2007-2008
The Frankfurt International School (FIS) is an independent, coeducational day school, which offers an educational program from playschool, pre-primary through grade 12 for students of all nationalities. The School was founded in 1961. The school year runs from August 15 to June 24.
Mission Statement: The School's mission is to be a culturally diverse and family-oriented international school with English as the principle language of instruction. Its aim is to inspire young individuals to develop their intellect, creativity, and character to grow into adaptable, socially responsible global citizens by ensuring a dynamic, 21st -century, inquiry-driven education of the highest standard.
Organization: The School is governed by a 12-member Board of Trustees, all with voting rights. Six members are elected by the parents of children enrolled in the School, and five are appointed by the Board from the wider community. A faculty/staff member is elected by the faculty and staff of FIS. Honorary Board members may also be appointed.
Curriculum: The curriculum is international, centered around the programs of the International Baccalaureate with strong emphasis on academic rigor and preparation for university studies, and the development of positive character attributes and useful skills. Instruction is in English. German is part of the curriculum for all students and an immersion program is offered at certain grade levels. French and Spanish are offered as foreign languages starting in grade 6. A first-language (mother tongue) program is also offered in several languages. English-as-a-Second-Language is offered in all grades with basic proficiency levels expected in the upper grades. Numerous co-curricular activities are available in drama, music, arts, literary activities and sports. The School is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the European Council of International Schools.
Faculty: In the 2007-2008 school year, there are 230 faculty members. These figures include the Wiesbaden campus (ISW).
Enrollment: At the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year, enrollment was 1,862. These figures include the Wiesbaden campus.
Facilities: The 16-acre Oberursel campus contains a main building for the elementary and upper schools and a separate, purpose-built primary school for children aged 3-7 years. These buildings comprise over 100 classrooms, art and music rooms, 3 libraries, 11 science and 5 computer labs, a design and technology center, 2 cafeterias, an auditorium/performing arts center, as well as specialist rooms for learning support and counseling. In addition, there is a separate block for central administration, a play area, 3 gymnasiums, and a multi-purpose, all-weather sports field. In 2007, work was completed on a high-tech Arts, Science and Technology building and additional facilities are planned. The School operates a branch campus in Wiesbaden for Playschool (age 3) through grade 6. The ISW campus was completed in 1998 and includes all relevant facilities including a gymnasium, computer lab, library, cafeteria and play and recreational space.
Finances: In the 2007-2008 school year, the School's income derives from regular day school tuition and fees. Annual tuition rates are as follows: PP-grades 4: $19,305; grade 5: $19,575; grades 6-8: $21,749; grades 9-10: $22,478; grades 11-12: $22,923. The registration fee is $675 for new students. The School also charges a capital assessment fee of $9,450 for students on first enrollment to be paid in two installments, $4,725 each in the first two years. The re-enrollment fee is $176, and transportation costs are $1,850-$2,889. These fees are payable in Euro. (All fees are quoted in U.S. dollars, based on an exchange rate of €1 = U.S. $1.35).
