Parent Handbook 2012-13 - The German American School of Portland

Parent Handbook
2012-13
Dear GSP Parents,
The German American School of Portland is a special place for students, their families and the faculty. We are driven by a
unique mission to provide an excellent educational experience for our children while developing and maintaining fluency
in both the German and English languages. We foster cross-cultural understanding that enables our children to actively
participate as citizens in a global community.
The four main tenets of our school are academic excellence, German language as an access point to the multicultural
world, GSP as a community of learners, and environmental stewardship. These pillars of our program are focal points for
this school year.
At GSP, the talented and caring faculty inspires students to realize their potential through a program characterized by
rigorous academics and a wide array of extracurricular opportunities. GSP emphasizes strong writing, speaking, and
thinking skills while also focusing on those habits of mind often found in successful people: self-discipline, self-respect, a
passion for excellence, and a willingness to embrace change. Moreover, we do this in a school community predicated on
trust, honor, responsibility, and integrity.
This parent handbook has been created for you to help you get questions answered, find information, understand our
program and strengthen the community. Please read through and keep it available throughout the year. We hope that most
of the answers you need are contained within these pages.
We look forward to working with you and your children throughout the coming year. If we may be of service, please
contact us at 503.626.9089.
Sincerely,
Blake Peters
Head of School
The German American School of Portland admits students of any race, gender, color, creed, national and ethnic
origin, and sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made
available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, creed, national or
ethnic origin, or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial
aid programs, athletic programs, hiring and employment, or in any other way.
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Table of Contents
Introduction to the German American School of Portland
Our Mission
Our Philosophy
School Governance
Staff Roster
Staffing Standards
Daily School Schedule
Pick-up, Drop-Off Procedures & Extended Care
Admissions Policy
School Climate & Non-Discrimination Statement
GSP Values and Code of Conduct
Student Behavior Expectations
Consequences
Suspension
GSP School Rules
Playground Rules
Communication
Safety and Security
Student Dress
Change of Enrollment
Meeting with Teachers
Academic Program
Homework
Library Rules
Attendance
Lunch and Snacks
Student Health
Volunteer Service
Financial Commitment
Donations
Teacher Gift Fund
Field Trips
Chaperone Code of Conduct
Netiquette
School Pictures
Visitors
Bringing Items from Home
Holidays and Events
Lost and Found
Inclement Weather Policy
Fire Drills and Other Emergency Procedures
Emergency Closures
Child Care Division Notice
Extended Care Program
Calendar
GSP Funding Sources
Events/Customs and Things to Know at GSP
Sick Child School Exclusion Guidelines
Confidential Student Roster
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Introduction to the German American School of Portland
~ ~ ~ ~
Our Philosophy
The German American School of Portland provides a warm, caring, supportive environment for children as they explore the
world around them and learn a second language. Our school creates a setting rich with language, play, music, art, and
crafts while stimulating the children’s innate creativity and curiosity. The GSP curriculum encourages children to use all
their senses to explore their environment and to excel academically, artistically, physically, socially, and emotionally.
Our teachers believe that each child’s natural curiosity of the world is the origin of learning and that we must respect each
child’s level of readiness, ability, and curiosity as we promote learning. We encourage each child to become an active
group member by promoting cooperative and collaborative group learning. We provide a structured learning environment
that fosters their inner motivation and stimulates each child to advance their level of knowledge and skills.
The education of each child requires consistent and cooperative involvement of the home, school, and child. Each
participant in this process has important contributions to make to the learner’s personal development. All parties share
responsibility toward the learner to foster qualities needed for constructive world-citizenship, such as respect for human
values, the ability to solve problems and to adapt to a diverse world of rapid change, and the acceptance of responsibility.
School Governance
The German American School of Portland is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. As such, we are governed by a Board of
Directors. The Board of Directors consists of between 5 and 13 members who provide overall governance for the School
and are the School’s ultimate authority. Approximately two-thirds of the members of the Board of Directors are current
School parents who are elected by the parent body; the remaining members come from the community at large and are
appointed by the Board.
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Board of Directors
Mark Vickers
Board President
Marcus Eyth
Vice President
Ulrike Weiler
Treasurer
Karen Keene
Secretary
Steven Carnegie
Director
Darin Closson
Director
Michelle Meyer
Director
Mariah Scott Helm
Director
Barbara Simon-Evrenosoglu
Director
OPEN SEAT To be filled during 2012-13
OPEN SEAT To be filled during 2012-13
OPEN SEAT To be filled during 2012-13
The main duties of the school board are strategic planning, school finance, school governance and evaluation of the Head of
School.
You can communicate your ideas and concerns to the School Board by:
1. Speaking before the School Board at its regular monthly meetings, which are scheduled on the third Thursday of
each month at 6:30pm at the school. Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend Board meetings. To have an
item placed on the School Board’s agenda; parents can call the office or an individual member by Friday, prior to the
next week’s School Board meeting.
2. Sending an email to gspboard@gspdx.org.
3. Writing a letter to the School Board or to an individual member.
4. Serving as a member of a committee or a task force appointed by the School Board.
Current committees are:
Executive Committee - Mark
Vickers, Chair
Management of the Head of
School. Plays advisory role to
the Head of School
Finance -Ulrike Weiler, Chair
Development of school budgets
and the management of the
school’s finances
Governance - Steven Carnegie, Chair
Creation and maintenance of school
policies and procedures, making
required changes or updates and
bringing recommendations to the
Board for new or updated policies or
procedures.
School Development – Kerstin
Rock, Chair
Responsible for managing the
process to secure Northwest
and SEIS accreditations for
GSP
Parent Teacher – Karen Keene,
Chair
A forum for school improvement
ideas from all stakeholder
groups.
Development & Marketing
Commitee – Michelle Meyer, Chair
Community & Fundraising events,
marketing and PR to raise GSP
awareness
If you are interested in a particular topic and would like to find out more about committees or the Board, please contact
the office.
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Staff Roster
Administrative Staff
Head of School Blake Peters blake.peters@gspdx.org
Grade School Lead Stefanie Amann Stefanie.amann@gspdx.org
German Government Grants Heike Schütz-Malinowski heike.sm@gspdx.org
& Reporting
Business Manager Jackie Ortega jackie.ortega@gspdx.org
Admissions/Extended Care Elizabeth Gillespie Elizabeth.gillespie@gspdx.org
Development & Marketing Bettina Calaba bettina.calaba@gspdx.org
Administrative Assistant Monika Zinter Monika.zinter@gspdx.org
Teaching Staff
Preschool Teacher
Carolin Chubinsky – carolin.chubinsky@gspdx.org
Preschool Teacher
Daniela Williams – daniela.williams@gspdx.org
Assisted by
Julia Matschukat – julia.mastschukat@gspdx.org
Preschool Teacher
Liane Rask – liane.rask@gspdx.org
Assisted by
Gillian Sullivan-Bing – gillian.sb@gspdx.org
Kindergarten Teacher Kati Heckmann – kati.heckmann@gspdx.org
Assisted by
Gertrud Kirsch-Theisen – gertrud.kt@gspdx.org
Floating Assistant Pre-K Susi Kapela – susi.kapela@gspdx.org
1 st Grade Teacher -1a Rita Noller – rita.noller@gspdx.org
1 st Grade Teacher – 1b Renate Engelberg – renate.engelberg@gspdx.org
2 nd Grade Teacher Anke Wester – anke.wester@gspdx.org
3 rd Grade Teacher Kati Lachmann – kati.lachmann@gspdx.org
4th Grade Teacher
Imke Melles – imke.melles@gspdx.org
5 th Grade Teacher Tobias Pox – tobias.pox@gspdx.org
Grade School Assistant Peter Seilheimer – peter.seilheimer@gspdx.org
1 st & 5 th Grade English Chelsea Jones – chelsea.jones@gspdx.org
2 nd – 3 rd Grade English Shannon Prince – shannon.prince@gspdx.org
4 th Grade English, 2 nd Step Heidi Draheim-Shadbeh – heidi.draheim@gspdx.org
Program
Music – Pre-K
Rhonda Patten – rhonda.patten@gspdx.org
Music – Grade School Nathan Conant – nathan.conant@gspdx.org
Physical Education
Sarah Peterson – sarah.peterson@gspdx.org
Art
Iris Noack – iris.noack@gspdx.org
Middle School at Gilkey Christiane Seydel - christiane.seydel@gspdx.org
Extended Care Staff
Ainsley Harlan – Ainsley.harlan@gspddx.org
Extended Care Staff
Noel Kuhn – noel.kuhn@gspdx.org
Extended Care Staff
Ashley Parsons – ashley.parsons@gspdx.org
Extended Care Staff
Alec Haskard – alec.haskard@gspdx.org
Staffing Standards
All of our teachers and assistants meet education and experience requirements appropriate to their position, as required by
the Child Care Division of the State of Oregon. Our Grade School classroom head teachers hold a MA equivalent teaching
degree (1 st and 2 nd State Examination or equivalent) from a German speaking country, while our Preschool and
Kindergarten teachers have an average of 10 years of experience as Head Teachers, hold Early Childhood Education
Diplomas from a German speaking country or have an equivalent U.S. degree. Near-native or native fluency of the German
language is a requirement for all teachers who instruct in German.
The German American School regularly conducts professional development training for teachers and assistants. Early
Childhood Teachers and assistants (Preschool and Kindergarten) and Extended Care teachers are required by the Child Care
Division to take a minimum of 15 training hours per year. Our staff maintains current certification in basic First Aid and
CPR and staff involved in the Preschool & Extended Care snack program also maintains current Food Handler certification.
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State of Oregon criminal background checks are completed on each employee of the German American School, regardless
of their level of child contact. New employees residing in Oregon less than 18 months at hire are required to be
fingerprinted and nationally screened.
As one of the seven North American German Schools Abroad (Boston, Montreal, New York, Portland, Silicon Valley,
Toronto and Washington DC), GSP staff regularly participates in regional and international conferences and seminars
GSP Daily School Schedule
Before-school Care
Pre/K: 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Grades 1-5: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
Monday – Thursday:
Grades 1-5: 8:00 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Pre A.M. only: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Pre/K All day: 8:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m.
Friday:
All full-day programs (Pre-5) end at 2:00 p.m.
Extended Care
Monday-Thursday: 3:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 2:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.
Pick-Up & Drop-Off Procedures
a. Morning Drop-Off Procedure
• Preschool and Kindergarten: A responsible adult must accompany Preschool and Kindergarten
students into the main school entrance each morning. The main entrance is unlocked at 7:00am, and
Before Care is available from 7:00am to 8:25am. If you arrive before 8:25am, please escort your child to
the Before Care room, remind the child to wash his/her hands, and then check in with the Before Care
teacher before leaving the classroom. If you arrive after 8:25am, escort your child directly to his/her
classroom, remind the child to wash his/her hands, and then check in with the child’s classroom teacher
before leaving the classroom.
