This article is sponsored by Tessa International School.
Picking an elementary school program for your child is a big decision. In today’s global society, learning multiple languages is an asset that can set your child up for future success. Tessa International School, located at 720 Monroe Street in Hoboken, is an International Baccalaureate (IB) Pre-K through 5th-grade independent school that provides a dual-language elementary program, preschool program, and immersion nursery where students split their time between English and a target language — French, Mandarin, or Spanish. In addition to bilingual education, Tessa has an exceptional STEM program with hands-on learning opportunities — and all of the programs here are focused on happiness for each child. Keep reading to learn more about the elementary programs at Tessa International School in Hoboken.
Bilingual Elementary Education
Learning a second language helps students become more culturally aware and can improve their cognitive development and problem-solving abilities. Starting a bilingual program in elementary school is a valuable asset that sets students up for success in middle school and beyond.
TESSA International School is Hoboken’s only international leading private school for preschool through 5th grade. The staff and educators are dedicated to providing a world-class education based on happiness that develops students’ social-emotional and leadership abilities. The school believes that children learn best when happy, and provides them with opportunities to meet children from other cultures and make deep friendships.
“We chose the name ‘Tessa’ because it felt warm, inviting, and universal—qualities we want every student to feel here. If I had a daughter, I would have named her Tessa, and I care for this school as deeply as I would for my own child. The name is also easy to pronounce in many languages, making it a truly universal word. And if you look closely, ‘Tessa’ spelled backward is ‘Asset,’ a reminder that each child is a unique asset to our community and to the world. At Tessa, we believe in nurturing that potential every day, ” Isabelle Bonneau, Founder of TESSA International School, told The Hoboken Girl.
The bilingual elementary school program allows students to split their week 50-50 between instruction in English and the target language. Target language programs include French, Mandarin, or Spanish. All of the instructors are native speakers who are committed to helping each student succeed.
Instructors not only teach the language but also instruct in the language. That means students will learn math, social studies, science, and history in English and the second language. The bilingual programs are open to students of all language proficiencies.
STEM Programs + Academic Clubs
Tessa International School follows a rigorous curriculum with special programs like physical education (PE), music, library, and STEM. PE takes place in a well-equipped gym, helping students develop a healthy living foundation and encouraging them to learn the value of teamwork.
The innovative STEM lab + dedicated STEM teacher help students explore technology and develop problem-solving skills. In the STEM classroom, students participate in hands-on activities + practice finding solutions to real-world problems.
Students can also participate in free after-school academic clubs that last until 4PM. These programs help students develop skills and build a foundation in a variety of areas including chess, pottery, and dance.
Parents interested in learning more about Tessa’s commitment to academic excellence and those who want to see the state-of-the-art classrooms for themselves can schedule a tour. These private tours will allow you to meet members of the leadership team + get a first-hand look at the day-to-day life of a Tessa student.
All About Tessa International School
Tessa International School is a well-respected preschool and elementary school in Hoboken. The curriculum combines the globally acclaimed IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), which focuses on fostering critical thinking and global awareness, with US standards. This approach means that students will get a well-rounded and future-focused education.
This is only one of two schools in New Jersey + New York that provides the International Baccalaureate PYP in a bilingual setting. Students in this program learn to adapt + thrive in any school setting.
Enrolling students in Tessa’s preschool makes it easy for them to transition to elementary school. However, classrooms are filling up quickly, so schedule a tour today to learn more about preschool availability.
Transportation services are provided + merit scholarships are available to families with limited means for students in grades 1 to 5. Email [email protected] to learn more about these opportunities.
Tessa International School is located at 720 Monroe Street in Hoboken. You can call 201-755-5585 or email [email protected] with questions.
7 Hoboken + Jersey City Spots to Get Charm Jewelry
Trends of the early 2000s are sparking excitement among Millennials and Gen-Z alike as we watch charm-based businesses and experiences pop up all over New York and New Jersey. Whether it’s for the “nostalgia” factor or just a need for a little self-expression, there’s something to be said about the sentimentality of charm jewelry. If you’ve been thinking of hopping onto this *charming* trend to create a wearable memory book of your own, there’s no better time than Valentine’s season. Read on for our growing list of where to get charm jewelry in Hoboken + Jersey City, New Jersey.
This is a growing list. If you know of another Hoboken + Jersey City-based business that sells charm jewelry, please email [email protected].
301 Collective | 301 1st Street, Jersey City
301 Collective in Jersey City is basically a real-life treasure chest for shoppers. The expert-curated collective-style boutique covers everything from home goods and clothing to beauty products and fresh plants. The shop also has an impressive line-up of charm bracelets and necklaces weaved into its existing eclectic jewelry collection. 301 Collective even has more charm selections online. HG pro tip: Check out local vintage collector Madge Novel’s rare curated jewelry collection inside of 301 Collective for a retro take on charm necklaces. (Pictured above)
Read More: 54 Galentine’s Day 2025 Ideas in Hoboken + Jersey City to Round Up the Gals
Cranky Angel | 304 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
It’s no surprise that the Y2K-themed center of the Jersey City thrift scene, Cranky Angel, serves up some serious charm (pun intended). Cranky Angel has been known locally to host Charmify events centered around charms and decor for your clothing. Owner Montana Fucci also hand-crafts charm necklaces, bracelets, and keychains for customers looking to add a little bling to their wardrobe.
Electric Picks | Online
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Electric Picks is a Hoboken-based jewelry company with a lifetime guarantee. The online shop has dozens of timeless items to choose from, which include charm bracelets and charm necklaces — both pre-made and DIY. Electric Picks also carries individual charms to add to a piece of your choosing.
Goldie Jewelry Studio | Local Pop-Up Events + Online
Goldie Jewelry Studio is a charm bar and permanent jewelry business that hosts private events, pop-ups, and DIY experiences. This month, Goldie Jewelry Studio will be popping up all over Hoboken. The brand will make appearances at Antique Loft on February 12th, Up + Out on February 13th, and SLT on February 15th. Charm lovers can also shop on Goldie Jewelry Studio’s online store here.
Little Charm Bar | 716 Washington Street + 503 Washington Street, Hoboken
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Little Charm Bar has locations inside of Alba Boutique and AxD in Hoboken. The customizable charm bar allows shoppers to have a one-of-a-kind, meaningful experience creating bracelets and necklaces filled with personally-picked charms. Little Charm Bar also has mobile services and can host custom parties, pop-ups, and private events.
Noellery | 123 Washington Street, Hoboken + 321 Grove Street, Jersey City
Noellery is a New Jersey-based jewelry shop by women, for women, carrying necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, accessories, and more. We stopped by the Jersey City location to spot a collection of pre-made charm bracelets with colorful details. Noellery’s website has an even larger selection of charm vibes, with dozens more necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and even earrings available.
See More: This Church Street Jewelry Spot is a Family-Owned Hidden Gem
Pandora | 30 Mall Drive West #B35D, Jersey City
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Speaking of nostalgia, if you remember the Pandora charm wave/obsession of the 2010s, the jewelry brand is still making a name for itself in 2025. Pandora's 2021 rebrand made for a fresh, modern take on the concept of a charm bracelet and still carries the classic collectible-style charms we all know and love too. The Pandora in the Newport Mall carries a selection of styles to choose from, as well as the company’s website.
