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

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Learning

OUR CURRICULUM 

A Dynamic, Cohesive Experience from Grade to Grade

GISSV offers a dynamic dual-language (German/English) education from Preschool to Grade 12, combining a rigorous liberal arts curriculum with hands-on learning, creativity, and academic challenges. Our students develop critical thinking, social-emotional skills, artistic expression, and physical coordination, while electives in sports, music, art, and additional languages enrich their experience.

Graduates earn both the American High School Diploma and the German International Abitur, providing them with a strong advantage in a globally connected world.

Our curriculum follows the standards approved by the Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs in Germany. Most high school courses meet UC A-G requirements, with many in Grades 11 and 12 designated as honors or AP courses. While this overview outlines key curricular focus areas, instruction is tailored to students’ needs, and materials reflect diverse and inclusive perspectives in accordance with California law.
 

 

 

 



Curricula

All curricula are presented with a courtesy translation. (A few translations are in progress and will be available soon.)

 


 

Special Curricular Programs

Beyond the academic curriculum, GISSV offers a range of special programs that support students' personal growth and development:

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Elementary students participate in weekly SEL classes to build self-awareness, resilience, and interpersonal skills.

  • Social Learning (SL): Middle school homerooms meet weekly with their teacher to explore social-emotional learning, class dynamics, self-reflection, and organization.

  • Study Skills Days: Middle school students engage in dedicated sessions to strengthen their study habits and learning strategies.

  • College & Career Counseling (BESO): High school students receive comprehensive guidance through workshops, dedicated classes, major and career info sessions, expert presentations, and one-on-one counseling.

  • Health & Wellness: High school students participate in a curriculum covering sexual health, substance awareness, nutrition, physiology, and personal identity.

  • Media Literacy: GISSV follows ISTE standards to integrate high-impact, sustainable, and equitable digital learning practices.

 

Our international faculty are caring, highly qualified, and experienced. We believe in the importance of continuity and a strong bond between student and teacher for optimal learning success.