• Grade School: Students in grades 1 – 5 may enter the school unattended. The main entrance is unlocked
at 7:00am, and Before Care is available from 7:00am to 8:00am. Students who arrive before 8:00am
should check in with the Before Care teacher. Students arriving after 8:00am should follow the Tardy
procedures below. See “Attendance”.
b. Afternoon Pick-Up Procedure
• Half-Day Preschool: Students attending ½ day preschool should be picked up from their classroom
promptly at 12:30 pm. (Late pick-up fees apply. See below.)
• Full Day – All Grades: Students should be picked up from their classroom at 2:50 pm Monday –
Thursday and at 2:00pm on Fridays, unless the student is enrolled in the Extended Care Program.
Late Pick-Up: All students who are not picked up at dismissal time will be sent to the Extended Care
Program. Parents will be billed at the drop-in rate of $10/hour per child with a one hour minimum and
subsequent time billed in 30 minute increments. In addition, if your child is not enrolled in the Extended
Care Program, the school will charge an Extended Care registration fee of $10.
c. Leaving School With Someone Other Than A Parent:
If someone other than a legal parent/guardian will pick up your child from school and this person is not listed on
the Enrollment Form as someone who is authorized year-round to pick up your child, you must give written
permission by filling out a Pick-Up Release Form (available at the Front Desk) or by sending a timely email to the
Administrative Assistant. The designated pick-up person should park near the main entrance, show photo
identification to the Administrative Assistant, and then be escorted to the child’s classroom. Please note: If your
child is enrolled in the Extended Care program, Photo identification must be shown to the staff when picking up.
d. Divorce, Custody, and other Legal Agreements:
If there are any legal restrictions on the ability of a parent/guardian to pick up a student or to be involved in
his/her school activities, please inform the school staff and provide copies of the legal documents which support
these restrictions.
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e. Security:
If any individual authorized to pick a child up from the school appears to pose an imminent danger to the health or
well-being of the child, the German American School is authorized to contact local law enforcement officers and
refuse to release the child pending investigation, or to follow the instructions of local law enforcement.
f. Unsupervised children after school hours:
If a child is unsupervised in the building, playground, or parking lot after dismissal time, the child will be brought
to the Extended Care program. Parents will be billed at the drop-in rate of $10/hour per child with a one hour
minimum and subsequent time billed in 30 minute increments. In addition, if your child is not enrolled in the
Extended Care Program, the school will charge an Extended Care registration fee of $10.
Admissions & Re-Enrollment Policy
The German American School of Portland (GSP) seeks students who can contribute to and benefit from its challenging and
rewarding curriculum. GSP strives to admit students whose families value the advantages of an international oriented
curriculum and small class sizes.
Students are selected for admission and re-enrollment to GSP on the basis of:
Academic potential;
Developmental maturity;
School achievement and qualifications;
Social and academic readiness for GSP’s program;
Current enrollment at GSP (see re-enrollment policies below); and
Enrollment of siblings at GSP
Where appropriate, testing and/or interviewing are used as tools to provide information to assist in the assessment of each
candidate. In all cases, GSP retains the right to determine, in its sole discretion, whether or not to select a student for
admission, class placement or to re-enroll a student. The Head of School has ultimate authority and sole discretion in
admissions, class placement and re-enrollment decisions.
GSP does not discriminate against any student on the basis of a disability which is unrelated to the ability of a student to
enjoy the benefits of the School’s programs. All persons are encouraged to apply.
GSP does not always have adequate resources to educate children with significant behavioral, social or learning disorders.
The decision to admit or to re-enroll a child with special needs shall be made on an individual basis after the child’s needs
have been assessed using information provided by parents and professionals who are knowledgeable about the child’s
particular disability.
After acceptance or re-enrollment into the program, all students are conditionally enrolled for a period of three months.
Previous foreign language experience requirements
At GSP, applicants ready for preschool and kindergarten are not expected to have had any previous German language
experience. Applicants for first through fifth grade in our elementary school program are almost always required to
demonstrate sufficient German language skills appropriate for their grade level.
Waiting list
When there are more qualified candidates than openings available, GSP establishes a waiting list. If any openings occur, the
school will offer the open spot to the next candidate based on the factors set forth above. Whenever GSP cannot offer a
place to a child, we are eager to offer counsel on other schools that may be able to accommodate the student.
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General admission and re-enrollment guidelines
Preschool:
GSP applicants must be 36 months and potty trained as per Oregon Childcare Division Licensing Requirements. No prior
German language experience is required.
For applicants not ready to enter our preschool program at the beginning of the school year, parents generally have the
option to seek enrollment for their child on, or after their third birthday. This can be done in one of two ways:
Guaranteed Placement –
a) Pay 50% of tuition for the months leading up to your child’s start date
b) Failure to pay any monthly guaranteed placement fee when due will result in loss of the reserved spot.
c) The guaranteed placement fee is nonrefundable and cannot be applied to tuition.
d) A guaranteed placement arrangement is available only to the extent that an opening in the program is available.
The Head of School must approve a guaranteed placement arrangement as part of the enrollment contract.
Pending Placement -
In the case of families who do not enter into a guaranteed placement arrangement, GSP will offer space to the next
eligible applicant based on the factors set forth above.
Kindergarten:
As a general rule, children whose 5 th birthday falls before September 1 st will be admitted to the Kindergarten
Program in the fall.
If the school and/or parents deem that a child is not Kindergarten ready by September 1 st , it is possible to have the
child remain in preschool for an additional year. A child who turns 5 before October 1 st and can demonstrate very
strong Kindergarten readiness in all areas may be admitted to the Kindergarten program for that year. Kindergarten
readiness will be determined based on observation by the school. Please fill out the Early Kindergarten Entry
Questionnaire.
New students to GSP are typically accepted on a three months trial period. Some prior German language
experience is strongly recommended and attendance in summer camps encouraged, but not required.
If the student has successfully completed two full years of GSP’s preschool program and meets the age
requirement, the student is typically accepted into Kindergarten.
Kindergarten readiness will be determined based on observation at the school and in consultation with the family.
During fall conferences the focus is on integration and social development for Kindergarten and overall
development in preschool, while spring conferences focus on Kindergarten readiness. Observation of age
appropriate development of the student is ongoing and includes the following areas:
- Academic skills
- Social/emotional skills
- Fine/gross motor skills
- Language skills
- Self-help skills.
As always, please consult with your teacher if you have any questions.
Elementary School:
Successful Kindergarten or transfer from a German School with recommendations and/or report cards as
applicable.
Gilkey International Middle School:
Successful Completion of Grade 5 at GSP and teacher recommendation.
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Re-enrollment policies
Students presently enrolled at GSP receive the highest priority in admission for the following year. Re-enrollment typically
takes place in January. Parents seeking to re-enroll a student must provide the following:
• Signed re-enrollment contract submitted by stated date
• Re-enrollment deposit paid in full by stated date
GSP reserves the right to release spots after the re-enrollment deadline has passed. Students seeking to re-enroll after the
deadline will be considered based on the admission criteria above and will be placed on the waiting list, if any.
Number of available openings each year
The number of openings varies from year to year and from class to class. GSP has a class size target of 18 students per
class.
Interview requirements
Parents of all applicants are asked to complete the Parent Questionnaire. In addition, we use the following opportunities to
meet with families:
Preschool and Kindergarten
For young children, an in-house evaluation is conducted to determine readiness for preschool or kindergarten. This
is done informally in the classroom during circle time and includes the applicant, the parents, the teachers and the
Admissions Director. The meeting will focus on the family’s interest in GSP and the student’s readiness for the
program.
Elementary School
Applicants for our elementary school program are asked to spend a full day at GSP attending and participating
(when possible) in classes with current students. If spending time in the program is not possible, GSP will consider
applicants based on report cards from the student’s current school, and may make other inquiries of the student’s
current school, if appropriate.
Classroom/Teacher Request
Parents are welcome to indicate a preference for a certain class or teacher directly to the admissions office. We will do our
best to meet these requests, but we strive to have classes equally balanced according to gender, language background and
age.
School Climate & Non-Discrimination Statement
Everyone has the right to a positive environment free from disruptions which interfere with teaching and learning activities.
The German American School of Portland admits students of any race, gender, color, creed, national and ethnic origin, and
sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to the students
at the school.
GSP Values and Code of Conduct
The following values determine the GSP code of conduct for students, staff, and visitors. Teachers and staff strive to model
these values throughout the year.
• Safety/Sicherheit: Safety means maintaining a clean and healthy environment and avoiding unsafe actions.
This includes use of equipment, facilities, and our own bodies as we interact. When we are safe in our actions we
consider the consequences of our behavior before we do something. By avoiding unsafe behavior and hazards in
our environment we help to make sure that nobody gets hurt.
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• Friendliness and Courteousness/Freundlichkeit und Höflichkeit: Friendliness means being kind and
helpful. Courteous and friendly people are polite, kind, civil, and thoughtful to others. Friendly people smile and
greet others. They include everyone in their activities. Friendly people make others feel better about themselves.
• Responsibility and Self Discipline/Verantwortung und Selbstdisziplin: Responsibility means doing
what you say you will do. Responsible people try hard to keep their promises. They follow rules and accept the
consequences of their words or actions. People will trust you if you are responsible. Self-discipline means
knowing your responsibilities and carrying them through without supervision. Self-disciplined people use calm
words when they are upset. They keep trying until they reach their goals. Being self-disciplined will help you
become independent.
• Respect /Respekt: Respect is to believe in the worth of yourself and others. Respect means treating others as
you want to be treated. You promote respect by considering others as important as yourself. You show respect by
considering the needs and feelings of the people around you. By showing respect for others, property, and the
environment you show that you believe in the worth and rights of all human beings.
• Honesty/Ehrlichkeit: Honesty means being truthful. Honest people do not lie or cheat. Honesty is earning
something in a fair manner without cheating or stealing. It is telling the truth and thereby earning the trust of
others. Honesty can mean admitting that you need help with something, telling your parents or friends how you
feel, keeping a friend's secret, or following the rules of a game. Honesty helps you to make and keep friends.
• Diversity and Inclusion/kulturelle Vielfalt: Diversity and Inclusion are about accepting the differences
between people. Being inclusive means understanding that people often are different from what you expect. You
can be tolerant within yourself and accept that you make mistakes and learn from them. You can also show this by
talking and listening to others, even when you do not agree with them. People who embrace diversity and
inclusion allow and encourage others to have their own likes and dislikes. They are willing to learn new things.
They know that people look and act differently, that people have different skin colors and speak many different
languages.
