Dear Students, Parents, Colleagues and Friends of the FIS,
As we approach the Fasching break, I want to share some important updates and celebrate a few recent achievements across our school.
In the spirit of the reflections shared in the Head of School update just before the Christmas Break, when we recognized the challenges we have faced and the progress we have made as a learning community, the Pastoral Leadership Team has completed the content for our policy on behavior and relationships. The policy will now undergo a final revision before it will be published. The first module of the policy establishes our Community Expectations for everyone – students, staff, and parents – emphasizing kindness, respect, consideration of others’ feelings and differences, a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment, taking responsibility for our actions, and continuously striving to grow. The second module outlines the range of responses when these expectations are not met, starting with “in the moment” interventions and moving through a sequence that includes classroom-level support, homeroom advisor involvement, the Deputy Head of Section, and the Head of Section for more persistent or higher-level concerns. In the development of this policy, we consulted with our students, our educators, as well as our parent community during a Parent Info Night. We believe these guidelines will help us foster a positive, supportive culture in which everyone can thrive.
I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in our recent PYP Verification Team visit. The preparation and collaboration required for this were truly immense. We eagerly await the IB’s final report, certain it will both affirm our strengths and guide us to keep growing. Meanwhile, we also congratulate our G12 students on completing their Extended Essays – a significant IB milestone – and cheer on our G10 students who are in the final stretch of their Personal Projects, showcasing real creativity and dedication.
During our FIS Kuratorium Breakfast on February 26, there was a truly engaging discussion on AI in education, and it was inspiring to see how our Kuratorium members – leading figures from local and regional business and politics – recognize the FIS as an important partner in ensuring our students develop the skills needed for the responsible use of AI.
Thank you all for your constant support, enthusiasm, and commitment to our shared journey. Big thanks to our PTO who organized delicious treats for our Secondary students today, and a disco and board games for Primary School. I wish you a restful and joyful Fasching break, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back with renewed energy for the next phase of our learning adventure.
Warm regards,
Petra Niemczyk
Interim Head of School
