A Global Viewpoint
Global perspectives and international experience are essential for success in the 21st century. The school's commitment to these ideals begins early, with a vibrant International Studies program. Students from Pre-Primary (age 2) to grade 9 participate in a yearlong course of study that offers the opportunity to increase awareness and knowledge of diverse countries, peoples, and cultures throughout the world.
Lower Campus students learn about the culture and unique traditions of the world. At the Pre-Primary and Primary level, the scope of learning is focused on the countries in North America: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. In Kindergarten, each classroom formally studies a country within South America. First Grade students learn about countries in Europe, while Second Grade students are immersed in examining Asian countries. Third Grade students embark on a learning adventure focused on countries of Africa. In addition to the learning that takes place in the classroom, the children participate in a variety of learning activities and events. Each classroom either performs a song, dance or instrumental piece to highlight the culture of their country. The many sessions of practice and preparation culminate in the annual International Day performance – a delightfully colorful, informative, and entertaining event.
Global citizenship is further enhanced by language studies. From Pre-Primary to grade 9, foreign language is an important part of the daily curriculum. Spanish is offered at every grade level and Mandarin is available beginning in grade 2. Students in grades 4 through 6 study Spanish and Mandarin. Students in grade 7 through 9 have the option to choose between Spanish, French and Mandarin. Six foreign language faculty members guide students through a curriculum that enhances their understanding of the relationship between the practices and perspectives of different cultures. Upper Campus students engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions and exchange opinions at various levels of fluency. With the use of technology, smartboards, live videos, and newspapers online, the various cultures are brought to life.
Upper Campus foreign language students participate in several school-wide events. This year will be the 12th year anniversary of the “Foreign Language Week.” The week-long celebration starts with an Upper School breakfast and continues with many activities in which students present cultural events, famous people or regions, and traditions of many foreign countries to their classmates. Classes share their work and discoveries. Students also participate in the French and Spanish National Contest in grades 6 through 9 and compete nationally. Palm Beach Day Academy has had several National winners in the top 10%.
The China Partnership builds meaningful relationships through special studies, projects and travel to that country. Each year a group of students travel to our Chinese partner schools, Alliance Primary School in Hong Kong and Living Hope Orphanage in Beijing. This experience exposes our students to a far away culture, and connects them to other children in that culture - making the experience far more than a typical tour. Additionally, students from the partner schools travel to Palm Beach and spend a week with our students in classes and extra curricular activities. The purpose of the partnership is to build relationships between our school and our China partners living a half a world away. The experience benefits the children who go, and the children who simply hear the stories of the adventure.
Palm Beach Day Academy is also a partner in the Florida Reggio Collaborative on innovative early childhood programs developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
