Preschool-12 Dual Language Education in
Two Locations in the Bay Area

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About

GISSV: From Preschool - Grade 12

 

A Dual-Language International School in the Heart of Silicon Valley

The German International School of Silicon Valley (GISSV) is a nonprofit independent Preschool–Grade 12 school with campuses in Mountain View and San Francisco.

We offer a dual-language German–English education that combines academic structure with an international learning environment shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and community.
 

At a Glance

  • Two campuses: Mountain View & San Francisco
    • Preschool–Grade 12 (Mountain View)
    • Preschool–Grade 8 (San Francisco; expanding to Grade 9 in 2027/28)
  • Accredited German School Abroad (DAS) and WASC-accredited
  • Dual-language German–English program from Preschool onward
  • Additional world languages from Grade 6 (Spanish or French)
  • Small class sizes and individualized learning support
  • Experienced international faculty
  • Saturday School program in Mountain View offering German language learning for children and adults
     

A Structured International Education

GISSV combines elements of the German and U.S. education systems, providing students with internationally recognized academic pathways and strong preparation for both European and American university systems.


 

What Defines GISSV

Dual-Language Excellence

Students learn in German and English every day, building true fluency, academic depth, and intercultural understanding across all subjects.

Academic Rigor

A structured curriculum combining German educational standards (Thuringia) with California Common Core ensures strong academic foundations and international recognition.

Individual Growth

Differentiated instruction and personalized learning pathways allow each student to progress at the right pace and reach their full potential.

Inquiry & Creativity

Project-based and experiential learning encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and independent thinking.

Global Perspective

A diverse international community prepares students to navigate and contribute to a globalized world with confidence.

Community & Belonging

Strong relationships between students, families, and educators create a safe, inclusive environment where every child is seen and valued.

 


How GISSV Prepares Students for a Global Future

Amélie: "The teachers at GISSV have supported and inspired me since my earliest days at Kibili, helping me grow academically and personally into the person I am today."

 

Braeden: "At GISSV, the teachers are the lifeblood of the school [...] The kindness, expertise, and empathy of the teachers at our school have helped me [...]"

 

Anna: "I'm so grateful for the teachers who have supported and guided me since kindergarten and helped shape me into who I am today."

 

Xavi: "My teachers didn't just make the most difficult courses understandable, but made them fun!"

 

Eli: "The teachers at GISSV have had a lasting impact on me by always supporting me, challenging me to improve, and helping me grow both academically and as a person."

 

Nico: "I have had the pleasure of having some great teachers who were able to guide, mentor, and assist me every step of the way to my Abitur. They are always very understanding and very approachable to any concerns or issues I am facing, making my school experience so much better."

 


 

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