Diversity, Equity & Inclusion - German International School of Silicon Valley

A Learning Community Built on Respect, Belonging, and Connection

At GISSV, we actively embrace diversity as a strength that enriches learning and community life.

We are committed to creating an environment where every student, family, and staff member feels respected, supported, and valued.

GISSV Diversity Statement

At GISSV, we actively embrace our differences and celebrate diversity. We strive to not only accept but respect and welcome all members of our community regardless of ability, age, cultural identity, ethnic background, gender, gender identity, immigration status, national origin, physical characteristics, political ideology, religious belief, sexual orientation, or socio-economic circumstance.

We believe that in order to receive an outstanding education, students should feel supported and cared for. Our goal is to create a safe environment where all students and staff feel welcome to engage in dialogue, question, learn, and contribute to their fullest potential, resulting in an open and accepting learning community that emphasizes respect for everyone. Through our engagement with diversity, we learn to live and lead in a complex world, with an inherent sense of inclusiveness of different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds.

At GISSV, we recognize our responsibility to lead the way to a world that promotes access, opportunity, and justice for all.

About this statement: This statement was created and written by GISSV High School Students (High School Day 2019) with minor changes by GISSV’s Diversity Workgroup (2019-20).

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by Daniel Quasar

Understanding Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity refers to the traits and characteristics that make people unique
Inclusion refers to the behaviors and social norms that ensure people feel welcome

School for Diversity

GISSV is a proud project partner of Schule der Vielfalt / School for Diversity, the first German School Abroad to participate in this initiative.

Through this partnership, we affirm our commitment to inclusion and visibility for all identities, including sexual orientation and gender identity.

We believe that appreciation of diversity in all its dimensions has a positive impact on our community and society as a whole.

Commitment of GISSV
Inaugural Event

Commitment of GISSV

We want to be a “School of Diversity”. Everyone is welcome here, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

We show our dedication through this public display of the label “Schule der Vielfalt” at our school.

We will provide information about our activities for promoting diversity and condemning all forms of discrimination annually and publicly.

We are convinced: Appreciation of diversity in all its dimensions has a positive impact on our society. We will do our part.

Inaugural Event

Living Our Values

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not abstract principles at GISSV — they are reflected in daily interactions, classroom life, and community relationships.

We are committed to fostering a school culture grounded in respect, openness, and shared responsibility.

SPOTLIGHT

At the end of the 2023/24 school year, a fantastic group of GISSV students and teachers Mrs. Angeles, Mrs. Weidlich, Dr. Catsalis, and Mr. de Haan came together during our DEI project days to create a music video, featuring many members of our vibrant school community. We’re excited to share that Celina Bostic was thrilled with our authorized cover of her beloved song "Doppelmoppel"! Check out the original version here.