Academics
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APPROACH
The Ashton School’s academic program follows a standards-based approach supported by clearly defined curricular learning targets across all core subject areas. Instruction is grounded in research-based strategies, along with assessment and reporting practices that empower students to take ownership of their learning by understanding learning goals and engaging in ongoing self-assessment.
The Ashton School’s academic program consists of a standards-based approach supported by curricular learning targets in all core subject areas. Programs are backed by research-proven instructional strategies in the classroom and assessment and reporting practices that will allow the students to take ownership of their learning processes by understanding intended learning goals and engaging in continual assessment.
Since its founding in 1998, the Ashton School has been determined to provide the necessary support to stimulate students’ academic and personal development, self-esteem, self-determination, as well as respect for others.
A collaborative effort is made to achieve excellence in the skills, concepts, procedures and dispositions that one requires for lifelong learning in English and Spanish. Through its character education program, which is based on Judeo-Christian principles, students are also taught how to make valuable contributions to their society by being a sensitive, creative and responsible citizen. The described philosophy takes shape through different dimensions, which cover all areas of children’s development:
Contributes to children’s socialization, helping them to enjoy school, the atmosphere, to make friends, and feel like an essential part of the group.
Aids in the acquisition of self-confidence, self-discipline, a positive attitude, and appreciation and respect for life.
Helps children to become excellent apprentices, allowing them to try their own ideas, make mistakes and learn from their errors while exploring their capacities, developing their abilities to formulate questions, face and solve problems, and express their agreements and discords effectively and respectfully;
Promotes the increase of motor skills, confidence in exploring possibilities to practice with their bodies, and learning good habits for healthy living;
Teaches that Christian principles and virtues, which are the foundation for Catholic and Evangelical denominations, will help students lead honorable and healthy lives. We believe the Bible is God’s instrument to make this possible and that it teaches students the love of God and the desire to honor and worship Him.
Built on Love, Logic, and Grace
Our guiding standard with regards to character education and general decision-making at the school is grounded primarily on the biblical principles of loving the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and mind and loving our neighbors as ourselves. These two guiding principles not only form the basis of our character education philosophy, but should also permeate throughout the school and be evident in our conduct, speech and guide us in decision-making.
Our philosophy is also based on “Love & Logic”® practices which are carried out while sustaining a “Culture of Grace”® as we address students’ dispositions. Our actions and reactions are accompanied with empathetic and logical responses intended to help students take responsibility for their actions while restoring them to healthy behaviors.
As educators, it’s essential to understand that we can’t just expect to educate the mind without concerning ourselves with our students’ hearts. What is in their hearts will either “interfere with or propel the educational process”.
Cultivating Wisdom and Character
Students will also come to understand and appreciate that God’s creative wisdom is vastly evident in what they encounter on a daily basis. This may range from understanding the perfect order of mathematical systems, to the physical laws of the universe, to an appreciation of how colors come together during their art class.
This means that in our school you will find teachers and staff members who not only possess the credentials and qualifications to carry out their respective academic responsibilities, but are also: loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, good, faithful, gentle, honest, self-controlled, kind, responsible, and respectful.
We believe that if students are surrounded by people who are modeling these attitudes and dispositions, they too will understand the meaning of loving and knowing God and be able to demonstrate concern and love for their “neighbor”. Students will also appreciate their own significance and self-worth by understanding how much God loves and cares for them.
Child Protection Philosophy
Ashton School is committed to the protection of the whole child; physically, emotionally and spiritually. The school adheres to both Dominican regulations and AdvancED Assurances (summarized below) related to child protection policies and practices. Detailed policies, definitions and practices are outlined in the school’s Child Protection Handbook which is reviewed annually by the leadership team.
The school is committed to preventing and responding appropriately if children are harmed, or if allegations of harm to children are made.
The Child Protection Response Team and Academic Council ensure that we have procedures for reporting suspected situations.
The school is also obligated to report suspected cases to the corresponding government authorities and maintains effective relationships with external organizations and bodies that are able to provide appropriate support and advice on matters related to child protection.
Our faculty, staff, contractors and volunteers are trained annually to ensure the safety and welfare of our students. Our staffing protocol includes rigorous procedures to ensure that our employees are of sound moral character and suitable to work with children and young adults. This includes request for disclosure statements on employment applications and appropriate interview questions, employment reference checks, criminal background checks, and a signed and personal commitment to our Safe Environment and Staff Code of Conduct agreement.
