Western Connecticut Academy for International Studies Elementary Magnet School

By Regina Birdsell, Assistant Executive Director

The Connecticut Association of Schools has selected Western Connecticut Academy for International Studies in Danbury as the 2014-2015 CAS Elementary School of the Year. AIS Elementary is truly a collegial learning community that serves approximately 400 children from kindergarten through grade five. AIS continues to live up to its mission of developing socially responsible global citizens who use technology to access the world.

When notified of the award, Principal Helena Nitowski was ecstatic to hear her school was selected. “It has been the most amazing day here at AIS! We feel so fortunate to have been selected Elementary School of the Year. There are so many great schools here in Connecticut and we share this recognition with all of them. The entire process has been a great experience. Initially, working with the staff to complete the application and then preparing for the site visit. Later, the ability to truly work as a school community where students, parents, staff, and administration came together for a common goal was a “winning” experience in itself. To be recognized by CAS was beyond what we had expected. Thank you for this incredible journey!”

Chosen from among a number of Connecticut elementary schools, AIS clearly distinguished itself as a consummate elementary school. Criteria considered throughout the evaluation process included: an educational program conducive to the needs of all students; student opportunities that go beyond the typical school day; educational programs that are consistently reviewed and improved; an atmosphere that welcomes participation from all constituencies; an active role in the community; and, strong parent involvement. AIS Elementary demonstrates all of these qualities in various ways.

AIS’ international studies theme is centered on the concept of peace and students’ roles as peacekeepers in the world. Its emphasis on international studies and world languages facilitates critical thinking and broadens mastery of the district curriculum. Students begin each day reciting the AIS Peace Pledge in both English and Spanish. They learn to be environmentally aware through participation in activities such as food composting in their cafeteria, community garden activities, school and home recycling efforts and bonds with organizations. The focus is for students to be part of the larger community. Students are encouraged to be risk takers who are allowed to explore their ideas in a safe and supportive environment. The respectful relationship between parents, staff and community is a bridge that joins them in the common goal of challenging and nurturing the growth of each and every child.

The overwhelming show of support by the parents, staff and students, and their numerous references to their “safe, supportive, exciting and innovative school” confirms that collaboration results in success for students. All stakeholders take great pride in their school and continually focus on student learning as its main priority.

Under Principal Nitowski’s leadership, the school has provided educational programs conducive to meeting the needs of all of its students. The school’s sense of community, its outstanding programs, its level of academic achievement, and the overwhelmingly positive feeling one enjoys at AIS Elementary School have all helped to earn it the Connecticut Association of Schools’ Outstanding Elementary School of The Year Award.

Western Connecticut Academy for International Studies Elementary Magnet School will receive its award at the Connecticut Association of Schools’ Recognition of Excellence in Education Celebration held at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington on November 19, 2014.