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The German Saturday School of Portland |
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FAQ1. What is the German Saturday School of Portland?The German Saturday School of Portland has been operated by the German American Society of Portland, Oregon since 1964. They meet Saturday mornings late September through early May. In addition to regular classes, our school celebrates many cultural events during the year. 2. Who attends the German Saturday School of Portland?Anyone who wishes to either begin or continue with German language lessons. Students are grouped by age and ability level in classes from preschool to adult. 3. Does my child have to speak German to attend an immersion class?The goal of the classes is to provide an enriching learning environment for students wishing to learn German language and culture. It takes a long time to learn a foreign language, and the more students hear German, the more they will learn. Instructors and volunteers help keep the immersion model working without intimidating the students. We need to be able to have students back each week to be able to teach them! 4. How large are the classes?The classes range from 7-12 students. Due to the nature of the GSSOP being a Saturday enrichment program, an average attendance for any class is generally two smaller than registered. If a class, especially for younger children, should be larger than 12 students, a teaching assistant will be assigned to the teacher. 5. Who are the instructors?The teachers are native or near-native language instructors from the greater Portland area. Most teach in various private and public programs and all share the same love for teaching German language and culture to others. You may choose the STAFF option from the homepage menu to learn more about each teacher. 6. Can parents stay at the school during classes?Yes, parents can stay at the New German Haus during classes. There is a parent lounge available for those wishing to stay. The German Society asks parents who remain on the grounds to be respectful and stay only in areas designated for the German Saturday School of Portland. 7. Are there volunteer opportunities at the GSSOP?Yes!!! There are many opportunities to help the school! As a matter of fact, the school cannot function without the help of friends and families. Much help is needed especially during the various cultural events the school plans each year. Please contact your student’s teacher or the school director to learn more. 8. What happens if my child misses class due to family or sports?We would love to have all students attend all classes! This would mean they can have maximum exposure to all our program has to offer! In reality, as a weekend enrichment program, we expect some absences and the teachers are very understanding. We ask that you contact your student’s teacher to let them know of an absence and they will do their best to get missed work to them so they won’t fall behind. 9. Is there homework for the classes?Homework varies according to the teacher and parent’s wishes. If a parent would like more work during the week, this can be arranged through the teacher. The same is possible if the family wishes no extra homework. 10. How much is the tuition for the school year?Tuition for the year is very affordable due to the generosity of the German American Society. Tuition for the current school year is $375. Financial assistance is available and families should contact the school director if seeking assistance. |
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