MS Current Information 2013- 2014

In 1956 Mrs. M. Crist Fleming established TASIS, The American School in Switzerland, as an experiment in international education designed to prepare students for American colleges and universities and to introduce them to European culture and languages.

Today, the School is owned and directed by the TASIS Foundation, a Swiss non-profit educational foundation. TASIS offers elementary, middle, high school, and post-graduate programs for students aged 4 to 19. It offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Advanced Placement (AP) courses as part of an American high school diploma, as well as courses leading to the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma, which prepares students for colleges and universities throughout the world.

Middle SchoolCurrent Information

2013-2014

TASIS is a family of international schools that welcomes young people from all nationalities to an educational community which fosters a passion for excellence along with mutual respect and understanding. Consistent with the vision of its founder, M. Crist Fleming, TASIS is committed to transmitting the heritage of Western civilization and world cultures: the creations, achievements, traditions, and ideals from the past that offer purpose in the present and hope for the future. Seeking to balance the pursuit of knowledge with the love of wisdom, and promoting the skills of life-long learning, an appreciation for beauty, and the development of character, each school combines a challenging academic program with opportunities for artistic endeavor, physical activity, and service to others. Believing in the worth of each individual and the importance of enduring relationships, TASIS seeks to embody and instill the values of personal responsibility, civility, compassion, justice, and truth.

TASIS MISSION STATEMENT

TASIS Mission Statement Inside Front Cover

Administration and Faculty Page 2

Course Listings by Department Page 4

Core Knowledge at a Glance Page 5

The Middle School Page 6

Academics Page 6

The Advisor Program Page 6

Student Life Page 7

Daily Schedule Page 8

Information for Boarding Students Page 8

Weekend Schedule Page 9

2013-14 Calendar Page 10

Application Procedure Page 11

Current References Page 11

TASIS Summer Programs Back Cover

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM

Charles H. Skipper, B.A., M.Ed., Ph.D. Headmaster Old Dominion University, George Mason University

Tom Bendel, B.A., M.A., M.A. HS Dean of Student Affairs Virginia Tech, Naval Postgraduate School, Georgetown University

Marie-Josée Breton, B.A.MS Dean of Student Affairs, Duty Administrator McGill University

Nyman Brooks, B.A., M.Ed. Elementary School Head University of Utah

William E. Eichner, B.F.A., M.A., M.A.Director of Admissions Ohio University, Syracuse University, Michigan State University

Max Gygax, B.A., M.B.A., Ph.D.Business and Personnel Manager Pacific Union College, University of San Francisco, Trident University

James Lemmon, B.A., M.A.T., M.S.Ed. MS Academic Dean, History Teacher Bennington College, College of St. Rose

Nilda Lucchini, B.A., M.A.Ed.Modern Language Department Head, Spanish Teacher Franklin College, Lehigh University

John Nelson, B.A., M.A., Ed.S. HS Academic Dean, IT Coordinator, History Teacher St. Olaf College, University of Minnesota, Minnesota State University Sara Soncina, M.A.ES Assistant Head Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Brescia

Jennifer Bendel, B.S., M.A.Physical Education Virginia Tech

Martyn Dukes, B.A., A.T.C.Fine Arts Kent Institute of Art and Design, Loughborough College of Art and Design, University of London

Carolyn Heard, B.A., M.A.English-as-an-Additional-Language Middlebury College, New York University

Nilda Lucchini, B.A., M.A.Ed. Modern Language Franklin College, Lehigh University

Todd Matthew, B.A., M.A.T. English Lynchburg College, Northeastern University

Tom Mauro, B.A., M.A., Ph.D.History Columbia University, University College Oxford, Princeton University, Scuola Vaticana di Biblioteconomia, University of Chicago

Alexander Ogilvie, B.Sc., PGCEScience Brighton University, Leicester University

James Shields, B.S., M.S. Mathematics University of Massachusetts-Amherst, ABD Northeastern University

MS COORDINATORS

Guia Berera, M.A. Italian Section Curriculum Coordinator, Italian Teacher Università degli Studi di Milano

Kelly Leagas, B.A., P.G.C.E. Pre-K-8 Mathematics, Dorm Parent Liverpool Hope University College

Allison Lindsay, B.Sc., P.G.C.E.English-as-an-Additional Language, Dorm Parent Royal Holloway, University of London, University of Ulster

