CURRICULUM Lower School

Where Curiosity Meets Challenges

Elementary learning at FCIS is a dynamic blend of academic rigor, creativity and character development. Our AERO Common Core and NGSS-aligned curriculum ensure students get strong skills in literacy, mathematics, science and social studies, while our inquiry-based approach empowers them to take ownership of their learning.

  • Where Curiosity Meets Challenges at Forest City International School
  • Where Curiosity Meets Challenges at Forest City International School
  • Where Curiosity Meets Challenges at Forest City International School

Meet the Lower School Principal

Undrea
Conley
Lower School Principal FCIS

Ms. Undrea Conley brings over 22 years of experience in education, both in the United States and internationally. Originally from Texas, USA, she began her professional journey in the military and law enforcement before discovering her true calling as an educator. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington, along with certifications in generalist education (EC – 8) and English as an Additional Language.

  • Undrea Conley Lower School Principal at FCIS Johor Bahru
  • Early Childhood principal education background at FCIS

FCIS Lower School Learning Philosophy

At FCIS, we believe that meaningful learning begins with meaningful relationships. Every child brings unique strengths, interests, experiences, challenges and aspirations to school every day. Our responsibility is to understand each learner deeply so that we can provide the support, challenge and opportunities needed for growth.

Pillar 1

We Know Our Learners

Our teachers use a combination of assessments, observations, student work, conversations, and goal-setting to develop a complete picture of every child.

Pillar 2

We Inspire Curiosity

Students learn best when they ask questions, explore ideas, solve problems, create, and discover through inquiry, exploration, and authentic learning experiences. 

Pillar 3

We Challenge and Support Each Learner

Our teachers use student data to provide targeted intervention, personalized support, and meaningful enrichment opportunities so that each learner continues to make progress .

Pillar 4

We Developed the Whole Child

Academic success is important, but it is only one part of a child’s development.

We strive to nurture confidence, compassion, creativity, and responsibility in every child

 

Pillar 5

We Prepare Students for the Future

Our goal is not simply to prepare students for the next grade level. We are preparing them to become lifelong learners who are ready to navigate an ever-changing world.

FCIS Lower School Foundational Cores

Real World Connections

Our hands-on STEM and arts integration has made FCIS a leader in innovative education in Malaysia and beyond, with local and international partnerships that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Empowering Students' Voices

FCIS students are encouraged to think boldly and share their ideas through programs like Genius Hour, where they research and develop self-chosen projects, and the Junior Journalism team, which hones communication and storytelling skills.

Inclusive Learning Community

Students build global competence through our World Languages program (Mandarin, Malay, and Spanish for Grades 5+), and our EAL program offers three tiers of support (iEAL, aEAL, and EAL) to ensure that every learner thrives academically and linguistically.

Beyond the
Classroom

Our Kelab Alami citizen science program inspires environmental stewardship, while our extracurricular activities offer enrichment in sports, innovation, arts, and leadership. 

Lower School Curriculum

Key Stage 1
Lower School Curriculum at Forest City International School

G1 - G4

Recognizing that every child is unique, we strive to provide our students with abundant opportunities to explore new knowledge and skills, helping them uncover their individual strengths and passions.

Key Stage 2
G1 - G4 at Forest City International School

G5 & G6

We aim to lay solid foundations for our children’s future success while giving them ample space to explore and develop their passions and interests—all within the framework of our American curriculum.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Our English as an Additional Language (EAL) Program is dedicated to differentiated instruction, ensuring every child gets the necessary support to thrive.

Why Choose FCIS Lower School?

Small Class Sizes

With most classes averaging 10–15 students, teachers are able to provide individualized support, meaningful feedback, and strong relationships that help every learner succeed.

Fully Certified Educators

Our experienced teachers bring expertise, passion, and a commitment to helping students reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.

International Curriculum

Our program is aligned with internationally recognized AERO standards and NGSS science standards, preparing students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Inquiry-based Learning

Students learn through exploration, investigation, discussion, and real-world problem solving rather than memorization alone.

Global Community

Students learn alongside peers from diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering understanding, empathy, and international-mindedness.

Parent Partnership

We believe education is most successful when schools and families work together. Through regular communication, conferences, student-led conferences, celebrations of learning, and community events, families play an active role in each child’s educational journey.

Newsletter

Explore more of our students’ activities at school.

Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA)

Our ECA (Extra-Curricular Activities) program is an integral part of our school community, offering a diverse range of enriching opportunities for students to explore their passions, develop new skills, and broaden their horizon beyond the classroom.

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