Two years ago our school was authorized by the German government to grant the German language certificates at GAIS. The application process for the authorization was an intense yet rewarding experience. As a result our students at the International Middle School are participating currently in different language proficiency tests in German. We provide two German certificates in our school based on the "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages", which is divided into six levels.

The lowest level on the framework is A1 and the highest level is C2 (sequence: A1->A2->B1->B2->C1->C2). The C2 level is the "Abitur or Matura" level in Europe. Our German A students at the International Middle School are taking the test on an A2 level in 6th grade and on a B1 level in 8th grade. The certificate on the B1 level, named "Deutsches Sprachdiplom I" (DSD I), allows for the requirements of admission to German speaking high schools to be met.

The test includes an oral and a written communication part. In the oral communication section the students have to speak in front of an audience about a given topic. In addition, they incorporate a self-made poster in their presentation. Afterwards they are required to reflect on certain questions that will be asked by the proctors. In fact, the 8th graders are supposed to make their presentation in front of an official from Germany.

The written part is divided into reading comprehension, listening comprehension and a German essay. Representatives of the German government will correct the "DSD I" and the results will be stored for further reference in the German government database.

For students who are transitioning out to high schools, GAIS will offer the DSDII " on the C1/C2 Level in future. This certificate allows them to show proficiency in German language at the University level.

I would like to thank Eva Chase for her tremendous dedication in preparing the students for the exams, which were conducted last week.

Personal and social education (PSE) is an integrated component in every PYP unit. Every 6 weeks there is a focus shift on particular skill sets, attitudes and attributes of the learner profile. Besides that components such as self-concept, interaction with others and organization for learning, health and safety are highlighted throughout various times of the school year in every grade.

All our units under the Transdisciplinary theme "Who we are" have a specific focus on social concepts such as friendship (Pre-School), traditions and celebrations (VS), healthy habits (Grade 1), identity (grade 2), relationships and their influences (grade 3), belief systems (grade 4) and changing bodies (grade 5).

This year we also purchased several storybooks that support the development of these concepts. We explored "The Golden Rule" (do unto others as you would them do unto you) and "Feathers" (a Jewish tale from Eastern Europe about rumors) during assemblies. Several classes also did follow ups throughout the year for class and personal goal settings. Some other books classes incorporated into their lessons included: "Billy Bully" (a schoolyard tale), "One" (standing up for others), "Not a box" (being open-minded), and "For every child" (children's rights).

Classroom conferences, role-play, team building events (movie afternoon, sleep- overs, birthday celebrations, holiday breakfast, "girl/boy-talk"), school spirit events, IMS anti- bullying play and personal reflections are some other ways the school is promoting a balance between academic success and social emotional stability for students.

Thinking ahead to the upcoming school year we already scheduled a couple of plays for assemblies in the Elementary School. In the fall we will see "Oskar & the Big Bully Battle" and in the spring "Oskar & the last straw" both plays about empowering students to deal with tough issues.

Should you have any questions regarding this topic, please feel free to come and talk to me.

Have you forgotten to order your 2011-12 year book? Don't worry you still have a few more days to make sure that you and your children will get this memory treasure chest, that like a good bottle of Chateau Margaux, gets better as the years go on. The last day to submit the form to the office is May 4. Please note that only the exact number of pre-ordered yearbooks will be printed. We are also looking for companies to advertise in our yearbook.  This is an excellent and low cost way for your company to support international education and the school's mission.  Please contact the office if you would like to discuss this further or if you have any ideas or leads.  

Are you interested in accumulating some volunteer hours? We will hold our next workday on Saturday, May 19 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Tim Farris will organize volunteers in a variety of tasks including painting, sanding, cleaning and repairing.   If you wish to participate please email the office by May 14 so we can set up the program. Email to: offmgr@gais.org.

Learn German by way of Fairytale! This year celebrates the 200th anniversary of the Grimm Brother's Fairytales. In honor of this special event, the German-American School of Palo Alto (GASPA) is taking Summer-School-Camp into the world of fairytales and everything that comes with it....in German of course.

Our four week program begins on June 25th and runs until July 20th, Monday through Fridays from 9am to 1 pm. A supplemental afternoon program for camp attendees from 1pm to 6 pm is also available. All children ages 3 to 12 are welcome. No prior German language knowledge is required! Our travels into the world of fairytales will take place at the GAIS Campus at 275 Elliot Dr., Menlo Park.

For more details, including a full program description, pricing information, and registration forms, please visit our website at www.gaspa-ca.org.

Last Chance to Donate your toddler to teen sized clothing to Samaritan House Kids Closet is Friday afternoon, April 13th!  If you've set items aside for the Cub Scout Pack 108 clothing drive, please remember to bring them in on Friday.  Thank you!