Expansion / Cassady Campus News

Why is AIS expanding?

This expansion fulfills Objective 3 of our 2023-2028 Strategic Plan to position AIS as "the preeminent center of excellence in multicultural and multilingual education" in Austin. It ensures intentional, sustainable, mission-driven growth while:

• Creating larger Maternelle classrooms and play areas while maintaining small class sizes
• Developing a focused Maternelle program (AEFE inspection in May)
• Enhancing FLE, student support services, and Middle School programs
• Improving traffic flow and parent convenience
• Responding to family requests for enhanced resources
• Implementing the first phase of our campus master plan

Will this expansion change what makes AIS special?

No. While we are physically growing, our fundamental values remain unchanged. We remain steadfastly committed to maintaining small class sizes, our close community connections, and our trilingual educational model. Our growth is organic and intentional, guided by the needs of our community rather than expansion for its own sake.

Where is the new building located?

The new building is located on Cassady Drive, adjacent to our current campus. The back left corners of our properties connect.

Are the buildings connected?

No, the buildings are not physically connected. However, we are working with the City of Austin and engineers to create a clear path connecting both campuses.

Will the new campus have the same feel as our current one?

Yes. The decor and furniture will be consistent throughout both locations. The new space will feel like an additional "wing" to the Adelphi campus, preserving the AIS environment and atmosphere our community values.

How will this expansion enhance my child's education?

The additional space allows us to:

• Create dedicated specialty classrooms
• Expand our outdoor learning areas
• Provide more comprehensive FLE services to students who need additional language support
• Ensure teachers can continue their classes in French while serving both students who need support and those who are on level
• Expand student services and academic support programs

Will the Maternelle program change?

The program's excellence will remain consistent, but it will benefit from more appropriate space for learning, play, and rest. The AEFE inspector will visit in May to ensure all standards are in place for the new building.

Will students from different campuses interact with each other?

Yes, we will continue to bring students together for shows, certain assemblies, reading times, and various activities. We will ensure all students have opportunities to interact with peers of all age groups.

What safety measures will be in place at the new campus?

Safety at AIS is one of our top priorities.

• We are installing security film on all windows and doors.
• Security cameras are being installed
• Our security team has already begun patrolling the space and will cover both campuses.
• Our radio communication system works across both campuses, ensuring connectivity from reception desk to reception desk.
• All playgrounds will be thoroughly prepared for student use.

Who will staff the new campus?

Our Maternelle staff will move to the new campus. We are also in the process of securing new French teachers. Some teachers will work between both campuses. Our leadership team and principals have been working diligently on staffing, and we look forward to announcing new team members soon.

How will drop-off and pick-up be handled?

While we are still working on the specifics, we anticipate having two separate drop-off/pick-up zones. We understand the potential challenges and are considering all options, including staggered times and strategic locations. We plan to involve community members in developing the best solution.

Will there be a clinic on the new campus?

Yes, there will be a clinic at the Maternelle site. While we are still finalizing the details, providing proper care at the Cassady campus is a priority.

How will lunch service work?

The Cassady/Maternelle campus has a small commercial kitchen. We are evaluating how this will impact our food service offerings and are consulting with our current catering company and other schools to find the best solution.

How will after-school programs be handled?

We are developing an efficient plan for afterschool programs and will share updates as this plan develops.

Will this expansion impact tuition?

No, this expansion will not impact tuition. We have carefully planned to ensure the expansion is self-funded without creating any additional financial burden on our families. This growth actually enables us to afford more resources and answer the specific demands we've heard from our families.