A Leadership Network of International Studies Schools

Urban secondary-school students deserve an opportunity to be successful within an increasingly global environment. By introducing study of world regions, languages, and international affairs onto the reform agenda, Asia Society aims to modernize instruction and be a catalyst for “bringing the world” inside classrooms.

Opening their doors in fall 2004, the first three Network schools are located in New York City, Los Angeles, and Charlotte. Additional schools will be opening in other regions in the United States in 2005 and 2006.

The schools are being created by teams of international studies scholars, world language experts and practitioners, and experts in youth development, literacy, and math instruction, in partnership with local school district and charter school leaders. As members of the Network, schools share ideas and lessons learned and participate in intensive and authentic professional development experiences. Together, we envision a new approach to secondary-school education that will improve young people’s preparation for the global age.