Brett Merritt, B.A.Science Michigan State University

Shannon Miller, B.A., M.A. Technology Penn State University, Marlboro College

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DEPARTMENT LEADERS

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Patrick Alava, B.Sc., M.B.A., B.Ed.Mathematics Teacher, Dorm Parent University of the Phillipines, Asian Institute of Management, University of Victoria

Irene Avaldi-Bianchini, M.A. Italian Teacher Università della Svizzerà Italiana

Susan Baker-Alonso, B.A., M.A.Spanish Teacher, Learning Center, Dorm Parent Lindenwood University, University of Arizona

Tanja Bialojan, B.A.Intern, Dorm Parent University of Leipzig, University of Cambridge (ERASMUS)

Lorenzo Bianchini Massoni, Ph.D.Italian Teacher, History Teacher Università degli Studi di Bologna

Amy Bloodworth, B.Sc., P.G.C.E., M.Ed.Biology Teacher University of Southampton, Open University, UK

Olymar Marco Brown, B.A., M.Sc.Science Laboratory Technician Guayana Experimental Nacional University, Simon Bolivar University

Eleazar DamjanovicIntern, Dorm Parent

Fabrizio De Gregorio, AFC, IT USER-SIZ, Soccer Coach, IT Service and Support SPAI Locarno, Lugano

Federica De Bianchi, M.A.History Teacher, Italian Teacher Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy

Gillian Eames, B.A.Director, MS Musical Barnard College, Columbia University

Ritta El-Manadily, B.A., M.A.English Teacher, English-as-an-Additional Language Teacher Damascus University, Cambridge University, California State University

Samantha Forrest, B.Mus., M.A.Music Director Griffith University, Endicott College

Sarah Grove, B.A., M.A., Music Teacher Azuza Pacific University, Teachers College, Columbia University

Gigi Guarnieri-Rosso, D.I.P.A., B.S., M.Ed., English-as-an-Additional Language Teacher Syracuse University, University of Utah

Brigit HurstCeramics Teacher, Art Teacher Art School Schule für Gestaltung, Bern

Thomas Joyce, B.A., M.A.T., Ed.M. Mathematics Teacher University of Maryland, University of South Florida, Teachers College, Columbia University

MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY & STAFF

Thomas Lill, B.A., P.G.C.E., Physical Education Teacher, Dorm Head University of Hull, University of Leeds

Nancy Loiselle, B.Sc.(PT), M.P.A.School Nurse Queens University

Sonia Maczeakova, B.S., M.Sc.English-as-an-Additional Language Teacher Comenius University, University of Nottingham

Arrington McCoy, B.A.Science Teacher Kenyon College

Adele McLeod, R.N.School Nurse St. Lawrence College

Shannon Miller, B.A., M.A. English Teacher Penn State University, Marlboro College

Lynn Payette, B.S., M.B.A., School Nurse St. Lawrence College

Alessia Riva, B.A., M.A.Italian Teacher Università di Pavia, Italy

Perri Sartorelli, B.A.English-as-an-Additional Language Teacher Alfred University

Prash Sinnathamby, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., PGCEScience Teacher Manchester University, Aberdeen University, Durham University

Pamela Waters, B.Sc., M.Sc., M.A.School Counselor Queen’s University, Kingston Memorial University of Newfoundland, University of Alberta, University of East London

Masahiro Yo ’04, B.A.Mathematics Teacher, Physical Education Teacher Tufts University

COURSE LISTINGS BY DEPARTMENT

English 6th Grade English 7th Grade English 8th Grade English

English as an Additional Language (EAL) EAL Beginner EAL Emerging EAL Developing EAL Expanding

Fine Arts Art Music Private Music Lessons

History 6th Grade History & Geography 7th Grade History & Geography 8th Grade History & Geography Modern Language Beginning Italian Intermediate Italian Advanced Italian

Mathematics MS Mathematics 1 MS Mathematics 2 MS Mathematics 3 MS Mathematics 4 MS Mathematics 5

