Grades 9-12

High School

Preparing students for success with a rigorous curriculum, global perspectives, and opportunities for creative exploration.

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High School (Grades 9-12)

The Journey to Self-Fulfillment

Building Your Resumé

Mastery and Challenge

At KAIS High School, we challenge students to push beyond their limits and pursue mastery in both academic and personal development. With a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) and honors classes, students are encouraged to set high goals and meet rigorous expectations. Our supportive environment empowers them to build a resume that reflects their full potential, showcasing their achievements and readiness for future success. KAIS High School’s rigorous curriculum challenges students to excel, paving the way for success in top universities and beyond.

A Tight-Knit Community

Cozy Classrooms

Experience has shown us that a closer environment provides the optimal learning experience for our students. With a low teacher to student ratio, students in our classes receive individual attention from the teachers as a matter of course. Every student in every class has his or her voice heard. And no student for any reason slips through cracks and misses out on learning opportunities. Here at KAIS, our classes are small by design, and our students reap the rewards.

Personalized Experience

Emphasis on Individuality

Students at KAIS receive regular support and feedback from their teachers on their performance in the classroom and their growth as an individual. This feedback acknowledges students’ strengths while helping them set goals based on areas that need improvement. Focusing on these goals helps our students transform their weaknesses into assets, and become the kind of well-rounded individuals we want shaping the future.

Leadership Skills

Engaging with the World

At KAIS High School, we believe in empowering students to take the lead and shape the world around them. Through active participation in the student council and student-driven initiatives, our learners develop essential leadership skills. They are encouraged to engage with both the school community and the broader world, fostering a sense of responsibility and the confidence to make a meaningful impact.

High School Curriculum

At our high school, we are dedicated to fostering both academic excellence and personal growth. Our curriculum, aligned with American Common Core Standards, challenges students to push beyond their limits and achieve new heights. With a focus on building independence and leadership skills, students are empowered to shape their own educational experience, knowing their voices are heard and valued. Offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses and personalized university counseling, we support every student’s individual path to success. Through rigorous academics and a supportive environment, we ensure students are not only prepared for higher education but also equipped to lead and thrive in the world beyond.

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Language Arts

Crafting Skilled Communicators

Our high school Language Arts program ignites and nurtures a genuine passion for reading, encouraging students to explore the depths of the written word and develop a lasting appreciation for literature. Through engaging texts, students emerge as more discerning readers, equipped with the tools to critically engage with both literature and the world around them. The program deepens their awareness of rhetoric and how language works, while also strengthening their composition skills. Students critically reflect on their written work, producing multiple drafts of selected assignments to hone their ideas and refine their expression. With a focus on deductive reasoning and the writing process, our Language Arts program prepares students to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach writing as a craft.

In Grades 9 and 10, students follow the Pre-AP curriculum, which builds a strong foundation in close reading, analytical writing, and critical thinking—skills essential for success in upper-level courses. As they transition to Grades 11 and 12, students engage in the Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum, where they dive into college-level literary analysis and advanced composition. This rigorous coursework challenges them to apply their knowledge and refine their abilities in preparation for post-secondary education. Additionally, students have the option to take AP exams, providing them the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school, setting them on an accelerated path toward academic and personal success.

Mathematics

Mastering Mathematical Thinking

Our high school math program is designed to meet the needs of all learners, offering two tracks: a standard track and an accelerated track for students eager to take on additional challenges. Both tracks provide a rigorous foundation in essential mathematical concepts, but the accelerated track pushes students to explore advanced topics more deeply and at a faster pace, fostering higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills.

Courses offered include Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Statistics, Precalculus, and Calculus. These courses are structured to guide students through increasingly complex mathematical ideas, ensuring they not only master the fundamentals but are also able to apply these concepts to real-world problems. Students in the accelerated track are challenged to think critically, analyze abstract concepts, and develop advanced reasoning skills, preparing them for the most competitive university programs.

Throughout their journey, all students receive the support and encouragement necessary to reach their full potential. Whether they are strengthening core skills or pushing the limits of their abilities, our math program equips them with the analytical tools and confidence to excel in higher education and beyond.

Science

Scientific Exploration

Our high school science program is designed to ignite curiosity and foster a deep understanding of the natural world. We offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes essential courses in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, each designed to challenge students and develop critical scientific thinking skills. For those seeking an advanced experience, we also provide Advanced Placement (AP) options, allowing students to delve deeper into complex scientific concepts and earn college credit.

In our science courses, students engage in hands-on experiments, collaborative projects, and real-world applications, encouraging them to explore the principles that govern the universe. The Physics curriculum fosters an understanding of fundamental concepts such as motion, energy, and forces, while Chemistry focuses on the composition, properties, and reactions of matter. Biology immerses students in the study of living organisms, their structures, functions, and interactions within ecosystems.

