Rochambeau, the French International School

Rochambeau is committed to the pursuit of excellence, intellectual rigor, and fairness, fostering a safe and caring environment for students of all backgrounds. It emphasizes adaptability to a changing world, respect for diversity, and the benefits of a multilingual, pluricultural learning environment. The school aims to nurture confident, caring, and open-minded critical thinkers who can positively impact their communities.

The academic program follows the French national curriculum, organized in cycles from preschool (Maternelle) to 12th grade, with a strong emphasis on languages, sciences, mathematics, arts, and humanities. Starting in 9th grade, students may choose to continue in the French curriculum or pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB). The school offers a multilingual approach, introducing a third language (Spanish, German, or Arabic) by 4th grade, and provides a dual diploma pathway leading to the French Baccalauréat and a US high school diploma.

Graduates earn both a US high school diploma and the French Baccalauréat or the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. Students frequently pursue higher education at universities in the United States, Canada, the U.K., France, and around the world, with many receiving college credit for their work at the school. The school also celebrates student achievements in areas such as the arts and academic competitions like the DNB.

The school provides student support services, including school counseling, to nurture students' well-being and academic success. The educational program is designed to bring out the best in each student, fostering critical thinking and confidence.

The school welcomes inquiries and applications through its admissions department, which offers both virtual and in-person tours. The process includes an application fee, and new families are subject to an enrollment fee. Prospective families can connect with the school via student ambassadors or by chatting with a current parent.

The school year typically begins in late August. The calendar includes various school events, such as graduation ceremonies, fairs, and project weeks, and is approved by the AEFE. Families can subscribe to calendar alerts and sync the school schedule to personal devices.

The school operates across two campuses in Bethesda, Maryland. The Maplewood campus serves preschool (age 2) through 5th grade and houses the administrative offices, while the Forest Road campus serves students from 6th through 12th grade. Both campuses are fully fenced with restricted access and feature specialized learning spaces, including libraries, technology resources, and sports facilities.

Rochambeau offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, enrichment programs, and student-led clubs. Notable initiatives include the RochamBIO eco-delegates, who lead environmental projects like upcycling fashion shows and building insect hotels, as well as a webradio, community service opportunities, and talent shows. The school also provides extended day programs, school break camps, and summer camps.