Parent
FAQ & Guide

North American International School follows the United States Common Core Curriculum, specifically the curriculum for the State of California. Our curriculum is aligned with U.S. standards and focuses on:

• Academic excellence across all subject areas
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Preparing students for universities worldwide

Yes. The American curriculum is widely recognized by universities across the world. Students at NAIS graduate with a High School Diploma and may also earn internationally recognized qualifications including:

• SAT — Scholastic Assessment Test (U.S. university entry standard)
• AP (Advanced Placement) — College-level courses recognized globally
• IELTS — English proficiency for international university applications

The American curriculum is distinct in several key ways:

• Continuous assessment — not just final exams. Students are evaluated throughout the year.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving — students learn to analyze, not just memorize.
• Flexible subject choices — AP courses, electives, and personalised pathways.
• Well-rounded education — academics, arts, sports, and extracurricular activities are all valued equally.

Students are assessed using a combination of methods to ensure a complete picture of their learning — not just performance on one test:

• Classwork and participation
• Projects and presentations
• Quizzes and tests
• Homework assignments
• End-of-unit assessments

This multi-method approach rewards students for consistent effort, creativity, and genuine understanding throughout the year.

Exams are only one part of the overall grade, not the whole picture:

Students receive letter grades (A–F) based on percentage scores. In high school, these letter grades combine to form a GPA (Grade Point Average) — the standard metric used by U.S. and international university admissions offices.

Parents have real-time access to grades and progress through the school portal, allowing you to monitor:

• Current grade averages across all subjects
• Individual assignment and assessment results
• Performance on MAP, NGRT, and CAT4 standardized exams
• Overall academic progress and trajectory

Yes, absolutely. Students receive regular, meaningful feedback designed to help them improve — not just a score. Feedback is considered an essential part of the learning process at NAIS and supports genuine student growth.

• Written comments on assignments and assessments
• Verbal feedback during lessons and one-on-one sessions
• Goal-setting conversations to guide next steps

Our teachers are trained to ensure that every student can succeed at their level. Support strategies used in every classroom include:

• Differentiated instruction — lessons adapted to various learning levels within the same classroom
• Flexible grouping — students grouped strategically to maximize peer learning and individual growth
• Individualized support — one-on-one or small-group attention for students who need it
• Adapted assessments — modified tasks to ensure fair evaluation for all learners

For students who need additional structured support, our Inclusion Program provides dedicated, specialist assistance.

The American curriculum at NAIS goes far beyond subject knowledge. Students develop essential life and career skills:

These skills are essential for success in university and every future career.

At NAIS, students are encouraged to understand and apply knowledge, not just memorize it. Assessments are specifically designed to go beyond recall:

• Real-world problem solving — applying concepts to authentic situations
• Analysis and evaluation tasks — breaking down ideas and forming justified opinions
• Projects and presentations — demonstrating deep understanding creatively

No. The American system is deliberately not exam-heavy. Instead, students complete:

• Regular assessments spread throughout each semester — not clustered at the end
• A limited number of structured exams which make up only 20% of the secondary grade

Homework at NAIS is assigned to reinforce learning — not to overwhelm students. It serves a meaningful academic purpose and forms part of the overall grade, helping to:

• Consolidate what was covered in class
• Build student responsibility and time management
• Prepare students for upcoming assessments

Teachers are mindful of the total workload across subjects to ensure homework remains purposeful and balanced.

• Students with excused absences are fully supported in making up any missed work
• Teachers proactively support students in catching up without falling behind
• Clear, fair school policies ensure continuity and consistency for all students

NAIS expects every student to bring commitment and integrity to their studies:

• Complete their own work independently and honestly
• Meet deadlines and manage their time responsibly
• Participate actively in class discussions and activities
• Follow academic honesty guidelines at all times

These expectations reflect the values we instill in students — preparing them for the standards they will face at university and in professional life.

Academic honesty means students must submit their own original work and properly give credit to any ideas, sources, or content that belongs to others.

• No copying, plagiarism, or unauthorized use of AI-generated content
• Correct citation and referencing for research tasks
• Honest reporting of results and data in science assignments

Absolutely yes. University preparation is at the core of everything we do in Phase 4 (Grades 9–12). NAIS prepares students through:

• GPA tracking — a cumulative academic record reviewed by every university admissions office
• SAT & PSAT preparation — standardized tests recognized by universities worldwide
• AP Courses — college-level coursework that can earn university credit before graduation
• IELTS — English proficiency certification for international university applications
• Independent learning skills — critical thinking and self-management essential for university success

Yes. NAIS offers multiple advanced academic pathways for motivated students:

• Advanced Placement (AP) courses — college-level classes in Math & Sciences, Humanities & Languages, and Computer Science. Passing an AP exam (score 3–5) can earn university credit.
• Elective subjects — arts, technology, business, and more — allowing students to build a personalized academic profile.
• Honors-level coursework — subject teachers can recommend students for advanced tracks based on demonstrated ability.

At NAIS, student wellbeing is not an afterthought — it is central to our school culture. We provide:

• A safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student belongs
• Strong teacher-student relationships built on trust and mutual respect
• Counseling and academic support services available to all students
• A healthy balance between academics, extracurriculars, and personal time

We believe that strong parent partnerships are key to every student's success. You can reach us through multiple channels:

• Contact teachers directly via the school portal
• Attend scheduled parent-teacher meetings and conferences
• Participate in school events and community activities
• Contact administrators directly via WhatsApp for immediate support