On Wednesday, September 4th, 2024, the time had finally come: our new first graders were welcomed with lots of fanfare in the auditorium!

A colorful spectacle of cheerful dances and songs, performed by our second to fourth graders, greeted the newcomers with open arms. No one could stay seated!

Ms. Mandel and Carmelita then explained the exciting contents of the Schultüte to the excited first graders. For those unfamiliar, the Schultüte is a beloved German tradition. On the first day of school, children receive this special gift – packed with sweets and little surprises to sweeten the start of their school life. It was invented around 200 years ago in the regions of Thuringia and Saxony, and it’s been a hit ever since! Nowadays, many children make their Schultüten together with their parents, but the contents remain a secret until the big day.

After the official introduction, the new first graders were called on stage one by one and warmly welcomed by their teachers. Of course, the obligatory group photo on our grand staircase couldn’t be missed before the little ones went off to their very first lesson.

At the end, proud parents joined in, and after an exciting day filled with new experiences, it was time to head home. We are thrilled to welcome all of you to the "Best School in the World!"