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The American International School of Lesotho (AISL) is a nonprofit, independent coeducational day school which offers an American educational program to students from preschool (age 3) through grade 8. The School, founded in 1991, serves the needs of the American community and other students seeking an English-language, American-style education. The school year is divided into 3 trimesters extending from late August to November, December to March and March to mid-June.

Organization:

A 7-member Board of Advisors governs AISL. The AISL Parents' Association elects 5 of the Board members. The U.S. Ambassador appoints 2 board members. Membership in the Association is automatically conferred on the parents or guardians of children enrolled in the school.

Curriculum:

The curriculum is similar to that of established U.S. public schools. Modern U.S. textbooks and teaching materials are used. Regular academic courses include language arts, reading, mathematics, science, health, French and social studies. In addition to the regular academic courses, music, computer, art, and physical education are offered at all grade levels.

Faculty:

In the 2009-2010 school year, there are 10 full-time and 7 part-time teachers, including 4 U.S. citizens, 6 host-country nationals, and 7 third-country nationals.

Enrollment:

At the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year, enrollment was 151. Of the total, 14 were U.S. citizens, 59 host-country nationals and 78 third-country nationals. Of the U.S. enrollment, 7 were dependents of U.S. government direct-hire or contract employees and 11 of private U.S. citizens. Class size is a maximum of 16, with the average being 13. Every class has an instructional assistant.

Facilities:

The School consists of a 3-house complex and 5 additional buildings with a total of 13 classrooms. The School has a library for reference work, supplemental reading, and pleasure reading. There is a computer lab with internet capabilities used for instruction and computer literacy classes. All classrooms have one or more computers with internet capabilities. The School maintains self-contained through grade 6. There are grounds with ample area to play as well as playground equipment, a physical fitness course, a volleyball court, a basketball court, a soccer pitch, a covered play building and badminton. The School contracts with the nearby Maseru Sun Hotel for the use of their large swimming pool and with the National Tennis Center for use of their instructors and tennis courts.

Finances:

In the 2009-2010 school year, about 85% of the School's income derives from regular tuition and fees.