The Begegnungsgruppe discussed the following topics:

1. A more detailed definition of our group was discussed: The Begegnungsgruppe has the goal to develop contacts--on a temporary or regular basis--with individuals, schools, institutions, and businesses in local, national and international contexts to promote cultural understanding and broaden students' experiences.

2. The Münnerstadt program is a great success. This school year there will again be an exchange of DSW and Münnerstadt students. It has been suggested that American students at the DSW might profit from spending an entire semester in Germany. The coordinators of the Münnerstadt program are investigating the possibility of such an addition to the program.

3. The visits to American high school were also viewed as a very valuable experience, and it was suggested that they be conducted again in this coming semester (April 2006). Past visits were to Wootten and Langley high schools. It was suggested that a cooperative project between DSW and American high school students be undertaken.

4. The thirteenth grade has recently made a visit to McKeldin Library at the University of Maryland for a workshop in accessing academic databases. In general, greater contact with universities was suggested, especially with specific university departments (e.g., math).

Grades 5, 6, 7 have also visited the Potomac branch of the Maryland Public Library system to work on research projects.

5. Professional development for teachers--attending conferences and workshops--also provides a good way for DSW faculty to reach out to the community and to gather information about programs and institutions that offer high school related activities. For example, the recent AIMS conference in Baltimore offered exhibits by museums, camps, other private schools, and their organizations (e.g., Maryland Public Television whose website offers links to Maryland based educational activities; and the schooner Sultana that offers ship-board programs on the Chesapeake). Another useful workshop took place at the Library of Congress based on teaching Whitman and poetry. The Library's website also has very rich sections (e.g., many past Library exhibits are available online even though the actual exhibit has closed).

6. The group supports and encourages existing outreach programs (such as the DSW lecture series, the career experience, the homeless support) and strives to initiate new programs and contacts.

In short, the group decided to follow-up on the following: (1) Münnerstadt program, especially investigating a semester program for American students at the DSW; (2) a visit to an American high school with students this school year and a possible joint project with an American school; (3) contact with American universities (e.g., math department at UMCP ;and university career offices to support the DSW Berufsberatung); contact with private schools in our area (e.g., Norwood); (4) further exploration of homeless support organizations (e.g., Community Family Life Services (CFLS), a faith-based nonprofit organization that helps homeless and low-income families and individuals with personal growth, independence, and integration into a healthy community).    

Dr. Peter Dreher          

November 30, 2005