The East Bay German International School (EBGIS) is a dual-language immersion school offering preschool through eighth grade programs. EBGIS’s integrated curriculum combines bilingual German and English instruction with project-based learning and cross-cultural experiences. Small class sizes allow EBGIS teachers to nurture and support each student based on their unique needs.

The EBGIS Early Childhood Program employs a play-based and project-oriented approach widely used in Germany that is implemented by a highly trained and experienced international faculty. The curriculum incorporates early immersion principles to expand children’s communicative competencies in German and English. Free and guided play are employed to teach and inspire. In-class projects are developed by an interdisciplinary team based on seasonal rhythms and students’ observed interests. These multidimensional projects cover content areas such as language, intercultural studies, science, mathematics, music, movement and art in a developmentally appropriate and engaging way. The development of social and emotional skills infuses every school day.

No prior knowledge of German is needed for admission to EBGIS preschool and kindergarten programs. Students acquire German through an immersion process including developmentally appropriate pre-academic curricular content. EBGIS preschoolers and kindergarteners – about half of whom do not speak German at home – transition successfully to the EBGIS grades program.

EBGIS accepts preschool students beginning at 24 months of age. The regular school day runs from 8:30am to 2pm with drop-off beginning at 8am. Extended day options, including age-appropriate enrichment classes, are available until 6pm.

The spacious and centrally located campus features large modern classrooms with ample natural light, a bilingual library, and generous play space. The preschool program includes a dedicated mini-campus adjacent to the main campus, providing preschoolers indoor and outdoor spaces of their own while allowing participation in all-school celebrations and activities.

Head Teacher Kindergarten

Dominique Dengler