Why CAIS?

What sets CAIS apart from other schools is its immersion program. Our students learn both English and Mandarin and they learn through both languages. In Language Arts, Math, Science and Music, our students are stimulated, challenged and educated to be the best that they can be, intellectually, morally, physically and emotionally. They learn critical thinking and problem solving skills and they laugh, play and have a great deal of fun while learning.
Research indicates that children are at an optimal age for language learning. Some studies suggest that the human brain is more open to language learning from birth to preadolescence. Early language learners have the ability to develop native-like pronunciation. While learners of all ages are capable of developing bilingual skills, young learners have an edge when it comes to pronunciation.

We believe that our students' ability to read, write, speak and understand two languages, as well as their insight into the interconnectedness of cultures, will offer them enhanced school, career and life opportunities.

In our shrinking world the need to speak languages other than English is undeniable. In addition to the practical benefits of speaking other languages for employment and travel, knowledge of another language opens the door to other cultures and different ways of viewing the world we share. We are committed to promoting oral and written fluency while exposing students to the history and cultures and traditions of China.

Our teachers use a dynamic approach which incorporates a broad array of materials including up-to-date texts and workbooks, classic and contemporary literature, films, documentaries, internet sources and methods including pair and small group work, games, student-led classes, student presentations, skits and role plays, research projects and community resources which deliberately target all learning styles.

CAIS is in the unique position of being a leader in developing Pre-K through eighth grade language immersion education. We have developed a curriculum and process that works. Our curriculum and methodology accommodates the fact that a significant portion of our student population does not speak and has no access to Mandarin at home.

We offer many levels of support for our families and students to ensure their success and will be happy to discuss these with you as you learn more about our school.

What some of our students and parents say:

"To live in San Francisco is an international experience in itself but to have the skills that CAIS teaches my son -- to speak, read and write Mandarin -- will enrich his life in many corners of the world.'
Nancy Scanlon, parent of second grader

"We loved CAIS when we were touring the school. We love it more now that we are part of the CAIS community. The teachers are amazing and have exceeded all our expectations. Our daughter loves CAIS and we are in awe of how much she has learned."
Mai Mai Wythes, parent of Kindergartener

"CAIS has a great, fun, supportive and unique environment to learn and grow. Through the years I've actually looked forward to and been excited about school. Learning a new language has been amazing, and it is a treasure I will always value."
Lena, seventh grade

"CAIS is a unique school that celebrates international culture and academic achievement. The kids really take to learning Mandarin. I'm a parent who doesn't speak Chinese at all, but my daughter has learned to do her Chinese homework independently, in school and without me. I'm very proud when I hear her speak Chinese -- our friends who live in China tell me her accent is perfect. My daughter particularly enjoys music class this year with Ms. Kennedy; they are learning recorder and have a special recorder group that meets in addition to the regular class because a lot of kids in her grade really enjoyed playing. The parent community is very international, very interesting and fun. We love that the kids get math in Chinese and English, two different approaches that build on each other. And the kids really like math -- especially in Chinese!"
Jackie Holen, parent of fifth grader