Welcome to WEEK 40
June 28-30
Summer is the perfect time to rest and recharge!
Embedded Files
PL Day Schedules
Sunday, June 28
Work hours 8-2
Monday, June 29
Work hours 8-2
Tuesday, June 30
Work hours 8-2
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Hodman, June 26🎈
🎈Ms. Natallia, June 28🎈
🎈Ms. Aisha, June 30🎈
🎈Alanoud S, June 30🎈
🎈Ms. Josi, July 7🎈
🎈Ms. Rozana, July 14🎈
🥳Mr. Tim, July 31🎈
🥳Ms. Maha, July 31🎈
🥳Ms. Hanadi, August 5🎈
🥳Mr. Dan, August 14🎈
🥳Mr. Malchus, August 16🎈
🥳Ms. Maryam B., August 21🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
A requirement from PUE to take your Laptops with you this summer! 💻
End of year checklist
3 Days Until Summer! ☀️
As we count down the final 3 days of the school year, we want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for an outstanding year.
Your dedication, resilience, compassion, and commitment to our students have made a lasting difference. Together, we have celebrated successes, overcome challenges, supported one another, and created meaningful learning experiences for every student.
Thank you for the care you bring each day, the teamwork you demonstrate, and the positive impact you have on our school community.
Have a beautiful, safe and restful break! See you in August
Upcoming Dates
June 30- Last day for All Staff
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 39
June 21-25
"Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life."
Sunday, June 21
Grade 5 Step Up 10:00 am
Monday, June 22
CIS Presentations in the Auditorium 2-2:30
Tuesday, June 23
Early Release for Students
End of Year Banquet from 1-4 at Mandarin Oriental
Wednesday, June 24
Thursday, June 25
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Noor, June 20🎈
🎈Rehaf M., June 23🎈
🎈Makaela, June 23🎈
🎈Lama A., June 24 🥳
🎈Alice, June 24🎈
🎈Reham, June 25🎈
Welcome to WEEK 38
June 14-18
"When you think you've reached your limit, remember how many students you've helped reach theirs. Keep going—you can do it!" 🌟
Sunday, June 14
Report Card Comments in Drive
Monday, June 15
Tuesday, June 16
Early Release for Students
Online with Mr. Will
Wednesday, June 17
Star of the Quarter ⭐
Comments and Grades in PowerSchool
Thursday, June 18
KG Graduation 🎓
Student Profile Sheets and ILP's Completed
All Staff Meeting in the Assembly Room at 2:00
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
13 Days to Go!
With just 13 days left in the school year, I want to take a moment to thank everyone for your continued commitment, dedication, and hard work. This year has been filled with learning, growth, celebrations, and countless moments of support for our students and one another.
As we head into the final days, let's continue to work together, celebrate our achievements, and finish the year strong. Thank you for the positive energy, resilience, and care you bring to our school community every day.
If you did not have time on Thursday, please fill in the CIS Survey
Please review all the CIS information CIS Newsletters and Updates
Goal Appraisal Meetings will continue this week, please sign up to discuss all your amazing work this year!! Goal Appraisal Meetings
Have a beautiful week ahead! 😁
Please make sure to take your laptops home daily! 💻
June 14- Report Card Comments in Drive
June 17- Comments and Grades in PowerSchool
June 18- Student Profile Sheets and ILP's Completed
June 18- KG Graduation
June 21- Grade 5, Step Up
June 24- Students early release at 11 TBC
June 24- End of Year Banquet TBC
June 25- Last day of school for Students
June 30- Last day for All Staff
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
🌸 This and That 🌸
With only 8 days remaining in the school year, use any extra time to reflect on your successes, review plans and systems, organize resources, and prepare for a smooth start to the next academic year. The work you do now will set the foundation for a successful and positive beginning in August.
Ms. Dina will send the End of Year Checklist soon, please take the time to add any updated details for the summer and ensure the list is complete.
Goal Appraisal Meetings will continue this week, please sign up to discuss all your amazing work this year!! Goal Appraisal Meetings
Upcoming Dates
June 21- Grade 5, Step Up
June 23- End of Year Banquet
June 25- Last day of school for Students
June 30- Last day for All Staff
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 37
June 7-11
"I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot, togehter we can do great things."
Sunday, June 7
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Grade levels meet to develop class lists for next Academic Year
Monday, June 8
Glow in the Dark for Early Years
Tuesday, June 9
Glow in the Dark for Early Years
Early Release for Students
Education City Golf Club Lunch - Celebrating Grade 12 from 1-3
Wednesday, June 10
Grades 1-3 Bouncy Fun in the Rec
Thursday, June 11
Grade 1 End of Year Show
Happy Thursday!
🥳 Happy Birthday Ms. Tina- June 6 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Please review all the CIS information CIS Newsletters and Updates
Goal Appraisal Meetings will begin this week, please sign up to discuss all your amazing work this year!! Goal Appraisal Meetings
Have a beautiful week ahead! 😁
Please make sure to take your laptops home daily! 💻
May 31-June 11- Benchmarking and National Studies Exams
June 14- Report Card Comments in Drive
June 17- Comments and Grades in PowerSchool
June 18- Student Profile Sheets and ILP's Completed
June 18- KG Graduation
June 21- Grade 5, Step Up
June 24- Students early release at 11
June 24- End of Year Banquet TBC
June 25- Last day of school for Students
June 30- Last day for All Staff
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 36
May 31- June 4
Teaching is a work of HEART ♥️
Sunday, May 31
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Monday, June 1
Curriculum Meetings please see agenda below: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wVk3x3izu21jzfax6zunrprysHeEfH_inG0cWEXcZXc/edit?tab=t.0
Tuesday, June 2
Early Release for Students
Wellbeing Tuesday
Online with Mr. Will
Wednesday, June 3
Grade Band Meetings
Thursday, June 4
Splash Day with Grade 1-3 and Empower 8-12
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈 Ms. Hailey May 31🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
We hope you had a lovely break to recharge and bring your best self for the end of year. As we have 23 days until the official summer break!
As we enter the final month of the school year, I want to thank each of you for your hard work, dedication, and commitment to our students throughout the year. The positive impact you have made on student learning and wellbeing is evident every day.
These final weeks are an important opportunity to celebrate progress, support smooth transitions, and finish the year strong. Thank you for continuing to maintain high expectations while creating meaningful and memorable experiences for our students.
Let's make the most of this final month and celebrate all that we have achieved together.
Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead.
Please make sure to take your laptops home daily! 💻
May 31-June 11- Benchmarking and National Studies Exams
June 14- Report Card Comments in Drive
June 17- Comments and Grades in PowerSchool
June 18- Student Profile Sheets and ILP's Completed
June 18- KG Graduation
June 21- Grade 5, Step Up
June 24- Students early release at 11
June 24- End of Year Banquet TBC
June 25- Last day of school for Students
June 30- Last day for All Staff
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 35
May 24-28
May Allah bless you and your loved ones with good health, happiness, and prosperity on this special occasion of Eid al-Adha! Eid Mubarak!
Sunday, May 24
Fire Drill 8:00 am 🔥🧑🚒
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Monday, May 25
Curriculum Meetings please see agenda below: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wVk3x3izu21jzfax6zunrprysHeEfH_inG0cWEXcZXc/edit?tab=t.0
Tuesday, May 26
Eid Break- no school
Wednesday, May 27
Eid Break- no school
Thursday, May 28
Eid Break- no school
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈 Ms. Salima, May 24🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
2, 1, 🥳
Have a well deserved rest for EID Break. Please enjoy time with loved ones!
See you on May 31 at 6:45 am!
Please make sure to take your laptops home daily! 💻
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 34
May 17-21
The most effective way to do it, is to do it!
Sunday, May 17
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Monday, May 18
Curriculum Meetings please see agenda below: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wVk3x3izu21jzfax6zunrprysHeEfH_inG0cWEXcZXc/edit?tab=t.0
Tuesday, May 19
Early dismissal for students
CIS Meetings- Leads will reach out
Online with Mr. Will at 2:30
Wednesday, May 20
Paralympics: G1-G3 and E4- 8:45-11:30 in Awsaj Rec Center
Grade Bands- if needed
Thursday, May 21
Happy Thursday!
G5 Unit Celebration
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Nicola, May 20🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
7 days until Eid Break 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 🚀
This week the Climate Survey will be sent home on Sunday with a QR code bracelet on the students wrists, please also send the QR code and link via Seesaw. Staff Climate survey will also need to be completed when sent to your email. When completed send a screenshot to your Teacher Leader, this may get you an Early Pass. 😁
The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
Please make sure to take your laptops home daily! 💻
Have a beautiful week ahead!
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 3-21: MAP
May 20: Paralympic Games Event: G1-G3 and E4
May 21: G5 Unit Celebration
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 33
May 10-14
Do your best and let everything else fall into place!
Sunday, May 10
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Grade 2 Screening for Admissions 1:45-2:45
Monday, May 11
Curriculum Meetings please see agenda below: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wVk3x3izu21jzfax6zunrprysHeEfH_inG0cWEXcZXc/edit?tab=t.0
Grade 1 & 5 Screenings for Admissions 1:45-2:45
Tuesday, May 12
Early dismissal for students
Wellbeing Tuesday
Online with Mr. Will at 2:30
Wednesday, May 13
Grade Bands- if needed
Grade 3 & 4 Screening for Admissions 1:45-2:45
Thursday, May 14
Happy Thursday!
KG Screening for Admissions 1:00-1:30
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Huda F, May 16🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
As we begin a new week, let’s keep our spirits high and continue fostering motivation and learning in every classroom. Your dedication and energy inspire our students to achieve their best and have success!
With 35 days left in the school year, each day is an opportunity to make a lasting impact!
Please make sure to take your laptops home daily! 💻
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 3-21: MAP
May 5: Staff Wellbeing
May 20: Paralympic Games Event: G1-G3 and E4
May 21: G5 Unit Celebration
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 32
May 3-7
Welcome May
May you be Happy
May you be Healthy
May you have Courage
May you have Strength
May you find Peace
May you be Blessed
Today and Always...
Sunday, May 3
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Monday, May 4
Curriculum Meetings-
Tuesday, May 5
Early dismissal for students
Wellbeing Tuesday is the 12th, due to Senior Presentations
Elementary Staff: Please work on anything that needs to get done. (CIS data, Appraisal goals, planning and preparing, etc.)
Online with Mr. Will at 2:30
Mr. Mohammed at Strategic Leadership Training
Wednesday, May 6
Grade Level Meetings
World Book and English Language Day: Use the following link to sign-up: https://forms.gle/sdXMehrBMhCghtEX7
Mr. Mohammed at Strategic Leadership Training
Thursday, 7
Happy Thursday!