Physical Education Physical Education & Health

Science 6th Grade Science Laboratory Science EAL Laboratory Science

Educazione fisica Physical Education

Lingua Italiana Italian Language

Scienze Science

Storia History

Geografia Geography

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SEZIONE ITALIANA

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Language Arts/English

History and Geography

Visual Arts

Music

Mathematics

Science

I. Writing, Grammar, and UsageII. PoetryIII. Fiction and Drama (Stories; Shakespeare; Myths and Legends)IV. Sayings and Phrases

World:I. W. Geography (Spatial Sense; Deserts)II. Lasting Ideas from Ancient CivilizationsIII. The EnlightenmentIV. The French RevolutionV. RomanticismVI. Industrialism, Capitalism, and SocialismVII. Latin American Independence MovementsAmerican: I. Immigration, Industrialization, and UrbanizationII. Reform

I. Art History: Periods and Schools (Classical; Gothic; Renaissance; Baroque; Rococo; Neoclassical; Romantic; Realistic)

I. Elements of MusicII. Classical Music: From Baroque to Romantic (Bach, Handel, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, Schumann)

I. Numbers and Number SenseII. Ratio, Percent, and ProportionIII. ComputationIV. MeasurementV. GeometryVI. Probability and StatisticsVII. Pre-Algebra

I. Plate TectonicsII. OceansIII. Astronomy: Gravity, Stars, and GalexiesIV. Energy, Heat, and Energy TransferV. The Human Body: Lymphatic and Immune SystemsVI. Science Biographies

Core Knowledge at a Glance: ®

Major Topic Headings for Grades 6 through 8

I. Writing, Grammar, and UsageII. PoetryIII. Fiction, Nonfiction, and DramaIV. Foreign Phrases Commonly Used in English

I. America Becomes a World PowerII. World War I: “The Great War”, 1914-1918III. Russian RevolutionIV. America from the Twenties to the New DealV. World War IIVI. Geography of the United States

I. Art History: Period and Schools (Impressionism; Post- Impressionism; Expressionism and Abstraction; Modern Ameri can Painting)

I. Elements of MusicII. Classical Music: Romantics and Nationalists (Brahms, Berloiz, Liszt, Wagner, Dvorak, Greig, Tchaikovsky)III. American Musical Traditions (Blues and Jazz)

I. Pre-Algebra (Properties of the Real Numbers; Polynominal Arithmetic; Equivalent Equations and Inequalities; Integer Exponents)II. Geometry (Three-Dimensional Objects; Angle Pairs; Triangles; Measurement)III. Probability and Statistics

I. Atomic StructureII. Chemical Bonds and ReactionsIII. Cell Division and GeneticsIV. History of the Earth and Life FormsV. EvolutionVI. Science Biographies

I. Writing, Grammar, and UsageII. PoetryIII. Fiction, Nonfiction, and DramaIV. Foreign Phrases Commonly Used in English

I. The Decline of European ColonialismII. The Cold WarIII. The Civil Rights MovementIV. The Vietnam War and the Rise of Social ActivismV. The Middle East and Oil PoliticsVI. The End of the Cold War: The Expansion of Democracy and Continuing ChallengesVII. Civics: The Constitution - Principles and Structure of American DemocracyVIII. Geography of Canada and Mexico

I. Art History: Periods and Schools (Painting Since World War II; Photography; 20th-Century Sculpture)II. Architecture Since the Industrial Revolution

I. Elements of MusicII. Non-Western MusicIII. Classical Music: Nationalists and ModernsIV. Vocal Music (Opera; American Musical Theater)

I. Algebra (Properties of the Real Numbers; Relations, Functions, and Graphs; Linear Equations and Functions; Arithmetic of Rational Expression; Quadratic Equations and Functions)II. Geometry (Analytic Geometry; Introduction to Trigonimetry; Triangles and Proofs)

I. PhysicsII. Electricity and MagnetismIII. Electromagnetic Radiation and LightIV. Sound WavesV. Chemistry of Food and RespirationVI. Science Biographies

The TASIS Middle School is a welcoming and exciting passage from Elementary to High School. The student body consists of 6th, 7th, and 8th Graders from numerous countries and backgrounds. Located in a special area on campus, the Middle School includes both day and boarding (7th and 8th Grade only) students who are English language-learners, Italian Section students, and mainstream English students. This diverse group brings a spirited quality to our school.