The German American School of Portland provides a positive environment for learning. All members of our community are
encouraged to achieve their personal best and to work collaboratively. Our Code of Conduct is founded on three basic rules:
BE RESPECTFUL, BE KIND, AND BE SAFE. All students must follow these rules.
Student Behavior Expectations
GSP STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE RESPECTFUL OF THEMSELVES AND OTHERS.
Attentive Listening: Listen with your ears, eyes and hearts. Pay close attention to one another’s words and
feelings. Give each other care, respect and consideration.
Appreciation – No Put-Downs: Treat others kindly and state appreciation for their unique qualities. Avoid
negative remarks, name-calling, hurtful gestures and behaviors.
Mutual Respect: Be respectful of everyone, and their rights, needs, differences and property. Do not use
gossip or negative names.
Be Responsible:
Come to class on time.
All students must check in at the appropriate before care location or at the front desk after 8 (elementary) or
8:30 (preschool/Kindergarten).
Use the designated bathrooms properly and help keep them clean. Show respect for your school. Help keep
the school clean and pick up litter.
Jackets, sweatshirts, lunch boxes and backpacks should have the child’s name labeled in case they are lost.
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GSP STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE KIND TO EACH OTHER AND RESPOND APPROPRIATELY WITH
EVERYONE IN THE BUILDING
Use appropriate school language. Swearing will not be tolerated.
Playground games are open to all students who are interested in participating.
GSP STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO BE SAFE.
Do not verbally or physically hurt other students.
WALK quietly in the hallways and buildings.
Obey the playground rules.
No weapons or dangerous items, including pocketknives, near or at school.
Alcohol, tobacco, drugs or drug paraphernalia are not allowed at school.
The disciplinary policy at GSP recognizes the relationship that students have with their individual teachers. Each classroom
has developed its own standards of behavior consistent with school-wide norms. Every effort is made by the teacher and
student to work together to resolve any problems.
Recognition is given to those students who demonstrate appropriate behavior and work with other students to resolve
problems. However, if there are infractions of school rules which need further attention, a student may be referred to the
Head of School at which time the following consequences may be applied. These are not necessarily sequential and one or
more may be used in a given situation.
Discipline
"Discipline stops a behavior. Problem solving teaches a skill that has a lasting effect. Using problem solving skills can
reduce the need for discipline." -Committee for Children
Students at GSP will develop the skills to manage their emotions and solve their own problems through the Second Step
social skills building curriculum. Research shows that social and emotional skills are important to healthy child
development. Socially and emotionally skilled children are not only well-liked by their peers, but also show academic
gains. Skills such as empathy, emotion management, and social problem solving contribute to children's success in school
and later to their success in the world.
The purpose of the GSP Second Step program is to build children's social-emotional skills not only with the goal of
promoting a caring classroom community but also to foster children's lifelong learning to become healthy, responsible, and
productive members of society. The program emphasizes understanding and dealing with emotions, expressing emotions in
socially acceptable ways, thinking about social situations in accurate and constructive ways, and learning pro-social
behaviors through practice. All children receive weekly lessons to develop empathy, emotional management, and problem
solving skills, and all GSP staff have been trained to support the Second Step program in and out of the classroom.
Emotional Management: Through the Second Step program, students will learn skills to help them manage strong
emotions. Below are the steps that children can use to manage their anger or strong emotions. While these skills are being
mastered, teachers will model the desired behavior while guiding children to follow these steps.
Ways to Calm Down (Preschool/Kindergarten)
1. Check in. Hand on tummy.
2. Say "Calm down."
3. Take deep breaths.
4. Count out loud.
Anger Management Steps (Grades 1-5)
1. Ask yourself: How does my body feel?
2. Try to calm down by:
• Taking three deep breaths.
• Counting backward slowly.
• Thinking calming thoughts.
• Talking to yourself.
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3. Think out loud to solve the problem.
4. Think about it later.
• Why was I angry?
• What did I do?
• What worked?
• What didn't work?
• What would I do differently?
• Did I do a good job?
Problem Solving: Children are encouraged to follow the steps below to solve interpersonal conflict. The steps for
Preschool and Kindergarten emphasize identifying emotions and verbalizing the problem, while the Elementary steps
additionally include perspective taking and evaluation of potential solutions.
Problem Solving Steps (Preschool/Kindergarten)
1. How do I feel?
2. What is the problem?
3. What can I do?
Problem-Solving Steps (Grades 1-5)
1. What is the problem?
2. What are some solutions?
3. For each solution, ask yourself:
• Is it safe?
• How might people feel about it?
• Is it fair?
• Will it work?
4. Choose a solution and use it.
5. Is it working? If not, what can I do now?
GSP Staff is trained to model the skills and behaviors that we expect from students. Staff will use these skills to help
students solve problems among themselves and to solve problems between themselves and students. To promote empathy,
GSP staff will acknowledge kindness, use feeling words and practice active listening. When managing strong emotions,
staff will help students to recognize signs and triggers of anger, take steps to decrease angry and intense feelings and to
encourage social problem solving. When solving problems staff will use neutral problem statements and help students to
identify different points of view.
Ideally students will use these skills to solve personal problems without the intervention of an adult. If students are unable
to resolve a problem themselves, they will bring the problem to a GSP staff member. The staff member will help students
work with each other to resolve the problem using Second Step skills. If the student and teacher are unable to resolve the
problem, they will bring the issue to the Head of School. Head of School will again encourage use of Second Step skills.
Like any skill, social problem solving and emotion management skills are learned over time and with practice. GSP staff
and students are expected to demonstrate, model and practice these skills to gain aptitude. Students will be given many
opportunities to see, learn and practice pro social behavior. Children who fail to behave in a manner consistent with these
standards will be referred to the Head of School who will work the child and parents to resolve the issue.
Consequences
Verbal warning including an explanation of consequences if the student should continue to exhibit inappropriate behavior.
An appropriate consequence may be applied by the responsible teacher or assistant. Consequences may be,
but are not limited to loss of recess, school clean-up duty, time out, repairing whatever was broken etc.
An incident report may be sent to the child’s parents.
A conference with the parents (possibly with child present), teacher(s) and Head of School may be required.
Suspension
The Head of School may suspend a student in any case of extreme or repeated infraction of the discipline policy. An
extreme infraction includes, among other things, any of the following behaviors:
1. Hurting a teacher
2. Calling a teacher names
3. Threatening behavior to anyone on campus
4. Possession of a weapon, drugs or alcohol
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In-School Suspension: Students are restricted in their movement through the school, and are closely supervised while they
complete their assigned work.
Full Suspension: In situations where there is extreme behavior or where the safety of others in the community is
threatened, a student will be suspended and be required to go home.
GSP School Rules/GSP Schulregeln
Please remember that all school rules are to be followed before, during and after school. Parents are asked to help their
children remember these rules outside of school hours and are responsible for behavior and any issues during these times.
Specific rules are as follows:
Bitte beachten Sie, dass alle Schulregeln vor, während und nach den Schulzeiten gelten. Eltern werden gebeten, ihre
Kinder außerhalb der Schulzeiten an diese Regeln zu erinnern; sie sind während dieser Zeiten für das Verhalten ihrer
Kinder und etwaige Folgen verantwortlich. Die Regeln lauten im Einzelnen:
We walk.
Wir gehen.
We greet people we meet in the hallway.
Wenn wir jemandem begegnen, begrüßen wir ihn.
We respect other students’ belongings.
Wir achten das Eigentum anderer.
We talk quietly.
Wir sprechen leise.
When on the staircase we walk single file on the right side.
Auf der Treppe gehen wir einzeln hintereineinder auf der rechten Seite.
We open doors quietly without slamming them against the walls.
Wir öffnen Türen vorsichtig.
We ask a teacher for permission if we want to leave the group.
Wir bitten um Erlaubnis, wenn wir die Gruppe verlassen möchten.
We strive for cleanliness and pick up our garbage.
Wir achten auf Sauberkeit und räumen auf.
GSP Playground Rules/GSP Schulhofregeln
Please remember that all school rules are to be followed before, during and after school. Parents are asked to
help their children remember these rules outside of school hours and are responsible for behavior and any issues
during these times. Specific rules are as follows:
Bitte beachten Sie, dass alle Schulregeln vor, während und nach den Schulzeiten gelten. Eltern werden gebeten,
ihre Kinder außerhalb der Schulzeiten an diese Regeln zu erinnern; sie sind während dieser Zeiten für das
Verhalten ihrer Kinder und etwaige Folgen verantwortlich. Die Regeln lauten im Einzelnen:
We put away what we use and clean up after ourselves.
Wir räumen das auf, was wir benutzen.
We replace the cover on the sandbox before leaving.
Wir decken die Sandkiste ab, bevor wir gehen.
We throw balls to friends and not at the building or windows.
Wir spielen mit unseren Freunden Ball (und nicht gegen das Gebäude oder die Fenster).
We stay where adults can see us at all times.
Wir spielen so, dass die Erwachsenen uns immer sehen können.
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If something is broken, we tell an adult.
Wenn etwas kaputtgeht, sagen oder zeigen wir dies einem Erwachsenen.
We play on the asphalt (and not on the flower beds).
Wir spielen auf dem Asphalt (nicht auf den Beeten).
We let flowers and plants grow (and don’t rip them out or trample on them).
Wir lassen Blumen und andere Pflanzen wachsen (und reißen sie nicht ab und treten nicht auf ihnen herum).
We ask an adult for permission if we want to use the bathroom or retrieve the ball from the parking lot.
Wir fragen einen Erwachsenen, wenn wir die Toilette benutzen möchten oder den Ball vom Parkplatz holen wollen.
We use the garbage can for our trash.
Wir werfen unseren Müll in die Abfalltonnen.
During picnics we eat at the picnic tables or on the asphalt (but not on or around the play structure).
Beim Picknick essen wir am Tisch oder auf dem Asphalt (und nicht auf oder unter dem Spielgerüst).
We climb and play on the play structure (and not on the fence or on trees).
Wir klettern und turnen auf dem Spielgerüst (und nicht auf dem Zaun oder dem Baum).
We play with our friends (and not with the neighborhood dogs).
Wir spielen mit unseren Freunden (und nicht mit den Hunden des Nachbarn).
We talk with our friends and family (and not with strangers).
Wir sprechen mit unseren Freunden und Familien (und nicht mit Fremden).
We play in the trough with our feet on the ground (and we don’t climb or sit on the trough).
Wir stehen am Wassertrog und spielen; wir klettern oder sitzen nicht darauf herum.
We leave the plugs in place (and don’t pull them out or the trough won’t work).
Wir lassen die Stöpsel im Trog.
We use the compost for planting, not playing in.
Den Kompost benutzen wir als Dünger ür die Beete, nicht zum Spielen.