World Book and English Language Day: Use the following link to sign-up: https://forms.gle/sdXMehrBMhCghtEX7
Mr. Mohammed at Strategic Leadership Training
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Farhiya- May 3🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Hello May and 40 days left of school for staff! But who is counting..... 👀
Thank you for another week of dedication, care, and commitment to our students and one another. Your hard work continues to create a positive and supportive learning environment where every child can grow and succeed.
This week, we celebrate the strong learning taking place across classrooms, the teamwork shown by staff, and the many ways you continue to go above and beyond each day. Your flexibility, professionalism, and kindness make a real difference.
As we move into a new week, let us continue to support one another, maintain high expectations, and celebrate the progress of our students. Every small success matters, and your efforts are deeply appreciated.
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead.
Please make sure to take your laptop home daily! 💻
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for Academic Year 2025/2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 3-21: MAP
May 5: Staff Wellbeing
May 20: Paralympic Games Event: G1-G3 and E4
May 21: G5 Unit Celebration
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 31
April 26-30
It's the teachers that make the difference not the classroom!
Sunday, April 26
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:30-1:30
Final SST meeting- No new referrals for this academic year
Monday, April 27
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish observations at S4 schools all day
Curriculum Meetings
Tuesday, April 28
CIS DI#2- Meeting in the library 1:35-1:55
Mr. Will All Staff 2:00-2:15
Questions for Mr. Will on Outcomes 2:15-2:45
Wednesday, April 29
Grade Level Meetings
Thursday, April 30
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Mohammad PE 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for another great week at school. Your energy, commitment, and care for our students continue to make a real difference every single day.
A special thank you as well for your engagement during our recent professional learning days. Your openness to learning, collaboration, and sharing best practices was fantastic to see. It’s this collective effort that strengthens our community and supports the success of all our learners.
Please make sure to take your laptop home daily! 💻
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
May 3-21: MAP
May 5: Staff Wellbeing
May 20: Paralympic Games Event: G1-G3 and E4
May 21: G5 Unit Celebration
May 26- 28: Eid Break
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 30
April 19-23
I am different, not less.
Dr. Temple Granden
Sunday, April 19
PLD: 7:30-2:45- pleae make sure you are at the first session that begins at 8:00am
Please make sure that you have joined this Google Classroom prior to the sessions on Sunday. You will not be able to access any of the material otherwise: https://classroom.google.com/c/MjIxMjg5NTU1MDJa?cjc=6s7q2txd
Ms. Trish is not in school
Monday, April 20
PLD: 7:30-2:45
Ms. Trish at Leadership PD at EDI
Tuesday, April 21
PD - All staff work on classroom needs
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Ms. Trish at Leadership PD 12-4 at EDI
Wednesday, April 22
No Meetings
Thursday, April 23
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Eman I. 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
This week back with students was AMAZING! Thank you for reestablishing connections, routines and learning. And the bonus of being able to go outside! Thank you for all the wonderful SPIRIT DAYS! It was so fun to see all involved! THANK YOU!
Enjoy the PLD's with all the learning and time with your teams to get back on track as we head to our last quarter of the Academic Year.
Please make sure to take your laptop home daily!
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
April 19, 20 PLD
Quarter 3 Report Card Comments- Due in google on April 20 and PowerSchool April 22
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 29
April 12-16
Alone we are strong, TOGETHER we are stronger!
Sunday, April 12
Teacher Leaders Meeting- 12:30-1:30
Monday, April 13
Grade Band Meetings
Tuesday, April 14
PD- Review CIS Developmental Initiatives and next steps with Ms. Hailey
Whole School Code Blue Alert at 8:15
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, April 8
No Meetings
Thursday, April 9
Star of the Quarter ⭐
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Sabina, April 7
Mr. Gabe, April 12🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
We are so excited to see all of you and the students in person tomorrow~ AGAIN!! We understand that everyone has different feelings and ways to express. We are here! This is a new territory for all of us, as we navigate moving forward together. Your adaptability, flexibility, diligence and courage is AMAZING!
Please make sure you are prepared if an alert happens tomorrow. Please see in the attached email, Staying Safe Together _ Our School Emergency Guide, that can be adapted for your specific class. Please also see some social stories and visuals. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15eczt4OpZaBK7G4Qk7Uym2EF0MJ4ZT2Y?usp=drive_link
Please go over with your students on Sunday and teach them what to do in a code blue.
Please make sure to take your laptop home daily!
Let's have an amazing beautiful week ahead!
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
April 19, 20 PLD- TBC
April 21, SLC/PTC- TBC
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 29
"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying 'I will try again tomorrow'." — Mary Anne
Sunday, March 29
Grade 1&2 Welcome Back Assembly 9:25-9:45
Grade 3,4,5 Welcome Back Assembly 10:25-10:45
Teacher Leaders Meeting- 12:30-1:30
Staff meeting- 2:00 in the Library
Monday, March 30
Online
Tuesday, March 31
Online
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, April 1
Online
Thursday, April 2
Online
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Maha, April 1😘
🎈Ms. Maryam Y, March 1😘
🎈Ms. Maria, March 2😘
🎈Ms. Ayesha, March 3😘
🎈Ms. Raessa, March 7😘
🎈Ms. Huda, March 16😘
🎈Ms. Dina, March 25😘
🌸 This and That 🌸
We are so excited to see all of you and the students in person tomorrow~! We understand that everyone has different feelings and ways to express. We are here! This is a new territory for all of us, as we navigate moving forward together.
Please make sure you are prepared if an alert happens tomorrow. Please see in the attached email, Staying Safe Together _ Our School Emergency Guide, that can be adapted for your specific class. Please also see some social stories and visuals. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/15eczt4OpZaBK7G4Qk7Uym2EF0MJ4ZT2Y?usp=drive_link
Please go over with your students on Sunday and teach them what to do in a code blue. On Wednesday we will have a whole school practice alert, just like we do for our fire drills.
Please make sure to take your laptop home daily!
Let's have an amazing beautiful week ahead!
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Upcoming Dates
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 24
March 1-5
Garangao is a beloved, traditional celebration in Qatar, held on the 14th night of Ramadan to mark the midpoint of the holy month. It is a festive event designed to celebrate children, reward them for fasting for the first half of Ramadan, and encourage them to continue.
Sunday, March 1
Online learning
Monday, March 2
Committee Meetings- Leads will reach out
Tuesday, March 3
Garangao
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:45-1:15
Online with Mr. Will 1:30
Wednesday, March 4
Thursday, March 5
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🎈Ms. Maryam Y, March 1🎈
🎈 Ms. Maria, March 2 🎈
🎈Ms. Ayesha, March 3🎈
🎈Ms. Raessa, March 7🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Staff Timings: 8:15- 1:45- please be ready and in your spaces
Students may arrive and the doors are open at 8:45, staff must be at the front to welcome the students
Students Timings: Early Years and Empower: 9-12:30, dismissal begins at 12:30
Grades 1-5: 9-1, dismissal begins at 1:00
The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
March 3- Garangao
March 8- Iftar for grade 4 and 5 student and families
March 12- Deadline for TLC Consultation Forms
March 15- 23 - Break- No School
Return March 24
March 26- End of Quarter 3
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
🎈Happy Birthday 🎈
🎉Ms. Aven, February 8 🥳
🎉Ms. Eloisa, February 8🥳
Welcome to WEEK 23
February 22-26
Wishing you a safe and blessed Ramadan full of devotion and meaning!
Sunday, February 22
Monday, February 23
Committee Meetings- Leads will reach out
Tuesday, February 24
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:45-1:15
Online with Mr. Will 1:30
Wednesday, February 25
Thursday, February 26
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
🥰 Ms. Robena, February 21 🎈
🥰 Ms. Leyla, February 23 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for all your work on the CIS Development Initiatives. Your commitment and professionalism are truly appreciated. More information will be shared soon from Mr. Will and Ms. Hailey.
We also extend our gratitude for the smooth transition into Ramadan, including the adjustments to schedules and class arrangements. Your flexibility, collaboration, and continued dedication to students — and to one another — have made this transition seamless.
Thank you for consistently giving your best efforts each day. Have a beautiful week ahead!
Staff Timings: 8:15- 1:45- please be ready and in your spaces
Students may arrive and the doors are open at 8:45, staff must be at the front to welcome the students
Students Timings: Early Years and Empower: 9-12:30, dismissal begins at 12:30
Grades 1-5: 9-1, dismissal begins at 1:00
The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
March 3- Garangao
March 4- Iftar for grade 4 and 5 student and families
March 12- Deadline for TLC Consultation Forms
March 15- 23 - Break- No School
Return March 24
March 26- End of Quarter 3
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
🎈Happy Birthday 🎈
🎉Ms. Aven, February 8 🥳
🎉Ms. Eloisa, February 8🥳
Welcome to WEEK 22
February 15-19
Ramadan: A Month of Mercy, Fasting and Spiritual Renewal.
Prepare your heart for this sacred month.
♥️
Sunday, February 15
ASA's- 2
Teacher Leader's Meeting 12:30-1:30
Monday, February 16
Pawmise Rescue visits Grade 2- bring in donations to help the animals 😻🐕
Committee Meetings- Leaders will reach out
Tuesday, February 17
Early Dismissal
CIS Meetings- Your leader of your developmental initiative will reach out!
Online with Mr. Will
International Mother Language Day
Wednesday, February 18
Ramadan predicted to begin today! 🌙
Thursday, February 19
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🥳
Ms. Abena, February 16🎈
Ms. Joslyn, February 20 🎈
Ms. Robena, February 21 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for the AMAZING team work on Sports Day! THANK YOU to Mohammad and Gabe for putting togehter a super wonderful event! And thank you to Kim, for being our photographer for the day! Please see the videos and pictures! Awsaj Sports Day
*As we slow down for Ramadan, please remember all that was mentioned in our Staff Meeting last Thursday*
Staff Timings: 8:15- 1:45- please be ready and in your spaces
Students may arrive and the doors are open at 8:45, staff must be at the front to welcome the students
Students Timings: Early Years and Empower: 9-12:30, dismissal begins at 12:30
Grades 1-5: 9-1, dismissal begins at 1:00
The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
Have a beautiful week ahead 😋
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
February 17- International Mother Language Day
February17 - CIS Meeting
February 18 - Predicted start of Ramadan- confirmation of times to TBC
February 26- Garangao
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
🎈Happy Birthday 🎈
🎉Ms. Aven, February 8 🥳
🎉Ms. Eloisa, February 8🥳
Welcome to WEEK 21
February 8-12
Let's celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and the joy of playing together!
Sunday, February 8
ASA's- 2
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
Monday, February 9
Committee Meetings- Leaders will reach out
Tuesday, February 10
Sports Day- No School
Wednesday, February 11
Elementary Sports Day- information to be shared by Mohammad and Gabe 🏅
Thursday, February 12
Early Years trip to miniBounce 8-12
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for another wonderful week of learning. It has been amazing to see the engagement, creativity, and care you bring to your classrooms each day. The WIDA assessment day was a success! A kind reminder to fill in the WIDA Testing Day Feedback Survey so we can review your feedback and continue with this day each year.
