As parents, we ultimately want to set our children up for success. In a world that is constantly changing and growing more competitive every day, it’s only natural to want our kids to have a great advantage! Choosing a school for your children that equips them with unique skills and educational support is a fabulous way to prepare your little ones for a lifetime of learning. Irvine International Academy is a Mandarin/English Immersion and STEAM school for students in kindergarten through 8th grade. With year-long music classes, a STEAM Lab, and an in-house after-school program – the school is tuition-free! If you’re looking for a school for your child(ren), keep reading to learn more about Irvine International Academy.
About Irvine International Academy
Irvine International Academy was founded in 2021 to provide students with a “bilingual and bi-literate education that promotes high academic achievement and cultivates students’ social-emotional intelligence and curiosity.” Their student body welcomes children from all over Orange County to learn from highly qualified and credentialed teachers with a passion for working with kids. The school uses California Standards-Based Curriculum to challenge students and track their progress and integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), music, and Physical Education. There are also plenty of after-school learning opportunities for additional fun and enrichment!
Services
One of the biggest things that sets Irvine International Academy apart from other area schools is its Mandarin immersion program. Students will experience a linguistic environment where teachers speak English for half the day and Mandarin for the other half. This immersive programming helps students to become proficient in two languages at an early age when it is more natural to acquire complicated language skills. Additionally, studies have shown that exposing children to a second language at an early age helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, better equipping them for a lifetime of learning. However, Irvine International Academy still prioritizes learning first and foremost. So, if your child is an English Learner, they will receive additional support in English.
As Irvine International Academy students progress, the balance of their language immersion changes, too. From kindergarten through 6th grade, the use percentage is 50% English and 50% Mandarin. Then, by the time they are in 7th and 8th grade, the percentage switches to 67% English and 33% Mandarin.
Additionally, the academy is dedicated to equipping students for the 21st century by incorporating STEAM concepts into their curriculum. Students use tools like augmented reality technology and zSpace curriculum with learning stations featuring laptops and reflector tracking points. It’s a great way for students to engage hands-on with innovative technology!
Specialty
Irvine International Academy features after-school programming in partnership with Strategic Kids STEM. Their programs are fun and hands-on, teaching kids skills like origami, cartooning, sports education, magic, and chess. Kids will love socializing as they learn while developing fun skills and hobbies that still connect to their STEAM-based education throughout the day.
Irvine International Academy
Irvine International Academy is a wonderful institution for students and families looking for a unique educational experience. Your kids will have the unique advantage of being able to speak two languages and plenty of hands-on STEAM experience that will give them an amazing head start in today’s most elite industries. Check out their website and schedule a tour to see if Irvine International Academy is the right fit for your family!
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