About
A school built on Seva.
GAISS exists so that children growing up far from Punjab can know the language, the history, and the spirit that shape who they are.
Our mission
GAISS was founded in 2004 as a non-profit, all-volunteer school. Our mission is threefold:
- Enshrine — to instill an appreciation and understanding of Sikh heritage, language, and music.
- Empower — to help students become empathetic leaders and future ambassadors of the Sikh community.
- Provide — to create opportunities for the wider Sikh community to benefit from our mission.
Every teacher treats their role as Seva, every student is known by name, and all contributions are tax-deductible.
How we teach
Classes meet weekly and are organized into three parallel tracks: Boli (Punjabi language), Virsa (Sikh heritage), and Gurmat Sangeet (sacred Sikh music). Each level has dedicated teachers, working from a shared curriculum maintained by our subject leads. In Gurmat Sangeet, students choose between vocal-and-strings (dilruba, rabab, or sarangi) and tabla.
We believe in:
- Knowing every student. Teachers reach class early, stay through breaks, and make time for one-on-one conversation.
- Practical learning. Lessons are interactive — songs, conversation, kirtan, projects — not lectures.
- Quarterly assessments. So families can see progress, and so we can adjust where needed.
- Participation in Divan. Teachers and students gather together each week. Learning continues outside the classroom.
Our values
Seva
Service before self. Teaching is offered freely; learning is received with gratitude.
Equality
Every student matters equally — across age, background, and ability.
Discipline
Show up. Be prepared. Follow through. The curriculum asks real commitment, and rewards it.
Compassion
Inspire by example. Respect fellow teachers, support fellow students, lift one another up.
Code of Conduct
GAISS maintains a clear Code of Conduct for teachers, students, and families. Its purpose is simple: to keep the school a safe, respectful, and focused place for learning. Families receive a copy at admission.
In the classroom
Learning that feels alive.
Walk into a GAISS classroom and you'll see conversation, questions, songs, and stories — not rows of silent desks. Teachers meet students where they are and make the tradition feel close, not distant.
It's this warmth, as much as the curriculum, that keeps families coming back year after year.