Ages 5 - 10

Elementary School includes our students in Kindergarten to Grade 5. RIS provides a rigorous academic program that integrates students’ social and emotional development. All of our elementary school teachers are highly qualified and certified within their specific subject areas. Many of our teachers have additional certifications in reading, language development, and learning support. But that is not what makes our Elementary program such a special place; it is the warm, caring environment that facilitates learning and builds character, preparing our students for middle school, high school, college, and life. We take pride in nurturing the student-centered learning environment we provide for our children.

Core subjects are based on the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards and taught by the grade-level classroom teachers. We integrate the Fountas and Pinnell Literacy Continuum within a Readers and Writers Workshop to provide a balanced literacy model, and science and math are inquiry-based courses with a focus on critical thinking—all skills that are vital for success in the future. Across all grades, students have access to devices and lessons about the proper use of technology so teachers and students can safely use digital tools and resources in innovative and creative ways. In Kindergarten through grade 2, each student has access to an iPad, and in grades 3–5, RIS has a 1:1 Chromebook program.

Beyond the core subjects of math, reading, writing, science, and social studies, your child will have daily opportunities to experience and explore other interests and talents in their specialist subjects—art, music, physical education, a second language, and values. Our students are also introduced to skills and concepts in health and wellness. All elementary students are required to take Thai language and literacy, and our non-Thai students also learn about Thai culture. Collectively, these subjects not only offer elementary students a well-rounded school experience, but they help our children learn how to be considerate global citizens who are aware of the importance of caring about other people and our environment.

Our students’ social and emotional well-being is further supported by the Second Step curriculum. All of our teachers are skilled at adapting learning to individual student’s needs and meeting them where they are, developmentally. In all grades, we encourage students to make appropriate choices and exercise their independence, which promotes autonomy and a sense of safety—all of which are essential in developing well-adjusted, happy children who can focus on their learning.

The English Language Development Program (ELD) recognizes that one of the top priorities in a quality international education is the attainment of an academic-level of English fluency. English language learners are designated by their level of proficiency, from beginner to advanced, and each level requires matched instructional strategies to facilitate rapid skill development.

At RIS Ratchapruek, ELD students are immersed in a rich English-speaking environment and selectively enrolled in core mainstream subjects to give them frequent opportunities to interact with classmates and teachers. ELD students also get individualized support to accelerate their academic success.

Small-group pull-out and language support classes provide specialized learning time where content instruction and the development of English skills are closely integrated. Push-in support gives English language learners help within mainstream classes.

RISR uses MAP NWEA and WIDA MODEL assessments to track progress in English language and academic skill development throughout the year, informing differentiation that supports each child's unique needs.

Click here to view the Student-Parent Handbook.