International School Of Tucson
ISTSecular
Updated July 2026
Cambridge PrimaryLanguages
English
Mandarin
French
German
SpanishThe International School of Tucson is a non-profit, co-educational institution that provides a comprehensive international education through language immersion and the Cambridge curriculum. It is the only school in the United States to deliver this combination of immersive language learning and the Cambridge curriculum from preschool through grade 8.
Teaching approach
The school is committed to providing a world-class international education that fosters cognitive agility, cultural understanding, and effective global communication. It emphasizes core values such as respect, compassion, tolerance, and understanding, aiming to nurture well-rounded, empathetic, and curious individuals. The educational approach is rooted in the belief that learning a second language at an early age enhances core cognitive skills, including reasoning, problem-solving, and memory.
Programmes
The school offers a unique curriculum featuring full language immersion in Spanish, Chinese, French, and German in the Preschool, and dual immersion in these same languages in the Junior School. The academic framework utilizes the Cambridge curriculum for all grades, integrated with the 'Teaching Future Leaders' character development program. The school serves students from Nursery (infants and toddlers) through Middle School (M8), with programs structured to support bilingualism and biliteracy.
Outcomes
Graduates of the school are bilingual, biliterate global citizens prepared for future educational progression anywhere in the world. Students consistently rank as very good or excellent in Cambridge assessments. The school’s holistic approach ensures that students develop critical thinking, personal reflection, and leadership skills, positioning them to thrive in an inter-cultural world.
Student support
Learning support
The school is committed to meeting the diverse intellectual, physical, emotional, social, and health needs of its students. It emphasizes a child-centered and inquiry-based approach, focusing on social-emotional growth alongside academic excellence. The curriculum is designed to nurture well-rounded individuals, with specific support for character and leadership development through the UK-based 'Teaching Future Leaders' program.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does International School Of Tucson offer?
- International School Of Tucson offers Cambridge Primary and Cambridge Lower Secondary.
- Is International School Of Tucson a day or boarding school?
- International School Of Tucson is a day school.
- Is International School Of Tucson co-educational?
- International School Of Tucson is a co-ed school.
- Where is International School Of Tucson located?
- International School Of Tucson is an international school in Tucson, United States.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school is non-selective and co-educational, welcoming students of wide-ranging abilities. Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a tour of the campus, after which they may submit an electronic application and a non-refundable fee. Enrollment is open throughout the year for all ages, provided space is available, with priority given to siblings of current students and full-time applicants.
Calendar
The school operates on an annual calendar, with the 2026–2027 academic year schedule available for download in PDF, Google Calendar, or Apple/Outlook formats.
Facilities
About the campus
Located at 1701 E Seneca St in Tucson, the campus provides a safe and happy environment for learning. The facilities are designed to support a comprehensive education, including dedicated spaces for Nursery, Preschool, and Junior/Middle School programs. The school also maintains a supply list and uniform requirements for its students.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities designed to complement the academic experience. These programs are available for students across the Nursery, Preschool, and Junior/Middle School levels. Additionally, the school hosts community-focused events such as an Annual Dinner and an International Day.
- Jessica PalmaHead of School
Jessica Palma joined IST in 2011 as Preschool Director, served as Head of Junior/Middle School and Deputy Head of School, and was named Head of School in 2021. She holds a collaborative, innovative, and strategic leadership style and is dedicated to fostering a secure, loving, and stimulating environment for students.
Megan AussprungHead of Junior and Middle SchoolMegan Aussprung has been with IST since 2010 and has served as the Head of Junior & Middle School since 2020. She holds a Bachelor’s of Music in Music Performance from the University of Arizona and a Master’s of Music from DePaul University, and is passionate about individualized education.
- Ms. Masi MeyerHead of Early Years
Masi Meyer is the Head of Early Years at IST, having been part of the community for 14 years as a lead teacher in the German program and an assistant director. She holds a degree in Hospitality Management, which she uses to support the administrative side of the Nursery and Preschool programs.
Kellie ZwicklBusiness ManagerKellie Zwickl is the Business Manager at IST. She previously lived in Germany for 14 years, holds an MBA, and has a background as an office manager, payroll tax specialist, and payroll company employee.
- Idalia MorganDirector of Admissions and Marketing
Idalia Morgan joined IST in April 2024 as an Administrative Assistant and was promoted to Director of Admissions and Marketing by May 2025. She is responsible for welcoming new families and promoting the school through community engagement and fundraising events.
Dawn BryceAdmissions and Administrative OfficerDawn Bryce joined the IST staff in 2017 and serves as the Admissions and Administrative Officer. She has over 35 years of experience as an early childhood educator and holds an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education.