International School of Portland

The school is dedicated to teaching children to approach challenging issues with empathy and compassion, fostering a global perspective. It emphasizes a warm, loving environment that encourages curiosity, kindness, and a lifelong love of learning. The educational approach is rooted in student-led inquiry, promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.

The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum for students from age 3 through 5th grade, with all homeroom lessons conducted in Mandarin, Japanese, or Spanish. The curriculum is aligned with national and state educational standards and is delivered through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, which focuses on concept-driven, inquiry-based learning. The school also provides English instruction and maintains specialized tracks for each immersion language.

The school aims to develop students into independent, critical thinkers and compassionate global citizens. Graduates are prepared for future academic success through their mastery of a second language and their experience with the inquiry-based International Baccalaureate methodology. The school also hosts a Capstone Study Abroad program for 5th graders, allowing them to apply their language and cultural skills in China, Japan, or Mexico.

The school provides behavioral and academic support services to assist students in their educational journey. Teachers and staff work as a team to provide a warm, safe environment, with administrators and teachers offering individual attention to help students enhance their strengths and address areas for growth.

The school maintains an Admissions Center to assist prospective families with the enrollment process for preschool through 5th grade. Interested families can schedule in-person or virtual campus tours, attend Open Houses, or participate in free sample classes for children aged 2-5. The admissions process is supported by the Director of Enrollment Management, and families are encouraged to submit an inquiry to receive detailed materials.

The school operates on a standard academic schedule with a school day running from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with an early dismissal at 2:00 PM on Wednesdays. A drop-off period is available from 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM, and an optional Extended-Day program, Global Kids, is offered until 5:30 PM. The school year includes various community events, traditions, and seasonal breaks.

Located on the edge of the South Waterfront District in Portland, the campus is an urban oasis featuring six buildings and four outdoor play spaces. The grounds include a school garden and various nature spaces for student use. The school is centrally located, providing easy access to city institutions such as the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry.

The school offers a variety of enrichment clubs and athletics to supplement the academic program. Students participate in school traditions, such as talent shows and field days, and have opportunities for community engagement. Additionally, the Global Kids program provides extended-day activities for students.