Final Reflection & Conclusion
My last weeks at the German School Campus were once again interesting and eventful. After the students had finished their exams, it was time for the final two weeks of the school year. As is usual before the summer vacations, things were a little more relaxed, and the main focus shifted to learning through play.
The children from the Wednesday classes were allowed to collect and artistically design their accumulated knowledge about the German language and culture on posters and the blackboard. Afterwards, we talked about the points they had compiled, allowing the children to share their personal growth and experiences.
Community Outreach & Graduation Ceremony
The open house day at a school in Huntington Beach, where the German School Campus will be offering courses next school year, was particularly interesting for me. I was able to help inform interested parents and students about the courses offered at the school and on campus. The exchange was extremely interesting and gave me further valuable insight into the American school system.
A major milestone was the school’s official graduation ceremony last Saturday. Here, the students were honored, certificates were distributed, and students graduating from high school were bid a fond farewell. It was exciting to see how much work and preparation goes into executing this day. It was especially rewarding to accompany the kindergarten class during their live performance, as we had been preparing for it together for the entire last semester.
Language, Culture, and Future Teaching
By helping with various events and their setups, I saw firsthand how much coordination is required to make events happen during the school year. I was very happy to introduce the students to German traditions through events like the carnival celebration or Easter and to be an active part of it. I particularly noticed how important it is for children to learn not only the language of a country but also its culture. This foundational experience will accompany me deeply in my future work as an English teacher back in Germany.
A Heartfelt Farewell to California
The insights into organizing exams, monitoring written testing, and handling the grading processes were highly instructive opportunities to immerse myself further into everyday school life. The specific exams to obtain an official German language certificate were something completely new for me and gave me valuable perspectives on the profound importance of a German school abroad.
Working alongside the various dedicated teachers and students of all ages was a wonderful experience that allowed me to discover the teaching profession in completely different facets. I would not want to miss my time in California, especially at the German School Campus, and I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved for making my stay so special.
