A 21ST CENTURY APPROACH TO LEARNING
American International School of Utah (AISU) is a K-12 charter school and private school based in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America. AISU nurtures agency through personalized, competency-based learning, fostering Character, Purpose, Capacity and Community. AISU seeks to personalize, accelerate and enrich learning using a technology-facilitated, student-centered, blended learning model within a flexible, creative, and inspiring school environment that encourages students to be personally invested and globally engaged.
UTAH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF UTAH is located in SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, U.S.A.
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tah is known around the world as the premier destination for winter sports. Salt Lake City hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics and world-class athletes and beginner skiers enjoy the average 12.7 meters of average annual snow in Utah’s mountains. Utah is home to 14 ski resorts, seven within a 30 minute drive of American International School of Utah! Utah is also home to 17 famous national parks, monuments, forests, recreation areas and historic sites with landscapes and scenery like nowhere else on the planet. From towering mountain peaks to deep red rock canyons, Utah’s unique environment is a wonderful place to learn and have fun!
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SALT LAKE CITY
SALT LAKE CITY
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he Salt Lake City metropolitan area is the 27th largest area in the United States with a population of more than 2,350,000. Salt Lake has all the trappings of a world-class city: symphony, opera, and orchestra; restaurants to suit every taste; and prolific recreational opportunities!
The Salt Lake International Airport (SLC) is the 24th busiest airport in the world with about 900 arrivals and departures per day. SLC is a major hub for Delta Airlines, serves 13 airlines and was ranked #1 in the United States for on-time arrivals and departures. AISU is a short 15 minute drive to the airport.
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US News & World Report ranked Salt Lake City as the #6 public transportation system in the United States. A combination of light rail, heavy rail and buses serve the entire metropolitan area. AISU is a short walk to a major public transportation hub and regular school bus service connects students to the train and bus depot.
AISU & ADMINISTRATORS
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merican International School of Utah is located on a 27-acre campus in central Salt Lake County. The 170,000 square foot main building was completely remodeled and refurbished in 2014. The campus is within walking distance of Salt Lake City’s award winning light rail system, commuter train and bus hub. The beautiful Rocky Mountains are minutes away and provide a stunning backdrop to the campus. Two top ranked universities are within 30 minutes of our campus. A level one hospital is less than five minutes away if needed. Successful AISU students have the opportunity to continue their education at top tier universities across the United States. AISU Students have opportunities to tour university campuses and expert counselors help them prepare applications for the schools of their choice.
DR. RICHARD MAXFIELD Board Chair
MICHAEL FARLEY Superintendent
Former Chair of the Utah State Board of Education and an important national voice in education reform. He worked to improve Thailand’s system of technology schools. He has B.A. in Physical Science from the University of Utah and a M.A. and Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from BYU. His expertise in educational improvement and educational technology, with particular emphasis on the benefits of a learner-based approach helps focus the vision of AISU.
His vision created AISU and other successful schools across America. At Central Michigan University in 1994-95 he assisted more than thirty groups navigate through the challenges of opening new schools. While serving as the Director of Education for the George C. Marshall Foundation, Mr. Farley led the design and implementation for Phoenix Military Academy in 2002, one of the first “Gates Small Schools” in Chicago. He has a Masters in Educational Administration from Arizona State University.
FACULTY
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Doctorate Level Degrees Richard Maxwell, Board Chair Brigham Young University
Rebecca Hall, Teacher JD, UC Berkley , P.h.D. UC Santa Cruz
B.J. Millar MBA Brigham Young University
Douglas Braithwaite, Provost Emeritus Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Christa Saeger, Teacher University of Minnesota
Geoff Davis MPP Harvard
Diane Johnson P.h.D Utah State University* in Progress
David Chan P.h.D.
Geoffrey Dean, Teacher Sofia University
Master’s Level Degrees Erica Glenn, Performing Arts Director Longly Conservatory & Harvard Marie Pestana, Teacher Arizona State University* Karen Kendall, Teacher Eastern Michigan University Douglas Braithwaite, Provost Emeritus Harvard (MBA) Tim Larabee, Teacher Westminster
Pippa Keane, Teacher University of Utah
Bill Glad, Coordinator Fuller Theological Seminary
Nathan Justis, Principal Harvard & Arizona State University
Kate Youmans, Director Boston University
Christa Saeger, Teacher University of Minnesota
Michael Farley, Superintendent Arizona State University
Christa Schiedler, Teacher University of Minnesota
Stephanie Johnston, Counselor University of Phoenix
Richard Maxfield, Chairman Brigham Young University
Megan Sticht-Reyes, Teacher Rocky Mountain College
Keith Adkins, Teacher NOVA University
Annie Romano, Director Brigham Young University
Mark Smith, Principal Kaplan University
Robin Tenbrink, Teacher MHS, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals * Ashley Satterthwaite Teacher, Columbia University
* In Progress
ACADEMICS
AISU
features a personalized approach to learning individually tailored to meet the needs of each student. AISU provides students a range of options in fulfilling high school graduation requirements, including a wide variety of Honors, Advanced Placement and College Credit courses. AISU fuses academic rigor with innovation and exploration. AISU offers students the chance to learn side-by-side with other students from around the globe. AISU’s dedicated Success Coaches ensure that every student succeeds. AISU has a world-class staff with many teachers and administrators holding advanced degrees. In addition to classroom activities, students utilize online and
computer-facilitated instructional programs with teacher and tutor support, to individualize learning, moving through material at their own pace and demonstrating mastery before advancing. Once students demonstrate competency, they have the opportunity to delve into more meaningful, handson learning experiences, preparing them for life in college and beyond.
