German International School graduates are multilingual global citizens with advanced knowledge in science and mathematics. GISB’s small classes and individualized attention allow each student to grow and thrive.

The preparatory curriculum for taking the German International Abitur exams at the end of grade 12 focuses on language proficiency in German and English and offers a strong science curriculum, including compulsory biology, chemistry, and physics classes. In addition, students can take computer science as an elective.

Curricula for subjects taught in German align with the school curriculum in Germany and are approved by the German Kultusministerkonferenz (State Secretaries of Education). Curricula for subjects taught in English combine German requirements with Massachusetts’ high state standards. Learn more about the German International Abitur.

At GISB, preparing students for the digital world is a key part of our educational approach. Students in Grades 9 and 10 will use school-provided Chromebooks during lessons when digital tools support learning. These devices remain at school and are not taken home. Students in Grades 11 and 12 are expected to bring their own laptops to school for use in class and to complete assignments.

High school classes typically have no more than 18 students enrolled and provide an opportunity for each student to form close relationships with teachers and peers. Teachers know each student personally and provide individualized feedback on a regular basis and encourage students to reflect on their evolving abilities, strengths, growth areas, and interests.

New in 2025-2026,  the “Fachraumkonzept” introduces a subject-centered room concept in which classrooms are organized by subject rather than assigned to a specific class. Instead of students staying in one room all day, they move between rooms that are tailored to the needs of each subject. This allows for a more focused and well-equipped learning environment, encourages collaboration among subject teachers, and supports clearer structures for classroom routines and responsibilities. It also promotes shared use of space and better maintenance of materials and resources. Unlike the American system, where teachers often stay in one room and students rotate through a fixed schedule of classes, the Fachraumkonzept emphasizes subject-centered spaces and shared teacher responsibility for rooms.

While classes no longer have fixed homerooms, each grade retains a dedicated base room for class council and key events such as report card distribution and student orientation days. Students enjoy shared spaces throughout the day. From the lunch area for meals, to the library and cafeteria for a change of scenery, to the study hall for working or just relaxing. These areas are open to everyone, providing opportunities to meet up, collaborate, and spend time together.

Students are assigned to a base room teacher who is their primary contact point. While teachers are always happy to discuss a student’s progress with the parents, we encourage students to be self-advocates, independent learners, and dependable liaisons between school and home.

Additionally, conferences with students and parents, which take place in the fall and spring, provide an opportunity to discuss and reflect on each student’s progress.