The Renaissance International School

TRIS is a phenomenal school.  Our eldest (now age 7) entered TRIS at age 2 1/2 in the pre-primary classroom, went through primary, and is now in a pod in lower elementary. Our youngest (age 3) is now in a primary pod.We were initially drawn to the strong language immersion at TRIS, which has indeed been incredible. Each primary class has native Spanish or French guides and an English-speaking guide, while all three languages are combined at the elementary level.  We love that the three languages, while themselves studied, are also mediums of instruction in math, science, cooking... or whatever. The language used simply depends on the guide or assistant who is leading a lesson.While the international orientation and language curriculum initially attracted us to TRIS, we soon also came to adore the Montessori philosophy and pedagogy, which we found has bred self-confidence, autonomy, independence, and most importantly a deep love of learning.  We have been so grateful during the time at home in the midst of the Covid pandemic for the way that TRIS has helped our eldest daughter become an independent learner.  We also love the Montessori materials, especially in math, which breed concrete understanding and provide a rich foundation for later advanced math.TRIS also has a very strong visual art and music program, as well as an international travel component at the elementary level.  The emphasis is on helping kids plan the trips, fundraise, and lead the way in every possible respect.  It is a school that breeds a sense of community, service, and responsibility rather than entitlement; that is so important in an independent/private school.Finally, we are especially appreciative of the thoughtful and creative way that TRIS has adapted during the pandemic, first offering an online program for a brief period and now with in-person pods that have kept students and faculty safe.  The Montessori pedagogy actually is remarkably adaptable to the current context.  Communication with the school leadership has been excellent, frequent, and consistent (the head of school holds a weekly Zoom update for interested parents, and teachers/guides are extremely responsive over email to any questions).Our two kids are thriving at TRIS, and we are so grateful that we found this remarkable school 5+ years ago.-- A happy TRIS family
Feb 4th, 2021

Our two children have attended TRIS for the last 3 years. From preschool  and now into elementary, the school continues to impress us! Our children have been happy and supported throughout. They have learned so much with the thoughtful approach to Montessori curriculum. But what really  stands out is the TRIS focus on music, art, international studies, and especially foreign language. I've compared many public and private schools over the years and highly recommend TRIS above them.
Feb 1st, 2020

My daughters contracted both head lice and pink eye while attending this school.  We pulled them from the school after three years in the program and they tested on average 1.5 grades below their peer group.
Jun 14th, 2019

Nov 26th, 2018

My son has been at TRIS for 6 months -- he joined the Pre-Primary community (2-3 years old) the day after his second birthday.  It's been nothing short of astounding to witness his flourishing in this time.  Toilet learning is a big focus of this classroom, and the Montessori approach as implemented at TRIS was fantastic...I don't need to get into too many details, but lets just say that my partner and I are very pleased. The pre-primary kids also do a lot of food preparation and practical life activities.   Food has always been a great passion of my son, and I have enjoyed seeing him gain skills and competence in the kitchen.  He loves going to school each day; in fact, last week was spring break and by Wednesday my son was bemoaning (in quite dramatic 2 year old fashion) how much he missed his teachers.  The Pre-Primary teaching team are so knowledgeable, patient (with us parents!), and loving.  The early-childhood coordinator, Sara Sangco, is a superwoman. Finally, the language immersion.   Though he was a bit tight-lipped when he joined the school, his desire to communicate has made the Spanish program very successful.  Just recently, about 5 months in, my partner and I have seen a dramatic expansion in his Spanish speaking and comprehension. He is speaking Spanish to people he meets on BART and is explicitly teaching us vocabulary. Adorable!    In a few months, he will join a French Primary classroom, and I'm looking forward to him being able to speak all three languages when he joins Elementary way down the road.As a queer family, I do feel welcome and supported at TRIS, however I wish there were more of us queer families in the school community.
Apr 21st, 2019