Chinese American International School

Chinese American International School

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Chinese American International School is the first Preschool through eighth grade school in the country to provide instruction in both Chinese and English.

In 1981, a group of multi-ethnic San Francisco Bay Area parents, educators and civic leaders implemented a compelling vision. They created a school with a bilingual, multicultural curriculum in English and Mandarin Chinese to prepare children for an increasingly interconnected world. Shirley Lee, a founder and the Head of School for 15 years, began teaching four young students in two modest classr

06/12/2026

Eighth grader Kael discusses how he maintains a third language and stays connected to different cultures while studying at CAIS.

06/11/2026

Congratulations, CAIS Class of 2026!

Surrounded by teachers, staff, family, and friends, our eighth graders celebrated the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. The ceremony was filled with joy, reflection, and pride, ending with a special lion dance performance by our sixth graders to honor and celebrate their journey at CAIS.
As we look back, we are reminded of how much these students have grown. As third graders, they raised their voices against anti-Asian hate. As eighth graders, they used the stage in Gum San Trilogy to explore the stories of immigrants and the importance of empathy, belonging, and standing up for others. Throughout their years at CAIS, they have learned not only to find their voices, but also to use them with courage and purpose.
We are proud of the scholars, artists, athletes, leaders, and changemakers they have become.

Thank you, Class of 2026, for inspiring us with your curiosity, compassion, and commitment to making a difference. 🎓

Photos from Chinese American International School's post 06/10/2026

Camp Firedragon is almost here! The wait is over! Summer fun, creativity, and adventure are just around the corner at Camp Firedragon. Our campers will soon explore new activities, make friends, and create unforgettable memories in English, Mandarin, and so much more. We can’t wait to welcome all our campers to a summer full of curiosity, laughter, and learning. Let the magic begin!

06/09/2026

As we wrap up another incredible school year, we are reflecting on Perseverance, one of our CAIS Core Values. Perseverance means continuing to learn, grow, and try again even when something feels challenging. Throughout the month, students reflected on what perseverance looks like in their own lives and how it helps them reach their goals. Watch the video to hear what perseverance means to our students!💪

Photos from Chinese American International School's post 06/08/2026

7th grade students explored the traditional art of Kunqu music and shared their learning through presentations in music class. Through research, discussion, and performance, students deepened their understanding of Chinese culture and one of the oldest forms of Chinese opera.

06/05/2026

A new tradition begins at CAIS!
The excitement started on April 4, when faculty and staff were sorted into Houses during our in-service day. Then, during Field Day week, students received their House Reveal letters and discovered their new House communities.
Rooted in our core values, the House System connects students and adults across grade levels, creating opportunities for belonging, mentorship, leadership, collaboration, and friendly competition.
Today, our Field Day filled with House relays, House vs. House tug-of-war, and plenty of school spirit. We can’t wait to see these House communities grow and thrive in the years ahead!
One community. Shared values. Stronger together.✨💪

Photos from Chinese American International School's post 06/04/2026

The Family School Alliance (FSA) hosted the Olema Spring Camping trip, bringing together families for a weekend full of outdoor adventures, connection, and fun! CAIS Parents and children had a wonderful time making memories, exploring nature, and enjoying the CAIS community together.

06/03/2026

Celebration of Growth and Journey to Kindergarten.
Our Preschool 4-year-olds celebrated an important milestone as they prepared for Kindergarten! The room was filled with laughter, love, and proud smiles as students performed Dream Soaring, singing, “I am growing up, I will fly so high.” The celebration ended with Kindergarten students presenting flowers to their preschool friends, welcoming them to the next stage of their journey. A heartfelt thank you to our families for their support and partnership throughout the school year.

Photos from Chinese American International School's post 06/03/2026

Continuing the adventure in Guilin! The seventh graders have been exploring the culture, history, and beauty of southwest China through meaningful hands-on experiences.
Students connected with local buddies at a host school, learned traditional Chinese paper-cutting, explored the stunning Reed Flute Cave, and experienced local culture in Yangshuo through food, history, and performance. We are so proud to see them growing as global citizens through these meaningful experiences!

Photos from Chinese American International School's post 06/02/2026

Second graders celebrated their learning by putting their nonfiction reading skills into action! After reading articles about unsung heroes of San Francisco, students designed meaningful landmarks to honor them. They then brought their ideas to life by painting the pieces and beginning to build their creative structures. The room was filled with joy and laughter as students shared their work, and parents looked on with pride at all they had accomplished. It’s been an inspiring journey of reading, research, and design!

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3250 19th Avenue
San Francisco, CA
94132