Incoming Head of School Rasmus Frederich's Visit at GISC

Dear GISC Families:

 

Almost at the conclusion of incoming Head of School Herr Rasmus Frederich's visit at GISC, I can, with good conscience, report to you that Herr Frederich has met and interacted with all colleagues in addition to having met with parents, students, the Board, and the staff at the German Consulate General in Chicago. That said, it has been a most productive visit as Herr Frederich has established these initial contacts, facilitating the start of his new assignment as Head of School at GISC by August 1. 

 

I would like to further assure you that I am most committed to ensuring a smooth transfer. To that end, and in accordance with the Central Office of German Schools Abroad (ZfA: Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen), we have begun the “Übergabe” (handover) of essential school documents. But throughout the visit, I was often (and rightly so) reminded by Herrn Frederich that establishing personal connections in the spirit of building relationships was the ultimate goal of his visit. This desire to build this personal rapport in addition to Herrn Frederich’s experience and his expertise in analyzing scenarios and situations has me more than confident that GISC will blossom under his leadership.

 

A most important element of a smooth transfer is the recent appointment of Frau Sonja Manhart as Head of Administration (Verwaltungsleiterin). Frau Manhart has served the German International School Chicago as Director of Finance & Administration for the past ten years. In her new role, Sonja will guide each administrative department. GISC is currently hiring an administrator to help manage both HR and Finance duties. As such, Herr Frederich will be well supported in the administrative realm, while in the academic realm, Herr Frederich will be supported by Frau Dr. Inka Kirchenbuechler. This visit has clearly demonstrated that Herr Frederich will have a significant focus on the further development of GISC to include a High School program, and he will have significant support to allow him this focus. Onward!

 

I look forward to seeing many of you at our Gala event on Saturday; moreover, I look forward to seeing you at the end of the school year – we have wonderful celebrations ahead of us, such as the upcoming Spring Concert & Grandparents & Special Friends Day as well as our End-of-the-Year Potluck.

 

With warm regards,

 

Ben Hebebrand

GISC Director