Students in our AP courses tackle college-level material, developing a rigorous analytical mindset and a passion for scientific inquiry. Throughout their studies, they are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and embrace the scientific method, preparing them for success in higher education and future careers in the sciences.

Japanese Language

Connecting with Our Host Culture

Our Japanese Language program offers a rich and engaging experience for both native and non-native speakers, allowing students to connect deeply with the language and culture of our host country. For non-native speakers, the program focuses on building essential language skills that enable students to engage meaningfully with the world around them. Through practical language lessons, students develop conversational proficiency while also gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and customs.

Native speakers follow a comprehensive curriculum that rotates through subjects including Civics, Literature, and History. These courses challenge students to explore advanced topics in Japanese, enhancing their language skills and expanding their academic vocabulary. Through the study of these subjects, students develop a nuanced appreciation for Japan’s rich cultural heritage and complex societal dynamics, while also honing their critical thinking and communication skills in their native language.

Whether students are mastering everyday language use or delving into deep academic content, our program supports their growth as confident, articulate communicators in Japanese, enriching their personal and academic lives.

Art & Design

Creative Expression

Our Art and Design program offers students a dynamic space to explore and develop their creative potential while mastering essential artistic skills. Through hands-on experience with a wide range of media, tools, and materials—including painting, sculpture, and drawing—students are encouraged to experiment and express their individual artistic voices. The curriculum is designed to help students refine their techniques and cultivate an understanding of both the creative process and the elements of design.

For those seeking an advanced challenge, we support them in preparing for Advanced Placement (AP) Art courses, where students engage in college-level projects that push the boundaries of their artistic abilities. These courses not only challenge students to think critically and create with intention, but they also allow them to build impressive portfolios, preparing them for future studies in art and design.

Whether students are discovering new ways to express themselves or preparing for higher-level artistic endeavors, our Art and Design program enriches their lives by fostering creativity, innovation, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Physical Education

Building Strength, Skill, and Wellbeing

Our Physical Education program is designed to promote not only physical fitness but also the development of essential life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and personal well-being. Through a variety of activities—including team sports, individual fitness challenges, and skill-building exercises—students are encouraged to push their physical limits and discover the joy of staying active. The curriculum focuses on building strength, endurance, and coordination, while also fostering a deep understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Students are introduced to a wide range of sports and physical activities, allowing them to develop versatility and confidence in their abilities. The program also emphasizes personal growth, encouraging students to set fitness goals, reflect on their progress, and build resilience through challenge. Whether students are developing new athletic skills or learning about the science of physical health, our Physical Education program equips them with the tools to lead active, healthy lives well beyond high school.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Preparing for Higher Education

Our Advanced Placement (AP) program offers students the opportunity to engage with college-level coursework while still in high school, providing a rigorous academic experience that fosters critical thinking and intellectual growth. Designed for motivated learners, the AP curriculum challenges students to explore subjects in depth, encouraging them to analyze complex concepts and develop sophisticated reasoning skills.

With a diverse range of AP courses available across various disciplines—such as English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and more—students can tailor their educational journey to align with their interests and future aspirations. Each course emphasizes collaborative learning, independent research, and the application of knowledge to real-world scenarios, preparing students for the challenges of higher education.

In addition to academic rigor, the AP program offers students the chance to earn college credit through AP exams, allowing them to potentially save on tuition costs and advance their academic careers. By participating in our AP program, students not only enhance their transcripts but also build essential skills in time management, study habits, and self-discipline—qualities that are vital for success in college and beyond.

College Bound

What’s Next for You?

Our university counseling course, offered to Grades 11-12, provides students with comprehensive, individualized support as they navigate the path to higher education. Tailored to each student’s aspirations and strengths, this course helps them explore a wide range of university options, from competitive international institutions to specialized programs that align with their unique goals and interests.

Throughout the course, students work closely with our university counselor to craft a strategic and personalized plan for their future. They receive expert guidance on every aspect of the university application process—researching schools, preparing essays, and mastering interviews—while gaining insight into scholarship opportunities and financial aid resources. In addition, the course emphasizes building self-awareness, empowering students to reflect on their academic journey and future ambitions.

By the end of the course, students emerge with polished application materials, a deeper understanding of their academic direction, and the confidence to step into the next chapter of their educational journey. With the full support of the KAIS community, they are ready to take on the world of higher education and beyond.

Co-Curricular Programs

Creative and Athletic Endeavors

At our school, learning extends far beyond the classroom. We believe that co-curricular activities—including trips, excursions, electives, and after-school athletics clubs—are vital for the students’ holistic development. These experiences offer students the chance to apply what they’ve learned in class to real-world situations, explore new interests, and develop essential life skills such as leadership, collaboration, and resilience. Co-curricular activities enrich their educational journey, fostering confidence, independence, and a sense of community. By balancing academic rigor with these enriching experiences, we help students grow into well-rounded, capable individuals ready to thrive in all aspects of life.

