One of the coolest perks of working in Admissions at the International School of Denver is getting to walk through campus with families who are exploring our school for the first time. Every tour is a reminder of why this place is so special. I get to be a fly on the wall inside our classrooms and observe the way our students think, question, collaborate, and light up with understanding. Learning here is never static. It’s rich, dynamic, and wonderfully alive.

Recently, during a tour, I stepped into our K3 (Kindergarten) classroom right as students were wrapping up a project connected to their PYP unit on living and non‑living things. And once again, I found myself thinking: This is exactly what the IB looks like in action.

How Does a Seed Begin Its Life?

The K3 learners had been exploring what a seed needs in order to grow and instead of simply reading about it, they became scientists themselves.

Each student observed lima beans placed in different zip‑top bags. In each bag, one essential element was removed  no soil, no water, or no light. One bean had everything it needed.

After a week, the students gathered to compare the results. And the discoveries were big.

• The bean without light had grown long, searching roots, reaching for something it couldn’t find.
• The bean with light had a smaller root, but it sprouted a green stem and leaves.
• The beans missing soil or water struggled, a clear, visual reminder that living things need the right conditions to thrive.

As I watched the students share their observations, I saw young scientists using evidence, making connections, and asking thoughtful questions. It was inquiry‑based learning at its best  and it was happening in Kindergarten.

Why I Love Showing Families This Work

When families join me on a tour, they see our mission in action. They see students collaborating in two languages. They see teachers guiding inquiry with warmth and intention. They see learning that is joyful, purposeful, and deeply connected to the world.

Even at five- and six-years-old, our learners are:

• forming hypotheses
• observing change over time
• communicating their thinking
• and practicing the IB Learner Profile in real, meaningful ways

These are the moments that usually make prospective families pause and say, “Oh… this is different.”

Want to See the Magic for Yourself?

I give tours all summer long, but if you can, I highly recommend visiting before our last day on June 3. There’s nothing quite like seeing our classrooms in full swing. Email me to schedule a 1:1 tour.