We play musical instruments while standing on the ground (no standing in the flower beds)
Die Musikinstumente bespielen wir vom Spielplatz aus. Wir stehen nicht auf den Blumenbeeten.
We climb on the dome climber with no more than 5 of our friends.
Auf dem grünen Klettergerüst spielen immer nur höchstens sechs Kinder gleichzeitig.
We sit on the dome climber (and do not stand on top and jump off).
Auf dem grünen Klettergerüst dürfen wir auch sitzen; Stehen und Herunterspringen sind verboten.
Communication
Communication between school staff, students, and parents is vital. Below is a list of the methods used by the school to
keep you informed:
a. Lesson plans: Each teacher develops lesson plans on a regular basis. These are sent to each parent electronically.
Current lesson plans are also posted on the bulletin board in the main school lobby and on our website
www.gspdx.org.
b. Das Laternlein: In order to efficiently deliver notices and announcements to our parents, a brief weekly
newsletter is sent electronically to all parents. Current newsletters are also posted in the school lobby and on our
website www.gspdx.org. Please read the newsletter carefully—this is your main guide to upcoming school events,
school closure dates, and other parent responsibilities.
c. Parent folders: Parent folders are located in the front lobby. Please check your parent folder daily. Please
inform the Administrative Team if you have any special needs (such as dual folders for separated/divorced
parents). Parent folders are to be used only for school and social communications; please do not use them for any
form of business solicitation. GSP is a green school and whenever possible will communicate via e-mail to limit
paper consumption.
d. Annual Report: At the end of the school year an annual report will be published on the school’s website. The
report will provide information on budget items, staff changes, major fundraising committees, and Board elections.
e. Parent Night: All classroom teachers hold two Parent Nights per school year. These events help you get to know
your child’s classroom teacher, find out about daily schedules and routines, receive curriculum updates, and
develop a relationship with other parents in your child’s classroom. Each classroom will also develop an
Emergency Phone Tree, as well as elect a Parent Representative. (See Parent Expectations, section IV)
f. Parent/Teacher Conferences: Individual parent/teacher conferences are held twice per year. Teachers will
provide you with a detailed report on your child’s progress and will provide you the opportunity to share
questions, observations, or concerns about your child. Watch the school newsletter for conference dates and signup
availability.
g. Parent Classroom Representatives: During back-to-school night in September, each class elects a representative.
This group meets monthly with the Head of School and helps organize events and facilitates communication
between staff, parents and the board. Here is the list of this year’s representatives:
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Grade Representative E-mail address
Löwen Christiane Biermann biermann@gmail.com
Drachen Brigitte Byars bbyars1@gmail.com
Tina Franck
tinafranck04@hotmail.com
Elefanten Marina Rizzi mrn235@yahoo.com
Leni Rhodes
lenivs@mac.com
Eulen Karen Doyle karen.doyle@nike.com
Grade 1a Cheryl Williams stephweihrauch@hotmail.com
Jennifer Lee
jendu01@gmail.com
Grade 1b Ashley Salazar ashleysalazar04@yahoo.com
Grade 2 Karen Doyle karen.doyle@nike.com
Heike Droste
hdroste@gmail.com
Grade 3 Anita Hollenbeck hollenbeckanita66@hotmail.com
Laurie Shertz
laurie@lshertzlaw.com
Grade 4 Stephanie Weihrauch stephweihrauch@hotmail.com
Hilary Uhlig
Hilary.uhlig@gmail.com
Grade 5 Nermine Ramadan makast@comcast.net
Safety and Security
a. Mandatory reporting: As required by State law, all GSP employees are mandatory reporters of suspected child
abuse. In order to avoid any unfortunate misunderstandings, please provide your child’s teacher with written
explanations of any unusual injuries/illnesses sustained by your child.
b. Identification of responsible adults: Any adult who picks up your child from school must be identifiable to a
GSP staff member as authorized to pick up your child (See “Pick-Up, Drop-Off Procedures & Extended Care,”
above).
Student Dress
Students are encouraged to dress comfortably and cleanly. Both boys and girls are required to wear clothes appropriate to
running, jumping, and playing on the playground.
If a child wears a dress or skirt, please be sure to send along a pair of shorts or cover-up, so that the child will be able to
participate in certain gym activities. If a child wears dress or slip-on shoes to school, the child must bring a pair of tennis
shoes appropriate for gym and outdoor play. GSP requires that you keep an extra set of clothing for your child at
school at all times. Please think of your child’s comfort and provide simple, washable clothing that is free of complicated
fasteners. Also, please remember to make sure that the extra set of clothes is appropriate for the season. Please send shoes
that your child can put on independently. Remember to label all shoes, garments, hats, and boots with your child’s name.
All children in Pre-K must have raincoats and boots at school at all times.
GSP t-shirts and khaki pants, or skirts for girls, are required attire during concerts. Students in grades 4-5 are
required to purchase a choir shirt, which should be worn at concerts and special events as determined by GSP staff.
The German American School is not responsible for the loss or damage of personal items brought to school.
Change of Enrollment
If you wish to make any schedule changes, please contact the Business Office. The Administration will then notify the
parents and teachers if the request is possible and will inform you of any changes in tuition. Your child’s schedule will
remain unchanged until the change request is finalized.
Meeting with Teachers
Your child’s teacher will be at school prior to 8:00 a.m.; however, keep in mind that this time is teacher planning time. If
you wish to talk with your child’s teacher, please feel free to make an appointment.
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Academic Program
GSP’s curriculum is a blend of German and Oregon standards. Specifics are available by speaking with your teacher, the
administration or on our website.
Homework
Homework is meant to reinforce topics covered in class and is intended to provide the student with necessary practice.
Homework also gives students a chance to formulate questions about the subject matter. Children do not learn or work at
the same pace. The teachers at GSP understand this. We ask that you work with your children to gauge the amount of time
they spend completing their homework assignments.
Parents/guardians are expected to support their children’s homework assignments in the following ways:
• At pick-up time, remind your child to pack their homework folder or notebook and any books/materials
necessary for that evening’s homework.
• Provide an appropriate place in your home where the child can regularly work.
• Encourage your child to complete assignments neatly, thoroughly, and on time.
• Ask your child to explain what s/he did for homework or look over it together after s/he has completed it.
When special projects are assigned, you can assist your child with research (searching the Internet, visiting the library,
collecting collage materials, etc.) and help him/her stay aware of project due dates. There are times when the teacher may
assign projects or special interest activities that demand repeated and continued effort and attention over a longer time
period. These projects will be presented by the teachers with sufficient lead time and with clear guidelines for completion.
Preschool: Homework is rarely assigned. When homework is assigned at this age level, it will normally
consist of a simple request to remember to bring a particular item from home or to sing a special song to
one’s family.
Kindergarten: Homework is assigned no more than once per week. The expectation is that the child
will spend approximately 10 minutes on these assignments, with the help of a parent or guardian.
Grades 1 and 2: Homework is assigned on a daily basis, usually in one or two subjects. The expectation
is that the child will spend approximately 20 minutes on these assignments. In the early homework years,
parents and teachers will need to frequently remind the students about their assignments. In class,
teachers will guide students to place their assignments into a special Hausaufgabenordner (a homework
folder) each afternoon.
Grades 3, 4, and 5: Homework is assigned on a daily basis, often in several different subjects per
evening. The expectation is that the student will spend from 30 to 45 minutes on homework each
evening. Students record daily assignments in their Hausaufgabenheft; the Heft will become increasingly
important as the number and complexity of the student’s homework increases.
Special projects: Longer assignments will occasionally be assigned to grade school students. The
completion time for these projects may vary from one week to several months. Project assignments will
be broken into smaller units of work, which should be completed according to the teacher’s timeline in
order to avoid an overload of work during the final days of the project.
Teachers make an effort to ensure a healthy amount of work. If you feel too much, or not enough, time is spent on
homework, please contact your child’s teachers. They are interested to hear how things are going at home and can help.
Library Rules
Books may be checked out for 3 weeks, and may be renewed for an additional 3 weeks. If books are not returned after the
renewal period, or are damaged beyond repair, the replacement cost will be charged to your account.
At the end of the school year all books have to be returned to the library by the first Friday in June (this excludes books for
the summer reading program)
While using the library, please observe the following rules:
No food or drinks please.
Please use quiet voices when others are reading
Please understand that reading time with your child and checking-out books is limited to opening hours in
order to have a volunteer assist you.
Please return all books within three weeks. After that the check-out may be renewed for an additional
three weeks.
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Please check books in on the computer before placing them in the return box.
Please return all books to the return boxes. Do not leave books on floor or out of place on shelves!
Please note that you will receive a reminder (by email) if a book is not returned on time. Please respond
promptly.
Attendance
a. Illness, injury, and family emergency: If a student cannot attend school due to illness, injury, or family
emergencies, a parent or guardian should call or email the school before 8:00am every day that the student will be
absent. The parent or guardian should also make individual arrangements with teachers regarding missed
assignments.
b. Vacations: The German American School strongly discourages families with grade school children from taking
vacations on regular school days. If it is necessary to be absent from school, it is the responsibility of the
parents/guardians to affirmatively inform both the school administration and all teachers two weeks prior to
the absence, if possible.
c. Tardiness: Grade school students who arrive after 8:00am need to pick up a tardy slip from the Administrative
Assistant before entering their classroom, unless such tardiness is due to a pre-arranged medical appointment.
d. Early dismissal for medical appointments and private lessons: Whenever your child will leave school before
his/her regular dismissal time, you must fill out an Early Dismissal Form with the school’s Administrative
Assistant. Please indicate if your child will be returning to Extended Care if enrolled in the program.
e. Preschool students who attend less than 5 days per week: If a child misses a day of Preschool, regardless of
the reason, the child is not permitted to substitute another day for the missed day. Similarly, children are not
permitted to make up for days missed due to Holidays, In-Service Days, Conference Days, or Planning Days.
Extra hours may be added for a rate of $10/hour. Arrangements should be made with the classroom teacher two
weeks in advance. Last minute arrangements should only be made in an emergency and all requests are subject to
approval by administration. Drop-in childcare should only be used occasionally as it interferes with classroom
dynamics and preparation. If drop-in childcare requests become a regular occurrence, staff and administration
may request a re-evaluation of your child’s schedule. If you want your child to attend an extra event on a day they
are not regularly scheduled, please contact the classroom teacher at least two weeks in advance. Additional
charges for attending may apply.
f. If a field trip is scheduled on a day that your child is not regularly attending, your child may participate on a
space available basis. Please check with your teacher. If space is available, we require you to accompany your
child on the field trip unless the child was signed up for an additional day in advance.
