Western CT Academy for International Studies
Elementary Magnet School
201 University Boulevard | Danbury, CT 06811
Mrs. Merle Jackson, Principal
Do you live in Brookfield, New Fairfield, Danbury, New Milford, Newtown, or Redding?
You are eligible to apply to AIS!
Live in a town not listed above? You are welcome to apply!
Submit an inquiry form for more information!
SCHOOL HOURS
CONTACT US
VISIT US
Regular Hours- 8:55 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Early Dismissal: 8:55 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.
2 Hour Delay: 10:55 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
3 Hour Delay: 11:55 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Mark Your Calendars!
April 14-17- Spring Recess- Schools Closed
April 18- Good Friday- Schools/Offices Closed
April 29- Early Dismissal
May 20- Early Dismissal
May 23- Schools Closed- Teacher Professional Development
May 26- Schools Closed- Memorial Day
June 3- Early Dismissal
2025-2026 AIS Teacher of the Year
Congratulations Mrs. Nemeth!
The Connecticut Teacher of the Year Program began in 1952 and is held every year to recognize and honor teacher excellence. The program is sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Education in partnership with the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council. Each year, the process begins with school districts selecting a District Teacher of the Year through their local process. The District Teachers of the Year provide biographical and professional information in an online application to be considered for the Connecticut Teacher of the Year honor. Connecticut’s teacher is then eligible for consideration to become the National Teacher of the Year. The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) National Teacher of the Year (NTOY) Program began in 1952 and continues as the oldest national honors program that focuses on excellence in teaching. The NTOY is chosen from among the State Teachers of the Year by a National Selection Committee representing the major national education organizations. Four Connecticut teachers have had the honor of also serving as National Teachers of the Year.
Teacher of the Year Nominees
Mrs. Woodruff
Mrs. Dyer
A Message from Principal Jackson
Welcome to Western Connecticut Academy for International Studies (AIS)! Nestled in the west campus of Western Connecticut State University, we are a K-5 elementary magnet school that opened in 2006. At AIS, we value the academic and social-emotional growth of students. We understand the diverse needs of students and differentiate instruction based on their learning styles. Daily instruction at AIS includes English Language Arts, Mathematics, as well as science and social studies. Each week students receive instruction in physical education, library skills, and art and music.
Partnerships play a critical role in our school community. The support of the PTO provides our students with experiences that deepen their knowledge of the world.
AIS is a special place because of our dedicated and talented faculty and staff. We share a belief of supporting our school, local, and world communities. Our school community members create a supportive environment and promotes a love of learning.
Thank you for visiting us!
Lori Woodruff Honored with Prestigious Award for Teaching Excellence
Exemplary Danbury teacher Lori Woodruff was presented with the Connecticut Education Association’s highest teaching award, the John McCormack Award for Teaching Excellence. The Academy for International Studies (AIS) Magnet School fourth grade teacher was honored at the 176th annual CEA Representative Assembly, held at the Mohegan Sun Convention Center this past weekend.
“Lori is deeply devoted to her students, is involved in all aspects of her school community, and works tirelessly to ensure that every student feels valued and supported,” says CEA President Kate Dias. “Her colleagues describe her as kind and compassionate and the ‘mother’ of the school.”
Woodruff, who has been teaching in Danbury for almost 30 years, is committed to forming life-long relationships with her students and their families and is their biggest cheerleader. She makes every student feel loved and seen and ensures families feel welcome and connected to the school.
