Frankfurt International School
2008-2009
Frankfurt International School(FIS) is an independent, coeducational day school, which offers an educational program from First Steps (age 3) through Grade 12 for students of all nationalities. The School was founded in 1961 and the 2008-2009 school year runs from August 18 to June 19.
Mission Statement: Our mission is to be the leading culturally diverse and family-oriented international school with English as the principal language of instruction. We 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/ISW. 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 Dutch, Japanese, Korean, and Swedish. 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 Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Faculty: In the 2008-2009 school year, there are 214 faculty members, including 73 U.S. citizens, 34 host-country nationals and 107 third country nationals. These figures include the Wiesbaden campus (ISW).
Enrollment: At the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year, enrollment was 1,881. Of the total, 482 were U.S. citizens, 334 host-country nationals, and 1065 were third-country nationals. Of the U.S. enrollment, 137 were dependents of U.S. government direct hire or contract employees and 345 of other private U.S. citizens. 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 3-6 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, several play areas, 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 (ISW) from First Steps 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 2008-2009 school year, the School's income derives from regular day school tuition and fees. Annual tuition rates are as follows: First Steps: EUR 12,990; Pre-Primary – Grade 4: EUR 14,860; Grade 5: EUR 15,060; Grades 6-8: EUR 16,740; Grades 9-10: EUR 17,300; Grades 11-12: EUR 17,640. The registration fee is EUR500 for new students. The School also charges a capital assessment fee of EUR 7,000 for students on first enrollment to be paid in two installments, EUR 3,500 each in the first two years. The reenrollment fee is EUR 130, and transportation costs are EUR 1,410-2,210. These fees are payable in Euros (EUR). (All fees are quoted in Euros).
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