A dedicated team of experienced leaders, faculty, and staff create a dynamic environment for the TASIS Middle School. Academic Dean James Lemmon and Dean of Student Affairs M.J. Breton collaborate with the Student Support Team members (Learning Support Teachers, the school counselor, and nurses), dorm parents, teachers, advisors, and activity leaders who work closely with the students on an individual basis. Our philosophy recognizes the fundamental importance of a caring and nurturing community for our Middle School students. We understand and celebrate that the preadolescent years are exceptional ones, with specific physical, social, emotional and cognitive needs. The TASIS Middle School combines rigor, support, and joy to help students be their best selves.

THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

ACADEMICS

The Middle School academic program is based on the ideas of the Core Knowledge program, while still accommodating the wide range of languages and cultures present in the School. The curriculum has been designed to meet the needs of our diverse and dynamic population. Building on the Core Knowledge curriculum, we offer students a chance to excel in the liberal arts and in a foreign language while preparing them for the rigors of high school academics. This is especially important for children who are keen to enroll in International Baccalaureate or Advanced Placement courses.

All students take classes in English, Mathematics, Science, History, Visual Art, Music, and Physical Education. Native English speakers study Italian, and students still learning English as an academic language have an additional period of English instruction. We offer five levels of English and five levels of Mathematics over three grade levels, which allows us to place students by both grade level and ability. The Middle School program also has an Italian Section for residents of Ticino required to have 50% of their education in Italian.

The average class size is 12 students. Middle School classes meet in well-equipped classrooms in a concentrated part of the larger TASIS campus. Our Middle School students follow a distinctive schedule, which has been carefully planned to include age-appropriate class lengths and breaks. We offer special Dean’s List privileges for students who excel in academics and effort.

To supplement our academic program, we organize Academic Help Centers both during the day and after school. A weekly supervised study period is built into each student’s schedule, and we also offer frequent workshops in note-taking and study skills. Students are expected to master basic content, become more inquisitive and analytical, develop research skills, and organize and present their learning in both verbal and written form. We also offer a specialized Learning Support center for students with diagnosed learning differences, and a School Counselor for social and emotional support.

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THE ADVISOR PROGRAMEvery student is assigned a faculty advisor, who serves as the first point of contact for parents and students as they navigate life at TASIS. Advisors work with groups of 6-8 students who meet formally twice a week, have lunch together once a week, attend assemblies once a week, and enjoy outings and Academic Travel together. Advisors monitor academic progress, discuss social and emotional struggles or problems, and act as an advocate in disciplinary situations. This special relationship provides students with a trusted adult who is readily available should difficulties arise in any area of their lives, and helps provide a secure, nurturing environment for our students.

STUDENT LIFE

Our students are expected to become tolerant and understanding of others and of the larger world around them, to gain greater respect for themselves and for others, and to participate actively in the community. Respect, honesty, compassion, empathy, and taking full responsibility for one’s actions are values that are integral to our program.

GLOBAL SERVICE PROGRAMThe 2013-2014 school year introduces the TASIS Global Service Program, envisioned and supported by Jan Opsahl ‘68, the School’s first international student. Funded by a generous endowment from Mr. Opsahl and his family, the Global Service Program fosters a philanthropic spirit in our students through dedication to humanitarian needs, including hands-on work with projects and communities around the world.

We begin imparting the value of service in the Middle School. Each grade level focuses on projects where students see how their actions as individuals and as a group can impact lives. Every year, the responsibilities and goals strengthen as our students prepare for the Global Service Program in the High School. The Program offers students the remarkable opportunity to witness and assist with philanthropy in action, and understanding how global leadership can change lives through curiosity, creativity, and commitment.

The Program’s Mission Statement:The TASIS Global Service Program transforms lives by providing every High School student with a unique opportunity to connect across borders – whether geographic, economic, or social – through comprehensive experiences that build empathy and encourage personal responsibility. The Program awakens students to humanitarian needs, inspires them to build enduring, mutually-beneficial relationships, and leads them toward a life of active citizenship and committed service.

AFTER-SCHOOL SPORTS AND ACTIVITIESOur specially-designed After-School Sports and Activities program includes a variety of options to help our students broaden their experiences. Current activities include dance, choir, musical theater, cooking, computer media, yoga, chess club, painting, and an alternative band for musicians. In addition to recreational sports (badminton, dodgeball, etc.) students can try out to be a part of a competitive sports team, including basketball, volleyball, and soccer. As many activities meet just twice a week, children are free to participate in more than one activity per session. New After-School Activities are offered three times per year, giving students an opportunity to try new pursuits or continue their progress.

