Welcome Messages From Dr. Kernan and Principal Schmitter
Dear IIA Community,
It is with great enthusiasm that I join the Irvine International Academy as the new Executive Director. As we embark on the 2024-2025 school year, I look forward to continuing our tradition of academic excellence, fostering robust student engagement, and maintaining a supportive partnership with our dedicated families. Our commitment to expanding students' linguistic and critical thinking abilities through dual immersion remains a cornerstone of our mission at IIA.
Our dedicated educators and support staff bring their expertise to the classroom each day, ensuring that every student receives an engaging and supportive learning experience. Together with our caring parents and communities, we create an inclusive environment where each student's unique perspectives and talents are valued, respected and add to the richness of our community.
At IIA, we set high expectations for our students, encouraging them to aim for ambitious goals. Equipping them with essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, creativity, collaboration, and strong character is fundamental to their success in school and beyond. Our dual immersion and STEAM-focused programs provide a robust framework for students to develop these skills throughout their educational journey.
It is a privilege to serve as your Executive Director, supported by our dedicated Board of Directors, administrators, teachers, and support staff. Together, we uphold a culture of excellence that fosters lifelong learning and prepares our students to be global leaders in the future.
Sincerely,
Dr. Amy Kernan, Ed.D.
Executive Director, Irvine International Academy
Dear IIA Families,
Welcome to a new and exciting school year! As we embark on this journey together, I am thrilled to share with you the vibrant opportunities that await us, particularly through our Mandarin Dual Immersion Program.
At IIA, we believe that education extends beyond traditional subjects. Our Mandarin Dual Immersion Program is designed to provide students with a rich, bilingual experience, equipping them with valuable language skills and cultural insights that will serve them well in an increasingly globalized world. Through this immersive approach, students will not only achieve academic excellence and character development but also develop a profound appreciation for diverse cultures.
Our goal extends beyond the classroom; we are committed to building a strong and supportive school community. We understand that the heart of a thriving educational environment is a cohesive, collaborative community where everyone feels valued and empowered. Together, we will work to foster an environment of mutual respect and shared responsibility.
Central to our mission are the six pillars that guide our actions and interactions: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. These values are the cornerstone of our school culture and the framework through which we strive to support our students' growth both academically and personally.
I am confident that by embracing these values, we will cultivate a thriving, inclusive, and dynamic school environment. I look forward to collaborating with each of you to make this year a memorable and successful one for our students.
Here’s to a wonderful year ahead, full of learning, growth, and IIA pride!
Sincerely,
Grant Schmitter
Principal, Irvine International Academy