Why ISP
The school has already exceeded our expectations and we have only been in school a few short months! Our daughter was not doing well in her neighborhood school and was asked to repeat Kindergarten. We took the opportunity to give her a completely different chance at feeling successful and it has paid off. She is interested in learning and enjoys going to school everyday. We cannot be more happy with ISP!
- CURRENT ISP Parent
A World of Learning Awaits at the International School of Portland.At the International School of Portland, we believe in nurturing curious minds and kind hearts through an exceptional blend of academics, language, and play. Our International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme lays the foundation for inquiry-based learning, where children explore big ideas, ask thoughtful questions, and discover solutions—all while fully immersed in a second language.
Here are the top reasons why parents choose the International School of Portland (ISP):
True Language and Cultural Immersion
At ISP, children spend the vast majority of their day hearing and using their target language. ISP students spend at least 80% of their day immersed in the language, in comparison to 50% or less at local public or other immersion programs. As a result, our students achieve a higher level of fluency upon leaving 5th grade.
We focus on developing fluency in speaking, reading, writing and understanding, so our students can actively participate in their target language and culture.
Taught primarily by native -level speakers, students acquire language fluency and cultural competence as they learn to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom and throughout life.
International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB-PYP)
Our students learn a rigorous curriculum – math, science, social studies, and language arts – taught in Spanish, Japanese, or Mandarin. They learn through the challenging IB-PYP method, developing questions about central idea and using age-appropriate methods to find answers to their questions. With the IB, children learn to solve problems, collaborate, and take responsibility for their learning.
English, Arts, Music, PE, and Library classes are essential elements of the IB PYP, and are aligned with the units taught in the language track homerooms.
By integrating language and cultural fluency with the IB framework, we provide a holistic education that equips students with the skills and perspectives necessary to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world
Global, Diverse Community
Our community members come from a variety of ethnic, socio-economic, and family backgrounds. This environment enables children to grow up in a naturally diverse world.
Students receive daily exposure to other languages and cultures, which fosters a global perspective. They hear Mandarin, Spanish, and Japanese in the hallways and playgrounds, they attend cultural festivals, and they know teachers - and classmates - from all around the world.
ISP is a global microcosm, helping to shape children who are open-minded, empathetic, kind, patient and tolerant——traits that encourage them take responsible action within and beyond our school community.
Playful Learning in Small Classes
Our caring teachers create a warm, engaging environment where play and discovery spark a lifelong love of learning. Children get the attention they deserve with no more than 20 students per class (our average class size is even smaller).
Dedicated, Loving Faculty
Our experienced, professional teachers are passionate about nurturing global citizens. They are specialists in both inquiry-based learning and language instruction, ensuring a well-rounded, dynamic education. Many of our faculty and staff have been at ISP for over ten years.
All ISP track language teachers have native-level fluency, allowing children to learn native accents, speech patterns and expressions.
From the classroom to the playground, every experience is designed to inspire growth, joy, and connection.
Strong English Program
Our students get dedicated, in-depth instruction in English language arts starting in 1st grade. Our program is designed specifically for our immersion students. Literacy in English and the chosen language reinforce one another, resulting in advanced capability in both languages.
Dedicated Art, Music, P.E., and Library Programs
Art, Music, P.E, and Library are essential parts of our curriculum and fully contribute to ISP's mission. We treat these disciplines as additional "languages", as students develop skills in communication, exploration, movement, and expression.
They are taught by experienced professionals who are specialists in their fields and dedicated practitioners of the IB PYP approach.
The Spear Center
Central to ISP's mission is the Deloris A. Spear Center for Excellence in Teaching, which serves as a hub for educational innovation and professional learning in the Pacific Northwest. The Spear Center hosts workshops and conferences featuring world-renowned educators, supporting not only our ISP community but also international educators from the Portland area and beyond. By providing high-quality professional development opportunities, the Spear Center enhances teaching practices, leading to improved educational outcomes for students.
By investing in our educators through the Spear Center, we ensure that our students benefit from the latest pedagogical strategies and a dynamic, inquiry-based learning environment.