Lunch and Snacks
a. Mid-Morning Snack: The school provides a mid-morning snack in all Preschool classes. These snacks meet
USDA guidelines, and the weekly menu is posted in the lobby. Children in classes K – 5 need to bring their own
mid-morning snack.
b. Lunch: All students need to pack their own lunch. This lunch should include protein, grains, dairy,
fruits/vegetables, a cloth napkin, and an ice pack for freshness. Please do not send any caffeinated or energy
drinks. Microwaves are available for re-heating food. For safety reasons, PLEASE NO GLASS in lunch boxes.
c. Forgotten Lunch: If your child forgets his or her lunch, the school will provide a lunch. However, the school has
limited lunch resources. The school can provide up to two lunches at no charge throughout the school year. Upon
the third and subsequent requests to provide a lunch, your account will be charged $5.00 for each lunch provided.
d. Keep a Green School: In an effort to preserve our environment and reduce waste, the school strongly encourages
the use of cloth napkins and washable/re-usable containers in lunch boxes. For drinking water, each child is also
asked bring his/her own washable water bottle to class.
e. Allergies/Food Sensitivities: If your child has any allergies or food sensitivities, please report this on the
student’s Enrollment Form. Please also see the Allergy policy and forms in the appendix.
f. School Birthday Party Protocol: On your child’s birthday, his/her classmates will typically have a small
celebration during the day. You are welcome to provide a special snack, such as cupcakes, on this day. As we
have children with allergies, please talk to your child’s teacher to make arrangements.
g. Sweets & Chewing Gum: We encourage you to find healthy alternatives to sweets and candy in your child’s
lunchbox; chewing gum at school is not acceptable.
h. Extended Care Snack: The school provides a snack to all children enrolled in the Extended Care program. These
snacks meet the USDA guidelines and a monthly menu is posted in the Extended Care classrooms.
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Student Health
Sick Days: Students who are ill should be at home. If your child is staying home sick, please call the office before
8:00am and briefly describe the illness. See “Attendance” above. If you think that your child has an illness that can be
spread to others, please keep him/her home. Please see the appendix for the complete “School Exclusion Guidelines”
from the Oregon Department of Human Services. Students with head lice will not be allowed to return to school until
all evidence of head lice is gone.
Head Lice Policy: A child who is found with lice will be sent home for treatment. Once a child has been treated by
washing and nit combing, all lice & nits removed, the house and cars have been treated, then the child may return to
school. Upon arrival the child will be head checked while their parent is still in the building.
When we have cases of lice we work to be very diligent to help contain the spread. This means ….
• All stuffed animals, doll clothes, puppets, dress up clothes, blankets, pillows, small rugs and fabric bean bags
I classrooms must be bagged and left for 14 days or washed using hot water and dried on high heat for
30minutes.
• All parents are asked to take all children’s belongings home for cleaning that evening.
• During rest time, children will stay on their mats and mats will be at least 2 feet apart.
• Rest mats are cleaned thoroughly after each rest with bleach water.
• All carpets are vacuumed thoroughly.
Parents are asked to cooperate by doing the following:
• Warn children against sharing coats, hats, combs, hair clips, and other personal items.
• Wash bedding, stuffed animals, and recently worn clothing. Dry items on hot setting. For items that cannot
be washed, they should be placed in an airtight bag and sealed for 14 days or stored in a freezer for 48 hours.
• Vacuum rugs, furniture, mattresses, cars, car seats, etc.
• Wash all combs and brushes in hot soapy water.
• If applicable, thoroughly complete the recommended six week treatment plan (see below for resources) for
removal of nits and lice.
We understand that these preventative measures are inconvenient and time consuming for everyone. We appreciate
your cooperation, patience, and positive attitude as we all work together to make our school lice and nit free. For
further information you can Go the link for the CDC. Although information changes, we feel this should give parents
the information necessary to treat and help prevent lice. http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/
Medications from home: If your child must be given medicine at school, whether prescribed or over the counter,
the following rules apply:
• A parent or guardian must fill out a Medication Authorization Form with the Administrative Assistant.
• All medications must be in the original container; prescription medications must be labeled with the
child’s name, medication, dosage, instructions, and physician’s name.
• The Parent/Guardian must provide all supplies necessary for proper administration of the medication,
such as measuring devices and pre-cut pills.
• All medication will be kept locked in the First Aid room. Teachers will not store or dispense medications
from their classrooms, and students must never keep medications in their desk, lunchbox, or other
personal locations, unless medically necessary.
• The German American School staff is not currently trained in the administration of needle injections. If
your child requires injections, please make an appointment with the Assistant Head of School to discuss
alternatives (such as specialized injection training for your child’s teacher).
Illness or Injury at school
• Illness: If a child is too sick to remain at school, a parent/guardian will be contacted and asked to pick up
the child as soon as possible. The child will rest in the First Aid Room until a parent/guardian arrives.
• Minor injuries: Our staff is trained in basic First Aid and CPR. Minor scrapes and bumps (requiring no
more than soap, band-aids, ice, or hugs) will be treated by our staff and then the student will be returned
to regular class activities.
• Major injuries: Parents/guardians will be contacted immediately and asked to pick up the student from
school and take him/her to the family’s medical practitioner. In the event of a severe injury, Emergency
Services will be contacted first, and the parent/guardian will be contacted immediately afterwards.
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• All major illnesses and injuries require that an Incident or Accident Report be signed by the
parent/guardian, teacher, and Head of School. The Report will be kept in the student’s file, and a copy
will be provided to the parent/guardian.
Immunizations: Oregon law requires that students entering Oregon schools follow health department immunization
requirements. Prior to enrollment, one of the following written verifications must be presented to the school:
• Immunization Verification: A complete list of immunization dates, presented to the school, verified by
a parent/guardian signature, and reported on the Oregon Certificate of Immunization Status form.
• Medical Exemption: A physician’s statement that the student has had measles, mumps, rubella, or that
immunization would endanger the student’s health.
• Religious Exemption: A written statement signed by the parent/guardian of a student to the effect that
their religious beliefs are opposed to immunizations.
• Student Verification: A written statement signed by a parent/guardian of a student entering school as a
transfer to the effect that a verification of immunization will be presented to the school within 30 days of
the initial enrollment.
Requirements for complete immunization are as follows:
PK (-5 years)
K-5 (+5 years)
Diphtheria/Tetanus
4 doses 5 doses
(DTP, DT, Td, DtaP)
Polio (OPV, TOPV, IPV) 3 doses 4 doses
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) 1 dose 2 doses, K&1
Hepatitis B 3 doses 3 doses, K&1
Hepatitis A 2 doses 2 doses, K, 1 & 2
Haemophilus Influenza type b (Hib) 1-4 doses not required
Varicella (Chickenpox) 1 dose or history of disease 1 dose or history of disease
Volunteer Service
The German American School would not be what it is today without the tremendous support that it has received from
parents since its beginning in 1993. Parent support has been, and always will be, a vital part of our school.
a. We ask that every family contribute 25 volunteer hours each school year (pro-rated for single-parent families and
mid-year enrollees).
b. Every parent/guardian is asked to keep track of their volunteer hours in the Volunteer Hours Notebook located in
the school lobby. We ask that you write down your hours at least once per month, even if you accumulate more
than the required number of hours. A comprehensive record of our parents’ volunteer hours is important for our
records and also assists the school in the successful pursuit of grants and donations.
c. Volunteer Coordinator is available to provide information regarding volunteer opportunities throughout the school
year. The Volunteer Coordinator will also send three reminders during the school year indicating the number of
hours remaining to fulfill the volunteer hour requirement.
d. On June 1 st , GSP will bill your account $15 per unfulfilled volunteer hour.
Financial Commitment
a. Timely payment of tuition and fees is essential to the school’s continued operation, as the school operates on a
careful budget. Please read your Student Enrollment Contract carefully for the terms of your financial
commitment to the school.
b. Monthly invoices and statements are issued on the 16 th of each month. The balance owed is due by the 1 st day of
the following month. Statements and invoices not paid in full within 30 days will incur a $25/month late fee.
c. As a courtesy to our parents, some items (such as Spirit Wear and Student Store purchases) may be billed to your
account interest free for one billing cycle.
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Donations
GSP greatly appreciates the generosity of our community and parents. If you would like to make a donation to the
classroom or school or have information regarding corporate donations or sponsorships, please contact the Head of School.
Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law and the donor’s individual circumstances.
Teacher Gift Fund
This fund is established by the volunteer parent classroom representatives to acknowledge all staff members in an equal and
positive manner. In September, classroom representatives will collect a suggested cash donation which will then be pooled
and equally divided by the total number of staff members. The allotted amount will be used to purchase gifts (birthday,
Christmas, and end of year) and to supplement expenses for teacher appreciation week.
If a student wishes to make his/her teacher a small, heartfelt gift or card in addition to the group gift and give it personally
to the teacher, he/she is welcome to do so.
Field Trips
• Field trips are a valuable way of extending a child’s educational experience beyond the walls of the classroom; each
class will participate in several field trips per year.
• In order to be able to participate in a field trip, parents need to give their written consent by signing the Field Trip
Permission Slip. The teacher will leave a Field Trip Permission Slip in your folder; this form states specifics such as
destination, purpose, mode of transportation, time of departure, and return. Children who do not have a signed
permission slip on the date of the field trip will stay at the school.
• The teacher will notify you at least one week in advance of any field trip. In addition, every field trip at GSP will be
posted in the entrance area and listed in the lesson plans.
• All children must wear the school’s T-shirt or sweatshirt on GSP field trips. If a student arrives without a shirt on a
field trip day, a shirt will be provided by the school and the parent’s account will be charged.
• Usually school buses or public transportation will be used for transporting children on field trips. If, in the unlikely
event, a bus is not available to transport students, the field trip will be cancelled. It is school policy that private
transportation to field trips is not acceptable.
• Although student field trips occur off campus, school policies and procedures remain in effect. Prior to each field trip,
the teacher will discuss safety procedures specific to the trip with students and accompanying adults.
• Field trip chaperones are either a) current school staff or b) parents of current students.
Chaperone Code of Conduct
1. Emphasize quiet and awareness: Most places we visit on field trips are either quiet places (animal habitats as well as
libraries, theaters or concert halls) or special places (parades, performances, sheriff’s office) where we can learn best if
we listen.
2. Demonstrate appropriate behavior: Stay on trails, move quietly and be respectful of the world around you. The students
will learn the above by copying your behavior. Modeling appropriate behavior and attitude is the most powerful type of
teaching.
3. Keep the group together: The chaperone should make sure that the entire group is together and able to see and hear the
leader’s presentation.
4. Keep students focused: Make sure that students are participating in activities, and help them if they have trouble.
Netiquette
GSP uses a number of internal distribution lists as well as social media sites to communicate with its community. We
strongly recommend communicating directly with the sender and avoiding the ‘reply all’ function. The following
guidelines have been established to help maintain consistency and avoid miscommunication.
