Where are classes held?
Classes are held at the Fairview-Clifton German Language School, 2689 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio 45220. Here we have ample classrooms for adult, teen, and children’s education, adequate parking, and auxiliary space for the operation of our school. See our Location & Accessibility page for directions and full details regarding this wonderful facility.
When are classes held?
The majority of our classes are held in-person during our traditional Saturday morning timeframe of 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This includes a half-hour break (die Pause) between one-hour sessions for refreshments and conversation with classmates and instructors. We also offer several online adult beginner classes on weekday evenings. Please refer to our Classes section for a full listing along with exact days, times, instructors, and other details.
Our school year typically runs from September through April and is divided into two halves: the first half ends around the late December holidays, and the second half resumes in early January. Actual start and end dates are posted each year on this site. There are currently no classes offered during the summer.
Are classes taught in-person by actual teachers?
Regardless of whether classes are taught in-classroom or online, all TSGS classes are conducted live by dedicated instructors with a solid background in teaching the German language. We have a mix of native speakers and highly qualified educators who are passionate about providing students with a high-quality language learning experience.
Besides myself, I have one small child and one teenager in our household that I would like to attend. How does the membership fee apply in that case?
Membership is a single $20 fee per household per year, regardless of how many family members attend. See our Tuition page for current, affordable tuition rates.
Are there exams and/or end-of-year testing?
While there are multiple levels of instruction to accommodate our students’ varied language skills, TSGS operates as a casual, low-pressure learning environment. There are expectations of homework completion and healthy participation in class, but no rigorous exams or cyclical testing to worry about. You may attend the class in which you feel most comfortable and progress at your own pace.
Do you focus solely on teaching students to speak German, or do you take a different approach?
The Tri-State German School provides a flexible but comprehensive language learning approach. Several beginner-level courses cover vocabulary and grammar using a traditional textbook-driven style to build written, spoken, and comprehension skills — often taken in sequence to complete all facets of the basics. At the intermediate level, some classes focus more on grammar while others emphasize speaking and comprehension. At the advanced level, courses exist to keep native and near-fluent students engaged with advanced material and current event-based classwork.
I studied a little German in high school, but that was ten years ago. I have no idea what level I should enroll in. Will this be a problem?
Not at all. School administrators are always happy to evaluate your skill level and assist with placement. Use our Contact form if you would like help with this. And if your initial class turns out to be too challenging or not enough of one, you are absolutely free to move to a different level. This flexibility is one of the greatest assets of the casual learning environment TSGS offers.
I am retired and consider myself a life-long learner. Should I be concerned about returning to school at this stage of my life?
TSGS is proud to offer language learning opportunities to students of all backgrounds, skill levels, and ages. You should expect to be absolutely comfortable in the diverse and supportive setting we offer. Classes exist for adults, teens, and children, segregated by age and then skill level. You will find students learning German for a variety of reasons: professional goals, upcoming travel, better communication with bilingual family members, or simply the joy of learning a new skill. Regardless of your background or motivation, you will fit in absolutely fine at TSGS!
If an unexpected situation prevents me from continuing, can I get a tuition refund?
Upon written request during the first four weeks of the school year, one half of the tuition will be refunded.
What types of payment do you accept for tuition and membership?
Enrollment is easy! Complete our Class Enrollment Form and input your information. We currently accept payment via PayPal or by physical check or money order — remittance details are included on the form. You may also contact us if you have questions before enrolling.