External providers who are trained in child protection matters deliver learning programs for our students, in conjunction with the Counseling Department and the Child Protection Response Team.
All reports of suspected abuse and actions taken are securely guarded by the school.
Academic Program
The Ashton School’s academic program is built on a standards-based curriculum aligned with U.S. educational standards for all core subjects, which are taught in English. Additionally, the school meets the requirements of the Dominican National Ministry of Education (MINERD), incorporating instruction in Spanish, Dominican Social Studies (Ciencias Sociales), French, and Character Education (Desarrollo Humano y Religioso).
Core Academic Areas:
- Language Arts (U.S. Common Core Standards)
- Lengua Española (Spanish Language Arts – MINERD)
- Estudios Sociales Dominicanos (Dominican Social Studies – MINERD)
- Mathematics (U.S. Common Core Standards)
- Science (Next Generation Science Standards)
- Social Studies and History
- Character Education (Desarrollo Humano y Religioso)
- Art/Music
- Technology (Computer Science) and Research Skills
- Physical Education (PE)
- French
- Advisory
- Electives
Lissette García-Martínez serves as the Preschool and Elementary Principal at ASV. Born and raised in Santo Domingo, she began her educational journey at the age of five at Carol Morgan School, where she later graduated as a proud CMS alumna. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UNPHU and a Master’s degree in Overseas Education from Framingham State College in Massachusetts.
Overview
At Ashton School, our commitment is to ensure that from the moment our students step through our gates, they feel the warmth, love, and care we have to offer. Students love their school and feel confident within it.
Our role is to help them shine in their unique way, opening doors to countless opportunities that nurture their interests and talents. One of the cornerstones of our school’s character and values program is developing both independent and collaborative thinkers who are sensitive to the needs of others.
At Ashton, we are driven to serve, inspire, and transform the hearts of our students.
The Pre-School curriculum is a rigorous academic program informed by the U.S. Common Core State Standards. It is complemented by Spanish and Sociales classes based on Dominican national standards.
All students from Pre-Kinder to 6th grade attend co-curricular classes, which include fine arts, music, character education, technology, and physical education. Physical education is held twice per week, alternating between swimming and traditional PE classes.
Preschool students also participate in community service projects and interscholastic sports. Rich cultural experiences and leadership opportunities further enrich our program, one that is both challenging and achievable.
Lissette García-Martínez serves as the Preschool and Elementary Principal at ASV. Born and raised in Santo Domingo, she began her educational journey at the age of five at Carol Morgan School, where she later graduated as a proud CMS alumna. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UNPHU and a Master’s degree in Overseas Education from Framingham State College in Massachusetts.
Overview
At Ashton School, our commitment is to ensure that as soon as our kiddos walk through our gates, they feel the warmth, love, and care we have to offer. Our students love their school and feel confident and supported. It is our role to let them shine in their unique way by opening the doors to countless opportunities that nurture their interests and talents. Developing independent and collaborative thinkers who are sensitive to the needs of others is a cornerstone of our school’s character and values program.
At Ashton, we are driven to serve, impact, and transform the hearts of our students.
The Elementary School curriculum is a challenging academic program guided by the U.S. National Common Core State Standards. Our curriculum also includes Spanish and Sociales (Dominican Social Studies), based on Dominican national standards. All students from Pre-Kindergarten to 6th grade participate in co-curricular classes that include fine arts, music, character education, technology, and physical education. Physical education classes are held twice a week and alternate between swimming and general PE.
Elementary students also engage in community service projects and interscholastic sports. Rich cultural initiatives and leadership opportunities enhance our challenging and well-rounded program. Examples include Model United Nations (MUN) for upper elementary students, participation in spelling bees, an advanced reading club, Lego League, the introduction of Project-Based Learning (PBL), academic and science fairs, and more.
As part of our ongoing commitment to implementing high-quality, research-based programs, we have adopted the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project—a highly successful approach that provides effective methods and tools for teaching literacy through research and curriculum development. This research-based program aims to develop lifelong, confident readers and writers who demonstrate agency and independence.
Mr. Jenkins brings more than 37 years of experience working in education. His career includes teaching positions in both England and the Dominican Republic, leadership of the Social Studies Department at the Abraham Lincoln School, and 13 years of service as Director of Punta Cana International School. His extensive academic background also includes advanced studies at the University College London Institute of Education.