The recent trips have been a great example of learning in action, providing students with meaningful connections, real-world experiences, and safe opportunities to grow beyond the classroom.
Thank you for all your dedication, care and love you bring each day to Awsaj.
GOALS
We are pleased to inform you that the PUE Mid-year review 2025-26 will go live on February 01st. Have your goals reviewed by the deadline, February 15.
Have a wonderful week ahead 😁
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
February 10- Sports Day- No school
February 11- Elementary Sports Day
February 17- International Mother Language Day
February17 - CIS Meeting
February 18 - Predicted start of Ramadan- confirmation of times to TBC
February 26- Garangao
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
🎈Happy Birthday 🎈
🎉Ms. Aven, February 8 🥳
🎉Ms. Eloisa, February 8🥳
Welcome to WEEK 20
February 1-5
New Month
New Mindset
New Intention
Sunday, February 1
ASA's- 2 begins
Grade 3- trip to Green Island
Empower 1- trip to Qatar National Library
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
Monday, February 2
Grade 3- trip to Green Island
Committee Meetings- Leaders will reach out
WIDA- Speaking and Listening Testing Day for K-5
Tuesday, February 3
Staff Wellbeing- International Day
Empower 4- trip to Qatar National Library
Grade 3- trip to Green Island
Early Dismissal for Students
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, February 4
Grade Band Meeting
Grade 3- trip to Green Island\
Thursday, February 5
Grade 5- trip to GWC
Grade 2- trip to Sidra Farm
Grade 4- trip to Bowling at the Student Center
Happy Thursday!
Welcome to WEEK 19
January 25-29
Connecting home and school makes us a great community of learners.
Sunday, January 25
ASA's- last one for Semester 1
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
Monday, January 26
Committee Meetings- Leaders will reach out
WIDA Testing Update via Teams for K-5 Teachers 2:30-2:45
Tuesday, January 27
Parent Teacher Conferences all day
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish at MOE SEN training all day
Wednesday, January 28
QFSSA Outdoor Athletics U11 Boys
Grade Band Meeting
Thursday, January 29
QFSSA Outdoor Athletics U11 Girls
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
As we begin the last week of January.. Lots of busy days of learning inside and outside of classrooms, field trips, and events. Thank you for all you do to enrich the students teaching and learning. We hope you enjoyed Sir Barry Carpenter and all his knowledge this week. Lots of questions to ponder and think....
Have a beautiful week ahead! ⭐ and stay warm 🥶!
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
January 25 ASA1 (Last day for season 1)
January 27 PTC (students will be coming with their parents based on scheduled appointments)
January 28 QFSSA Boys
January 29 QFSSA Girls
January 11-26 Mid-Year Benchmark Assessments
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
🌸 This and That 🌸
Lots of trips this week, enjoy and be safe! A kind reminder to send the requests through Ava. These need to be timely for appropriate approvals and 🚍 availability. Please plan ahead! 🗓️
Ms. Reham and Ms. Suha are out of the building this week being trained to become Team Teach Trainers. Ms. Josi and Mr. Malchus will be out on Wednesday and Thursday for the Team Teach refresher course. Good Luck! 💪
GOALS
We are pleased to inform you that the PUE Mid-year review 2025-26 will go live on February 01st , 2026. In order to help you to effectively complete the Mid-year review, we would like to invite you to attend the Mid-Year review Awareness Session.
The main objectives of the session is to:
Ensure that all employees and line managers have a clear understanding of the Mid-year review process.
Importance of Mid-year formal feedback meeting in the performance management.
Understand clearly your role throughout the Mid-year review.
PUE Mid-year review for Employees
Monday, 02-Feb-2026 (02:00-03:00PM) Click here
Tuesday ,03-Feb-2026 (01:30-02:30PM) Click here
Have a beautiful week ahead 😁
REMINDER
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
February 2- WIDA assessment day for KG to Grade 5
February 10- Sports Day- No school
February 11- Elementary Sports Day
February 17- International Mother Language Day
February17 - CIS Meeting
February 18 - Predicted start of Ramadan- confirmation of times to TBC
February 26- Garangao
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 18
January 18-22
When everyone is included, everyone WINS!
Sunday, January 18
ASA's
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
Monday, January 19
Al- Dasha Cup- Ability Friendly- Education City Stadium - 9 am
G5 Sheikh Faisal Museum 8:30-12:30
QAK- Symposium- Mr. Mohammed is presenting on "The Power of Home-School Partnership"
Curriculum Meeting
Tuesday, January 20
Sir Barry Carpenter in the Auditorium 1:00-3:00
Wednesday, January 21
Grades 1 & 3 - Panda House 8:30 -12:30
SST for Early Years in Ms. Andrea's Room
Grade Band Meeting
Thursday, January 22
Happy Thursday!
Future Directions is Special Education- Mr. Mohammed is in the panel discussion from 1-2 at HQ
🥳Happy Birthday Ms. Hima -Jan 21🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Lots of amazing learning and events last week, Star of the Quarter was a success ⭐ THANK YOU to all who participated in Dirwaza and the Kids Doha Marathon! It was so wonderful to see the community coming together to celebrate Inclusion. A special shout out to Ms. Abena for completing the Doha 42km Marathon 🥇🎉and all the other participants! INSPIRING 🥳
Have a WONDERFUL week ahead!
REMINDERS
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
January 19 Ability Friendly Event
January 20 Sir Barry Carpenter Lecture 1-3 in Auditorium (mandatory)
January 25 ASA1 (Last day for season 1)
January 27 PTC (students will be coming with their parents based on scheduled appointments)
January 28 QFSSA Boys
January 29 QFSSA Girls
January 11-26 Mid-Year Benchmark Assessments
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 17
January 11-15
Reach for the stars; you might just catch one.
Sunday, January 11
ASA's
Empower Bee's 🐝
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
Monday, January 12
Grade 2- Field Trip to Al Shaqab 9-11
Curriculum Meeting
Board Meeting 3:30-5:30
Tuesday, January 13
Fire Drill 8:00 🧑🚒
CIS in the Auditorium 2:00-2:30
Meeting with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, January 14
Grade Band Meetings
Thursday, January 15
Star of the Quarter ⭐
Dirwaza - Classes participating: Ms. La Condria's and Ms. Aven's
Doha Marathon 2:30-5:30
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
As we jump back in to teaching and learning, field trips, meetings and etc. These next 5 weeks will be busy before we get to slow down during the holy month of Ramadan. Enjoy the busy, share ideas, collaborate, engage in meaningful conversations, learn something new each day and smile. 😁
Have a wonderful week ahead!
REMINDERS
A reminder of expectations for 2026:
1. Staff attendance is from 6:45-2:45 daily. Please try to book appointments out of school hours first. Early passes should be used to leave early!
2. The Elementary Absence Request form must be submitted when you are absent and within 3 days ERP should be filled. PLEASE ensure this is happening, as we do not want to chase all of you for your leave.
3. Teachers and IA’s to be in classes before students arrive at 7am. (unless IA’s are at reception)
4. Cell Phones should be put away while you are with the students. Please check messages when you have a break.
5. Please follow the dismissal duty.
6. Enter student attendance daily on time.
7. Please adhere to all Qatar Foundation Employee Relation Polices which includes Dress Code.
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Upcoming Dates
January 11 ASA1
January 15 Doha Marathon
Star of the Quarter Assemblies
January 19 Ability Friendly Event
January 20 Sir Barry Carpenter Lecture 1-3 in Auditorium (mandatory)
January 25 ASA1 (Last day for season 1)
January 27 PTC (students will be coming with their parents based on scheduled appointments)
January 28 QFSSA Boys
January 29 QFSSA Girls
January 11-26 Mid-Year Benchmark Assessments
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 16
January 4-8
New month
New beginning
New mindset
New focus
New start
New intentions
New results
Sunday, January 4
PLD
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
Monday, January 5
No meeting
Tuesday, January 6
Wellbeing Tuesday 'Reconnecting after winter break'
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, January 7
Grade Band Meetings
Thursday, January 8
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Welcome Back... we hope you had a good day and were able to use the extra time.
Have an amazing week and looking forwarding to connecting!
REMINDERS
Attendance
Enter your leave absences onto google and ERP
Staff Timings: 6:45-2:45 daily
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Jan 6: Wellbeing Tuesday
Jan 13: CIS
Jan 15: Doha Marathon
Jan 15: Star of the Quarter
January 20: Sir Barry Carpenter Lecture in the Auditorium 1-3
January 27: PTC
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
. Elementary Absence Request form
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 15
December 14-17
Qatar's national anthem, As-Salam al-Amiri, is a symbol of our pride and love for Qatar. It reminds us of our country’s history, our strong values, and the unity of our people.
Every line honors our heritage, celebrates the courage of our people, and shows respect and loyalty to our leaders. When we sing the anthem, we are celebrating what it means to be Qatari and pledging to protect and support our nation.
Let’s always remember the meaning behind the anthem and feel proud to be part of this great country!
Sunday, December 14
Teacher Leader's Meeting 1:00-2:00
ASA's
Monday, December 15
No meeting
Tuesday, December 16
Qatar National Day Celebrations https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1-tkfbhpDMjXk1PQEGn8-VVT7lwF8hZDTpFjhS0QPQ7M/edit?gid=0#gid=0
Staff Meeting 1:30-2:15 in the Assembly Room
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, December 17
No meeting
Family Fun Day at Winter Wonderland ☃️
Thursday, December 18
Holiday!
Happy Birthday to Mr. Dave, December 14🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Amanda, December 17🎈
Happy Birthday to Ms. Abini, December 21🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Carla, December 29 🎈
Happy Birthday to Ms. Alanoud Al- Marri, December 30🥳
Happy Birthday to Mr. Borsan, Jan1 🎈
Happy Birthday to Ms. Huda O, Jan 1 🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Wafa, Jan 1🎈
Happy Birthday to Ms. Gihan, Jan 1 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
🎉 4, 3, 2, 1 🎉
As we enter the final week of school in 2025, I want to take a moment to share our deepest gratitude for everything you have given this year. These past months have been filled with hard work, growth, and countless moments where your dedication stood out. You carried our students, supported one another, and kept our school moving forward with heart and purpose.
Thank you for your patience, your creativity, and the love and dedication you pour into your classrooms each day. The impact you make goes beyond—our students feel seen, supported, and valued because of you.
As we wrap up this week, I hope you take pride in all you have accomplished. You truly deserve the rest and joy that the upcoming break brings.
