Chinese American International School

The school weaves social-emotional learning into the Chinese and English academic program. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are integrated into the curriculum. CAIS teachers weave social-emotional learning, DEI, technology, and more across the program. The Student Services Team supports students' academic, social, and emotional well-being and includes English language learning specialists, Chinese language support specialists, and school counselors. Counseling across divisions focuses on fostering positive relationships, respect, and responsible decision-making, with Toolbox Project in the lower grades and advisory activities in the upper grades. Parent meetings are an important part of the counselors' roles.

Three English language learning specialists, two Chinese language support specialists, and three school counselors comprise the Student Services Team. Chinese language support teachers work with individuals and small groups to provide Chinese language support, and students referred to CLS are assessed to identify effective approaches. Two full-time CLS teachers collaborate with classroom teachers to ensure that additional instruction addresses students' needs. The Student Services Team also provides English reading support with two full-time reading specialists. A Preschool Counselor supports social-emotional development and helps address personal and social risk factors, collaborating with staff to develop plans that accommodate documented needs and providing referrals to outside resources when needed.

The Student Services Team includes three English language learning specialists and two Chinese language support specialists, with three school counselors. They provide ongoing support to address English language learners and other diverse learners across the school. Chinese language support teachers work with individuals and small groups to provide Chinese language instruction, with assessments to tailor approaches. Two full-time CLS teachers collaborate with classroom teachers to address students' needs. English reading support is provided by two full-time reading specialists.

The school counseling program focuses on fostering positive relationships and promoting mutual respect, trust, and honest communication. Counselors work with each division to build a foundation of respect, including Preschool Grace and Courtesy lessons, classroom expectations in K–5, and a Middle School community code built on respect, responsibility, honesty, and citizenship. Parent meetings are a significant part of counselors' roles. Kindergarten through Fourth Grade counseling uses the Toolbox Project for social-emotional learning, teaching self- and social-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision making. Fifth through Eighth Grade counseling includes daily advisory groups that address topics such as bullying, internet safety, stress, and anxiety.

The Preschool Counselor job description requires TB clearance and health screening for staff, along with fingerprint and child abuse index clearance. The counselor also emphasizes privacy and confidentiality of information about individuals. CAIS's mission includes a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, which supports a safe and inclusive environment for all students. CAIS admits students of any race, color, religion, disability, citizenship status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and national or ethnic origin and does not discriminate in admissions or school programs.