To those unfamiliar with our school, we are often asked what the “international” means in Calgary French & International School - are we a boarding school, are we part of a large network of schools for families who move for their jobs? The I is the part of our school we're so proud to talk about when asked those questions. The I, for international, represents in so many ways the core and spirit of our school. First, and foremost, we are so proud to deliver a robust education through a full French immersion model, from Preschool through Grade 12 and we would venture to say that this model is truly unique in our landscape, if not nationally or globally. We introduce Spanish for all students beginning in Elementary school and our students develop incredible capacity in this language as well. Of course, English Language Arts is also taught and the capacity of our students, in all 3 languages when they leave us after Grade 12 is exemplary. In our graduating class of 2020, 80% of those graduates have spent their entire school career at CFIS. We are a community of families who choose this multilingual model valuing the benefits cognitively, creatively, culturally and situationally that competence in many languages provides.
In addition to the development of an international mindset through building capacity in languages, we are so proud of the attitudes, worldview and call to action inspired in our students through our programs, offering a global education. From Preschool through Grade 6, the framework of UNESCO is infused in the leadership, service and environment projects these students undertake. CFIS is the only independent school in Calgary to be named a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) associated school. UNESCO has four pillars of learning that are incorporated into our everyday approach to instruction: learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together and learning to be. Each of these areas develops internationally minded students who understand themselves and respect others for who they are, finding value in diversity. UNESCO themed experiences continue through Junior High, and are also coupled with vibrant Travel Studies experiences and exposure to Round Square experiences.
As a full Global Member of Round Square, CFIS Secondary students experience a global landscape, receiving a robust academic education and experience elements of the vast world around them, in ways that spark their imagination and passions. We are uniquely positioned to offer a Bilingual IB Diploma for Grade 11 and 12 students, ensuring the highest standard of international education. Our faculty network with the best educators in their subject areas, and our senior high curriculum and learning experiences are consistent with the highest level of pre-university preparations available.
An international community, an international mindset and an international experience are truly the cornerstones of a CFIS education.
