Missoula International School

The school is guided by the values of cooperation, connection, and creativity, fostering an academic culture that emphasizes individual responsibility and critical thinking. It utilizes an inquiry-based approach where curiosity serves as a catalyst for constructing meaning. The school promotes a global perspective, encouraging students to become lifelong learners and active, compassionate world citizens.

The school is authorized for the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for preschool through 5th grade and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for grades 6–8. The curriculum is delivered through a Spanish immersion model, where students develop academic, social, and emotional skills in a second language. Specialist subjects include art, music, physical education, and library studies, all integrated within a transdisciplinary framework.

Graduates are prepared to be bilingual, principled, and open-minded thinkers with a strong sense of identity and cultural awareness. By the 8th grade, students are confident communicators in two languages and possess the critical thinking and inquiry skills necessary for success in high school. Many students transition to local high schools that offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

The school provides a social-emotional learning (SEL) and counseling program, which includes an SEL coach and a licensed clinical professional counselor. Teachers work one-on-one with students to provide individualized support, and newcomers in upper grades receive targeted small-group Spanish instruction to assist with language acquisition. The school maintains a low teacher-to-student ratio to meet individual learning needs.

The school accepts applications on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline of February 16 for the following academic year. The admissions process includes information meetings and guided tours for prospective families. Applicants for preschool must be at least three years old by December 31 and fully toilet trained. Tuition assistance is available based on demonstrated financial need through a confidential application process.

The school day typically runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with limited before-care available from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and after-care from 3:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. The academic year follows a structured calendar, with specific dates for information meetings, application deadlines, and enrollment decisions. Experiential education field trips are integrated into the program for grades 5–8.

Located at 808 S. 3rd St. W. in Missoula, the campus features multiage classrooms designed to foster collaboration and inquiry. The school provides dedicated spaces for specialist classes, including art, music, physical education, and a library. The environment is structured to support both indoor classroom learning and exploration of the local environment.

The school offers after-school enrichment programs and summer camps. Students participate in various activities, including service work, projects, and presentations that apply their learning to real-world contexts. Additionally, the school hosts community events such as a Fun Run, a pancake breakfast, and anniversary celebrations.