International School of Monterey

The school is dedicated to educating children to become conscientious, compassionate, and responsible citizens of the world. Its philosophy centers on international-mindedness, inquiry-based instruction, and the development of the whole child. The school promotes a multicultural environment that values understanding, respect, and strong partnerships between the school, home, and community.

The academic program is structured around the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for grades K-5 and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6-8. The curriculum includes core subjects—reading, writing, math, science, and social studies—alongside mandatory Spanish, visual and performing arts, and physical education for all students. Instruction incorporates technology and design thinking, utilizing an inquiry-based model that aligns with California State Standards and Common Core requirements.

The school is an IB World School, authorized to offer the Primary Years Programme (K-5) and the Middle Years Programme (6-8). It maintains accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Council of International Schools (CIS). Students in grades 3-8 participate annually in Smarter Balanced Assessments, which the school uses as a data-driven measure to continuously improve student learning and organizational effectiveness.

The school provides comprehensive student services, including special education, school counseling, and mental health therapy. A team of intervention specialists, including behavior and academic support staff, works with students to meet diverse learning needs. The school also employs speech pathologists and occupational therapists to provide specialized support.

Admission is open to any student, with actual placement determined by a lottery due to high demand. The school prioritizes diversity and equity, designating 40-60% of spaces for low-income students and 40-60% for first-generation students (those with no parent who has earned a bachelor's degree). Applicants may apply for the lottery annually, with specific preference categories for siblings, children of employees, and local residents.

The school operates on a full-day schedule, with regular days typically running from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. for grades 1-8 and until 2:25 p.m. for kindergarten. The academic year includes scheduled minimum days, and the school provides an interactive, frequently updated online calendar that tracks academic, athletic, and community events. Families can download PDFs of the academic calendar or sync the school's feeds to their personal devices.

Located on an 11-acre campus in Seaside, the school occupies five permanent and seven relocatable buildings containing 24 classrooms, a library/media center, and a multiuse room. Classrooms are equipped with mobile technology and science carts to facilitate flexible learning environments. Outdoor facilities include three distinct garden areas—a kinder-garden, a children's garden, and an international community garden—along with paved play areas and fields used for physical education and sports.

The school offers an After-School International (ASI) program, which includes both academic and social components. Students can participate in various after-school sports and activities, including "ASI-Extra!" sessions during spring and summer breaks. Additionally, the school utilizes a "House" system to foster community and connection among students.