About IST
OUR SCHOOL
Jessica Palma
Head of School
Welcome, Bienvenidos, Willkommen, Bienvenue, 欢迎
The International School of Tucson is a leading international school committed to offering the Tucson community an unequaled world class international education. Our unique curriculum offers a full language immersion in Spanish, Chinese, French and German in the Preschool and a dual immersion in Spanish, Chinese, French and German in the Junior School. It is a non-profit making, non-selective, co-educational school that provides a comprehensive and well-balanced education to children of wide ranging abilities. We emphasize learning-to-learn skills, citizenship and preparation for a successful life in an inter-cultural world.
Today many will talk of the 21st century skills that prepare our students for the journey ahead but, we also believe in those skills which make us who we are such as respect, compassion, tolerance and understanding and the strength that comes from family and community.
International School of Tucson has, therefore, designed a curriculum that is full of a whole range of experiences, activities and opportunities which will nurture young people who are well-rounded and capable young members of society. All students will be entitled to receive high quality international education that not only caters for their diverse intellectual needs, but also guarantees that their physical, emotional, social and health needs are met. Every graduate of our school is a bilingual, biliterate global citizen and is well placed for future educational progression anywhere in the world.
We look forward to welcoming you to our school to show you how we strive to open the world to our students.
Our Mission
Through language immersion and cultural learning, IST nurtures multilingual, globally aware students who are prepared to navigate a changing world with empathy and curiosity.
OUR CORE VALUES
Language Immersion
Language immersion at IST means students don’t just learn languages— they live them. By engaging students deeply in language-rich environments, they develop cognitive agility, cultural understanding, and effective global communication skills. Through this immersive approach, students experience firsthand the power of language as a daily practice, essential to their educational and personal growth.
Global Citizenship
Global Citizenship at IST extends beyond awareness of cultural differences; it involves actively fostering respect, empathy, and collaboration across diverse communities. Students are encouraged to explore and
understand different perspectives, preparing them to navigate and positively influence a complex world.
This intentional cultivation of cultural intelligence equips students to thrive anywhere they go.
Community
At IST, inclusive community is built through everyday actions of care, reliability, respect, and mutual support among students, staff, and families. This shared commitment encourages active participation, consistent engagement, and meaningful contributions to our collective well-being. Through this
shared responsibility, IST nurtures a vibrant, connected, and resilient school community where everyone is welcome.
Holistic Development
IST commits to the holistic development of students by employing a global lens while nurturing their academic excellence, ethical integrity, emotional resilience, problem-solving skills, and personal aspirations. Students are supported in becoming well-rounded individuals capable of critical thinking, personal reflection, and leadership. They learn to engage with others respectfully, act with compassion, and contribute positively to diverse communities. This comprehensive approach ensures that students launch from IST ready to thrive academically and personally.