Dalian American International School

We are an international school in Dalian, educating students from ages 4-17 years old. Students experience a broad range of academic subjects and co-curricular activities delivered by an experienced staff of international educators. DAIS is committed to providing a positive and nurturing environment that promotes learning and discovery. Optimum student/teacher ratios are maintained to provide students with the support they need to fully develop their skills and talents.

The Lower Elementary facilitates learning by implementing activities that are student centered. Classroom environments allow children to explore, to question, and to work independently within a group, or with an adult. Through the development of the “whole child,” our objective is to create critical thinkers. The learning environment is rich in diverse culture, promoting a strong emphasis on literacy, math, science, technology, arts, and music and movement.

To further support children’s growth and development in the classroom, learning occurs by continually building upon new experiences to further enhance the cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and fine and gross motor development. Children are encouraged to explore their environment, establish routines, and understand transitions.

In the Upper Elementary, we challenge our students through authentic learning experiences, where students explore an interconnected world, inquiring to identify problems, deciding how to find solutions, all the while evaluating their progress. We believe that children take responsibility for their learning when they understand what it means to learn, to be reflective, and to set and reach personal learning goals. Knowing that children have their own unique learning styles, lessons are structured to meet the needs of all learners in the classroom with ongoing assessment strategies and timely feedback to support continuous learning.

The Middle School at Dalian American International School encompasses grades 6, 7, and 8. Our middle school program strives to create an environment that is supportive, exploratory and responsive to student needs as they develop intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically.

DAIS’ standards-based educational model emphasizes skill building, the use of higher order thinking skills, knowledge utilization and student ownership of learning. Teachers engage students through hands-on instructional strategies, cooperative learning and authentic learning experiences. Our vertically aligned, rigorous curriculum provides a smooth transition from middle school to high school and prepares students for success in Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

In addition to the core curriculum, middle school students participate in quarterly Applied Studies courses, designed to provide students with opportunities to be creative and explore design thinking. Middle School Applied Studies courses include: Creative Writing, Coding and Digital Design, Drama and Product Design.

All students in the Middle School have the opportunity to be part of sports teams, academic teams and participate in After-School Activities, which emphasize inclusiveness and teamwork. Our Student Council plays an active role in the Middle School, bringing the community together by leading community service initiatives and hosting events.

Our Vision

Through collaboration, the application of learned knowledge and skills, and reflection, students solve authentic problems inside and outside the school walls, thereby developing an appreciation for diverse points of view, respect for each other as unique individuals, and (his or her own) personal excellence.

Our students and graduates are systematic problem-solvers who apply their knowledge and skills in designing innovative solutions to local and global issues. They are critical and creative thinkers and lifelong learners, who are prepared to graduate from high-quality educational institutions and pursue meaningful career opportunities. Most importantly, their community sees them as compassionate, ethical, and socially responsible.