Wishing you a safe, peaceful, and beautiful holiday surrounded by family and friends. Enjoy this well-earned time to recharge. 😁
REMINDERS
December 16: Report Cards due on PowerSchool
December 18: Qatar National Day- no school
December 18- January 3- Break
January 4: No students, back to work for staff- Information will be sent
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
🌸 This and That 🌸
🎉9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 🎉
CIS/MSA Update
The CIS/MSA visitors have completed their visit. The Steering Committee has reviewed the feedback. The developmental initiatives and plan will be created and shared soon.
Education City for Arab Cup
Please continue to park in the garage on level 2
Attendance
Enter your leave absences onto google and ERP - If you received an email to enter your leave, plese do. This is your expectation to enter into ERP within 3 days.
Staff Timings: 6:45-2:45 daily
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead!
REMINDERS
December 7 & 9, Match Days, Early Dismissal for students and staff
December 10 & 11, Awsaj Acts of Kindness
December 11: Report Cards due on google drive
December 11: Fire Drill: 8:00 am 🧑🚒
December 16: Report Cards due on PowerSchool
December 18: Qatar National Day- no school
December 18- January 3- Break
January 4: No students
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 14
December 7-11
Hey...
You are doing AMAZING- Keep Going
Welcome to WEEK 13
November 30- Dec 4
"Express gratitude for the greatness of small things."
🤗
in the
Sunday, November 30
Monday, December 1
Field Trip for Grade 5: Qatar Television, 8-11:00
Committee Meetings in the Assembly Room - 1:45-2:45
Tuesday, December 2
Football Match Day- Early Years and Empower dismissal at 11:00, Grade 1-5 at 11:30, Staff at 1:00
Staff updates in the Library 12:30
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, December 3
World Disability Day
Grades report and etc in the Assembly Room at 2:00
Thursday, December 4
Awsaj Arab Cup Tournament- (PE is cancelled for the day)
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday to Ms. Hiba on Dec 2 🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Hamida on Dec 2🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
CIS/MSA Update
The CIS/MSA visitors have completed their visit. Information will be shared soon from Ms. Hailey. Thank you for all your
support during their visit.
Education City for Arab Cup
Staff Parking on level 2 by Gate 1- Students in MS/HS will also be dropped off on level 2- Please arrive early
Gate:1- Will be closed and controlled by MOI From November 28 to December 13
Please review the letter and map that has been sent to parents, attached in email
Attendance
Enter your leave absences onto google and ERP
Staff Timings: 6:45-2:45 daily
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Maintain data logs and anecdotal notes to inform instructional decisions and behavior support
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead!
REMINDERS
November 30- PLD #2- no students
December 7 & 9, Match Days, Early Dismissal for students and staff
December 10 & 11, Awsaj Acts of Kindness
December 11: Report Cards due on google drive
December 11: Fire Drill: 8:00 am 🧑🚒
December 16: Report Cards due on PowerSchool
December 18: Qatar National Day- no school
December 18- January 3- Break
January 4: No students
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Sunday, December 7
Football Match Day- Early Years and Empower dismissal at 11:00, Grade 1-5 at 11:30, Staff at 1:00
Monday, December 8
No meeting
Tuesday, December 9
Football Match Day- Early Years and Empower dismissal at 11:00, Grade 1-5 at 11:30, Staff at 1:00
Online with Mr. Will 2:30
Wednesday, December 10
Grade Band
Awsaj Acts of Kindness
Thursday, December 11
Ms.Tamara's class will take part in the QND Celebration at HQ
Staff Meeting in the Assembly Room 2:00-2:45
Report Cards due on drive
Awsaj Acts of Kindness
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday to Mr. Paul, December 7 🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Athier🎈
Welcome to WEEK 12
November 23-27
Have a wonderful WEEK!
Sunday, November 23
ASA's
Teachers Leader Meeting - 1:00-2:00
Monday, November 24
Committee Meetings in the Library- 1:45-2:45
Tuesday, November 25
PLD- Planning, Data and Assessment- Time with Teams
Online with Mr. Will- 2:30
Wednesday, November 26
Grade 5 Science Fair 9:00-10:00 🧪
Grade Band Meetings- Teacher Leader will reach out
Thursday, November 27
International Day of Solidarity with Palestine
KG Field Trip to KidzMondo
Pre-School Picnic at Oxygen Park- 8:00-11:00
Happy Thursday!
Trish out of the office!
Happy Birthday to Ms. Joud - November 28🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Nkechi - November 28 🎈
Happy Birthday to Ms. Sabrina- November 30🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
CIS/MSA Update
The CIS/MSA visitors are in the building on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. You may have been invited to a meeting, please arrive on time and ready. Let's be our welcoming selves as they learn more about us over these three days!
Fall Festival
Fall Festival on November 23, 24 and 25. Please see the link below for classes and support. Have an amazing time. A special THANK YOU to Ms. Alanoud Al Marri and Ms. Tamara
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1CBhznvJvF5Gpr590KjRVS3na3Aq4FkjRMr8KNeXBhsc/edit?usp=sharing
Parking is Closed
The Education City High School Parking lot is closed starting Sunday, November 16 🅿️❌
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead!
REMINDERS
November 20- Flu Vaccination Drive
November 23-25- CIS/MSA Prep Visit
November 23-27 Fall Festival-
November 26- Grade 5 Science Fair
November 30- PLD #2- no students
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 8
November 16-20
Everyday we must try to make one person happy. A smile goes a long way.😁
ILPSunday, November 16
ASA's
Teachers Leader Meeting - 1:00-1:30
Monday, November 17
Committee Meetings- Committee leaders will confirm with teams
Tuesday, November 18
Wellbeing Tuesday
Time: 1:15 p.m.
Location: Mall of Qatar Food Court
If you still wish to stay in school as wellbeing looks different for everyone; please fill in form with link below
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_qDHvXon8FRrMKWJf7qIErkwF8QRW55EbzIpHgLWle8/edit?usp=sharing
Online with Mr. Will
Wednesday, November 19
Grade Band Meetings- ILP meeting in the Assembly Room
Thursday, November 20
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday to Ms. Pushpa - November 14th🥳
Happy Birthday to Ms. Natalie - November 20 🎈
Happy Birthday to Ms. Lama T- November 22🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
CIS/MSA Update
Please review the email sent by Mr. Will and all the CIS information for the the CIS/MSA visit that will take place on November 23, 24, and 25.
Parking is Closed
The Education City High School Parking lot is closed starting Sunday, November 16 🅿️❌
Classroom Observations
Will continue this week.
Reminder:
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
Ensure to have lesson planning updated and in the drive.
Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead!
REMINDERS
November 20- Flu Vaccination Drive
November 23-25- CIS/MSA Prep Visit
November 23-27 Fall Festival-
November 26- Grade 5 Science Fair
November 30- PLD #2- no students
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Sunday, November 9
ASA's
Teachers Leader Meeting - 1:00-2:00
“Breaking Barriers” Empower Classes Event- Sherborne (Dave and Malchus will cover PE)
Monday, November 10
Ms. Trish and Ms. Suha at QAW
Tuesday, November 11
CIS Meeting 1:30-2:30 in the auditorium
Wednesday, November 12
Ms. Trish and Ms. Reham at QAK
Grade Band Meeting
Thursday, November 13
Happy Thursday!
Sunday, November 2
ASA's
Teachers Leader Meeting - 1:00-2:00
CIS online meeting with Steering Committee from 1-2:30
Monday, November 3
Committee Meetings- information TBC from your Committee Leaders
3B and 5B Trip to Katara 'One Book, One Community'
Tuesday, November 4
Online Learning for all schools- more discussions and plan with your Team Leaders
Wednesday, November 5
First SST meeting- invitations will be sent to who needs to be present
Thursday, November 6
Star of the Quarter! ⭐
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday
Ms. Hana, Oct 26 🎈
Ms. Rahaf A, Nov 1 🎉
Ms. Ebtihal, Nov 4 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
This week is Sustainability Week! Activities and information to be shared for your classrooms.
Qatar is hosting the Second World Summit for Social Development which is taking place at QNCC on November 4-6. All Schools in Qatar will be online on Tuesday, November 4 and students and staff will stay home. You will have further discussions with your Team Leaders to create a plan for your grade levels.
Teaching Reminder:
Review expectations and routines.
Display learning outcomes to support a clear learning journey.
Use positive reinforcement to recognize and celebrate student effort and success.
We will continue to observe classrooms, thank you for welcoming us into your class.
We hope you had a fabulous break, taking time to reconnect with yourself, family and friends. Have a beautiful week! 🥰
REMINDERS
November 2- Report cards sent to parents
November 5- Star of the Quarter
November 4- Online School- students and staff work from home
November 20- Flu Vaccination Drive
November 23-25- CIS/MSA Prep Visit
November 26- Grade 5 Science Fair
November 30- PLD #2- no students
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 8
October 19-23
Nine Types of Rest
time away
permission to not be helpful
connection to art and nature
solitude to recharge
something 'unproductive'
a break from responsibility
stillness to decompress
safe space
alone time
Sunday, October 19
ASA's
Book Fair 📚
Teachers Leader Meeting - 1:00-2:00
Monday, October 20
Grade 2 trip to Kids Mondo
Book Fair
Time to prepare for PTC
Tuesday, October 21
Parent Coffee Morning info session- ADHD Awareness from 8-9 in the library ☕
PTC- 12-3, Early Dismissal for Early Years and Empower- 10:30, Grades 1-5- 11:00
Parents are invited for the Book Fair during PTC Day!
Dress as your favorite book character 🤖 👑🛸
Wednesday, October 22
Grade Band Meetings
QFSSA Event at QAW- information to come from Gabe and Mohammad
Thursday, October 23
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Report Comments are due in the drive to be reviewed by leaders on Sunday. Then added to PowerSchool on Wednesday the 22nd for release to IT to produce the reports. Please ensure you are following the new report comment structure.
The Book Fair is this week with lots of activities to show the love of reading! Parents are welcome to join on PTC Day!
Is anyone interested to be the Elementary Scout Leader? Please reach out and let us know.
The Steering Committee will meet on Zoom with the CIS evaluators on November 2 ,to discuss the cornerstones and all the work we are are doing in our school. More information to come from Ms. Hailey.
Thank you for your deep dedication to our students and community.
5, 4, 3, 2, 1, - Please enjoy a well deserved break and find some time to rest and recharge! Happy Holidays- ALMOST 😁
REMINDERS
October 19-21: Book Fair and Activities- email sent for further information
October 19: Report Comments Due on the drive for review by Leaders
October 20: End of Quarter 1
October 21: Parent Coffee Morning 8:00-9:00, ADHD Awareness and Parent Teacher Conferences from 12:00-3:00
October 22: Report comments Due in PowerSchool
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
🌸 This and That 🌸
Anti-Bullying Week
Please remember to show your support and actively participate in the planned activities and discussions throughout the week.
