As many of you know, in 2011 AISK added a boarding component to its already

vibrant school environment. With the addition of the Belvedere House, AISK made

it possible for families from around Jamaica and the Caribbean to gain access to

the 21st century education being offered in our classrooms. Since its launch, the

Belvedere House program has evolved from a basic weekday-only boarding option

into a full residential program known for its nurturing, organized, supportive

environment. As we continue into our third year of being an international boarding

school, I am thrilled to share with you some of the work being done in residential

life that will contribute towards AISK's broader vision of being a Global Center of

Excellence in Education.

Recently, Mrs. Carol Hotchkiss - Director of the Durango Institute for Co-Curricular

Education - spent a week on campus and at Belvedere House assessing our

residential program, sharing best practices, and working collaboratively with

students, staff, and administrators to develop a Community Life Curriculum. Her

work with the residential life staff and senior administration of the school was truly

transformative and AISK stands poised to take its place as the leading international

boarding school in the region.

As we continue to implement best practices across the school, you will notice

that the Belvedere program will be increasingly integrated into the very fabric of

AISK. This increased collaboration and integration will enhance the educational

experience for both day and boarding students as well as offer chances for faculty

members to take full advantage of the unique learning opportunities inherent to

boarding school life.

We are confident that our residential program is on the right track and the next

several weeks and months will see tangible progress towards realizing our vision. I

look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you as the year unfolds.

Sincerely,

Joe Russell

Director of Student and Residential Life