Our Story & Mission
About SCISS
Discover the vision, values, and passionate educators who make SCISS a transformative experience for students from around the world.
Why SCISS
Give your child a global summer that counts. SCISS (SC International Summer School) is a residential program for Grades 4–12 that blends big ideas with practical doing. Across June–August 2026, students live and learn on campus with caring 24/7 supervision, structured days, and memorable weekend excursions. They'll build real projects, grow confidence, and make friends from around the world—then come home proud, skilled, and excited for what's next.
What Differentiates SCISS
Residential Community
Age-appropriate cohorts (Junior G4–G7 and Senior G8–G12) and a friendly, safe campus atmosphere.
Balanced Days
Morning learning, afternoon project studio/electives, evening community events, and weekend excursions.
Portfolio-Ready Outcomes
Capstone presentation or performance, plus a course-completion certificate.
What Our Programs Offer
Learning that Sticks
Morning learning + afternoon project studio + evening events = skills, portfolios, and a capstone showcase with a certificate.
Hands-on & Applied
Finance students run a $1M virtual trading challenge and deliver a stock pitch; founders-in-training build MVPs and pitch to mentors; AI students code and test; performers rehearse and showcase; leaders speak daily.
Real-world Mentors
Instructors include Wall Street professionals, entrepreneurs/VC mentors, CEOs/GMs, technologists, and specialist coaches who teach by doing.
Age-appropriate Cohorts
Junior (G4–G7) and Senior (G8–G12) groups ensure the right pace, tools, and challenge.
Safe & Supported
Residential staff, clear conduct policies, and open parent communication; dorm living (typically 2–4 per room), meals, and full-time supervision included.
Beyond the Classroom
Signature trips (e.g., Harvard & MIT & Brown full day; Yale half day), museums and regional landmarks (e.g., Basketball Hall of Fame), themed socials, and cultural nights broaden horizons.
Team
Your child learns from people who do the work every day:
Finance & Entrepreneurship
Wall Street professionals (10+ yrs exp.), founders, and venture mentors guide research, strategy, and pitching.
AI/Robotics
Technologists and university-affiliated educators lead labs that connect code and sensors to real-world impact.
Leadership/Public Speaking
Specialist communication coaches build presence, debate, and persuasive speaking with daily practice.
Music/Stage & Sports
Practitioners and certified coaches develop craft, teamwork, and performance confidence.
We also host guest speakers and alumni panels to inspire pathways into college and careers.
Our Mission
At Springfield Commonwealth International Summer School, our mission is to foster a dynamic learning environment where curiosity thrives, friendships flourish, and personal growth is nurtured. We believe in providing students with transformative experiences that prepare them for future academic and professional success while building global perspectives and lifelong connections.
Academic Excellence
Providing world-class education with cutting-edge curriculum and expert instruction
Personal Development
Nurturing individual growth, confidence, and leadership skills in every student
Global Community
Building bridges between cultures and creating lasting international friendships
Our Vision
To be the world's leading international summer school, known for academic innovation, cultural exchange, and transformative student experiences that shape future global leaders and change-makers.
Past Sessions (2025 Snapshot)
Location
1 Ames Hill Dr, Springfield, MA (residential campus)
Sessions
Session 1: June 29 – July 18 (3 weeks) Session 2: July 20 – August 8 (3 weeks)
Program Rhythm
Weekdays: academic classes in the morning; project studio/electives in the afternoon; community events in the evening. Midweek/weekend: field trips and special events.
Signature Excursions
Boston (Harvard & MIT) — full-day university immersion and city exploration. Yale & Brown University — official tour guide visit with admission info session. Basketball Hall of Fame, plus museums, historical sites, and regional attractions.
Activities & Sports
Basketball • Soccer • Golf • Fencing • Yoga • Rock climbing • Archery • Swimming • Ultimate Frisbee • Rowing • Badminton • Table Tennis • Softball • Volleyball • Hiking • Fitness & Dance • Arts & Crafts • Cookery • Drone Flying — and more.
Investment Track Highlights
Multi-level curriculum (Intro → Valuation), trading simulator with a virtual investment challenge, and guest speakers from top firms.
Note: Program details evolve each year; 2026 will follow the same high-care, high-impact model with updated speakers, trips, and schedules.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do at SCISS
Excellence in Education
We maintain the highest academic standards and provide cutting-edge curriculum that prepares students for future success.
Global Perspective
We celebrate diversity and foster international understanding through our multicultural community.
Innovation & Creativity
We encourage creative thinking and innovative approaches to learning and problem-solving.
Personal Growth
We nurture individual development, building confidence and life skills that last a lifetime.
Integrity & Character
We instill strong moral values and ethical principles in all our programs and interactions.
Community & Collaboration
We build lasting friendships and teach the value of teamwork and mutual support.
Start Your Summer at SCISS
Join students from around the world for an unforgettable experience