CIS/MSA Update
The CIS/MSA Steering Committee meeting took place last Sunday. Well done to the team, and thank you to Ms. Hailey for her leadership. An update will be shared on Tuesday. Please note that the CIS/MSA visit will take place on November 23, 24, and 25.
Classroom Observations
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish will continue with classroom observations. Additionally, Ms. Josi and Ms. Tina will be supporting with non-evaluative observations within their grade bands. Having additional eyes in the classroom helps us notice things we may not see on our own and supports our continued growth in teaching and learning.
Wishing everyone a wonderful week ahead!
REMINDERS
November 20- Flu Vaccination Drive
November 23-25- CIS/MSA Prep Visit
November 23-27 Fall Festival- More information to be shared soon
November 26- Grade 5 Science Fair
November 30- PLD #2- no students
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 7
October 12-16
Be yourself, everyone is already taken 😁
Sunday, October 12
ASA's start today- 1:40-2:30 (pick up time)
Grade 2 visit with Firefighters 🚒
Teachers Leader Meeting - 1:00-2:00
Monday, October 13
HBKU event with grade 5 🫧
Committee Meetings 2:00-2:45
Tuesday, October 14
Wellbeing Tuesday- different activities to choose - Enjoy
UFLI, 1-4, online
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish at the World Inclusion Conference
Wednesday, October 15
AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) from SLP to Early Years and Empower- 1:00 -2:00 in the Assembly Room
Grade Band Meetings
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish at the World Inclusion Conference
Thursday, October 16
Happy Thursday!
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish at the World Inclusion Conference
🥳Happy Birthday
🎈 Maria October 11🥳
🥳Shaza October 11 🎈
🥳 Maryam Al B Oct 16🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
YAY, all the goals have been submitted! Thank you for all your work and submitting on time! 💯
ASA's start today- if you did not get a chance this time because of low numbers, we will try again next semester and change the activity! ⚽
The CIS first Zoom call has been moved to November 2. The in person visit from the evaluators is November 23-25. Look out 👀 for information from Ms. Hailey!
MAP, Benchmark and Arabic Assessments are complete for now! Well done!! 🏅
Thank you all for all the work that has been done in Committees and discussing the updated standard based report cards. You will continue this work on Monday with more information to come from Mr. Dan.
Another UFLI training this week on Tuesday! Keep enjoying the learning.
We have had many observations for admissions and still have a couple openings left in the Elementary. Ms. Josi and the Admissions Committee are as busy as ever. Thank you for all you do! And Thank you Teachers for welcoming all the new students to our amazing community and school 💞
Is the countdown on for fall break? 2 more weeks, 10 more days 😃🗓️
We hope everyone is feeling better, please remember to always fill in the google form and ERP for absences! 🤒
Have a wonderful week ahead! ⭐
REMINDERS
October 12- After School Activities Begin
October 14, 1-4 UFLI PD for Homeroom teachers (online)
October 16: World Food Day
October 19-21: Book Fair and Activities- email sent for further information
October 19: Report Comments Due on the drive for review by Leaders
October 20: End of Quarter 1
October 21: Parent Coffee Morning 8:00-9:00, ADHD Awareness and Parent Teacher Conferences from 12:00-3:00
October 22: Report comments Due in PowerSchool
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 6
October 5-9
Happy Teacher's Day
T- Talent to inspire
E- Empathy to understand
A- Ability to nurture
C- Commitment to excellence
H- Honesty in guidance
E- Endless encouragement
R- Role model
Sunday, October 5
International Teacher's Day! From 8-10 there will be a coffee stand in front of the auditorium! Stop by and get your free coffee ☕- extra happiness pop ups 🧁 throughout the day 😁🕑
Teachers Leader Meeting
Monday, October 6
World Cerebral Palsy Day To show your support we highly encourage you to wear the color green ( shirt, scarf.. etc.).
No meetings- Time for you to work on goals and anything else that is needed
Tuesday, October 7
PUE Forum
Pre-Event and Registration: 12:30 to 1:30 pm
Main Event: 1:30 to 2:30 pm
Networking: 2:30 to 3:00 pm
Venue: Qatar National Convention Center, Conference Hall
UFLI for Teachers, 1-4, online
Wednesday, October 8
No meetings- Time for you to work on goals and anything else that is needed
Thursday, October 9
Happy Thursday!
International Mental Health Day!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
🎈 🥳 Ms. Andrea, Oct 10 🥳
Welcome to WEEK 5
September 28- October 2
Start each day with a positive thought and a grateful heart! ♥️
Sunday, September 28
Professional Learning Day #1 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hoY67CeXoiB1hhje_TsHmiUfWRZRwUy_jWah_Fv2ZNA/edit?tab=t.0
Monday, September 29
Committee Meetings
Tuesday, September 30
Staff Meeting via Teams 1:00-1:30
Online with Mr. Will: 2:30
Wednesday, October 1
The International Day of Older Persons
Grade Band Meetings- TBC
Thursday, October 2
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
🎈Ms. Suha, Sept 29 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Looking forward to PLD tomorrow and having time to slow down and catch up with each other!
This week continuing with Benchmark, MAP and Arabic Assessments (Grade 3-5)! Good Luck to all students and staff!
The CIS documents are due this week for the CIS visiting members. The Steering Committee has been busily ensuring all is complete!
The School Climate Team met and discussed the best way to move forward with questions. They scaffolded the questions for better understanding and added visuals. They will meet again when all is complete for the final approval.
We hope you have the best week! 🥰
REMINDERS
October 5: Teacher Day
October 7: PUE Forum
October 7, 14, 1-4 UFLI PD for Homeroom teachers (online)
October 16: World Food Day
October 21: Parent Teacher Conferences - more infomration to come
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 4
September 21-25
"Just one positive thought in the morning, can change your whole day."
Dalai Lama
Sunday, September 21
Teacher Leaders Meeting: 1:00- 2:00
International Day of Peace
Monday, September 22
Curriculum Committee Meetings
Tuesday, September 23
Time for Planning, Assessment, and Data in grade levels
Mr. Mohammed at Wellbeing Conference and QAK
Online with Mr. Will: 2:30
Wednesday, September 24
Grade Level Meetings
Thursday, September 18
Happy Thursday
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Back to School Afternoon was fantastic! It was wonderful to see all the engagement and important conversations happening.
We had 95 parents out of 245 show up (38.7%). Thank you for all your effort and dedication to our families.
TLC meetings happened last Wednesday as they delivered how they will collaborate with staff and students this year. TLC will have their information available to all staff so understanding is clear. Admin, TLC and Teacher Leaders have a follow up meeting on Monday to ask clarifying questions.
The CIS Steering Committee is meeting two times per week. They are ensuring all the documents are updated and ready for the CIS visiting team. The Steering Committee: Hailey, Will, Trish, Paul, Selena and Alicia
The School Climate Survey is upon us again. We have an Elementary Team: Tina, Imed, Hodman, and Admin. We are meeting this week with the Research team to ensure the questions are appropriate for our learners in grades 3-5. We hope for them to participate this year in the survey.
We have some new faces around the building as Ms. Maryam has joined Ms. Joslyn's class as the Instructional Assistant. And Ms. Fatima, who will be joining Ms. Makaela's class. We also have, Ms. Maryam, an intern for the year who is completing her Qualified Behavior Analyst. Please WELCOME all the new staff!
We hope you have the best week 😁
REMINDERS
S4 Rifd Parent Training Program
The “Rifd” Parent Training Program was launched on 13th February 2022. Rifd is a program in which parents actively acquire skills through mechanisms such as workshops, training, research, modeling, and practicing skills. The aim of the Rifd program is to ensure that parents of students with educational needs and challenges receive the training and information they need to effectively participate in supporting their children. We chose the name Rifd because it beautifully expresses a parent’s desire to provide love, help, and support to their children.
We are pleased to announce the launch of the first season of the Rifd Parent Training Program for 2025–2026, starting in November. The program will offer a diverse range of workshops, training courses, consultations, and roundtable discussions to meet the needs of parents at Awsaj Academy and across the wider S4 family, which includes Awsaj Academy, Renad Academy, Warif Academy, DARB Program, Friendly Abilities Program, and more.
Registration link: https://forms.gle/GS1dLoFaEecyTyff9
Submission deadline: 25 September 2025
Workshop day: Saturdays (in-person or online)
Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to creating a strong partnership between our schools and our parents.
Staff Timings are 6:45-2:45 from Sunday to Thursday
Important Dates
September 28: Professional Learning Day- no students
October 5: Teacher Day
October 7: PUE Forum
October 7, 14, 1-4 UFLI PD for Homeroom teachers (online)
October 12: EAST referral opens - More Information to come
October 16: World Food Day
October 21: Parent Teacher Conferences
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 3
September 14-18
A welcoming hand, an open door, A space for everyone to soar. No one is left on the outside, With kindness as our only guide. Together we rise, strong and true, A vibrant, diverse world for me and you.
Sunday, September 14
Teacher Leaders Meeting: 1:00- 2:00
Ms. Trish at QAK from 7-12
Monday, September 15
Time to get ready for BTS
Tuesday, September 16
Back to School Afternoon with parents 1:00-3:00
Wednesday, September 17
TLC delivers an information session to Empower from 1:00-1:30 in the Assembly Room
TLC delivers an information session to 'Main School' from 1:45- 2:15 in the Assembly Room
Thursday, September 18
Happy Thursday
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Tamara Sept 16 🥳
Ms. Maryam S Sept 19 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank YOU for all your smiles through the week. You are all AMAZING and as we move forward into week three, the routines, consistency and positive reinforcement becomes more noticed and evident with our students.
The new visitor policy is getting smoother each day, the parents and students are getting into routine and following the process. Thank you for all for coming together with extra hands at drop off and dismissal, it truly has made a difference and we are so appreciative.
MAP begins this week in grades 3-5, thank you, Ms. Tina for being the MAP Coordinator and delivering information sessions to the teams last week. Good Luck to grade 3-5 teachers and students!
We still have open seats in some grades, thank you, Ms. Josi, she is organizing and coordinating; parent interviews, student assessments, and classroom observations. Thank you to everyone who is involved in the admissions process.
Full day timings begins for school this week for Pre- K, Kindergarten and Empower. As we begin to get into our typical routine with all the students.
A follow up from the UDL- Katie Novak on the training some staff at the beginning of the year.
Have the best week!
REMINDERS
S4 Rifd Parent Training Program
The “Rifd” Parent Training Program was launched on 13th February 2022. Rifd is a program in which parents actively acquire skills through mechanisms such as workshops, training, research, modeling, and practicing skills. The aim of the Rifd program is to ensure that parents of students with educational needs and challenges receive the training and information they need to effectively participate in supporting their children. We chose the name Rifd because it beautifully expresses a parent’s desire to provide love, help, and support to their children.
