John F. Kennedy School

In 1960, amidst the backdrop of the Cold War, the John F. Kennedy School began its journey as the German-American Community School. Originally housed in the Mchlenau-Schule in Dahlem, the school’s mission was to foster understanding and reconciliation between young Berliners and children of U.S. Armed Forces families. The John F. Kennedy School’s focus on bilingual education in German and English was unique. It aimed to build bridges across cultures. Then, a tragic event unfolded. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, the school was renamed in his honor. This cemented the school’s commitment to cross-cultural exchange and understanding. The John F. Kennedy School moved to its current location on Teltower Damm in Zehlendorf, taking over the grounds of the former Laehr-Klinik. A new chapter began, though initially in temporary spaces. Fast forward to 1966, a significant transformation took place. The stately, century-old central building of the Schweizerhof ensemble, which was part of the former Laehr-Klinik, was demolished to make way for a new building for the John F. Kennedy School. This marked a physical embodiment of the school’s growth and its commitment to its mission. The John F. Kennedy School offers a unique blend of German and American educational systems. Students can earn both the German Abitur and the American High School Diploma. This provides a distinct advantage for graduates pursuing higher education or careers on both sides of the Atlantic. The school is led by both German and American principals. It maintains a diverse student body and faculty, reflecting its commitment to internationalism. The John F. Kennedy School has witnessed significant changes over the decades. The fall of the Berlin Wall and German reunification in 1990 presented new challenges. The subsequent withdrawal of Allied forces meant a reduction in the number of U.S. military children attending the school. This necessitated a re-evaluation and broadening of the school’s mission to encompass a wider international community. Today, the John F. Kennedy School stands as a testament to the power of education to bridge cultures. It offers a vibrant, diverse learning environment where students are prepared not only academically, but also for a future as global citizens. The school continues to attract students with diverse backgrounds and nationalities, enriching the learning experience for all.