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REBECCA HALL, J.D., PH.D. Social Studies Dr. Hall earned her J.D. from the University of California Berkeley’s Law School and her Ph.D. in history from UC Santa Cruz. She has practiced law and taught at the high school, undergraduate and graduate levels in law and history. As a professor of law at the University of Utah, she taught Constitutional Law and the History of Race in American Law. Dr. Hall has authored several publications dealing with Colonial American and British American history, as well as 19th century Reconstruction legal and social history.
S.T.E.M.
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cience, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics all play a central role at AISU. In partnership with The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) AISU features a FabLab, a cutting edge facility for students to explore concepts at the nexus of science and art through hands-on exploration. Students engage in self-designed, project-based learning utilizing technologies like 3D printers, laser cutters, digital tools, electronics, and art supplies. AISU students will be prepared to compete in a globally competitive environment by immersing themselves in wide variety of scientific experiences with real world applications. STEM activities and courses will be academically challenging yet rewarding. Students will develop 21st century skills sought after by all employers including creativity, critical thinking,
problem-solving, and decision making in an environment that fosters communication and collaboration abilities. AISU provides students a technical prototyping platform for innovation and invention and provide stimulus for local entrepreneurship.
Our students have opportunities to use a variety of flexible computer controlled tools that cover several different length scales and various materials, with the aim to make “almost anything” that wouldn’t be possible to create with the resources available to individuals working alone.
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KATE YOUMANS, M.ED. Director of STEM
With degrees in mechanical engineering and education, Kate spent seven years working in the medical device industry. She developed a variety of surgical instruments from initial conceptualization to product launch. She worked to develop students’ interest in STEM careers through educational programming with the National Science Foundation and the Society of Women Engineers. She joined the Office of Engineering Outreach Programs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Kate is passionate about providing students with the inspiration and skills needed to be successful in future science and engineering careers. Kate enjoys exploring the outdoors, swimming competitively and cooking and baking for friends.
INTENSIVES
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uring the academic year AISU students have three unique learning opportunities called intensives. Intensives are handson learning experiences that allow students to be immersed in a single class for two weeks. AISU’s diverse and talented faculty create one of a kind courses which fuse academic rigor with innovation and exploration. Students also have the opportunity, under the guidance of teachers, to design their own intensives based on their personal interests and career goals. These intensives foster exploratory learning to increase student curiosity to find their passion.
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Here is a sampling of the intensive courses offered: Design and build a functioning satellite
Lego robotics
Create television commercials
Equestrian sports
Songwriting and album production
Pen and ink drawing
Social impact through engineering design
Basketball camp
Computer programming
Martial arts
Improv comedy
Forensic science
Physics of flight
American Sign Language
Solving issues of homelessness
Robotics
Ballroom dancing
Introductory piano
American history and government tour of Washington, DC and surrounding areas.
Travel to Bulgaria
10,000 years of Chinese culture Snow science
Gardening Bicycle tour of Utah
Fencing Russian language and culture History of climbing Southern Utah hiking Environmental art and humanities Herbal apothecary Cooking chemistry Rollercoaster physics Family history Financial literacy Civil Air Patrol Cadet Jewelry design Nuclear chemistry
ARTS
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he performing arts program at AISU is grounded in the concept of experiential learning and the idea that quality art educates and that quality education is an art. We seek to foster a bold new generation of innovators who are well-versed in collaboration and able to harness the emerging technologies and cultural eclecticism of the 21st century to become active agents in defining the future of creativity and In addition to AISU’s talented staff, students benefit from one-on-one instruction from visiting artists and other professionals.
In addition to performing in the space provided by the school, these groups “tour” other schools, rest homes, and arts organizations in an effort to establish meaningful connections within the broader community. Students also have opportunities to participate in flexible internship experiences or to help organize school-wide (or even community-wide) arts festivals. Twoweek “intensives” enrich students’ learning and provide opportunities for travel and collaboration with worldclass performing artists.
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ERICA GLENN Performing Arts Director Glenn has taught music privately and as faculty at Dean College (MA), the Franklin School for the Performing Arts (MA), and the Soul Arts Academy (NYC). She is also a co-founder of arts organizations, camps for children, and choral groups throughout UT, AZ, Boston, and NYC. Ms. Glenn publishes with LazyBee Scripts, and her shows have been performed throughout the US, UK, Germany, Australia, and Hong Kong. Ms. Glenn holds an MM in Music Composition from the Longy School of Music in Boston and an Ed.M. in The Arts in Education from Harvard.