Electives

Choose Your Own Adventure

Our Electives Program gives students the freedom to dive into their passions through a wide range of exciting courses offered each semester. Students choose from a menu of creative options, working alongside peers who share their interests in an environment that encourages exploration and collaboration.

In a departure from the regular academic schedule, each week, we dedicate a full day to these electives, allowing students and teachers to immerse themselves in hands-on, creative learning experiences. Teachers bring their own personal passions and hobbies into the classroom, guiding students in unique and engaging subjects that go beyond traditional academics. Whether exploring the arts, technology, outdoor pursuits, or other specialized topics, our electives offer a chance to expand horizons, discover new talents, and deepen the joy of learning.

High School Electives

Athletics Clubs

Building Team Spirit and Sportsmanship

Our Athletics Clubs offer the KAIS Llamas the chance to engage in competitive sports while developing essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. With a focus on fostering both athletic ability and character, we offer a variety of sports, including volleyball, basketball, and futsal. These clubs provide students the opportunity to challenge themselves physically, build team spirit, and grow as leaders on and off the court.

Through regular practices and competitions, students enhance their athletic performance while learning the values of perseverance, respect, and fair play. Whether they’re aiming to compete or simply enjoy the camaraderie of being part of a team, our athletics clubs help students develop a passion for sports, strong relationships with teammates, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity and sportsmanship.

Trips

Experience Japan Trip

At KAIS, learning goes beyond the classroom with our annual Experience Japan Trip, a highlight of our students’ school journey. Each year, we embark on a new adventure to a different region of Japan, offering students an immersive opportunity to engage with the country’s rich culture, language, history, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From bustling cities to serene islands, every trip is carefully curated to provide unique experiences that connect with our curriculum, bringing history and cultural studies to life.

Throughout the trip, students deepen their understanding of Japan, forging meaningful connections with the places they visit while gaining hands-on insights into the people, customs, and traditions of our host country.

Every KAIS student participates in this enriching experience, and past trips have taken us to fascinating destinations like Sendai, Kanazawa, Okinawa, Hokkaido, Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Amami Island, and Nagano. With each trip, students come away with a deeper appreciation of Japan’s diverse regions and a stronger sense of connection to the world around them. The only question that remains: Where will we go next?

Research-Based Pedagogical Approaches

Visible Learning

Following John Hattie’s Visible Learning research, and engaging with Corwin in a three-year School Impact process, KAIS has revamped its pedagogical approaches to ensure that they have the highest possible impact on student progress and achievement. KAIS International is on its way to becoming the first Visible Learning School in Japan, employing strategies and tools that have been proven to work in the classroom.

Our approach is data-driven, and we engage in a regular process of reflection, evaluation, and feedback to improve performance and allow our students to become independent and assessment-capable learners. At KAIS, we strive to create an environment where mistakes are welcomed and viewed as opportunities for learning, and we believe that our collective teacher efficacy will enhance the learning outcomes of all students.

High quality teaching and learning at KAIS is student-centered and empowers students to take ownership of their learning. It is marked by a strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It involves the ongoing evaluation of student progress and the use of evidence to inform future instruction. Overall, high quality teaching and learning at KAIS is engaging, meaningful, relevant, and helps students to develop the skills and competencies they need to succeed in the 21st century world.

Developing a Safe, Caring Learning Environment

A Love and Logic Approach

At KAIS, we focus on creating a safe and caring learning environment where students can thrive. Developing a strong sense of community and a family-like atmosphere allows us to forge meaningful relationships and inspire each other to reach our fullest potential. We do that by using the principles of the Love and Logic system developed by Jim Fay and David Funk.

Love and Logic provides an empowering approach to classroom management and student development. This system is built on the principle of giving students the freedom to make choices and experience the natural consequences of their actions, all within a caring and supportive environment. The balance between empathy and accountability fosters personal responsibility and helps students develop essential life skills, such as self-regulation and problem-solving.

By offering students choices and encouraging thoughtful decision-making, Love and Logic nurtures independence and emotional resilience. Teachers act as compassionate guides, helping students navigate challenges while reinforcing the importance of ownership over their actions. This approach not only supports a positive and respectful classroom atmosphere but also equips students with the tools they need to confidently handle both academic and personal challenges, preparing them for success in and beyond school.

Words from Our Community

What Our Students Say

Saho, Grade 12

KAIS is different in that there is a lot of trust put on students to figure things out on their own. It is a school that is good for people who are self-motivated and have a clear vision and drive for their future.

Daniel, Grade 12

KAIS is small and cozy, teachers are all enthusiastic.

Aiden, Grade 12

It’s smaller but has a lot more heart than bigger schools.

Miguel, Grade 12

It is a family not a school.

Keita, Grade 10

KAIS is smaller, so teachers can focus more on individual students.

Ryan, Grade 9

KAIS provides a safe learning environment that successfully teaches students. It’s a much smaller school that gives individual attention to student needs.