We are pleased to announce the launch of the first season of the Rifd Parent Training Program for 2025–2026, starting in November. The program will offer a diverse range of workshops, training courses, consultations, and roundtable discussions to meet the needs of parents at Awsaj Academy and across the wider S4 family, which includes Awsaj Academy, Renad Academy, Warif Academy, DARB Program, Friendly Abilities Program, and more.
Registration link: https://forms.gle/GS1dLoFaEecyTyff9
Submission deadline: 25 September 2025
Workshop day: Saturdays (in-person or online)
Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to creating a strong partnership between our schools and our parents.
Staff Timings are 6:45-2:45 from Sunday to Thursday
Important Dates
September 16: Back to School Afternoon:1:00-3:00
October 12: EAST referral opens - More Information to come
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 2
September 7-11
A Teacher is a:
Thoughtful
Effective
Amazing
Compassionate
Helper
Encouraging
students to
Realize their
dreams!
Sunday, September 7
Teacher Leaders Meeting: 1:00- 2:00
Monday, September 8
Committee Meetings-1:30-2:30- Please meet in your teams, discussion topics- 1. curriculum 2. reporting (report cards) 3. common assessments
Tuesday, September 9
Council of International Schools (CIS) Meeting: 1:30 -2:30 in the Auditorium
Online with Mr. Will: 2:30
Wednesday, September 10
Empower PD on RWI
Thursday, September 11
Happy Thursday
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Fathiya September 11 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
A Big Thank You for an amazing first week with students! We know how much work goes into each small detail. The students and families were beaming with excitement and smiles!
We continue this week with shortened times for Pre-K, K and Empower from 7:30-10:30
Begin to prepare for Back to School Afternoon which takes place on September 16th: 1:00-3:00
S4 Rifd Parent Training Program
The “Rifd” Parent Training Program was launched on 13th February 2022. Rifd is a program in which parents actively acquire skills through mechanisms such as workshops, training, research, modeling, and practicing skills. The aim of the Rifd program is to ensure that parents of students with educational needs and challenges receive the training and information they need to effectively participate in supporting their children. We chose the name Rifd because it beautifully expresses a parent’s desire to provide love, help, and support to their children.
We are pleased to announce the launch of the first season of the Rifd Parent Training Program for 2025–2026, starting in November. The program will offer a diverse range of workshops, training courses, consultations, and roundtable discussions to meet the needs of parents at Awsaj Academy and across the wider S4 family, which includes Awsaj Academy, Renad Academy, Warif Academy, DARB Program, Friendly Abilities Program, and more.
Registration link: https://forms.gle/GS1dLoFaEecyTyff9
Submission deadline: 25 September 2025
Workshop day: Saturdays (in-person or online)
Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to creating a strong partnership between our schools and our parents.
Please continue 🤩
1. Establish Routines
2. Set Clear & Achievable Expectations
3. Use Positive Praise & Encouragement
4. Build Relationships & Belonging
REMINDERS
Staff Timings are 6:45-2:45 from Sunday to Thursday
Important Dates
September 16: Back to School Afternoon:1:00-3:00
October 12: EAST referral opens - More Information to come
Professional Learning Requests
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 1
August 31- Sept 3
"A new school year means new beginnings, new adventures, new friendships, and new challenges."
— Denise Witmer
Sunday, August 31
First day of school for all students
Grade 1-5: 7:15-1:15
Preschool and KG: 7:30-10:30
Teacher Leaders Meeting: 12:30- 1:30
Monday, September 1
Grade Level Meeting with your Teacher Leaders 1:30-2:30
Tuesday, September 2
Professional Learning: Empower in the Library 12:00-1:30 OT: Understanding Sensory Processing and Supporting Students
Planning and Preparation for Teachers and IA's
Online with Mr. Will -2:30
Wednesday, September 3
Thursday, September 4
QF Gathering 10-12
Happy Thursday
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Hissa September 1 🥳
Ms. Hessa September 2🥳
Ms. Abisola September 6🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Welcome to the first day of a brand-new school year! Today we open our doors to possibilities, growth, and the unique individual journeys of every student.
As we begin, I want to remind you of the powerful priorities for today and this week! 🤩
1. Establish Routines
Teach, model, and practice classroom routines step-by-step.
Use visual schedules and clear language to reduce anxiety.
Be consistent—predictability helps students feel secure.
2. Set Clear & Achievable Expectations
State expectations positively (“Walk in the hall” vs. “Don’t run”).
Reinforce them with visuals or gestures.
Revisit expectations throughout the day- wish visuals—repetition builds confidence.
3. Use Positive Praise & Encouragement
Catch students doing the right thing—praise effort, not just outcomes.
Be specific: “I like how you got started right away” instead of “Good job.”
Pair verbal praise with non-verbal signals (smile, thumbs up, nod).
4. Build Relationships & Belonging
Greet each student by name.
Provide opportunities for students to share about themselves.
Show interest in their strengths and celebrate small successes.
REMINDERS
Staff Timings are 6:45-2:45 from Sunday to Thursday
Important Dates
September 16: Back to School Afternoon:1:00-3:00
October 12: EAST referral opens - More Information to come
Professional Learning Requests
After your submit your request you will receive an email if you are approved
If you are approved, you can sign up through EDI Hub
Absences
Awsaj
Lean
Welcome to WEEK 39
June 29- July 3
"The end of the year is a time to remember every lesson learned and laugh shared."
-Unknown
Sunday, June 29- Thursday, July 3
Please be available for meetings and discussions with parents and colleagues
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Aisha June 30 🥳
Ms. Alanoud S June 30 🥳
Ms. Josie July 7🥳
Ms. Rozana July 16🥳
Ms. Tamam July 22🥳
Ms. Maha M July 31🎈
Mr. Tim July 31🥳
Ms. Hanadi August 5 🥳
Mr. Dan August 14 🥳
Mr. Malchus August 16 🥳
Ms. Maryam B August 21 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Countdown to the End of the Year 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 🚀
Please work on your end year tasks and take this extra time to prepare for next academic year.
We are flexible with your timings, please arrive anytime between 7-8am and then complete 6 hours with departure between 1-2 pm
As we wrap up the school year, we want to thank you for all your hard work, care, and commitment. You’ve given so much to our students and school community—and it’s truly appreciated.
This being our first year in administration at Awsaj, we are especially grateful for your support and dedication. You made a big difference in so many lives, including ours!
Wishing you a safe, restful, and joyful summer—wherever it may take you!
With heartfelt thanks ♥️
Important Dates
June 30 Report Cards home to Parents
July 3 Last Day for Staff
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMzQljvVvk2uwpzvxtw1kog63NhCLUa8q0TVAyzdvGjPQOFA/viewform
Absence
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 38
June 22-27
Gratitude can transform our life. Sooner than anything else.
Be Grateful!
Sri Chimney
Sunday, June 22
Grade 5 Step Up: 10:30-12:30
Teacher Leaders Meeting: 12:15-1:15
Monday, June 23
Ms. Trish: PD all day
Grade level meetings for Class Groupings
Grade 5 field trip to Quest 7:45-12:30
Tuesday, June 24
Ms. Trish: PD all day
Wellness Tuesday: Funny Awards for Whole School in Auditorium - early release
Early Release for students 12:15
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, June 25
Ms. Trish: PD all day
Foundations Graduation: 2:30
Thursday, June 26
Ms. Trish and Mr. Mohammed- SEN Peer Review Meeting at MOE 9-11
Star of Quarter
Report Card Comments due on PowerSchool
Ms. Trish: PD all day
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Makaela June 23 🥳
Ms. Lama T, June 24 🎈
Ms. Reham June 25 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Countdown to the End of the Year 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 🚀
Watching our Kindergarteners graduate was a truly special moment. Families beamed, everyone cheered, and our students—each in their own way—showed just how far they’ve come. We’re so proud of every one of them and can’t wait to see where their journey will take them next year for grade 1!
As student numbers gradually decrease, use this time to prepare thoughtfully for the upcoming school year. This quieter period provides valuable opportunities for reflection, strategic planning, and creating an even more engaging and supportive learning environment for all students.
A heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you for your hard work, kindness, and care have made this year so special for our students.
Important Dates
June 24 Staff Wellbeing Day
June 26 End Quarter 4
Report Cards due on PowerSchool
Star of Quarter
June 30 Report Cards home to Parents
July 1 Last Day for Students
July 2 End of Year Banquet
July 3 Last Day for Staff
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMzQljvVvk2uwpzvxtw1kog63NhCLUa8q0TVAyzdvGjPQOFA/viewform
Absence
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 37
June 15-19
It always seems impossible until it is done.
-Neslon Madela
Sunday, June 15
Teacher Leaders Meeting 10:00-11:00
Monday, June 16
Tuesday, June 17
Early Release for students 12:15
Curriculum Committees Meetings
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, June 18
Thursday, June 19
Kindergarten Graduation 9-10:30 in Assembly Room
Report card comments due on Google Drive for proofing
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Noor June 20 🥳
Ms. Rehaf M June 21 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
Countdown to the End of the Year 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 🚀
We hope you had a wonderful Eid break to slow down and recharge. Three weeks until the end of the school year and we are asking ourselves, where did the year go ? All the commitment, dedication, teaching and learning is evident in our students. We are so proud and honored to be a part of the Awsaj Team!
Please remember to attend your appraisal meeting this week to hilite all your amazing successful goals! https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1RcqGVLpP9CTNKMlLKEf0tHTeb7HNZpwU/edit?gid=2016899269#gid=2016899269.
Important Dates
June 15 Back to School
June 19 Report Card comments due on Google Drive for Semester 2 (Quarter 4)
June 24 Staff Wellbeing Day
June 26 End Quarter 4
Report Cards due on PowerSchool
Star of Quarter
June 30 Report Cards home to Parents
July 1 Last Day for Students
July 2 End of Year Banquet
July 3 Last Day for Staff
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMzQljvVvk2uwpzvxtw1kog63NhCLUa8q0TVAyzdvGjPQOFA/viewform
Absence
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 36
June 1-5
May Allah accept your good deeds, forgive your transgression & ease your worldly sufferings. We wish you a very joyous and peaceful Eid!
Sunday, June 1
Mr. Mohammed at a Leadership, Planning and Performance Retreat offsite all day
Teacher Leaders Meeting 12:15-1:15
Curriculum Leads follow up meeting 2:00-2:30
Monday, June 2
Grade 2 Parent lunch- Exit point- 11:30-1:00
Tuesday, June 3
Grade 4 Fairgrounds Exit activity- 11:00-11:30
Early Release for students 12:15
Curriculum Committees Meeting- Time agreed with teams
Senior Celebration- 1:00-3:00
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, June 4
Grade 3 Bowling at the Student Center - 9:15-12:00
Thursday, June 5
Eid Break- no school!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Tina June 6 🎂
Welcome to WEEK 35
May 25-29
Be yourself, everybody else is already taken!