ACTIVITIES
AISU
has a very active student community. Students plan and participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities including sports, dances, and clubs: Competitive sports include: Soccer, Cross Country, Basketball, Volleyball, Tennis, Cheer, Track & Field, Golf, Swimming, and Fencing. Outdoor activities include: Equestrian, Golf, Hiking, and Skiing Art Programs include: Drama, Choirs, Orchestra, and Jazz Band.
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Student Activities include: Dances, Clubs, National Honor Society, Yearbook, Student Ambassadors, and Student Government. American Universities often give preference to students with a wide variety of interests and activities. AISU encourages all students to experience and participate in a range of in-school programs, extracurricular activities and other pursuits.
JUJIE LUAN Fencing In 1984, Jujie Luan became the first Chinese athlete to win the Olympic gold medal in fencing. She also competed in the 1988 Summer Olympics for China and again in 2000 and in 2008 representing Canada. Ms. Luan started fencing at the age of 17, joined the Chinese national team and quickly rose in the international ranking capturing 2nd in the 1978 World Junior Championships as the first Asian athlete to enter since 1901. She is now a world-renowned, highly sought-after, fencing instructor.
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM
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merican International School of Utah invites students from around the world to enjoy all the benefits of an American high school education. Students will improve English language skills, improve their opportunities to attend a top tier US University, and make lifelong friends from across the globe. AISU offers an all-inclusive package for nonUS students attending AISU that includes tuition, books, fees, English Language Support as well as college preparation and admission services. Scholarships may be available based on need and exceptional ability. AISU International students have the opportunity to improve their English skills living with a pre-screened American family. Students will eat with their families, have a private bedroom, share typical household chores (for example cleaning their room and bathroom), and have the opportunity to participate in other family activities. AISU offers transitional English courses and the support to facilitate a successful transition to study in the United States.
ANNIE STEVENS ROMANO Director of International Programs The AISU English Language Program has incredible teachers with years of experience. We teach with a variety of learning platforms that include meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that allows for learning and growth, preparing students for life in college and beyond. AISU offers a unique opportunity for our students to experience learning English infused by the Arts. This course encourages the social and emotional component to language. In the Experiential ESL Class students participate in a rigorous art program that culminates in a grand theatrical production. Students enhance reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as they interact with one another in a fun and exciting atmosphere.
Annie Romano grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah but has lived all over the world. She attended Boston University and Brigham Young University and graduated with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in 2013. Before joining the international team at AISU, Annie worked at an international school in Florence, Italy. Annie is passionate about education and has worked as an Art & Art History Instructor at Legacy Preparatory Academy in North Salt Lake. Other previous work experience includes volunteer management and student coaching at the Hillsborough Education Foundation (Tampa, Florida), working with the US Department of Education through the Partnership for Public Service (Washington D.C.) as well as nonprofit consulting (Ghana, Fiji and Haiti.)
COLLEGE PREPARATION SERVICES AISU offers all Juniors and Seniors college preparation services including: college test preparation courses, test date selection, college selection, one-on-one college planning and college application assistance. The AISU College Preparation Course is a valuable course that allows students to have time during the school day to prepare, practice, and train for college admissions. This course teaches college writing and test-taking skills for the SAT, ACT and TOEFL test with an individualized study plan for each student. Students use supplementary tools for college and career planning via Family Connection by Naviance as well as additional online materials. Students, parents and agents can access the course completion and planning electronically. AISU students will have one-on-one college planning with our qualified staff member and expert advisors. Our key expert college advisor is Dr. Douglas C. Braithwaite who is the AISU Provost Emeritus and former Director of Admissions at the Harvard Business School. Dr. Braithwaite acts as a college advisor, providing workshops for students and one-on-one meetings, by appointment.
GOVERNOR OF UTAH August 26, 2014 Michael Farley CEO, Superintendent American International School of Utah 4998 South 360 West Murray, Utah 84123 Dear Superintendent Farley, It is my pleasure as Governor to congratulate you, your faculty and staff, students, parents, and the community at large, as you celebrate the opening of the American International School of Utah. I regret being unable to attend this historic event due to another commitment. Education is one of the cornerstones of Utah’s prosperity and a high priority for my administration. I commend you and the faculty and staff at the American International School of Utah for your efforts to prepare our children and youth for the future by providing
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them with skills and abilities to succeed. Indeed, you lay a foundation that allows them to pursue higher education and meet employer needs when they move into the increasingly global marketplace and work environment. I also wish to express appreciation to the parents and the community for their support of the American International School of Utah and its students. Studies show consistently that when parents and the community collaborate with schools and advocate learning, students are more likely to achieve higher academically. Again, congratulations and best wishes for your success in the years ahead. Sincerely,
Gary R. Herbert Governor
A 21ST CENTURY APPROACH TO LEARNING American International School of Utah (AISU) is a K-12 charter school and private school based in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America. AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF UTAH 4998 S GALLERIA DR., SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 84123, USA 001-801-989-7191 www.AISUtah.org