Overview
The Ashton School middle and high school curriculum is a rigorous, college-preparatory program with comprehensive requirements across all academic disciplines. The curriculum is well-structured and broad in scope, offering courses in English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Spanish Literature, and Spanish Sociales from grades 7 through 12. The middle school program also includes Fine Arts electives, with at least four different courses available each semester. In Math, Ashton has developed advanced pathways, including AP Math and Honors Math options.
Recognizing the positive impact of the arts and physical education on academic performance, Ashton is one of the few schools in the country that requires swimming (through grade 6 and as an elective in secondary school) and art classes (through grade 12) for all students.
The Ashton co-curricular program includes a robust character education initiative, a community service learning program, and a well-developed interscholastic athletic program. The school also fosters continued growth and academic challenge through special programs such as independent study, senior capstone projects, Model United Nations, Debate Club, academic fairs, and more.
The curriculum also supports foreign language acquisition, with French offered to students in grades 7 through 12. Technology is readily integrated throughout the school: each classroom is equipped with a computer, and LCD projectors are shared among departments. Teachers use RenWeb Facts, an online gradebook that allows parents and students to monitor academic progress.
Ashton’s school culture is defined by progressive thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a multicultural, community-engaged student body. Students have access to a wide range of leadership and academic enrichment opportunities, including Drama Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, Model United Nations, Debate Club, and Youth in Action.
Throughout middle school, teachers encourage students to explore, take risks, and engage actively in the classroom. An average class size of 19 supports strong student-teacher relationships and individualized attention.
Ashton also fosters a dynamic and innovative professional development environment for its faculty, who are deeply committed to the success of the middle and high school academic programs.
Mr. Jenkins brings more than 37 years of experience working in education. His career includes teaching positions in both England and the Dominican Republic, leadership of the Social Studies Department at the Abraham Lincoln School, and 13 years of service as Director of Punta Cana International School. His extensive academic background also includes advanced studies at the University College London Institute of Education.
Overview
The Ashton School middle and high school curriculum is a rigorous, college-preparatory program with comprehensive academic requirements. The curriculum is broad and well-developed, offering core subjects including English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Spanish Literature, and Dominican Social Studies (Sociales) from grades 7 through 12.
In the high school program, a robust elective program spans all disciplines, offering an average of at least twelve elective courses per semester. The math department includes opportunities for students to pursue Honors Math or Advanced Placement (AP) Math pathways.
Recognizing the significant benefits of the arts and physical education on academic achievement, Ashton is among the few schools nationwide that require swimming (through grade 6 and as an elective for secondary students) and visual arts (through grade 12) as part of the core curriculum.
The school’s co-curricular programs include a strong character education initiative, a community service learning program, and a highly developed interscholastic athletics program. Students are encouraged to grow and challenge themselves through specialized academic opportunities such as independent study, senior capstone projects, Model United Nations, Debate Club, academic fairs, and more.
Foreign language acquisition is a key component of the Ashton experience, with French offered to students in grades 7 through 12. Technology is seamlessly integrated into the learning environment: each classroom is equipped with a computer, and LCD projectors are shared among departments. Teachers monitor and communicate student progress using RenWeb Facts, an online platform accessible to parents, students, and teachers.
Ashton’s school culture is defined by progressive thought, intellectual curiosity, and an engaged, multicultural community. A wide range of leadership and enrichment opportunities are available, including Drama Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, Model United Nations, Debate Club, and Youth in Action.
Throughout high school, teachers encourage students to explore, take academic risks, and actively participate in classroom discussions. An average class size of 19 students fosters strong relationships between students and faculty, creating a personalized and supportive learning environment.
Overview
Jennifer Fraser is the Student Support Teacher at Ashton Vistacana, where she currently supports students from Grade 1 through Grade 11. In the elementary grades the students are supported primarily in English Language Arts and Mathematics. In middle and high school the focus is primarily with English Language Arts. She works closely with learners who have diverse learning needs and face academic challenges. She assists students with developing skills, building confidence and creating a love of learning.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Jennifer brings a strong background in Early Childhood Education from Canada and more than 13 years of teaching experience in the Punta Cana area of the Dominican Republic.
