Herzlich willkommen im Deutschunterricht mit Frau Shipeck-Matsuda!
Welcome to German class with Frau Shipeck-Matsuda!
The German Program at Strath Haven Middle School and Strath Haven High School is recognized as of 2024 as a national 🔗Center of Excellence!
"The designation is presented to a well-established and growing German program with strong support from the administration, colleagues, alumni, parents, and students. [...] The German program at a German Center of Excellence is clearly student-centered and has credentialed faculty which demonstrates evidence of continuing professional development. The curriculum is standards-based with a clear, articulated sequence of instruction which reflects current methodologies. Classes are conducted in German. The materials and classroom routines are culturally authentic and appropriate to the instructional level of the students. Meaningful cultural activities are integrated into the curriculum at all levels. An exemplary German program reflects a clearly organized structure determined by the instructional needs of the students. The diverse learning styles of students are respected through varied instructional and assessment techniques. Regular, differentiated assessments result in above average student performance."
"The German curriculum at Strath Haven Middle and High Schools located in Wallingford, Pennsylvania is exemplary, characterized by its comprehensive and immersive approach to language learning. Using a proficiency-based framework, its curriculum equips students with both linguistic skills and instills a deep appreciation for German culture. The impact of this program is evident in the increased enrollment and sustained interest in German studies. In addition, many students from the program have excelled in the AATG National Exam and have pursued further studies in German at various higher education institutions. The faculty at Strath Haven bring a wealth of experience and a passion for German language education. Their commitment to professional development and their roles as leaders in educational initiatives, such as the AATG and cultural proficiency programs, underscore their qualifications and impact. Their collaboration in curriculum design and cross-curricular projects provides a holistic and enriching educational experience for their students. Strath Haven’s German program also offers a wealth of extracurricular activities that enhance the learning experience for their students. German club events and exchange programs foster a vibrant community where students can practice their language skills in real-world contexts. This German program fosters academic achievement and cultural understanding that will continue to thrive and inspire future generations of students."
„Komm wie du bist - und bring alles an dir mit. Komm wie du bist - hier ist Platz für dich.“
Come as you are - and bring your whole self with you. Come as you are - there is space for you here!
Wilhelmine (German singer)
Warum Deutsch?
An Intro to Our Program
Where is German spoken? Are German and English related? Why learn German altogether? In this short video, Frau Shipeck* and a few successful German at SHMS Alumni answer these questions and more!
*from, uh, a few years back...
Author: S. Shipeck, 2021
As of January 2024 all students access online course materials and resources via Schoology!
„Alles, was uns begegnet, läßt Spuren zurück. Alles trägt unmerklich zu unserer Bildung bei.“
Everything that we encounter leaves traces behind. Everything contributes imperceptibly to our education.
J.W. von Goethe
Professional Designations:
Cultural Proficiency / Equity Teacher Leader (22/23, 23/24, 24/25) - WSSD
American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) Philadelphia-Delaware Chapter Co-President (23/24, 24/25)
2022 German Embassy Teacher of Excellence (1 of 3 nationwide per year)
21/22 Strath Haven Middle School School Culture and School Climate Award
16/17 & 17/18 Fulbright & PAD ETA grant recipient in Rostock, Germany
Presentations and Curricular Work:
Instructor: Deutsche Sommerschule am Pazifik 2024 (Lehrkraftfortbildungsseminar)
DivDaF 2023: Diversity and Social (In)Justice in German as a Foreign Language
German Language Schools Conference 2023
ACTFL 2023, 2024
NECTFL 2023, 2016
Mit Deutsch in die Zukunft 2022 (interDaF, Herder Institut an der Universität Leipzig)
AATG Safe(r) Spaces Curriculum Development: 2020, 2021
Degrees & Certifications:
BA | University of Pittsburgh : German Language and Cultural Studies, Russian, Linguistics
Master of Arts in Teaching Foreign Language | University of Pittsburgh
Widener University: Affirming Schools for TGNC* Students, 2021