• German Immersion Program at Service High School

    Welcome to the online home of the German Immersion Program at Service High School. We are proud to offer a distinctive educational experience that equips students with the skills and opportunities to excel in a globalized world. Our program not only fosters language proficiency but also opens doors to international education and cultural exchange.

    Why Choose Our Program?

    The German Immersion Program at Service High School is designed to provide former German immersion students, students that have lived in Germany and heritage speakers with a comprehensive language education that extends beyond traditional classroom learning. Here are some key reasons to join our community:

    1. Partnership with ZfA
      In 2023, our application to become a partner school with the Central Agency for German Schools Abroad (ZfA) was approved. This partnership elevates our program's standing and offers unique educational opportunities. Click here to view our .
    2. Prestigious Visits
      We had the honor of welcoming Dr. Emily Haber, the German Ambassador to the United States, to our school. Her visit signified our entry into the prestigious ZfA Partner School Network. Here is a link to the highlighting this visit. 
    3. Examination Success
      We successfully administer the German Language Diploma II (DSDII) exam, qualifying students for tuition-free universities in Germany. Our pass rates have increased significantly, demonstrating the program's effectiveness.

    Achievements and Impact

    Our program has reached several milestones that underscore its value:

    • Exam Success Rates
    • 2023: 25% pass rate (prior to DSD training)
    • 2024: 65% pass rate
    • 2025: 70% pass rate
    • Alumni Achievements
      As of 2025, 20 students from the ÅÝܽÊÓƵapp are eligible to pursue higher education in Germany tuition-free. Our alumni are currently studying various disciplines at German universities.
    • Current Aspirants
      Two current students are actively applying to universities in Germany, with many more aspiring to leverage the opportunities afforded by our program.

    Advanced Placement (AP) German Opportunities

    As part of the German Immersion Program at Service High School, our students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement (AP) German classes. This provides them with the chance to further enhance their language skills and gain college credit while still in high school.

     

    Success in AP German

    Our immersion students often excel in AP German classes, demonstrating their strong command of the language. They are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the AP curriculum, thanks to the robust foundation they receive through the immersion program. 

     

    Benefits of AP German
    1. College Credit: Scoring well on the AP German Exam can earn students college credit, saving time and money in their post-secondary education.
    2. Advanced Language Skills: The course helps students refine their language abilities, preparing them for future academic and professional opportunities.
    3. Cultural Understanding: ÅÝܽÊÓƵapps gain a deeper appreciation for German culture, which complements their immersion experience and broadens their global perspective.

    National German Exam

    Service High School offers the National German Exam (NGE) for every student in German 2 and above. Our German Immersion students often win bronze, silver and gold medals. 

     

    Seal of Biliteracy

    The Seal of Biliteracy serves as an official recognition of language proficiency on a student's high school diploma. Eligibility for this endorsement is determined by the results of the STAMP (Standards-Based Measurement of Proficiency) assessment, scores from a student’s junior or senior year are used. Although many immersion students demonstrate the requisite skills at an earlier stage, they will continue taking the exam throughout their high school journey to maintain and enhance their proficiency.

    This endorsement is a valuable asset for both students and parents, as it provides tangible evidence of the student's language acquisition and proficiency. Parents can conveniently access these results through their Parent Connect accounts, offering insights into the student's progress and accomplishments in language learning.

    Enriching Experiences

    We believe that language learning should be immersive and engaging. Our program offers various extracurricular activities to enhance students' German language experience:

    • Annual German Camp in Birchwood
      A weekend of cultural activities, language practice, and community building in a serene, natural environment.
    • Declamation Contest
      An event that encourages students to hone their public speaking skills in German and boosts their confidence in using the language creatively.
    • German American Partnership Program (GAPP) Exchange
      A biennial exchange that offers students firsthand experience of German culture and education, fostering international friendships and understanding.

    Immersion Graduation

    At Service High School, we are committed to recognizing the dedication and achievements of our students who have embraced the German Immersion Program throughout their educational journey with a special Immersion Graduation Ceremony. To honor their commitment, we award special Graduation Immersion Cords to those who have successfully completed the program.

    What Are Graduation Cords?

    Graduation Immersion Cords are decorative ropes worn with pride during the graduation ceremony. These cords symbolize the students’ perseverance and excellence in mastering a second language through immersive education. They are a testament to the students' hard work, cultural understanding, and linguistic proficiency. Immersion students are also eligible to receive the 4-year High School World Language cord, available to students that are enrolled in World Language courses throughout their high school careers. 

    Join Us

    We invite you to explore the long-term benefits and unique educational pathways offered by the German Immersion Program at Service High School. Our program is a gateway to studying abroad and earning advanced degrees in Germany. For more information or to discuss how we can enrich your academic journey, please contact us.

    Thank you for visiting our website. We look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant German language community.