1. Adhere to the same standards of behavior online that you follow in real life. Be honest, respectful, and polite.
2. If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, don’t say it online.
3. If you disagree with someone, criticize the idea, not the person. One good way to do this is by asking questions or by
using “I” messages. Instead of writing, “You’re nuts!” you could write, “Can you clarify what you meant by?” or “I
disagree with that idea...”
4. Avoid offensive language and personal attacks. If you realize things are getting out of hand, please go offline to finish
your discussion. Don’t monopolize distribution lists with your disagreement.
5. Be conscious of your choice of language - sometimes words that might not sound hurtful when said in person (when
tone of voice and gesture can help communication) might feel offensive to someone when they are written. Sarcasm
and sardonic humor do not translate well into writing.
10/3/2012

6. Avoid generalizations about entire groups of people, including racial, ethnic, religious, gender, sexual preference or
other stereotypes. For example, grouping “all teenagers” (or “all parents”) together is unfair and inaccurate.
7. If your message is directed at a specific person (and would not be of interest to everyone), reply to that individual
rather than the entire group. This particularly applies if you have a private or sensitive comment to make. Remember
others right to privacy. Refrain from naming names, especially those of students other than your own, when raising
issues that may be sensitive or controversial.
8. Know what you’re talking about and make sense. Proofread your message before you post it. Do not post rumors or
information that you have not personally verified, particularly if they might be damaging to someone.
9. Be forgiving of other people’s mistakes. Assume people mean well, and that any omissions or offensive comments
were inadvertent. If you really feel the need to correct them, do so respectfully and, if it’s personal, in private.
10. Respect other people’s time and bandwidth. Keep your postings short and to the point.
11. When replying to a previous poster, delete any irrelevant text and copy only the relevant part of her or his message into
your posting, not the entire discussion.
12. Some topics may be of interest only to a small sub-group of the GSP community. Please choose the appropriate
distribution list.
13. Be especially careful that your subject line is appropriate to your message. Don’t just push “reply” without also
considering whether you need to change the subject line for clarity and accuracy.
14. It is not appropriate on the list to name a teacher or staff person with whom you are having issues. You MAY talk in
general terms about class work, expectations, etc. But if you have issues with a particular teacher, please deal with that
teacher directly.
15. Distribution lists are not a classified ad list, please do not use it as such. Remember that there are hundreds of users on
this list and each one has at least one item they would like to advertise for sale.
16. We all have an interest in some kind of political view point and/or party and/or candidate. Please share them with your
friends and family, but please keep them off the list. Remember we have over 200 members on this list and that can
lead to thousands of different points of view. In addition, GSP is an IRS Section 501©3 non-profit organization and
therefore cannot take any position on any political campaign.
School Pictures
Class and individual pictures are taken each fall. Information about the cost and other details will be put into your parent
folder. The purchase of pictures is entirely optional and the photographic company makes no contacts with parents. GSP
does not receive a commission for offering this service.
Visitors
The German American School welcomes visitors, such as prospective parents, professional educators, and alumni.
However, the safety of our children and the quality of instruction are our priority. Therefore, we have developed the
following visitor guidelines:
a. Custodial parents/guardians have the right to enter their child’s classroom at any time, and are encouraged to be
involved in their child’s education. However, in order to maintain the classroom focus, we ask that you plan ahead
with your child’s teacher for classroom involvement, except in the case of emergency. While visiting in the
classroom, please allow normal classroom activity to progress as much as possible. The needs of each classroom
vary greatly by teacher and grade level; please contact your child’s teacher to find out where and when you can be
of assistance in the classroom.
b. GSP Alumni/nae may visit GSP for an entire class day, free of charge, once per semester. (Visits beyond one day
per semester will be billed the same as visiting students, below.) Alumni/nae must be age-appropriate to the
classroom, must possess adequate German language abilities, and must have the permission of the Assistant Head
of School at least one week in advance of the visit. Alumni/nae’s parents must submit a signed Student
Information Form (available from the office) prior to the visit.
c. Prospective Students may visit a GSP classroom, free of charge, during the enrollment period, in order to assist
families in the process of selecting the best school for their child. The length of such visits may vary from one
class period to an entire class day, and will be determined by GSP based on the age and language abilities of the
prospective student. Prospective students must make arrangements with the Head or Assistant Head of School at
least one week in advance of the visit. If a prospective student is not accompanied by his/her parent during the
visit, then the parent must submit a signed Student Information Form (available from the office) prior to the visit.
d. Visiting Students may attend GSP classes for a fee of $100 per school day, for a period not to exceed 20 school
days. (Visits longer than 20 days would constitute enrollment in the GSP.) Visiting students must have the
permission of the Assistant Head of School at least one week in advance of the visit. By the first day of the visit,
visiting students must also present a signed Limited Enrollment Contract, a signed Student Information Form, an
up-to-date Certificate of Immunization Status, and payment in full.
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e. Visiting Professionals (such as educators and graduate students) may observe GSP classes free of charge, as a
courtesy to the educational community. Visiting professionals must have the permission of the Head or Assistant
Head of School prior to the visit. For the safety and comfort of GSP students, visiting professionals will wear a
GSP Visitor’s Badge at all times and will always be accompanied by a current GSP staff member. No visiting
professional will be left alone with a GSP student unless the visitor has been affiliated with the GSP community
for at least six months and has passed a criminal history check.
Bringing Items from Home
a. Toys: We realize that young children often still need to bring a favorite toy or “lovey” from home in order to ease
their transition to a new environment. These types of “security” objects are welcomed in the preschool
classrooms. However, we subscribe to the rule that anything that prevents a child from concentrating on his/her
best work at school should not be brought to school. The following items are specifically prohibited: toys (unless
requested by the teacher for a specific time and purpose), pets (see below), radios, mp3 players, cameras, cell
phones (or anything else that beeps or requires batteries), gum or candy (unless arranged with the teacher for a
special event), matches or other dangerous articles, money, and all instruments of warfare. Specifically, any toy or
item that resembles an instrument of warfare (sword, gun, etc.) is prohibited on school property. Any prohibited
item will be confiscated and returned to the parent/guardian at the end of the school day.
b. Pets: Except for guide animals (or similar), any animal visits must be cleared with the Head of School or
Designee.
Holidays and Events
a. Holidays: GSP does not affiliate itself with any religious organization. We support and honor the celebratory
traditions of all of our families. If your family has traditions or holidays that you would like to share with your
child’s classroom, you are encouraged to arrange a Sharing Day with your child’s teacher. Similarly, if you prefer
that your child not participate in specific types of celebrations, please inform your child’s teacher and we will be
happy to honor your request. Please refer to the appendix of this handbook for brief descriptions of some GSP
traditions and events.
b. Concerts: All GSP students are asked to participate in concerts each school year. These concerts are typically
held in December and May, and provide an opportunity for parents, grandparents, and friends to see our students
perform German and English songs, skits, and dances.
c. Oregon Independent Schools Organization (OISO): Along with other area language schools, GSP participates in
athletic and cultural events to promote communication, friendship and healthy competition among students and
families. Details regarding these events (soccer, basketball, choir and track and field) will be announced in the
weekly newsletter.
Lost and Found
To eliminate the loss of personal items, particularly clothes and lunch boxes, please mark all items with the child’s name.
This makes it easier for the GSP staff to return lost and found items to your child’s cubby. Parents and grade school
children are asked to assume responsibility for checking the lost and found periodically for lost articles. The Lost and
Found Box is located in the entry area of the school. Lost and found items are kept for no longer than one term. At the end
of each term, all remaining items are donated to charity.
Inclement Weather Policy
In case of inclement weather (snow, ice, etc.):
a. The school will make announcements by 6:00 AM on inclement weather days. As a general rule GSP will follow
the Beaverton Public School decision.
b. Check GSP’s website at www.gspdx.org, your radio or television for additional information. If there is a schedule
change for the school, we automatically report this by 6:00 AM to all major news & radio stations. The school
may also send an email to all community members, but the school website and media outlets should be your first
resource.
c. If the onset of inclement weather occurs during normal school hours, you will be contacted by the school or the
parent phone tree if you need to pick up your child.
d. If GSP is closed, all associated programs will also be closed including Extended Care, AGs, concerts, etc. If you
expect to need childcare on inclement weather days, you are responsible for arranging this with a private sitter.
e. Open doors - On late start days, there will be no before care provided and school will start immediately at the
stated time. Since everyone (staff and parents) will be arriving late, parents must stay with their children until
school starts.
10/3/2012

Fire Drills and Other Emergency Procedures
GSP conducts monthly emergency drills during school hours. Any parents, volunteers or other visitors must follow drill
procedures while on school grounds for the duration of the drill.
a. Fire drill: Unannounced fire drills will be held monthly. Students line up and follow the teacher via the
emergency route to the designated safe area outside the building. Students will walk quietly without talking,
running, or pushing. Teachers will check attendance and take all emergency contact information along in order to
be able to contact parents in case of a real fire.
b. Earthquake drill: Earthquake drills are conducted every other month. The earthquake drill is initiated by the
administrator who uses the page all feature on the phone system announcing Earthquake, Erdbeben, Earthquake,
Erdbeben. If students are inside, the teachers direct them into their safety position under the tables. With their
backs to the window, students need to hold on to a table leg and cover their neck with the other hand. Students
and staff wait in their safe locations until the administrator announces “All clear.” In case of a real earthquake,
evacuation takes place after ground stops shaking. Students and staff will not return to the building until it is
declared safe for occupancy.
c. “Lock-Down” drill: The procedures in case of threats of personal injury or intrusion follow the same procedures
as the indoor earthquake plan, so as not to panic young children. The Administrator announces a lock-down drill
by using the page all feature on the phone system. Teachers then direct children to their earthquake safety position
pull all shades and lock the classroom. Administrative personnel lock all exterior building doors and assist the
Head of School with safety management. Staff and students maintain their safety positions until personally
notified of the “All clear” by administrative or emergency personnel.
During an emergency drill, all volunteers and visitors located in and around school property are expected to follow
emergency procedures.
Emergency Closures
In the event that it becomes necessary to close the school when classes are in session, parents will be notified via telephone
by staff and/or the parent phone tree. It is critical that the emergency contact numbers listed in your child’s enrollment
form are current. Teachers carry a copy of every child’s emergency contact information during an evacuation, and these
numbers will be used to contact you and/or your designated emergency contact person.
In case of an emergency closure, students and staff will relocate to:
Valley Catholic School
4275 SW 148th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97007
(This is the grade school kitty-corner from our facility at Murray and Tualatin Valley Highway.)
