About AISN



 


Mission
At the American International School of Nouakchott, a partnership of educators and parents is committed to providing our culturally diverse students a safe, nurturing and respectful learning environment. We promote academic achievement through a curriculum founded on an American educational philosophy. We foster an appreciation for our host country and we encourage responsible community involvement.

Beliefs
 We believe that developing skills to become lifelong learners prepares students to become responsible and productive global citizens. Towards that end, we work together to encourage students to:

  • develop a love for learning, a desire to take risks, self confidence and independence;
  • think critically, understand and solve real-life problems;
  • use language to communicate effectively and to facilitate thinking and learning;
  • understand and respect social and cultural diversity;
  • acquire curiosity about the world; and
  • find a sense of belonging through relationships built on mutual trust and respect with adults and peers.

 

Overview
The school was founded in 1978, is a nonprofit, private, coeducational day school that offers an educational program to students from PK through grade 11 with addition of grade 12 in 2010, and independent study courses for grades 9-12.? The school year is comprised of 3 trimesters running from August through November, from December through March and from April through June.

Organization
 The School is governed by a 6-member Board of Directors, 5 of whom are voting members elected by the Parent Association, and one who is a non-voting member appointed by the U.S. Ambassador. At least 3 of the 5 voting members must be U.S. citizens.

Curriculum
 The curriculum is similar to that of most U.S. public schools. The language of instruction is English.  In addition to the core subjects of English, mathematics, science, and social studies, French is taught in kindergarten though grade 11.  Art, music, computers, physical education, and Mauritanian studies are also offered.? we are currently developing plans for more intensive ESOL program to be more accommodating to speakers of other languages.  Current U.S. textbooks are used with the support of visual aids, science equipment, a library, computers, and unusual field trips to interesting local sites. The School is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Faculty

In the 2009-2010 school year, there are currently 7 full-time teachers, 3 part-time teachers, 2 full-time instructional assistants and an office assistant.  The office is comprised of a director, a business manager and an assistant business manager.

Enrollment

At the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year, enrollment was 54 (PK-11).

Facilities
 The main building of 2 wings, constructed in a graceful Moorish style, is located on the U.S. Embassy compound.? The facility houses 8 classrooms (which include a science laboratory, a computer laboratory, and an art room), a library, a kitchen, and two administrative offices.

Finances

The school derives the majority of its income from tuition.  The annual tuition rates are as follows: PK:  $5,355 Kindergarten: $6,615 Grade 1 ? High School: $13,650.  A one time non-refundable registration fee of $2000 will be charged for all new students.