In 1984, Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School (SSAES) opened its doors with eight students at the Armenian Cultural and Educational Center in Watertown, Massachusetts. In the over four decades since then, SSAES continues to grow as the only bilingual Armenian day school in New England, combining the best of American education with a strong foundation in Armenian language, culture, history, and religion.
Accredited by the Association of Independent Schools in New England (AISNE) since and the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), SSAES is held to the high standards and best practices that put the school on par with the region’s best private, independent schools. With a low student to teacher ratio, our degreed and credentialed faculty nurture and encourage all students to develop to their fullest potential, discover the joy of learning, and become life-long learners.
The success of St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School alumni in their post SSAES educational endeavors is a testament to their solid academic foundations, established by a well-rounded SSAES education and the development of strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills for an ever-changing world. The school is proud and pleased that the close bonds that our students develop with each other continue to provide a sense of community long after their graduation. But, don’t take our word for it. Listen to St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School Alumni explain why your child should attend SSAES.
St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School’s Mission
- Provide a high quality Armenian and American education
- Develop a strong Armenian identity in each child
- Promote and nurture the Armenian language and culture
- Develop self-esteem and leadership skills in students
- Create a child-centered, nurturing learning environment that facilitates the students’ success
- Foster an intimate school community that encourages family involvement and connections
St. Stephen’s Armenian Elementary School Values
- The uniqueness of each child
- Armenian culture, tradition and history throughout the curriculum
- Kindness and compassion among all members of our school community
- High academic expectations while supporting the students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being
- Personal responsibility, self-reliance, cooperation, and respect for others
- A learning environment that encourages risk, exploration and critical thinking
Our Mission and Values are accomplished by
- Creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere, where each child is known, cared for, and supported to achieve
- Stimulating the students’ natural curiosity about the world and their environment through interactive activities and discussions
- Small class sizes enhance learning with low student to teacher ratio and personal attention
- Providing age appropriate instructional materials and technology to facilitate learning
- Developing curricula that celebrates both Armenian and American culture and history
- Providing school sponsored, social events that foster the relationships of students and familie