WEEKEND CLUBSIn addition to our activities schedule, this year we have partnered with local professional organizations to give our students the opportunity to learn or improve their skills. Over the course of five Saturdays, club members will receive instruction, transportation, and supervision at all times. The autumn Climbing Club, with instructors from Piotta Climbing Club, will teach children skills at the Airolo climbing wall and continue their progress at various climbing sites in Switzerland. The winter Ski Club, with help from instructors from the Lugano Ski Club, challenges children to improve their winter sports skills.

TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIESIn the spirit of our founder, M. Crist Fleming, we feel that travel is one of the best ways to teach students to be courageous, tolerant, respectful, and inquisitive. Middle School students participate in Academic Travel, a twice-yearly TASIS tradition during which small groups of teachers and students spend 3-5 days discovering a destination. Recent trips include the Amalfi Coast, the Côte d’Azur, Valencia, Lausanne, and Zurich. For our boarding students, we offer a trip to a nearby destination nearly every weekend, including Milan, Bergamo, Turin, and Lucerne. Special overnight weekend trips for boarding students include skiing in Zermatt and touring museums and architecture in Tuscany.

SPECIAL ANNUAL ACTIVITIESEvery year, the Middle School participates in numerous special annual activities. These include the Fall Festival, our festive Christmas celebration, Winter Adventure (when the Middle School relocates to Verbier for a week of fun in the snow), the Middle School Musical, important activities to prepare and welcome 5th Graders into the Middle School, and numerous ceremonies to honor our students’ leadership, academic, sports, or service achievements. We also host an annual 8th Grade Moving-Up ceremony to celebrate their passage to the High School.

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DAILY SCHEDULE

Boarding students (7th and 8th Grades only) occupy a special niche in our Middle School. Many are away from home for the first time, and we aim to foster an environment that is comfortable, supportive, and positive. Our team of dorm parents and activity leaders are passionate about working with this age group, and our boarding structure gives students the freedom to become independent individuals within the context of a clearly defined boarding structure. Our new location, in Belvedere, ensures that our boarding students have the space to play, learn, and grow in an age-appropriate, safe, and secure environment.

CHECK-INMonday-Thursday: 18:45-18:55; Study Hall begins at 19:00

BOARDING STUDENT INFORMATION

A CELEBRATION OF CULTURESOur diverse program encourages the blending of cultures both inside and outside the classroom. The Middle School faculty and staff have many years of experience with this age group. Our activities aim to promote a positive, inclusive learning environment. Parents, teachers, and administrators meet regularly to discuss and develop many aspects of the School program via the Parent Advisory Group, and we welcome parental involvement in their children’s education.

In our efforts to build community and provide a ‘home away from home’ environment for our Middle Schoolers, we lay the foundation for success. We will strive constantly to be a coherent community with consistent and supportive relationships among the students, faculty, administration, and parents.

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WEEKEND SCHEDULEFridays08:00 - 16:00 Class Day17:30 - 18:30 Dinner18:45 - 19:00 First Check-In; students must remain on campus for the evening.20:45 - 21:00 Second Check-In; students must remain in their dorms.23:00 Lights Out; students must remain in their dorms until 06:00 the following day.

Saturdays08:00 - 09:30 Breakfast11:45 - 13:00 Lunch17:30 - 18:30 Dinner18:45 - 19:00 Check-In; students must remain on campus for the evening19:00 - 19:30 Room Clean-Up20:45 - 21:00 Second Check-In; students must remain in their dorms.23:00 Lights Out; students must remain in their dorms until 06:00 the following day.

Sundays10:30 - 12:30 Brunch17:30 - 19:00 Dinner18:00 Check-In; students must remain on campus for the evening.19:00 Study Hall begins22:00 Lights Out; students must remain in their dorms until 06:00 the following day.

