The Association of German International Schools (AGIS) represents and supports the educational and public interest of member schools and their communities by promoting and improving international education.
There are currently 23 full member schools who belong to AGIS which provides them with a professional support network in all matters relating to the successful management of international schools in Germany, in particular relations with the Federal Republic.
Statement: June 8, 2020:
We at AGIS are rooted in values-driven representation and unequivocally believe that we have a responsibility to stand up and speak out against racism and injustice.
As a representative organisation of schools with diverse communities and student bodies, we go far beyond tolerance with the acceptance and celebration of cultures other than our own. We want to acknowledge people around the world who have lost their lives due to systematic racial intolerance and brutality, and who continue to be denied justice in society.
We urge our member schools to help students and colleagues across all racial and ethnic groups to more deeply understand the realities of minority interactions with law-enforcement and judicial systems locally and elsewhere. We also encourage our members to form interracial and coalitions that peacefully oppose racism and pursue racial equity for all who are marginalised. We all must stand together.
AGIS stands with the Association of International Educators and Leaders of Color (AIELO)
in asking: “What if all international schools and leaders...?”
consistently celebrated diversity, fostered equity, and supported inclusion?
removed historical legacies and systemic barriers that have been created in the international education space?
consistently committed to listening to and learning from diverse voices, experiences, and perspectives?
created and participated in courageous conversations and spaces that encouraged dialogue and the exchange of ideas?
spoke up now about racism and all forms of discrimination in international education and around the world?
became aware of racial and cultural blindspots by reading about, listening to, and collaborating with racially and ethnically diverse educators?
focused on anti-racism work?
challenged whiteness and white supremacy?
were co-conspirators?
actively amplified and mentored educators of all colors who come from all parts of the globe?
said and believed #BlackLivesMatter?
How to choose an International School
In many cities in Germany, there may be a choice of several international school options. The following tips may help you make the choice that is right for your family.
Visit the school. This is of critical importance. You can learn so much about a school by walking through the halls, visiting the classrooms and watching how students interact with each other and with parents.
Learn about the curriculum programs it offers. You need to be sure that your child is assured an easy transfer to the next international school, back into your home country curriculum, or to university. If the program on offer is not familiar to you, learn all you can about it before making your decision.
- If the company transferring you already has families in that city, talk to them. They are in a good position to tell you about the differences between the different schools.
- Ask about parent involvement. A good international school should serve as the center of the expat community. Volunteering at the school is an excellent way for a non-working parent to integrate into a new community. Make sure you can talk to your child’s teacher whenever you need to.
- Ask about sports and after-school activities. If your child does not speak German, the school may be the only source of recreational activities.
- Check if the school is for-profit or not.
- Above all, look for a place that will be your family’s school (rather than your child’s school). Look for a school that is a community, where you, your children and the teachers can all work together to ensure that your German adventure is happy, rewarding and fulfilling.