Dutch Corner
The International School of Aruba offers two levels of Dutch with in the World Language program. The most challenging level of Dutch classes are offered for native Dutch speaking students with curriculum that reflects what is taught in Dutch schools. Students can continue their education in the Netherlands when returning without difficulty. In addition, ISA offers Dutch for non-native speakers. Children of many other nationalities such as Venezuelan, American and other Spanish-speaking countries can study Dutch as a foreign language. The curriculum for these classes is developed to meet the language development level of the student with a variety of current teaching materials, resources and techniques used.
ISA is accredited by the NOB (Nederlands Onderwijs in het Buitenland/Dutch Education Abroad). ISA received an inspection visit in October 2008. The school qualifies for and receives some financial support from the Netherlands. ISA follows the general core goals for Dutch Language Teaching as established by the Minister of Education.
The ISA Dutch teachers provide native Dutch language classes for students who temporarily or permanently reside on Aruba (and who are Dutch speaking) as closely as possible to the education system in the Netherlands. The International School of Aruba provides a Dutch program at the Elementary, Middle and High School levels beginning in the school year 1998-99 (primair and voortgezet onderwijs). The Dutch classes in Middle and High School are working toward ‘Landsexamen’ Mavo, Havo or VWO being held at the ‘Examenbureau’ in Oranjestad. Dutch is totally integrated in the American program offered at the school.
The Dutch teachers are qualified educators. They include Dutch culture in their curriculum, so that students can learn more about and develop an appreciation for the Netherlands. Current events are discussed during the lessons. Practical opportunities to use and develop Dutch language skills are sought and utilized. Oral presentations are included in the curriculum. Students are reading Dutch literature throughout all level of Dutch.
As mentioned in the mission statement at the beginning of this school guide the International School of Aruba believes in the equality and dignity of all students. Especially in an international environment, students meet and learn about other cultures. The school strives for intrinsic worth of all individuals, honesty, trust and respect for everyone’s beliefs.
A variety of holidays from all over the world such as Kinderboekenweek (Children’s’ Book Week), Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day) en Sinterklaas, Carnival, Flags’ Day, Thanksgiving, Halloween, Diwali, International Day are recognized and celebrated to encourage diversity amongst the differing ISA cultures.
