High School (Grades 9-12) - The International School of Minnesota

Academic Life

High School (Grades 9-12)

“Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.” – Abigail Adams

Students at The International School of Minnesota have meaningful experiences with modern, up-to-date methods and technologies used to improve and enrich their day-to-day learning experience, enhance their academic performance, and challenge the boundaries of traditional learning environments. With a systematic approach to teaching and instructional methodologies that empower students, students are allowed to take an active role in the learning cycle and, of course, access to the technology tools that can facilitate the entire process.

 

The college-preparatory curriculum at ISM teaches mastery of problem solving, critical thinking, and creative expression. This prepares our students to change the world and to prepare them to take the leap to post-secondary university experiences and career.

 
There is a strong sense of community at ISM that supports all learners. The SABIS Student Life Organization® is the foundation of this community. From character and leadership development to academic support and enrichment to school and community outreach, ISM’s students are provided with a learning environment that encourages a well-rounded experience to world citizenship, leadership, and academic support. Additionally, the SABIS philosophy enriches those of the youngest ages within the school community and building strong character development in the learning environment so by the time students reach high school, they become mentors to the younger students in the ISM community and in return, are able to give back to their school community through mentorship, leadership, and enrichment.
 
It is of utmost priority that students are prepared for college and beyond. The staff and faculty are the frontline in ensuring that no student is left behind and supported when challenged. The SABIS® approach allows for continuous academic monitoring to keep students, teachers, and parents aware of student progress in a trusted learning environment.
 
We believe that every student has the potential to develop into a well-rounded individual who is capable of mastering the skills that are essential to achieving success in an ever-changing world. We strive to offer students a premier education paralleled with healthy and nurturing environment that will effectively equip them with the tools they need in their pursuit of excellence in college, university, and beyond. Join us at The International School of Minnesota.
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About Our High School

ISM is committed to preparing students for success in college, life, and in the global economy of the future. Rigorous academics, robust leadership opportunities, and an inclusive school community also prepare students for success in national exams that are vital to college acceptance. In the ISM High School, abstract reasoning and critical thinking skills are emphasized in all disciplines. Our classes include a broad base of traditional academic subjects and reflect the knowledge that college requires. ISM also prepares all students for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), the American College Test (ACT), and the very demanding Advanced Placement® Tests of the College Board.

Our curriculum is structured to provide the prerequisites for our Advanced Placement® (AP®) exams. These standardized exams are subject-specific and are typically taken by fewer than 20% of American High School seniors. At ISM, over 90% of all juniors and seniors are enrolled in AP® courses. Our students take an average of 5 AP® Exams and nearly 50% of ISM students are recognized as AP® Scholars with distinction as compared to the national average of 17%.

AP Average Score All Exams

 *This chart represents AP exam scores of 2019 high school graduates.

 

Advanced Placement Course Offerings

  • Biology
  • Calculus AB
  • Calculus BC
  • Chinese Language & Culture
  • Computer Science A
  • English Language & Composition
  • English Literature & Composition
  • European History
  • French Language & Culture
  • Goverment & Politics: United States
  • Human Geography
  • Physics B
  • Physics C
  • Spanish Language & Culture
  • Spanish Literature & Culture
  • Statistics
  • Studio Art: Drawing

 

New students who need additional academic support are offered additional assistance in the form of peer tutoring, study groups, and/or homework clubs on as-needed basis.

 

Curriculum Highlights

English

 

Math

 

Social Studies

 

Science

 

World Language

 

Computer Science

 

 

To ensure a well-rounded education, students also engage in the following areas of study:

 

 

ISM Graduation Requirements

All students at The International School  of Minnesota are required to complete 26 credits in grades 9-12 to be eligible for graduation. English, math, and world language are taught daily and are mandatory. In addition, students are required to earn a minimum of 3 credits each in science and social studies during the four years of high school (grades 9-12). Fine arts, music, computer, and physical education courses are also required for graduation.

Graduation Requirement Summary

  • 4 years each of English
  • 4 years of Math
  • 4 years of World Language (or completion of AP class)
  • 3 years of Science (including Biology)
  • 3 years of Social Studies (Including US History/Government, 2 courses)
  • 1.5 years of Fine Arts
  • 2 years of Computer Science
  • 2 years of Physical Education & Health

 

University Counseling Program

ISM is committed to preparing students for college. This commitment extends beyond our curriculum, activities, and the SABIS Student Life Organization®. That’s why ISM has partnered with the College Connectors, Inc. to provide a comprehensive college counseling program. Our College Connectors help students and their families in a variety of ways from exploring career interests, to researching colleges, and navigating the college admissions processes.

Our College Connectors are knowledgeable and experienced partners who are embedded into the school community, building meaningful relationships with students and families. Both are Certified Educational Planners (AICEP), accounting for 2 of only 300 Certified Educational Planners in the nation.

For highlights of the college-counseling program by grade level, click here


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