Parent's Review of Hong Kong International School in Hong Kong, Hong Kong

What is the name of your child's school? (Please report on one school per survey.)

Hong Kong International School

In what town or city is this school located?

Hong Kong

How would you describe this school? (i.e. American, British, International, Local, etc.)

American - ?

What grade levels are represented at this school?

PK - 12

How do most children get to school everyday? (bus, train, walk, etc.)

Most by bus

How would you describe the facilities at this school? What extra-curricular activities are available?

The school looks a little run-down, however, it has new technology, for example "Smart Boards" in each classroom, and each student receives his/her own MacBook once in 5th grade.

There are many extra-curricular activities available. Many take place after school each day, and a later bus is available to take the children home.

What has this school done to help your child transition from the curriculum in your home country into the curriculum in your new country? Are there programs to prepare your child for repatriation?

Compared to the school my children came from in the US, HKIS lacks in all areas of academics. My children will be at the appropriate level in math, however, they will be behind in spelling, reading comprehension, social studies, and English once we repatriate. I have to admit that I am very disappointed in the academics at HKIS, and feel that a lot of money is spent in marketing and bringing in "key speakers" to brainwash the HKIS community into thinking it is a wonderful school. I too, was fooled. Overall, it is subpar.

How would you describe the social activities available for parents through this school? Are there parent-teacher organizations?

There are many social activities through the school, and the parent community is tight. There is the PFO, or Parent Faculty Organization, much like the PTA in the States.

What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling their child in this school?

If you have young children and don't plan on staying in Hong Kong for many years, then I think HKIS is a fine place to be considering the social opportunities available, and the fact that young children learn a lot at home. Older children however (grades 2 and up) might need much more of a challenge if they are coming from a school in the US. My children are BORED.