The Renaissance International School

The Renaissance International School is an independent, Montessori school in Oakland for children from the age of 2 years through Middle School.

Our program includes art, music and French and Spanish language immersion. Students become fluent in English, French and Spanish. The school was founded in 1992 by Leslie Hites, who continues to serve as Head of School.

We provide a high-quality education designed to help children become compassionate, capable, confident, creative individuals who are prepared for life. They succeed in high school, college and beyond.

Central to the school's philosophy is the goal of providing children with an international center of learn ing and culture that is open, supportive and multidisciplinary, where they develop and achieve their highest potential.

Our course of study has an integrated, thematic approach that is a strong element of Montessori. It ties the sep arate disciplines of the curriculum together into studies of the physical universe, the world of nature, and the human experience. While encompassing the full substance of the traditional curriculum, it goes beyond to teach students how to think clearly, conduct their own research, express themselves well in writing and speech and put their knowledge to a practical application.

Students in the toddler and preschool years begin learning a second language. They are taught in English and Spanish or English and French. At the Elementary level, students add a third language, bringing to bear a tri-lingual immersion program.

We offer a warm, supportive environment. We set a high standard of achievement for the quaity of thought, work and mastery of content and skills. Our goal is to produce students with notable leadership and achievements.

"TRIS is an extraordinary school and we feel extremely fortunate to have found it." ---- Susan, Parent of 5 year-old

Students from Oakland, Berkeley, San Leandro, Alameda, and other San Francisco East Bay cities attend The Renaissance International School, located in Oakland's Dimond District.