Weekend ActivitiesEach weekend, we offern a variety of activities and events. Some activities are also open to day students. Popular activities include:• Paddle boating on Lake Lugano• Attending a Lugano hockey game or Inter Milan/AC Milan football match• Dinner at a local Chinese, Turkish, or sushi restaurant• Day trips to Lucerne, Milan, and Zurich• Monte Tamaro’s adventure park and ropes course• Bowling and pizza night• Brunch, lunch, or dinner at a teacher’s home• The Gardaland amusement park in Italy • The Como market and a boat ride around Lake Como• A weekend ski trip to Zermatt • A trip up Monte Generoso • Visiting Valle Verzasca for hiking and swimming

Visiting LuganoDuring weekends, Middle Shool boarding students may walk or take the bus or a taxi to Lugano. They must travel in groups of two or more. Visiting Lugano during weekends is permitted:• on Friday afternoons after class until first check-in.• on Saturdays from 12:00 noon to first check-in.• on Sundays, permission must be received from the Dorm Parent.

Day trips to anywhere outside Lugano (excluding School-sponsored trips) are not permitted.

LIGHTS OUT AND CURFEWSunday-Thursday 22:00Students must remain in their dorms until 06:30 the following day.

Special off-campus or late check-in permission may be obtained from the Duty Administrator or the Middle School Administrators. During the week, students may only check out with family members.

Fall SemesterFriday, August 30 Opening Day; students arrive on campus by 19:00Saturday-Sunday, August 31- September 1 Student Orientation for day and boarding studentsMonday, September 2 Classes begin Wednesday, September 11 Class Outings (Founder’s Day)Monday, September 30 Fall Break: No classes Tuesday, October 1 Classes resume Wednesday-Friday, October 23-25 Academic TravelFriday-Sunday, November 8-10 Family Weekend Thursday, November 28 Full day of school Friday, November 29 No classes; Thanksgiving Break Friday-Sunday, November 29- December 1 MS Weekend Trip; mandatory for all MS boarding students who are not checked out with their parentsMonday, December 2 Classes resume Saturday, December 14 Holiday CelebrationSunday, December 15 Christmas ServiceThursday, December 19 Last full day of classes Friday, December 20 Dormitories close at 12:00 noon

Spring SemesterThursday, January 9, 2014 Dormitories open at 12:00 noonFriday, January 10 All 7th and 8th Grade boarding students return to campus by 19:00; Winter Adventure is mandatory for all MS studentsSunday, January 12 7th and 8th Grade students depart for Winter AdventureTuesday, January 14 6th Grade students depart for Winter Adventure Friday, January 17 Students return from Winter Adventure Monday, January 20 Classes resumeMonday-Friday, February 17-21 7th and 8th Grade Academic Travel Monday-Wednesday, February 17- 19 6th Grade Academic Travel Thursday-Friday, February 20-21 6th Grade: no classes Monday, February 24 Classes resume Monday, March 17 March Break: no classes Tuesday, March 18 Classes resume Saturday, April 12 Spring Holiday begins Saturday, April 13 Dormitories close at 12:00 noon Saturday-Sunday, April 12- 27 Spring HolidaySaturday, April 26 Dormitories open at 12:00 noon Sunday, April 27 Spring Holiday ends; boarding students return to campus by 19:00Monday, April 28 Classes resume Tuesday-Sunday, May 6-11 Spring Arts FestivalTuesday, June 3 6th-7th Grades: last day of school; all boarding students in Grade 7 may leave at the end of the school day.Wednesday, June 4 8th Grade: last day of school 8th Grade Moving Up CeremonyFriday, June 6 Dormitories close at 12:00 noon

The School reserves the right to change these calendar dates when in the interest of the program.A complete, consistently-updated calendar is available on the TASIS website under “Calendar.”

2013-2014 CALENDAR

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Admission to TASIS is competitive, and the Admissions Committee evaluates each candidate based on their academic records and their ability to benefit from and contribute to the TASIS community. TASIS admits qualified students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, and does not discriminate on any basis in its admissions policies and practices.

The Admissions Committee will consider applications when all of the following materials have been received:

• Anon-refundableapplicationfeeofCHF300.

• Arecentpassport-sizedphotograph,alongwithadigitalpassport-sizedphotographin.jpgformat.

• Acopyofthestudent’spassportpage(s),indicatingname,dateofbirth,andothervitalinformation.

• Anofficialtranscriptofthestudent’sschoolrecordsforthepastthreeyears.Parentsshouldrequestanofficial

transcript to be sent by airmail directly to TASIS from each school attended in the last three years.

