1.    What programs does CISB offer?

All programs at CISB are delivered in English with the exception of some language programs.  Students who are not native English speakers must complete a English Language Assessment.  This assessment will test their ability to speak, listen, read and write in the English language.  Based on the results of this assessment, students will be rated from Level 1 (Beginner) to Level 6 (Fluent).  Depending upon their ranking, they will be placed in either a Regular/Enriched grade level or an Intensive ESOL (English for speakers of Other Language) program.

In the Regular/Enriched program, students will focus on the academic curriculum.  In the Intensive ESOL program, students will concentrate on English language development and not necessarily on the academic curriculum.  Each program is designed to provide students with quality instruction that meets their immediate and future needs.

Students must meet the minimum ESOL level if they are to be enrolled in the Regular/Enriched grade level program:

•  Montessori Kindergarten – no minimum ESOL level required
•  Grade 1 – no minimum ESOL level required
•  Grades 2 and 3 – minimum ESOL Beginning Level 3 is required
•  Grades 4 – 9 – minimum ESOL Intermediate Level 4 is required
•  Grades 10 – 12 – minimum ESOL Maintenance Level 5 is required


2.    What is special about a Canadian curriculum?

Canadian education is highly regarded in the world.  It is an outcomes- based system that ensures all students attain the required knowledge, skills and attitudes before graduation.  Canadian education ensures that all subjects are taught by teachers, trained from recognized universities, who all have classroom experience.  The teachers maintain the same high standards that would be expected by the Ministry of Education in Canada.  The educational programs and teaching methodologies are supported and reviewed by officials from Canada.

3.    What affiliations and accreditation does CISB have?

CISB is currently an International Baccalaureate Candidate School.  In 2008 CISB will have a pre-IB program for Grade 10 students and, subject to approval from IB, will offer a full IB Diploma Program beginning in September, 2009.  The school is in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in China and the Department of Education of New Brunswick, Canada.  The school is also affiliated with UNESCO, EARCOS (East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools), and ACAMIS (Association of China and Mongolia International Schools).  Applications have been made to become affiliated with CIS (Council of International Schools), NEASC (New England Association of Schools & Colleges), CEA (Canadian Education Association), and ECIS (European Council of International Schools.

4.    What kind of facility do you have?

         •  90 modern classrooms
        •  SMART Board technology
        •  7 Computer labs
        •  2 Libraries – Elementary & Middle/High School
        •  3 modern Science laboratories (Physics, Chemistry & Biology)
        •  2 Visual Arts classrooms
        •  2 Lecture Theatres
        •  2 Gymnasiums
        •  A Broad-Based Technology Laboratory
        •  A Display area for Fine Art
        •  A 25m swimming pool
        •  A wading pool for young children
        •  A large Dance/Movement Studio
        •  A Weight/Workout Room
        •  A small Soccer Field
        •  An outdoor Short Track
        •  A Large full-service Cafeteria + smaller food service area
        •  A School Medical/Dental Clinic
        •  Supervised Outdoor Children’s Playground
        •  4 Piano Practice Rooms
        •  A Multi-Purpose Room

5.    What kind of technology are teachers using in the classroom?

CISB is a wireless campus.  Every classroom is equipped with SmartBoard technology which allows on-line access to lessons and homework.  Middle and High School students will use laptop computers in their classes.  The school has an automated library book tracking system, a campus-wide security system and a web-cast system in public areas of the school.  In addition, the school has a SmartCard system for lunch and other school services.

6.    What services will be provided to students who are in their Graduating year (Grade 12)?

Graduating students will receive assistance from both teachers and the Guidance Counsellor.  Information regarding university selection, testing requirements and application processes will be provided to all students throughout the course of the school year.  Workshops will be organized to help graduates prepare for their post-secondary opportunities.

7.    What language opportunities will be provided at CISB?

The primary language of instruction in CISB will be in English.  Students will also receive instruction in the Chinese (Mandarin) language.  A third language opportunity will be provided to interested students at the High School level in the area of French.

8.    What is the cut off date for grade placement at CISB?

December 31st.