Child Care Division Notice
1. All inspection reports concerning this facility and the Child Care Division Rules are available for inspection.
Child Care Division regulations for child care centers
Child Care Division inspection reports
Fire Safety inspection reports
Sanitation inspection reports
2. This center is open to all custodial parents during all hours of operation, without advance notice.
3. To register a complaint:
Please discuss your concerns with your child’s teacher.
If the problem is not resolved, contact the Head of School.
If you continue to have concerns, do not feel your concerns are being addressed, or you are uncomfortable
discussing the issues with center staff, contact Selena Mitchell of the State of Oregon Child Care Division at 503-
280-6073.
(THE CHILD CARE DIVISION DOES NOT INTERVENE IN MONEY MATTERS)
10/3/2012

Extended Care Program
GSP offers a quality Extended Care program, with a focus on independence, consistency and socialization. We offer two
programs; one for our early childhood classes and one for our school age classes. We are licensed through the Child Care
Division and follow all state guidelines.
As a portion of the GSP day we follow all GSP school rules and policies listed in the Parent Handbook.
We offer a daily structured program from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday. In
addition, all-day or half-day programs are offered when we have early dismissal days, teacher planning days, in-service
days, Spring Break, and Winter Break. Our program goal is to provide a safe, positive and fun atmosphere for all children
attending GSP. This is done daily by providing homework time, hands on special projects, free play and outside/gym time.
Our daily schedule is posted in each Extended Care classroom.
GSP strongly encourages families to sign up with this program, if you have varying schedules that may prevent you from
picking your child(ren) up on time.
Extended Care Hours
Extended Care begins at school dismissal time and ends at 6:00 pm. Hours for In-Service and Breaks are 7:00 am to 6:00
pm.
Extended Care phone number: In the event of an emergency, on-site Extended Care staff may be reached after hours at
503-927-3532. Please call the main number for all other inquiries.
Registration
To register for Extended Care, please complete the Registration form. The form is located in this packet, on our website
and at the front desk.
Scheduling Options
Parents are asked to choose the number of days per week and the specific days their child(ren) will attend. Any and all
attendance beyond the submitted schedule will be billed at the drop-in rate of $10/hour with a one hour minimum and
subsequent time billed in 30 minute increments. Your child will not be permitted to attend Extended Care on days he/she
does not attend school.
Flex Schedule
When choosing this scheduling option, parents are asked to complete and submit a monthly calendar indicating the specific
hours and days needed for care. The Flex Schedule rate is billed at $7.00/hour. The calendar must be submitted to the
Extended Care coordinator by the 14 th of each month. Schedules will only be accepted on the Flex Schedule Calendar
form. Email, verbal, and written requests will not be accepted. A late fee of $25 will be charged for calendars submitted
after the 14 th of the month. When scheduling for multiple children, please submit one calendar per child. Once the
calendar has been submitted, any additional hours will be billed at the drop-in rate of $10/hour. Flex scheduling does not
apply to In-service days and Breaks. Refunds or schedule substitutions may not be made for incorrect schedule
submissions or for a period of absence, illness, vacation, holiday, or suspension.
Scheduling for In-Service & Breaks
Parents have the option to schedule care for In-service days at the beginning of the school year. Changes may be submitted
at a later date by following the Change Request policy listed below. Parents may also submit an In-Service days &
Winter/Spring Breaks schedule request approximately 8 weeks prior to these scheduled days. Scheduling opportunities will
be announced in the Laternlein. Space is limited, early sign up is strongly encouraged. A Daily Rate option will be
available for Winter/Spring Breaks. However, if minimum enrollment is not reached extended care will be canceled.
Schedule Changes
Any changes to the schedule must be submitted to the Extended Care Coordinator by the first of the month using the
Schedule Change form. All changes will then go into effect on the 1 st of the following month. For example, submit changes
on February 1st for the month of March. Advance notice is required so that we can properly meet our staffing
requirements.
All changes are based on available space.
10/3/2012

If you are making a change that does not affect your payment, the change will be effective on the 1st of the
following month. This applies to swapping days of the week (i.e. Parent wants T & Th then wants to change to
Mon & Wed).
If you need to submit a schedule change that involves increasing or decreasing days and is a permanent change,
you have 3 opportunities per school year: 9/1, 12/1, & 3/1. The change(s) will be effective on the 1st of the
following month. Permanent changes made at any other time will be assessed a $25/change fee for each
subsequent change.
Any additions to a submitted Flex Schedule will be billed at the Drop-in rate.
If you are adding a one-time extra day, this is considered Drop-in (please see below).
Drop-in Care
Drop-in care is to be used for emergencies, unforeseeable circumstances, or late pick-ups at the end of a school day. Due to
Child Care Division policies and planning limitations, we are unable to guarantee drop-in care. The drop-in fee is
$10/hour with a one hour minimum and subsequent time billed in 30 minute increments. Whenever possible, notice of
drop-in care should be submitted to the Extended Care Coordinator by email as early as possible. Please note: Drop-in
care is not available during In-Service Days or Winter & Spring Breaks.
Late Pick-ups
Late pick-up fees will be billed as follows:
Dismissal Time (M-Th 3:00 & Fri 2:10) - All students who are not picked up at school dismissal time will be sent
to the Extended Care Program. Parents will be billed at the drop-in rate of $10/hour per child with a one hour
minimum and subsequent time billed in 30 minute increments.
4:00 pm and/or 5:00 pm (applies to Flex Schedule only) - Parents will be billed at the drop-in rate of $10/hour per
child with a one hour minimum and subsequent time billed in 30 minute increments.
For example, you have scheduled your child from 3:00-5:00 and picked up your child at 5:15. You will be
billed an additional $10.
6:00 pm and later – The late fee is $60 per hour, computed to the nearest quarter hour.
Cancellations
Email cancellation requests to ExtendedCare@gspdx.org or submit the Early Cancellation form to a staff member
72 hours prior to the scheduled care day. Not applicable to Flex Schedule participants.
Refunds only apply to In-Service and Break scheduled days. Please see Schedule Change & Withdrawal policies for
regular care schedule changes. A full refund will be credited to your account for a cancellation notice received 72 hours
prior to the scheduled care date(s). Any cancellation notice received within 72 hours of the scheduled care date(s) will be
refunded at 50% of the original fee. Please note that fees for week-long breaks are not pro-rated.
For example, if you have registered for a week during a winter or spring break and you wish to cancel one of the five days in
that week, you will not receive a refund. However, if you wish to cancel the full week and you have submitted your written
notice 72 hours prior to the start of that break you will receive a full refund.
Billing
A registration fee of $10 per child is required and will be included on your first invoice. Fees are based on the attached
schedule and will not be pro-rated.
Billing options are:
Full payment with 2% discount - due by June 30 (Only valid for 2, 3, 4, or 5 day schedules. Does not apply to
Registration Fee, In-service, Breaks, or Flex schedule.)
Full payment – due by September 1st
Monthly – 10 equal installments with the first payment due on September 1st and the remaining payments
due on the 1st of each month
Flex schedule will be billed according to submitted schedule. Payments are due on the 1st of each month.
Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. See withdrawal policy below.
10/3/2012

Withdrawal/termination: You are responsible for fees due through the end of the month in which withdrawal/termination
occurs. Refunds will be given to those who choose the full payment option and will include only pre-paid months after the
withdrawal month.
Refunds or schedule substitutions may not be made for a period of absence, illness, vacation, holiday or suspension.
Financial Aid may be available and is only applicable to those with a 5 day schedule. Please contact the business office for
more information.
Dependent Child Care receipts are available upon request. Please contact the Business Manager.
AGs
If your child attends an AG during your scheduled day(s), a credit of $6 per week per AG will be posted to your account.
Credit is only given for participation in the AG program, no other afterschool activities. Credit may be applied to other
charges on your GSP account. Credit will not be issued in the form of a cash payment.
For example, if your child attends a 10-week long AG, a credit of $60 will be posted to your account.
Other After School Activities
An After School Activities Release Form is required in order to release your child from the Extended Care program to
attend a regularly scheduled after school activity such as piano lessons, Scouts, etc. Refunds or schedule substitutions may
not be made for a period of absence. This form is not required for AG sessions.
Snack
The school provides a snack to all children enrolled in the Extended Care program. These snacks meet the USDA
guidelines and a monthly menu is posted in the Extended Care classrooms.
Additional Information and Policies
Per state guidelines, your child may not attend school or extended care unless the GSP Emergency & Authorization Form
has been received. Emergency & Authorization forms are included in the Back-to-School packet and are due by August 15,
2012. No exceptions.
10/3/2012

10/3/2012

German A merican School
of Port land 2 0 1 2 -13
Important Dates
Sept 4
Sept 13
Sept 18
Sept 19
Oct 12
Oct 26
Oct 27
Nov 7
Nov 8-9
Nov 12
Nov 15
Nov 17-18
Nov 22-23
Dec 6
Dec 13
Dec 18
Dec 24 – Jan 4
Jan 7
Jan 21
Jan 31
Feb 1
First Day of School
Parent Night, Pre/k
Info Fair
Parent Night, Grade
School
Staff Development,
Extended Care open
Staff Development,
Extended Care open
Donor Dinner
St. Martin’s Parade
Parent Teacher
Conferences
Early dismissal
Thursday, 12:30 p.m.,
Extended Care open
No school Friday,
Extended Care Open
Veterans’ Day, Extended
Care closed
Gilkey Middle School
Open House, 6:30-8:30
pm
Holiday Market
Thanksgiving Holiday,
Extended Care closed
St. Nikolaus
Grade School Holiday
Concert, 6:30 p.m.
Pre-k Music open
classroom
Winter Break
School resumes
MLK, Jr. Day, Extended
Care closed
Middle School Info
Session @ Gilkey Middle
School, 6:30-8pm
Zeugnisse/ Report Cards
Mar (TBD)
Mar 18-29
April 1
April 12
April 20
April 25-26
May 9
May 24
May 27
June (TBD)
June 13
June 14
June 17- Aug 23
Key
GSP Events
School Closed
½ day
First/last Day
OISO Choral Concert
Spring Break
School Resumes
Staff Development,
Extended Care open
Spring Fundraiser
Parent Teacher
Conferences
Early dismissal
Thursday, 12:30 p.m.
No school Friday,
Extended Care open
Grade School Spring
Concert, 6:30 p.m.
Staff Development,
Extended Care open
Memorial Day, Extended
Care closed
OISO Track & Field
Last Day of School,
Zeugnisse/Report Card
Teacher Planning Day,
Extended Care closed
Summer Programs
Feb 15
Feb 18
Staff Development
Extended Care open
Presidents’ Day,
Extended Care closed
10/3/2012

GSP Funding Sources: How you can help GSP Grow and Thrive
Standard Tuition: approximately 80% of basic operation needs (salaries and benefits, rent, financial obligations, routine
maintenance and supplies (including special expenses related to being a language immersion school-foreign language
books, faculty visas, work permits etc.) are covered by Standard Tuition. Standard Tuition is not tax deductible.
