Frequently asked questions

1. When will the school start?
   The fall semester will start on Saturday, September 13, 2008, the spring semester starts January 17, 2009. Students are asked to show up before 10am to allow for a timely start of the lessons.
2. Where is the school located?
   Our classrooms are in the yellow brick building at 1699 Excelsior Street, Oakland, on the grounds of the Altenheim.
   Please click <here> for a map and directions.
3. When are the classes taught?
   Classes are only on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For class days, please check our calendar.
4. What are your teachers' qualifications?
   All of our teachers are native speakers or have demonstrated native speaker's proficiency and have been carefully selected for their respective age group and class level. Many have state or German teacher's certificates and are also teaching at local high schools and colleges.
5. How much is the tuition?
   Currently $240/$250(adult student) per semester (15 Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.), $20 materials fee is included. We give discounts for family enrollment ($180 for 2nd enrolled student / $160 for 3rd or more enrolled student from the same household). We charge a $30 volunteer deposit per semester which will be waived if you help out at school or at various social events for one to two hours per semester. Volunteer sign up is available at registration.
6. How to enroll?
   If you contacted us before the beginning of the semester, we will mail or e-mail you additional information one week before the start of the semester, regarding time for registration on the first day of the semester, etc.
   After the start of the semester, please send us an to find out if enrollment at your level is still open. If so, you can register right at the school before your class begins.
   <Registration Form>
7. What skill level is taught?
   Children: from Kindergarten age through high school with progressive skill levels, for native speakers as well as foreign language learners.
   Adults: beginners through advanced conversation/literature, high school students may participate in adult classes
8. How long is your school year?
   We have 2 semesters per year with 14 lecture days and one additional event per semester. In the fall semester the extra day is our Adventsfeier which is held the first Sunday in December. In the spring semester the extra day is the last school day with general meeting for parents and adult students (children resume lecture) and either open house or a year end celebration afterwards. <calendar>
9. I am not sure if your school is right for me/my children. Can I visit to try it out?
   We offer one (1) free sample class, in case you are not sure about your placement. Sample classes are usually taken at the beginning of each semester, sample classes taken in the middle of a semester require special permission by the school board's president or the head teacher.

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