Welcome to WEEK 35
May 25-29
🌸 This and That 🌸
Have a fabulous week ahead!
Reminder of staff hours:
Sunday to Wednesday 7-3
Thursday 7-2:30
Please ensure you are in your classes at 7:00 and ready for student arrivals!
Staff Attendance:
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
The form is the process for any leave: sick, early, appointments. The google form must be filled for all. We will check the google form against your inventory sheets for monitoring.
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
🌸 This and That 🌸
Countdown to Eid 4, 3, 2, 1.. 🐑
As we begin June and the final stretch of the school year, it's clear that busy days of learning and growth are all around us. The energy in our classrooms reflects the dedication, care, and countless teaching moments that have shaped our students this year.
Your hard work, creativity, and dedication are showing results; academically, socially, and emotionally. Thank you for every lesson taught, every conversation held, and every challenge embraced. The growth we’re witnessing in our students is a direct result of the unwavering commitment each of you brings to your work every day.
✅ Maintain Expectations – Continue holding students to the same behavioral and academic standards. Consistency helps manage behavior and supports a positive learning environment.
🕒 Stick to the Schedule – Daily routines are essential, especially during times of excitement and transition. Following the established schedule helps reduce anxiety and keeps everyone on track.
🔁 Reinforce Routines – Students thrive on predictability. Keep classroom procedures in place and revisit them as needed to maintain focus and productivity.
Your commitment to structure and consistency makes a lasting impact, please continue!
Important Dates
June 15 Back to School
June 19 Report Card comments due on Google Drive for Semester 2 (Quarter 4)
June 24 Staff Wellbeing Day
June 26 End Quarter 4
Report Cards due on PowerSchool
Star of Quarter
June 30 Report Cards home to Parents
July 1 Last Day for Students
July 2 End of Year Banquet
July 3 Last Day for Staff
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Building Executive Functioning from the Front of the Classroom: It Starts With Us
Executive Functioning (EF) goes beyond staying organized or paying attention—it includes the mental skills that help us manage time, remember instructions, control impulses, and work toward goals. These skills are essential for navigating classroom demands and fostering long-term academic success.
As educators, we play a key role in how these skills develop. When we model planning, emotional regulation, and flexible thinking in our daily routines, we create an environment where executive functioning is taught implicitly. Rather than focusing only on student deficits, strengthening our own executive functioning improves both our effectiveness and the classroom culture. It helps students internalize the very skills they need to become independent and resilient learners.
Teacher-Focused Strategies: Building Executive Function Muscle
Just like students, teachers juggle multiple demands at once. Developing your own executive functioning toolkit helps reduce burnout, increase efficiency, and model essential skills for students.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Strengths and Challenges
Take a moment to consider:
Do I manage my time well but struggle to keep materials organized?
Am I great at planning but get overwhelmed with deadlines?
Do I stay calm in stressful moments or find myself easily frustrated?
Understanding your own EF profile helps you identify realistic strategies that work for you.
Step 2: Practice and Model Core Skills
Here’s a practical structure you can implement throughout the week. These strategies support you and provide live modeling for students:
EF Skill
Planning & Organization
Task Initiation
Time Management
Self- Regulation
Flexibility
Strategy for Teachers
Use a daily planner or digital calendar to outline tasks. Prioritize major tasks each day.
Break big tasks into smaller chunks.
Use timers or alarms to stay on task and schedule breaks between tasks.
Use grounding strategies (e.g., deep breathing, self-talk) during high-stress periods.
When plans change, model adaptive thinking: “This didn’t go as planned. Let’s try another way.”
Modeling For Students
Begin each lesson by reviewing the objective and the steps. “Here’s our plan for today...”
Verbally guide students through chunking: “First, write your name. Next, do questions 1-3.”
Show how you stay on track: “We have 10 minutes left—let’s use our time wisely.”
Narrate your coping: “I’m feeling a little rushed, so I’m going to pause and take a deep breath before we start.”
Use student errors as growth moments: “It’s okay to shift strategies when something isn’t working.”
Extending the Impact to Your Classroom
Creating an environment that supports executive functioning isn’t about adding more—it’s about being more intentional with what you already do.
Try this:
Set up a visible visual schedule or checklist for the day’s tasks.
Use consistent routines for transitions and materials.
Provide sentence starters for self-talk and emotional regulation (“I need to…” “I can try…” “I will start by…”).
Celebrate student use of executive skills: “I noticed you checked the board before asking for help—that’s great planning!”
Make your thinking visible by narrating strategies aloud so students can learn from your process.
Guide students to use these strategies themselves by prompting them to plan, organize, or self-regulate out loud.
If these strategies are already part of your routine, you’re one step ahead. Think about how you might make your thinking visible to students or share these tools with colleagues who are still building their own EF toolkit.
Final Takeaway
Executive functioning is not just a student skill—it’s a whole-school, whole-person skill. When teachers strengthen and model these abilities, they don’t just manage classrooms more effectively—they actively teach critical life skills. You don’t need to be perfect, just intentional. Start with one strategy, reflect on the impact, and build from there.
Students learn what they see. Let your own executive functioning become the daily example they can follow.
Sunday, May 25
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish at Al Tamakon 8-10
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:00-12:45
Arabic IA's and Nurse for all who attended TFQ Training at EDI- 1:45-2:15 in the Assembly Room
Monday, May 26
Makaton Training for Early Years and Empower Teachers and IA's- 1:00-2:00 in the Library
Tuesday, May 27
Parent Workshop on Autism from Rita OT and Marwa SLP 11-12:30 in the Library
Early Release for students 12:15
Oakberry shop set up! Come have a snack from 12:30 onwards from the Wellbeing Committee
Behavior vs Sensory Workshop by Rita and Hodman for Arabic Teachers and IA's 1:30-2:30
Curriculum Committees Meeting- Time agreed with teams
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, May 28
Staff Meeting 1:45-2:45 in PE
QF Schools Graduation 4:00-7:00
Thursday, May 29
Grade 1 Performance 8:30-10:00 in the auditorium
Grade 2 Trampo Extreme- 8:30-12:30
Grade 4 Oli Oli 9:15-12:30
Grade 5 End of Unit exhibition 10:00-11:15 in the Solarium
SLP Activity for Staff from the SLP Team in the Staff Room at 1:30
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
🎈Happy Birthday Ms. Hailey May 31 🎈
Sunday, May 18
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:15-1:15
Monday, May 19
Ms. Trish offsite- CIS - Safeguarding Training
Makaton Training for Early Years and Empower 1:00-2:00
Tuesday, May 20
Aman Center presentation for G4 and G5- Protecting Yourself 11:00-11:30
Early Release for students 12:15
Curriculum Committees Meeting- Time agreed with teams
Fine Motor PD- Arabic Teachers and Arabic IAs 1:30-2:30
Classroom IAs please sign up for your compulsory PD session- email sent https://form.jotform.com/251252161603445
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, May 21
Grade 4 Assembly 9:00-10:00
Arabic Language Exhibition Grade 4 10:00-10:45
Grade Level Planning Meetings
Thursday, May 22
Open Family Day run by the PTA from 8:00-12:00
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Salima May 24th 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
We have been reading your suggestions and solutions from the 📦 and reflecting. Thank you for contributing your ideas! We will address these in our staff meetings for possible further development.
Continue to collect your evidence for your goals and appraisal. We will meet everyone individually for 15 minutes after Eid Break, you will receive a meeting request soon.
Have a fabulous week !
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Dealing with parental denial requires empathy, clear communication, and strategic approaches to foster collaboration for the child's benefit. Here are few techniques to effectively engage with parents who may be in denial about their child's challenges:
1. Compliment the Child and Acknowledge Strengths
Begin conversations by highlighting the child's positive attributes. This approach demonstrates your appreciation for the child and sets a constructive tone for discussing areas of concern.
Example:
"She’s such a fast runner!"
Emphasizing strengths can make parents more receptive to feedback and underscores your commitment to their child's overall development.
2. Validate the Parent's Feelings
Acknowledge and empathize with the parents' emotions and perspectives. Validation helps build trust and shows that you recognize their concerns.
Example:
"I can hear you're worried about how he repeats the first sound of words. I hear exactly what you mean, and I'm concerned about it too."
By aligning with their observations, you create a collaborative environment for addressing the child's needs.
3. Provide Real-Time Observations and Concrete Examples
Share specific instances or behaviors observed during sessions to illustrate concerns. Concrete examples make abstract issues more tangible for parents.
Example:
"Wow, he really wants that car on the high shelf. I'm glad he's communicating effectively right now by pulling you toward it. Although, for a child his age, I'd expect a short phrase to let us know what he wants."
Such observations can help parents understand developmental expectations and areas where their child may need support.
4. Avoid Engaging with Excuses
When parents offer explanations that minimize concerns, it's important not to confront them directly. Instead, acknowledge their viewpoint and steer the conversation back to the child's needs.
Response:
"That's possible."
This approach maintains rapport while keeping the focus on constructive.
5. Empower the Parent with Strategies
Provide parents with actionable strategies to support their child's development at home. Empowering them with tools and knowledge can alleviate feelings of helplessness and encourage active participation in their child's progress.
Example:
"Did you hear him use a word when the toy was out of reach? That's a great strategy to use at home, and it's something we can build on in therapy."
Offering practical suggestions reinforces the partnership between educators and parents.
This resource provides additional insights into managing challenging conversations with parents
https://study.com/blog/how-to-talk-to-difficult-parents-during-parent-teacher-conferences.html
https://blogs.thesteppingstonesgroup.com/dealing-with-parent-denial
Welcome to WEEK 33
May 11-15
Teacher
takes a hand
opens a mind
touches a heart
shapes the future
THANK YOU
Sunday, May 11
Teacher Appreciation Breakfast 7:45-10:00- staff break room
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:15-1:15
Grade 5 Field Trip to DECC Book Fair 8-12:30
Monday, May 12
G3 'Around the World Exit Point' with Arabic 11:30 at the Solarium
'Mainstream' Homeroom/Specials Teachers Meeting- Curriculum Update- Assembly Room 2:00-3:00
Tuesday, May 13
Early Release for students 12:15
IA Meeting in Assembly Room 1:30-2
Curriculum Committees Meeting- 1:30-2:30
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, May 14
Mr. Mohammed at Microsoft PD 8-3
Thursday, May 15
Ms. Trish at PD- Foundations of Strategic Leadership 8-1
G5 Bully Blocker Assembly- 10:00-10:45
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
ASD-Friendly Classroom Design
Support engagement, reduce behaviors, and promote independence through a clear structure.
