At the core of GSB lies a commitment to nurturing intellectual curiosity, cultivating compassionate hearts, and fostering a deep understanding of our interconnected world.

Raphael Hillisch
Head of School

Dear families,

Welcome to GSB!

We are committed to creating a vibrant community that prepares students for a future where cultural understanding and global citizenship are more important than ever.

At the heart of our school’s mission — “Open Minds, Open Hearts, a World of Possibilities” — is the belief that education is about more than just grades. It’s about sparking curiosity, nurturing empathy, and building the adaptability needed to thrive in an interconnected world. Our dual-language immersion programs in German and Spanish do more than teach language—they help students appreciate the rich cultures and histories behind those languages.

From preschool through eighth grade, our students are fully immersed in an environment that encourages both linguistic and cultural fluency. Through our inquiry based model, students develop critical thinking skills, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across cultures. Whether they’re learning about the traditions of the German-speaking world or the histories of Spanish-speaking countries, they come to understand that language is a powerful tool for building connections and creating a more compassionate world.

Thank you for considering our school as a place for your child’s growth. We’re excited to welcome your family into our community and to continue this journey of teaching and learning together.

Raphael Hillisch

Melissa Bourgeois
Deputy Head of School

Dear families,

Since joining GSB in 2014, I’ve had the privilege of helping our school grow and evolve into the vibrant learning environment it is today. As Deputy Head of School, my passions align with GSB’s mission—connecting with students, fostering a love for learning, and contributing to the dynamic and iterative nature of our educational organization.

I found my way into education almost by chance, never expecting it to become my life’s calling. However, from the very first days I spent teaching in a classroom in Thailand, it became clear to me that I had found my place. The energy, curiosity, and resilience of students captivated me then, as they continue to do now, reminding me of the transformative power of education in shaping lives and building stronger communities.

I’m also proud to be a GSB parent of a student who has been with the school since kindergarten. Watching my child thrive in this bilingual environment has been incredible—she’s fully bilingual, even though we only speak English at home! This firsthand experience has deepened my appreciation for the unique opportunities GSB offers to its students.

I consider myself a "blossom where you're planted" type of person, and this mindset has allowed me to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with building a school like GSB. Each day brings new ways to support our students, collaborate with our faculty, and engage with our families. Whether I’m connecting with students one-on-one, diving into a discussion in class, or shaping new programs that reflect our community’s needs, I find joy in the evolving nature of this role.

At GSB, we are not just educators—we are lifelong learners who value growth, curiosity, and collaboration. I am honored to be part of a team that continually seeks to improve and adapt, ensuring that every child receives a rich and meaningful education.

Thank you for being part of the GSB family. I look forward to another exciting year of growth, discovery, and connection with all of you.

Melissa Bourgeois

Our guiding principles

Open Minds

We foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning.

Open Hearts

We champion empathy, respect, and a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.

A World of Possibilities

Through language immersion, we hope to prepare our students to become global citizens who will create positive change and contribute to a more just and sustainable future for all.

Our Values

We firmly believe in a collective set of core values that not only guide our dedicated staff in their professional interactions but also influence our students in their everyday lives and decisions.

  • We foster a love of learning and encourage hands-on exploration in all subjects.

  • We take risks with confidence and optimism. 

  • We celebrate diversity and nurture compassion for all.

  • We cultivate a sense of interconnectedness and responsibility for the world.

  • We embrace different perspectives and thrive on teamwork.

Meet our team