• Threeteacherrecommendationsfromthestudent’spresentschool,preferablyfromtheprincipalorcounselorand

teachers of English and Math. Forms are enclosed in the Admissions Packet.

• Currentstandardizedtestresults(SSAT,PSAT,ERB,etc.)arerequested,ifavailable.Allstudentsareencouraged

to take the SSAT if possible.

• Aone-pageletterwrittenbythestudentgivinghis/herreasonsforwishingtoattendTASIS.

• ParentStatement:aletterfromtheapplicant’sparentsprovidingdetailsregardingtheirsonordaughter’s

personality, attitude towards school, strengths and weaknesses as a student, special gifts, talents, interests, or any

other background information that would be helpful to the Admissions Committee.

• ThecompletedEALQuestionnaireandWritingProficiencyTest,ifEnglishisnottheapplicant’snativelanguage

• TheresultsofanEnglishproficiencytestsuchastheSLEPorTOEFLifEnglishisnotthe

applicant’s native language.

All admissions correspondence and documents should be addressed to: Director of Admissions TASIS The American School in Switzerland Via Collina D’Oro 6926 Montagnola, Switzerland Email: [email protected]

Applicants are notified promptly of the Committee’s decision. Upon confirmation of acceptance, students will be sent more specific information pertaining to entrance.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

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PARENT AND STUDENT REFERENCESOur current TASIS families can provide you with invaluable, first-hand information regarding our school community. To receive a list of references in your area, contact [email protected].

The TASIS Parent Association is a very good resource for families moving Lugano. They may be contacted at [email protected].

TASIS Summer Program (TSP, ages 14-18), based on the TASIS campus in Lugano, offers intensive language courses in English as an Additional Language, French, and Italian, along with courses in Digital Photography, Drawing and Painting Ticino, and Musical Theater. The program includes a variety of sports and activities along with an extensive travel program. Four-week and three-week sessions.

The Middle School Program (MSP, ages 11-13), on the Lugano campus, offers English as an Additional Language, French, Italian, and Musical Theater courses specially designed for this age group. The program offers age-appropriate sports and activities, including excursions around Switzerland and Italy, all within the context of a warm and caring community. Four-week and three-week sessions.

Optional intensive afternoon sports activities are offered in both MSP and TSP, including the AC Milan Junior Camp and Armani Junior Basketball Camp. MSP students with proven previous experience can also choose Golf Club or Tennis Academy.

Le Château des Enfants (CDE, ages 4+-10) offers learning and fun for younger children. Located on the TASIS campus, this distinct program teaches English, Italian, or French skills through lessons, games, activities, and the arts in a family-style community. Activities include picnics, excursions, and camping trips. Four-week and three-week sessions. Children from 4+ to 6 years of age can attend the Minnows program as day students only.

TASIS Summer Language Program at Château-d’Oex (TSLP, ages 14-18) offers English or French language learning in an intimate alpine setting. Intensive outdoor sports options, arts and crafts workshops, excursions such as climbing and rafting, and special weekend activities make this program ideal for more adventurous students.

Middle School Program at Château-d’Oex (MSPCD, ages 11-13) provides students with an opportunity to learn English or French in the alpine setting of the Pays d’Enhaut. The program also offers mountain sports, cultural excursions, and a variety of activities which take advantage of this beautiful location.

TASIS England Summer School (TESS, ages 11-18), based on the TASIS England campus, offers a variety of courses, including SAT and TOEFL preparation, Math and English course reviews, and numerous arts and humanities classes. Many sports and activities are on offer, and weekends are spent traveling throughout the UK. One six-week and two three-week sessions.

TASIS English Language Program (TELP, ages 11-18), based on the TASIS England campus, offers six levels of intensive English, from beginning to advanced. Sports take place every afternoon, and weekend excursions include a variety of renowned cities and events throughout the UK. One six-week and two three-week sessions. British Council-accredited.

Les Tapies Arts & Architecture Program offers an intensive three-week design and cultural experience for students ages 14 to 19 through a hands-on study of French vernacular architecture. The program is for students who have a strong interest in the arts or who are considering a career in architecture, art, or design. Les Tapies’s ideal location just north of Provence provides extensive opportunities for excursions which draw on the cultural richness of this fascinating area.

THE TASIS SUMMER PROGRAMS

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