Program Summary
Seoul Foreign Elementary School provides programs that support developmentally appropriate learning from preschool through Grade 5. Children must be three years old by August 31 in order to be enrolled in the half-day preschool program. With the exception of preschool, all programs are full-day programs.
The best practices of teaching from around the world are reflected in a standards based curriculum used by our international teaching staff. Academic student learning is directed by classroom teachers who work in grade level teams to provide English language instruction in language arts (reading, speaking, writing/composition and spelling), mathematics, science, social studies and religion. Specialist teachers enrich the curriculum with visual arts, music (band, vocal and general music), foreign language, computer technology, library and physical education. Specialists in learning needs, ESL, and counseling are available to support the work of classroom teachers. Assessment by the school’s psychologist is also available.
Communication with parents is a primary concern and parents are encouraged to be active participants in their children’s education. Many parents regularly volunteer in classrooms for school activities. Each new family has an account with Edline, an on-line communication tool, which serves as a primary means of sharing information such as classroom newsletters and announcements. Student progress reports are issued quarterly with parent conferences scheduled twice a year. Each year the Educational Records Bureau (ERB) standardized test is administered to all students in Grades 2, 3, 4 and 5 to monitor their academic progress and to measure the school’s standards of excellence.
Affective learning of cultural awareness, understanding and values are reflected in classroom instruction, field trips and school activities. Some of these activities include Korea Week, International Fair, monthly chapel/assemblies, Junior Olympics, Primary Field Day, the Mini St. Andrew’s Ball, Christmas and spring concerts, student council and lunch hour sports (soccer in the fall and basketball in mid-winter).
A variety of after-school and Saturday activities including league soccer, league basketball, martial arts, gymnastics, dance, visual art, drama classes, scouting for boys and girls, instrumental music lessons, and foreign language classes are provided by the school and PTA.
Parent volunteers are a vital part of the school and all parents are encouraged to become involved in their children’s education. The PTA sponsors many activities throughout the year that enrich each child’s experience at SFS.
The Elementary School is a place where...
- the focus is on educating the whole child.
- children interact in a spirit of love and friendship.
- teachers exude a sincere enthusiasm for learning and a genuine concern for their students.
- school and home work as partners in children’s education.
- children develop pride and self-esteem because they feel good about what they are accomplishing.