Development Fee: this one-time fee per family helps cover the costs of registration, administration, and physical growth of
the school facility. The Development Fee is not tax deductible.
Actual/Corporate Tuition: this tuition rate primarily applies to international transfer families and covers the actual cost
for a year of school at GSP. The difference between the Standard Tuition and the Actual/Corporate Tuition is tax
deductible. Everyone is welcome to choose this payment option.
German Government, Zentralstelle für Auslandsschulwesen (ZfA): GSP is one of five schools in the United States
accredited by the ZfA and receives financial support based on enrollment, income, expenses and growth. This funding
fluctuates annually and is used primarily to supplement salaries and rent.
Annual Fund: donations to the Annual Fund campaign are 100% tax deductible. They are used to fill the gap between the
Standard Tuition expense categories and the actual cost to educate your student at GSP. These funds go to the General
Operating Budget, unless otherwise specified by the donor or the school. Please contact the Director of Development &
Marketing for information about this fund.
Corporate Matches: many employers will match cash donations and/or will match volunteer hours with a financial
contribution. Please contact your employer’s human resources department or see the school’s Business Manager for further
details.
Annual Spring Fundraiser and Special Appeal: each spring, the school’s volunteers organize and host an event for the
entire GSP community, including teachers, families and friends. The goals of this event are to raise General Operating
funds as well as a Special Appeal for a program that is otherwise not funded in the budget. Purchases made are partially tax
deductible. In-Kind donations are 100% tax deductible. Special Appeal donations are 100% tax deductible. In recent
years, Special Appeal funds have helped build our soccer field, build and furnish our library, indoor play space and science
rooms, purchase musical instruments, technology and more. Please contact the Director of Development & Marketing for
information about this event.
Donor Dinner: this event is open to anyone willing to make a specified minimum donation to the school. Donations are
typically for General Operating funds and are 100% tax deductible beyond the value of the meal. Please contact the
Director of Development & Marketing for information about this event.
Holiday Market: held the weekend before Thanksgiving, this community event is inspired by the wonderful German
markets that are held throughout Germany during the holidays. Featuring traditional German holiday crafts, sweets and
treats, Adventkalendars and more, many vendors have been a part of this annual event since the first market held at GSP in
1999. These funds go to the General Operating Budget, Please contact the Director of Development & Marketing for
information about this event.
Pizza Lunch Programs: our delivered pizza lunch program provides a small portion of revenue to support the General
Operating Budget.
Goodsearch: set your web browser to www.goodsearch.com and every search you make results in a one cent donation to
GSP.

General Facts about GSP and how Independent Schools are funded
-GSP is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization registered with the State of Oregon and accredited by the Zentralstelle
für Auslandsschulwesen and AdvanceED.
-It receives no financial support from either the Oregon or U.S. governments.
-Basic tuition revenues must be supplemented by approximately 20% (as in all independent schools) by a number of
fundraising programs.
-GSP has 20-55% lower tuition than other private schools in the area, and a Financial Assistance Program for
qualified families for students in Kindergarten and Grade School.
-The American independent school system of supplemental funding, through fundraising, permits lower basic tuition,
and the opportunity for parents and friends to make tax-deductible donations to bridge the gap.
Events, Customs & Things to know at GSP
The following information is a growing collection of explanations, historical background and tips about being a GSP
family. Please feel free to help us by adding to the list for next year’s handbook. If you have any input, please contact the
office.
St. Martin’s Day, November 11 th
Falling on November 11, German children celebrate St Martin's Day
as the start of Carnival season. They walk around the streets, after
dark, carrying lanterns, and singing special songs. A bit like trick or
treating, they are rewarded for their singing and the beauty of their
lanterns, with sweets and other goodies.
Who Was St. Martin?
St Martin of Tours started out as a Roman soldier. He was baptized
when he was grown up and became a monk. He was a very good and
kind man, and eventually became the Bishop of Tours. As well as
being kind, he was quiet and simple. He didn't want to become Bishop, but he didn't have much choice. There are many
legends about his life. The most famous is when he cut his cloak in half to share with a beggar during a snowstorm, to save
the beggar from dying of the cold. Another legend is about his trying to hide so as not to become Bishop. The story is that
he hid in a stall in a barn, hoping to escape the people who were hunting for him. They had come to take him to be
appointed Bishop. A flock of geese made a lot of noise and gave away his hiding place. The goose is the animal symbol of
St Martin and a favorite food on Saint Martin's Day.
Laternenumzug/Lantern Parade takes place on or around November 11 th . This year the Lantern Parade
will be held at GSP.. In the spirit of giving, we invite each person participating in the parade to bring a
can of food to be donated to the Oregon Food Ban
The Songs
There are many songs that the children sing; here is one, with an English translation:
Ich geh' mit meiner Laterne
Und meine Laterne mit mir.
Dort oben leuchten die Sterne,
Hier unten, da leuchten wir.
(Mein Licht ist aus,
Wir geh‘n nach Haus‘,
Rabimmel, rabammel, rabum.)
I'm walking with my lantern
And my lantern goes with me.
Above the stars are shining,
and we are shining below.
(My light has gone out,
We're going home,
rabimmel, rabammel, rabum)
(Source: learninghaven.com)
10/3/2012

St. Nikolaus - St. Nicholas Day, December 6 th
St. Nicholas Day, or Eve, is celebrated on December 6. This is a
favorite holiday of all children - it's a gift-giving day. When evening
comes, St. Nicholas, a reverend gray-haired figure with flowing beard,
wearing gorgeous bishop's garments, gold embroidered cope, mitre and
pastoral staff, knocks on doors and enquires about the behavior of the
children. The custom of examining the children, where they will cite a
verse, sing, or otherwise show their skills, is still widespread in
German-speaking countries. Each little one gets a gift for his
performance. The story of St. Nicholas, the bishop of Myra in Minor
Asia, who died on December 6th, 343, dates back to the 4th century. He
is said to appear in the company of Knecht Ruprecht, "Knecht" meaning
"servant". Historically, Ruprecht was a dark and sinister figure wearing
a tattered robe with a big sack on his back in which, as a legend says, he
would put all naughty children. St. Nicholas also appears together with
St. Peter, with an angel, the Christchild (Christkindl). As the gift-giving
function of St. Nikolaus began to shift to the splendor of the candle-lit
Christmas tree and emphasis on the birth of Christ, Knecht Ruprecht
became the servant and companion of the Christchild. In this role
Ruprecht became the patron saint of Christmas and was called
"Weihnachtsmann," Father Christmas or Santa Claus.
(Source: http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=87 - Photo:
Wikipedia)
Fasching – February or March
The days leading up to Ash Wednesday mark a time
of revelry, merry making, and celebration around
the world. Some places more than others, however,
seem to have the honor of hosting the grandest,
most spectacular festivities. New Orleans has Mardi
Gras. Venice has Carnevale. Southern Germany has
Fasching.
Fasching is a period marked with great joy and
occasion, in Catholic Bavaria and Austria. Fasching
as a term is derived from the word Fastnacht,
meaning "eve of the beginning of the fast."
Linguists speculate that "Fasching" also developed
out of the Middle High German "vaschanc" or
"vastschang" (Fastschank), which means the last
drink served before the Lenten fast.
Like many holidays, Fasching began as a blend of
pagan traditions with new Christian customs.
Dressing-up as fools, clowns, or harlequins is a
common characteristic that stretches across cultural
and political borders. Long ago, the lower classes used Fasching festivities to wear masks and costumes that mocked the
clergy and aristocracy, using the celebrations to avoid punishment. Today, the costumes range from the traditional masks
and fools, to contemporary pop culture references.
(Reprinted with permission www.suite101.com)
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Events and Activities at GSP
Book Fair
Each school year GSP hosts a book fair during parent teacher conferences in November. The fair is mostly
volunteer-driven and profits are used for the expansion of the school library.
Oktoberfest
Each year our choir; made up of the students from Grades 4 and 5, perform at the Oaks Park Oktoberfest which
takes place at the end of September. Generally the performance is scheduled in the late afternoon on a Friday.
Parents are responsible for transporting their child(ren) to the event. All performers receive ride bracelets after the
performance as a “Thank you”.
School Concerts
Preschool and Kindergarten have a Music open classroom scheduled during the month of December. During this
week, parents are welcome to sit in on their child’s music class.
Grade school students sing at a holiday concert and a spring concert. Dates are available on the school calendar.
OISO (Oregon Independent School Organization):
The event coordination group among the independent language immersion schools in the area. Typically, OISO
schools host basketball, choir, soccer and track and field events for the schools children.
Extracurricular Activities
After School Clubs – Arbeitsgemeinschaften – AG
AGs are offered for grades 1-5 and give children the opportunity to participate in programs with students from other
grades. Clubs offered in the past have included: Journalism, Green School (Recycling), Cooking & Baking, Ceramics,
Paper Making, LEGO and Messy Science to name a few.
Each AG meets from 3:15pm until 4:15pm
Students signed up for AG will be in the care of Extended Care staff from 2:50-3:15
Students are welcome to sign up for more than one AG, but may not enroll in two on the same day.
Minimum of 5 students required, maximum 10 enrollees allowed. Enrollees are accepted upon full payment
of fees.
Enrollment and Authorization Forms must be complete and in office to be enrolled.
Sessions are from September – December, from January - March and from April - June. Clubs will not meet
during school closures (Winter & Spring breaks, holidays, staff service days, etc).
Adult German Classes
Are you interested in learning German or brushing up on your current skills? Then these classes might be for you.
Come join us for a fun and relaxed learning environment with small class sizes and lots of individual attention.
Classes are scheduled on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:00 pm and are generally structured as follows:
6:30-6:40 large group activity/listening to a dialogue
6:40-7:40 break into separate classes (varying levels) for instruction
7:40-8:00 large group cultural experience
The cultural experience involves learning some aspect of German culture and an opportunity to practice speaking
skills and/or build vocabulary. To download an enrollment form, please visit our website at www.gspdx.org, or for
more information e-mail us at info@gspdx.org
Buchklub
The German Buchklub was founded 10 years ago in large part by GSP teachers. The main focus of this club is to read
and discuss mostly contemporary literature by German speaking authors. The Buchklub has about 15 members, who
meet every 6-8 weeks. Since its inception the group of mostly women, many of them not affiliated with GSP has read
more than 60 books. Meetings are social events, include potluck dinners and usually take place in the home of one of
its members. New members who speak and read German fluently are always welcome to join the group. For more
information please contact Heike Schütz-Malinowski at heike.sm@gspdx.org.
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