Dear School Community,
2017 is coming to an end. This is a time to reflect on the past as well as a time to look to the future.
At school it has been a very successful year with good results in the Abitur and in the IB as well as in the MSA and the BBR. Our IB results are the best we have ever achieved. As always, NMS and JFK go back and forth in the ranking as the best ISS school in Berlin. This year we are in second place. These statistics are a source of pride and satisfaction for all of us.
Still, not all is coming up roses. The statistics do not address whether we have perhaps lost students on the long road between entering the primary school and their leaving certificate. We must also pay attention to this. The number of successful graduates is indeed important. It is, however, only one of many parameters, only one indicator of the quality of education on offer.
This year parents, students and staff came together to develop a new mission statement (Leitbild). Next year the school program (Schulprogramm) will be modified to reflect this new statement. In this document leaving certificates will top the agenda. Other aspects and quality markers will also be closely considered, as indicated in my earlier remarks. Important among these markers will be, “Our school is diverse. We encourage the friendly, positive and creative interaction of all individuals with their many different origins and perspectives.” Extending differentiation will be emphasized as we re-work the school program.
We can take pride in our accomplishments. Still, there is much work ahead. I am certain that if any school can meet its own high standards and expectations then it is …
Our Nelson Mandela School!
Wishing you and your families a wonderful holiday, a peaceful ringing in of the New Year and a happy and healthy 2018.
Yours,
Gerald Miebs