the AIS Definition of Learning
THINK CRITICALLY
- How to learn
- To inquire and apply knowledge in order to solve problems
- That critical thinking is a creative act
- To cultivate a love of learning
- How to think and not what to think
ACT ETHICALLY
- To do the right thing even when no one is watching
- To stand up for what we believe in
- To leave our world better than we found it
- To live an ordered life structured by morals and values
- That finding our own ethical highest purpose is among the ultimate goals of our education
SERVE OTHERS
- To engage with our community
- To help, cooperate, participate, and empathize
- To develop compassion
- That acts of service are mutually beneficial
- That acts of service are mutually beneficial
- That we can transform Guatemala and the world
ACCREDITATION
Antigua International School students all start here, but they can go anywhere! Doors at colleges and universities worldwide are opened through dual accreditations with the New England Association of School and Colleges (NEASC) and the Guatemalan Ministry of Education.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
- Promoting a community of diversity where each person is respected and appreciated.
- Creating a culture of personal integrity, ethical behavior and individual responsibility.
- Providing individualized attention and support to all of our students so they may achieve their full academic and personal potential.
- Offering a classical, liberal arts curriculum that prepares students for higher education anywhere in the world, and a life of learning.
- Offering a classical, liberal arts curriculum that prepares students for higher education anywhere in the world, and a life of learning.
- Providing a strong arts program that encourages and supports self-discovery and creative expression in music, the visual arts, theater and dance.
- Respecting Guatemala’s culture, traditions and environment with an emphasis on social responsibility and community service.
- Supporting an athletics program that encourages and develops life-long personal fitness and character.
- Ensuring that this education is attainable and affordable for any who desire it, regardless of economic and social status or background.
SERVICE LEARNING
Service Learning is a crucial part of the AIS experience and process of becoming an active global citizen and community member.
At AIS, we define learning as a “lifelong, holistic process that builds and shapes skills, abilities, and critical thinking through life lessons, observations, and experiences in order to become a competent and active global citizen.” Service Learning is a crucial part of the AIS experience and process of becoming an active global citizen and community member. All students from Kindergarten to 12th grade complete at least one service project each year.
In Kindergarten, students learn about empathy and resilience, qualities that are key to implementing positive change, and complete their first service project. Throughout elementary school, students practice identifying problems in our community and proposing possible solutions with the support of their teachers.
In Secondary School, students participate in increasingly complex service-learning experiences that encourage them to investigate community needs, collaborate with others, and implement sustainable solutions. Through these projects, students develop leadership, empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility toward their local and global communities.
Service Learning at AIS is designed to connect classroom learning with meaningful action. Students reflect on their experiences, analyze the impact of their work, and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in their communities.
The ultimate goal of Service Learning is to empower students to become compassionate, engaged, and responsible citizens who recognize their ability to make a positive difference in the world around them.
SERVICE LEARNING CONTINUUM
- Kindergarten: Students begin learning about empathy, resilience, and positive action through age-appropriate service projects.
- Elementary School: Students identify needs within their communities, explore possible solutions, and participate in service projects that connect learning with action.
- Secondary School: Students engage in more complex projects that require research, collaboration, leadership, and critical reflection while addressing real community issues.
OUR GOALS
- Foster empathy and compassion.
- Develop responsible global citizens.
- Encourage leadership and initiative.
- Connect academic learning with real-world experiences.
- Promote meaningful community engagement.
- Inspire students to become agents of positive change.
LEARNING THROUGH SERVICE
At AIS, service is not an isolated activity. It is integrated into the learning process so that students develop knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values while making meaningful contributions to their communities. Through reflection and action, students learn that they have the power to positively impact the world around them.
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM
Welcome to AIS! My name is Luis Carrillo, and I am the principal of our Early Childhood Program. I have been an educator for over 18 years with a teaching certificate with a specialization in Learning Disabilities, a bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology, and a master’s degree in Applied Neuropsychology.
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Building strong foundations, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning.
