German-American School Manhattan
Secular
Updated July 2026
IB PYP
The German-American School Manhattan (GSM) is an IB World School offering a bilingual, dual-immersion education for students from Preschool through Grade 5. It combines German and American curricula to provide an international, inquiry-based learning experience in the heart of Tribeca.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school promotes a child-centered, inquiry-based approach that fosters curiosity, empathy, and open-mindedness. It emphasizes transdisciplinary, concept-driven learning that encourages students to take mindful actions and develop critical thinking skills within a safe and joyful community.
Programmes
GSM offers a bilingual curriculum that integrates the German Thüringen curriculum with Common Core-aligned standards, all within the framework of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). Instruction is split evenly between German and English starting in Grade 1, covering subjects such as math, science, social studies, ethics, and language arts. Art, music, and movement are integrated into the curriculum from Kindergarten, with Spanish instruction introduced in Grade 3.
Outcomes
The school aims to develop knowledgeable, caring, and responsible global citizens who are prepared to be thoughtful, compassionate, and reflective leaders. Graduates are supported by partnerships with international middle schools to ensure a complete learning path.
Student support
Learning support
The school prioritizes socio-emotional well-being and utilizes a responsive classroom model to differentiate instruction. Teachers work in small groups and provide individualized attention to meet students where they are academically and social-emotionally. The faculty includes specialists in reading and special education to support student progress.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does German-American School Manhattan offer?
- German-American School Manhattan offers IB PYP.
- How much is tuition at German-American School Manhattan?
- Annual tuition at German-American School Manhattan is $32.5K–$42.5K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does German-American School Manhattan hold?
- German-American School Manhattan holds accreditations including IB.
- Is German-American School Manhattan co-educational?
- German-American School Manhattan is a co-ed school.
- Where is German-American School Manhattan located?
- German-American School Manhattan is an international school in Warren, United States.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025/2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool & PreK | 2–4 | $35.5K |
| Preschool half day or 3 days/week | 2–4 | $32.5K |
| Elementary Grades K-5 | 5–11 | $42.5K |
Other fees(1)
| Application fee· Required with the application form submission | $200 |
|---|
Admissions
The school operates on a rolling admissions basis for international families, with a formal two-cycle process for the 2026-27 season. Applicants for Kindergarten and Preschool participate in small-group playdates, while those entering Grade 1 or higher must complete an interview. Prior knowledge of German is not required for entry into grades K-2, though strong academic records are required for non-German speakers entering grade 3 and above.
Calendar
The school aligns its academic calendar with New York City public school vacation times and holidays. The school year includes scheduled closures for staff development and various public holidays, such as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Veteran’s Day, and Lunar New Year.
About the campus
Located in Tribeca, the school operates two campuses on Warren Street: the GSM Kita Preschool & Kindergarten at 85 Warren Street and the Dual Immersion Elementary School at 74 Warren Street. The facilities are situated near local parks and playgrounds, which are utilized for daily outdoor time. The school also features a dedicated stage for performances and theater productions.
Co-curriculars
The school offers an after-school program for Preschool and Lower School students that includes free play and guided discovery with rotating daily themes. Additionally, the school partners with Galli Theater NYC to provide theater camps and workshops, and offers enrichment programs in music, dance, and languages, including Mandarin.
- David Hazibar-BauerHead of School
David Hazibar-Bauer is an experienced educator with over ten years of expertise in elementary school education across Austria, Denmark, and the United States. He holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Science from the University of Vienna and a second Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from the International University of Applied Sciences in Germany. His philosophy centers on nurturing each child’s growth while fostering curiosity, resilience, and intercultural competence.
- Martina AndorferHead of Preschool
Martina Andorfer, originally from Bavaria, Germany, moved to NYC in 2020 after living in London and Edinburgh. She holds a Degree in Business and a BA (Hons) in Childhood and Youth studies, and is currently pursuing an MS in Early Childhood Education at Brooklyn College. She is passionate about creating a positive, safe, and nurturing environment for students.
- Kathrin NagleFounder & Partner
Kathrin Nagle is the founder of the first two German bilingual schools in Brooklyn and Manhattan. In her role as partner, former principal, and executive director, she has been responsible for real estate development, school implementation, fundraising, finances, operations, and strategic planning. Prior to her career in education, she worked for the German Mission to the UN and the German Consulate General in New York.
- Dr. Christian EngelSchool Partner
Dr. Engel is a co-founder of GSM and resides in Germany. He began his career in education in 1992 and established the DR. ENGEL EDUCATION GROUP, which operates various schools and daycare centers. He is a graduate of Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Virginia Tech, and holds a PhD from the University of Basel.
- Alexander KavoEducational Director Preschool & Preschool teacher
Alexander Kavo is a New York City native who holds an MS.Ed in Early Childhood Education. He has over 12 years of teaching experience working with children ranging from age 2 through 5th grade. He is passionate about supporting the growth and maturation of children.
- Aurelia OttIB Coordinator & Class Teacher 3rd & 4th, 5th Grade
Aurelia Ott was born and raised in Switzerland and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Primary Education. She has extensive teaching experience, including nine years as a Lower School teacher in Switzerland, as well as time at the German International School in White Plains, NY. She believes that successful learning happens through personal connection and individual coaching.