Elementary School (Grades 1-4)

Introduction to Our Elementary School Program

Our Elementary School Program offers a rich, bilingual learning experience grounded in a rigorous German curriculum, seamlessly integrated with California state standards. With 80-85% of instruction delivered in German, we provide personalized support in both German and English literacy and math, enabling each student to reach their full academic potential. Small class sizes foster strong relationships and ensure that every student receives the individualized attention they need to thrive.

Our approach balances academic excellence, social-emotional development, and global citizenship through project-based, inquiry-driven learning. This nurturing environment encourages students to build critical thinking, language, and collaboration skills while deepening their understanding of diverse cultures. The program is enriched with high-quality learning materials sourced directly from Germany, supporting a well-rounded and comprehensive educational experience.

In the daily Morgenkreis (morning circle), students begin each day building community and setting intentions. Positive discipline approaches emphasize empathy, responsibility, and respect, while our generous outdoor breaks in Frühstückspause and Mittagspause (morning and midday recess) offer ample time for play and social interaction.

Unique traditions enhance the school experience and foster independence. During the Einschulung (school entry ceremony), students are welcomed with a Schultüte (school cone) filled with treats and supplies, celebrating the start of their academic journey. In fourth grade, students participate in the Fahrradführerschein (bicycle certification), a training program that teaches bicycle safety and fosters a sense of responsibility and independence.


We introduce students to leadership roles early on. Class representatives, or Klassensprecher, work alongside older students in the School Council, developing confidence and collaboration skills.

Our standardized testing program, thoughtfully articulated across grade levels, includes diagnostic assessments in either German or English informing growth throughout each year and year-over-year. Students also participate in the Mathematik-Olympiade (Math Olympiad), which fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, and Känguru der Mathematik (Kangaroo Math Competition), an international math challenge that encourages mathematical reasoning and creativity. These culturally German educational opportunities bring depth to our math program, encouraging students to challenge themselves and celebrate their achievements.

Starting in fourth grade, students at EBGIS have the opportunity to join our beginning orchestra program, where they can choose to learn either the violin or cello. This foundational experience not only develops musical skills but also fosters discipline, teamwork, and a love of the arts. Through guided practice and performances, students build confidence as they progress, setting the stage for a lifetime of musical appreciation and growth.

By fostering curiosity, confidence, and a joy for learning, our Elementary School Program equips students with the skills and perspective they need for future academic success and meaningful engagement in the global community.

Daily Rhythm

Our elementary school day runs from 8:30am to 2:40pm, with drop-off available starting at 8:00 am. For families seeking extended care, our Extended Day program runs until either 4:30pm or 6:00pm (additional cost) and offers homework support, active play, and enrichment activities in both German and English.

Each day begins with the Morgenkreis (Morning Circle), where students engage in social-emotional learning, set intentions, and build a sense of community. Throughout the week, students have dedicated literacy blocks in both German and English, complemented by outdoor breaks for snack and play.

Core subjects include Mathematik (Mathematics), Kunst (Art), Sport (Physical Education), Musik (Music), and Natur und Gesellschaft (Nature and Society), along with our interdisciplinary Studio course, which integrates themes across subjects. Lunch is a forty-minute period where students eat together and enjoy free play on the yard, field, courts, or playground. Our instructional day concludes with personalized learning blocks, allowing students to deepen their skills in German, English, and Mathematics. During Bibliothekszeit (library time), students are encouraged to read freely, check out books, and use IXL, a personalized digital learning platform for Mathematics and English.


Our Values In Action


Academic Excellence

Our individualized approach to learning allows students to progress at their own pace, with differentiated instruction in mathematics and bilingual literacy that challenges each student to excel.

Social Competence

Through project-based learning and collaborative group work, students learn to work together, develop empathy, and understand diverse perspectives.

Dynamic Learning Community

The integrated curriculum encourages students to explore concepts from multiple angles, fostering critical thinking and adaptability.


Sample Elementary School Schedule

Kindergarten to First Grade Transition

Our thoughtfully designed transition program eases kindergarteners into first grade, ensuring they feel prepared and excited for this important step. In the spring, kindergarten students engage in collaborative activities with the first-grade classroom, giving them time to explore their future learning environment, meet classmates, and get to know their new teacher. These experiences continue into the early fall of first grade, as students revisit familiar faces and routines from kindergarten. This gradual transition process fosters a sense of belonging and confidence, setting the stage for a successful start in the elementary program.

Standardized and Diagnostic Testing for Grades 1-4

We believe that assessments are essential for understanding and supporting your child's learning journey. At EBGIS/EBIHS, we thoughtfully implement a range of external and diagnostic tests to gauge progress and provide support.

Elementary School Program Highlights

Special Field Trips and Experiences

At EBGIS, our elementary program enhances learning through culturally immersive field trips and hands–on experiences that connect classroom lessons to the real world. Students explore science, history, art, and community, building curiosity and confidence along the way.

Destinations like the Chabot Science Center, Exploratorium, and Lawrence Hall of Science provide engaging STEM activities, while art-focused trips and visits to local businesses foster creativity and community connections.

Fourth grade culminates in a personalized Special Experience celebrating students' transition to middle school with a memorable, enriching capstone trip tailored to students' interests.