At Tianjin International School (TIS), students gain a well-rounded education where they don’t memorize books, but live them, and not just study the sciences, but to experiment with them. It is an approach that’s turned students into confident leaders and ambitious changemakers creating impact in multiple countries across the globe. TIS graduates have gone on to become doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, tech leaders, and more after attending some of the best universities around the world, the likes of Cornell University, Johns Hopkins University, and Seoul National University.

Inspiring learners to make a life-changing difference for the common good

TIS’s success can be attributed to the school’s steadfast commitment to academic rigor and excellence. The school is Cognia accredited, a seal of educational quality that is recognized worldwide. Educators here set high, yet attainable expectations for students, organize diverse and challenging learning experiences, and foster intellectual growth and skill development.

“The school remains dedicated to its mission of nurturing students holistically, striving to cultivate globally-minded individuals who possess not only academic prowess but also nine qualities for life: purpose, discernment, curiosity, compassion, courage, persistence, connection, humility, and service,” says Emmanuel Sarsalejo, Principal of Teaching and Learning.

TIS’s brand of transformative, holistic Pre K–12 education

“This holistic approach ensures that students are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the vital life skills and values necessary for success in a brittle, anxious, non-linear, and incomprehensible (BANI) world. By challenging students to develop these qualities alongside academic achievement, TIS aims to empower students to lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions to society.”

TIS is home to approximately 290 students representing over 15 nationalities. Although they come from different parts of the world, TIS students follow the American curriculum and can take 15 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and university-level offerings. These are taught by qualified staff members originating from many countries around the world. Each faculty member brings a deep understanding of culture, and uses the latest and leading standards, practices, and innovations.

Sarsalejo is from the Philippines and is currently in the final stages of completing a doctoral degree in education. His 20-year career in international schools has taken place in his home country, Papua New Guinea, and now China. Previously a Vice Principal, School Principal, and Education Coordinator, he’s held several leadership roles. With his vast experience, Sarsalejo knows what it takes to provide the highest-quality international education. His wife and son are teacher and student respectively at TIS — giving their entire family’s seal of approval to the Tianjin institution.

Rigorous curriculum that nurtures lifelong learners

TIS’s rigorous six-year curriculum cycle review process ensures alignment with academic standards, relevance to real-world contexts, and integration of modern pedagogical approaches such as student-centered learning, technology integration, differentiation, and assessment for learning. Teachers also use tools to assess the quality of learning environments and to plan and deliver instruction for English Language Learners.

Data is key in many of TIS’s protocols, processes, and systems. For example, to ensure assessment is fair and balanced, teachers gather data from various sources such as classroom observations, ongoing progress monitoring, diagnostic tests, formative and summative assessments, as well as standardized tests such as the PSAT, SAT, and AP exams.

“This holistic approach ensures that students are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the vital life skills and values necessary for success in a brittle, anxious, non-linear, and incomprehensible (BANI) world. By challenging students to develop these qualities alongside academic achievement, TIS aims to empower students to lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions to society.”

Being located in one of China’s largest cities provides many opportunities for personal growth. The school frequently holds trips to industrial locations, business parks, historical sites, museums, and transportation centers, giving students a first-hand look at China's role in the global economy. This deepens their understanding of Chinese culture and society in ways beyond what textbooks can offer.

“The diverse student body and international connections create a platform for global networking and collaboration,” says Sarsalejo. “Students can form friendships and make professional connections with peers from around the world – this lays the groundwork for future collaborations and partnerships, while fostering a sense of global citizenship and cultural understanding.”

How TIS builds character

These pair well with TIS’s many service clubs, service trips, leadership development opportunities and co-curricular activities. Through sports, the arts, Model United Nations (MUN), robotics and athletics, students build confidence, develop character, grow physically, and nurture their creativity. Recently, students took part in the annual Fine Arts Festival’s workshops, rehearsals, and performances; built robots for VEX Robotics; played in a staff-student-friendly basketball match; performed in the Christmas Concert; and more.

Whether three years old or on the cusp of university, every TIS student is always discovering something new, growing in their abilities, and encountering life-changing experiences.

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