Washington International School (WIS) is a coeducational day school offering 890 students a challenging curriculum and rich language program from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. The program, the Primary Years Program (PYP), the Middle Years Program (MYP), and the IB Diploma Program culminate in the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. The Washington International School upholds the best traditions of intellectual and academic endeavor with a classic liberal arts program, stressing well-rounded people.

Co-Ed Programs for Children from Pre-kindergarten through 12th Grade: 

Academics:
Washington International School's unique academic program is based on the internationally recognized International Baccalaureate curricula with a continuum of instruction from Pre-school through Grade 12.

All IB programs are learner-centered and inquiry-based. Students are prepared to be functionally multilingual and informed with a world perspective in history, literature, geography, mathematics and the sciences. The program culminates with the IB Diploma, recognized by colleges and universities around the world, often with advanced standing for WIS graduates.

Primary School - Primary Years Program:
The Primary School curriculum is taught and learned in two languages and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (PYP) is the framework for the organization of the curriculum. The PYP is driven by concept acquisition and is inquiry-based.

Students acquire knowledge in mathematics; science and technology; languages; social studies; arts; and personal, social, and physical education. All students in the Primary School study and explore these areas in two languages.

Middle School - Middle Years Program:
The IB Middle Years Program (MYP) is a course of study designed for students in Grades 6 to 10. At a time when adolescents are confronted with a vast and often bewildering array of choices, the MYP equips students with values and provides opportunities to develop sound judgment while preparing them for the changing demands of life in the 21st century.

The MYP presents knowledge as an integrated whole, emphasizing the interrelatedness and holistic nature of knowledge while recognizing the independence and integrity of each discipline. Students learn to think critically and independently, to work collaboratively, and to take a disciplined approach to studying.

Upper School (Grades 9 through 12):
The Upper School program is unique among independent schools in Washington. Students in Grades 9 and 10 follow the final two years of the IB Middle Years Program (MYP), which emphasizes analytical and critical thinking. In all subject areas they develop an ability to apply what they know and support their ideas through speaking and writing.

All students take: English; French, Spanish or their own native language; design technology; integrated mathematics including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry; three sciences concurrently—biology, chemistry, physics; world history; geography. They also make two elective choices from the following list: information technology, 3rd language (prior study required), music, art, drama, or journalism. Physical education is required.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program:
Students in Grades 11 and 12 follow the IB Diploma program, an internationally recognized two-year course of study. Success on the IB Diploma’s oral and written examinations may afford graduates college credit for their high school work. Students select six subjects for two years study: English, one or two other languages, and at least one course each in mathematics, experimental science, and social science.

Three courses are taken at Higher Level and three at Standard Level, allowing students to pursue advanced work of particular interest. They take an arts elective and Theory of Knowledge—a critical thinking and philosophy seminar—and research and write an extended essay on a topic of their choosing. Students also complete a minimum of 60 hours or volunteer community service, choosing the activities and evaluating themselves.

Arts:
Aesthetic development is an essential aspect of a child's learning experience. At WIS, we provide many opportunities for students to explore their own creativity and learn to appreciate artistic expression in the visual arts, music, and drama. The arts are indeed a core piece of the International Baccalaureate curricula at all levels of the School's program.

Athletics:
The Washington International School’s athletic program embodies the mission, philosophy and objectives of the School and fosters the development of character, life skills, sportsmanship and teamwork. Physical education programs are an important part of the weekly program for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12.

We also offer:
- Enrichment Program with journalism, cooking, debate etc
- Travel Program
- Community Service
- Summer Programs