Reflecting our mission and values at Ashton Vistacana, Jennifer is committed to fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and respectful learning environment where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach their maximum potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
Lissette García-Martínez serves as the Preschool and Elementary Principal at ASV. Born and raised in Santo Domingo, she began her educational journey at the age of five at Carol Morgan School, where she later graduated as a proud CMS alumna. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UNPHU and a Master’s degree in Overseas Education from Framingham State College in Massachusetts.
Overview
At Ashton School, our commitment is to ensure that as soon as our kiddos walk through our gates, they feel the warmth, love, and care we have to offer. Our students love their school and feel confident and supported. It is our role to let them shine in their unique way by opening the doors to countless opportunities that nurture their interests and talents. Developing independent and collaborative thinkers who are sensitive to the needs of others is a cornerstone of our school’s character and values program.
At Ashton, we are driven to serve, impact, and transform the hearts of our students.
The Elementary School curriculum is a challenging academic program guided by the U.S. National Common Core State Standards. Our curriculum also includes Spanish and Sociales (Dominican Social Studies), based on Dominican national standards. All students from Pre-Kindergarten to 6th grade participate in co-curricular classes that include fine arts, music, character education, technology, and physical education. Physical education classes are held twice a week and alternate between swimming and general PE.
Elementary students also engage in community service projects and interscholastic sports. Rich cultural initiatives and leadership opportunities enhance our challenging and well-rounded program. Examples include Model United Nations (MUN) for upper elementary students, participation in spelling bees, an advanced reading club, Lego League, the introduction of Project-Based Learning (PBL), academic and science fairs, and more.
As part of our ongoing commitment to implementing high-quality, research-based programs, we have adopted the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project—a highly successful approach that provides effective methods and tools for teaching literacy through research and curriculum development. This research-based program aims to develop lifelong, confident readers and writers who demonstrate agency and independence.
Mr. Jenkins brings more than 37 years of experience working in education. His career includes teaching positions in both England and the Dominican Republic, leadership of the Social Studies Department at the Abraham Lincoln School, and 13 years of service as Director of Punta Cana International School. His extensive academic background also includes advanced studies at the University College London Institute of Education.
Overview
The Ashton School middle and high school curriculum is a rigorous, college-preparatory program with comprehensive requirements across all academic disciplines. The curriculum is well-structured and broad in scope, offering courses in English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Spanish Literature, and Spanish Sociales from grades 7 through 12. The middle school program also includes Fine Arts electives, with at least four different courses available each semester. In Math, Ashton has developed advanced pathways, including AP Math and Honors Math options.
Recognizing the positive impact of the arts and physical education on academic performance, Ashton is one of the few schools in the country that requires swimming (through grade 6 and as an elective in secondary school) and art classes (through grade 12) for all students.
The Ashton co-curricular program includes a robust character education initiative, a community service learning program, and a well-developed interscholastic athletic program. The school also fosters continued growth and academic challenge through special programs such as independent study, senior capstone projects, Model United Nations, Debate Club, academic fairs, and more.
The curriculum also supports foreign language acquisition, with French offered to students in grades 7 through 12. Technology is readily integrated throughout the school: each classroom is equipped with a computer, and LCD projectors are shared among departments. Teachers use RenWeb Facts, an online gradebook that allows parents and students to monitor academic progress.
Ashton’s school culture is defined by progressive thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a multicultural, community-engaged student body. Students have access to a wide range of leadership and academic enrichment opportunities, including Drama Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, Model United Nations, Debate Club, and Youth in Action.
Throughout middle school, teachers encourage students to explore, take risks, and engage actively in the classroom. An average class size of 19 supports strong student-teacher relationships and individualized attention.
Ashton also fosters a dynamic and innovative professional development environment for its faculty, who are deeply committed to the success of the middle and high school academic programs.
Overview
Jennifer Fraser is the Student Support Teacher at Ashton Vistacana, where she currently supports students from Grade 1 through Grade 11. In the elementary grades the students are supported primarily in English Language Arts and Mathematics. In middle and high school the focus is primarily with English Language Arts. She works closely with learners who have diverse learning needs and face academic challenges. She assists students with developing skills, building confidence and creating a love of learning.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Jennifer brings a strong background in Early Childhood Education from Canada and more than 13 years of teaching experience in the Punta Cana area of the Dominican Republic.
Reflecting our mission and values at Ashton Vistacana, Jennifer is committed to fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and respectful learning environment where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach their maximum potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