When setting up your classroom for students with autism, create well-defined, visually organized spaces that match your students' goals and needs. The classroom layout in the image above is a great example—it uses clearly labeled zones (e.g., Reading/Writing, Group Time, Book Area, Math/Snack) with visual cues like line-up dots and individual work (IW) stations. This setup reduces anxiety and confusion, supports smoother transitions, and encourages appropriate behavior.
Key features to include (as seen in the image):
Defined workstations (IW 1, 2, 3): Support focus with low distraction environments.
Visual supports like schedules and line-up visuals: Guide routines and promote independence.
Dividers and consistent arrangement: Provide structure and predictability.
Flexible zones for group and solo learning: Accommodate various sensory and social needs.
Summary: Why This Design Works for ASD Students
This layout embraces structure, clarity, and visual support—all of which are foundational for meeting the unique needs of autistic students. It supports:
Predictable routines → Less anxiety
Clear expectations → Fewer behavior issues
Visual organization → Increased independence
Personal space → Improved focus and self-regulation
By designing the classroom with purpose and predictability, you help ASD students feel safe, know what to expect, and stay engaged, minimizing frustration and behavioral challenges.
Resource:
https://autismclassroomresources.com/classroom-design/
🌸 This and That 🌸
Last week and this week is all about you; Teacher Appreciation! The early release days gave some extra time, we hope you enjoyed!
Please leave notes in your colleagues appreciation mailboxes, it is always so nice to receive positive messages! 💜
The extended Elementary Leadership team are happy to see you Sunday for breakfast ! A little something to show our THANK YOU !
Reminder of staff hours:
Sunday to Wednesday 7-3
Thursday 7-2:30
Please ensure you are in your classes at 7:00 and ready for student arrivals!
Expectations in class with phones:
Mobile phones should be out of sight and not looked at during teaching time. We understand we have some group chats for some students and then these staff would have their phones near. Your break times and after school times are the perfect time for you to do what you wish. We ask during teaching times to be aware of all students needs and phones away!
Staff Attendance:
On Thursday we had 14 staff out and had to cover! Thank you for all the staff that supported and changed the routine for the day! It is a puzzle piece in the morning finding support for each other! I hope everyone is feeling better and back to work!
If you know you have an appointment ahead of time, please fill in the google form. This week before you leave, everyone will practice accessing the google form. To stop emails, text messages, we need everyone to follow the process we started in September.
Congratulations to Shaza, Fathiya, Reham and Hessa on your Graduation! Your dedication is truly remarkable! Congratulations! 🥳
Have a wonderful week ahead! 4 weeks to go until Eid break!! We can do it 🤩
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 32
May 4-8
'If you can't fly, then run.
If you can't run, then walk.
If you can't walk, then crawl,
but whatever you do,
you have to keep moving forward."
Martin Luther King Jr.
Sunday, May 4
Al Tamakon visits Awsaj SEN Review: 9-12
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:15-1:15
MAP testing begins
Monday, May 5
Tuesday, May 6
Early Release for students 12:15
Autism Online Training- IBCCES- Time to work on the online course
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, May 7
Desert King Performance 9:15-10:00
Thursday, May 8
Grade 5 Field Trip to DECC Book Fair
Empower Green invite to parents for 'The Gingerbread Man' 11-12
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Sensory Overload vs. Tantrum
Understanding the Difference to Better Support Students
Why This Matters
Not all challenging behaviors are the same — and not all require the same response. In the classroom, students may cry, shout, refuse, or even lash out. But beneath those behaviors are different causes: some are purposeful (like a tantrum), while others are involuntary (like a sensory meltdown or overload). Being able to tell the difference is key to helping students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
For students with Autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences, everyday sights, sounds, textures, and transitions can become overwhelming. When that overwhelm builds, it can lead to a meltdown — a neurological response, not a choice. On the other hand, tantrums are often goal-driven behaviors intended to gain something or avoid something.
Understanding the difference helps teachers respond more effectively, reduce escalation, and provide the right kind of support — whether that means setting firm limits or offering a quiet space to recover.
Sensory Overload vs. Tantrums: What's the Difference?
Think of sensory overload as the cause and a tantrum as the effect. Sensory overload occurs when the brain is flooded with too much input — light, sound, movement, touch, emotion — and can’t process it all. A tantrum is the outward expression of that internal distress.
Sensory Overload vs. Tantrum Comparison
Feature Sensory Overload Tantrum
Cause Involuntary neurological response to too much sensory Goal-oriented behavior (to gain or avoid or emotional input something)
Control Child is not in control; response is automatic Child has some control; behavior may stop when goal is met or denied
Awareness Often unaware of surroundings or unable to communicate Often aware and may respond to how adults react
Response to Adults May escalate with more verbal input or attention May reduce when ignored or when goal is met
Recovery Needs time, space, and regulation strategies Ends when demand is removed or ignored
When we respond based on why a behavior is happening, we:
Prevent unnecessary escalation
Build stronger, trust-based relationships
Foster emotional safety and inclusion
Help students learn to self-regulate over time
Practical Strategies
For Sensory Overload
Offer a calm-down space or sensory corner
Reduce input: turn down lights, reduce noise, limit demands
Use visual supports or quiet fidget tools
Let the child recover before debriefing
Collaborate with OT or behavior support if meltdowns are frequent
For Tantrums
Stay calm and set clear, consistent boundaries
Avoid giving in to demands during the tantrum
Reinforce appropriate behaviors afterward
Use natural consequences when appropriate
Document and track patterns for support planning
🌸 This and That 🌸
As we begin to think about Professional Development and Training Programs tailored for all of your needs.
Please complete the training program survey below. Thank you, Suha for creating the survey.
English training program survey
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1q1dAqYUz6CLJDN6sm9osetuSMfRN1TyDAUqtVjZBztM/edit?usp=drivesdk
Arabic training program survey
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1twC00igcBHU3L152wEZI2hDn0JmZiGDy3gy0rt7sNVM/edit?usp=drivesdk
More information and clarity will come of our Curriculum Review from Ejadah. It was postponed for some weeks, thank you for being flexible and understanding. These are important conversations that we will have to make the best decisions to move forward.
As an American diploma school with also a SEL certificate, we are reviewing different pathways to show the success are students can achieve. We will always be graded against grade level standards. However, these standards can be scaffold to meet the needs the for the students. Over the next weeks we will dive into curriculum and meet in our Curriculum Committees.
Have an AMAZING week ahead !
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 31
April 27- May 1
'Star of the Quarter'
"This week you are the star.
Your time is finally here.
You light up the class and school. We are so proud of you!
You are a star to us every single day!"
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Clarify Expectations to prevent Escalations:
Be Clear — 'Work' Needs to Mean Something
For many autistic students, saying “First work, then break” isn’t enough. If they don’t know what kind of work, how much, or how long, it can lead to confusion, avoidance, or behavior escalation. Expectations should be concrete, specific, and visual whenever possible.
🟢 Precursor Strategy – Set Clear Expectations Before the Task Starts
Avoid vague phrases like “It’s time to work.” Be specific about the task, the amount, and the outcome:
“You’ll finish 2 math problems using your number line. Then break.”
Use a mini visual strip or checklist, and if a student has accommodations, show the steps using individualized visual cards.
🟡 Proactive Strategy – Respond to Early Signs of Dysregulation with Clarity
When you see signs like fidgeting, looking away, or verbal protesting, restate the expectation with a visual prompt and one-step direction:
“You’re doing just this row. Then you can choose your quiet activity.”
If needed, use the student’s personalized visual cards or support tools to anchor the instruction.
🔴 Reactive Strategy – After a Behavior, Go Back to the Clear Expectation
Instead of repeating “Let’s finish,” refer to the original, measurable task:
“You have one more question. Then the break starts.”
Avoid adding new demands—just guide them back to what was already expected.
When expectations are measurable, visible, and short, students are more likely to stay engaged and less likely to escalate.
Sunday, April 27
Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish visit Hamilton- SEN Review: 9-12
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:15-1:15
Monday, April 28
Hamilton visit Awsaj- SEN Review: 9-12
Refill2Save Bottle Collection
Tuesday, April 29
Mr. Mohammed at PD
Refill2Save Bottle Collection- filling up bottles and returning to classrooms
PD for Arabic Speaking IA's and Nurse at EDI from 12:30-3:00
PD: Seesaw online live- Fostering Joyful Learning Experiences 1:30-2:30- invitation sent
Wednesday, April 30
Mr. Mohammed at PD
Refill2Save Bottle Collection- filling up bottles and returning to classrooms
KG Fine Motor Activities
KG Blue and KG Orange- organized by Ms. Danah-10 am in the Library Qatari Sign Language conducted by Ms. Amal Al-Buainain, under the program Stories for Deaf, from MADA and her interpreter. For more information, this is a video about her work: https://mada.org.qa/sponsorship/success-stories/
Thursday, May 1
Star of the Quarter ⭐
Grade 2 Parent Book Morning: 7:30-8:30
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Mr. Mark April 30
Mohammad S. May 1
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Welcome to WEEK 30
April 20-24
"Today a READER, tomorrow a LEADER."
Sunday, April 20
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:15-1:15
Last day to submit referrals for EAST
Monday, April 21
Names due for Star of the Quarter ⭐
Tuesday, April 22
Tuesday Wellness- Staff Talent Show- 1:00-3:00
PD for Arabic Speaking IA's and Nurse at EDI from 12:30-3:00
PHCC- Oral Health - schedule attached 🦷
Online with Mr. Will 2:45-3:00
Wednesday, April 23
PHCC- Oral Health
World Book and Copyright Day 📚
Student Led Conferences 11:45-3:00
Thursday, April 24
KG Trip to Green Island
Empower Orange visit to QNM 9:30-10:30am
Grade 5 Trip to Hamad Port
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Behavior Boost
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Watch What Happens After the Behavior
Sometimes, what we do after a behavior — even with good intentions — can accidentally reinforce the wrong behavior and keep it going.
Ask Yourself: What’s the consequence of the behavior?
Is the student getting…
Attention (positive or negative)?
Escape from a task they don’t like?
Access to a preferred item or activity?
If the student finds that consequence rewarding, it may reinforce the behavior, even if it seems like a correction.
Examples of Reinforcing Attention (Even if Negative):
Scolding: “Stop doing that right now!”
Calling out the student's name loudly
Arguing or reasoning with them in front of the class
Classmates laughing or reacting
Teacher hovering or repeatedly prompting only that student
If the student is seeking connection, even negative attention can keep the behavior going.
Escape as a Reinforcer: When Avoiding the Task is the Reward
If a student refuses to do work (e.g., throws a pencil, lays their head down, walks away) — and then you remove the demand, delay the task, or send them to calm down…
You may be teaching them: “If I act out, I don’t have to do this.”
What to Do Instead:
1. For Attention-Seeking Behavior:
Minimize reaction to the negative behavior (planned ignoring)
Reinforce positive, appropriate behaviors: “I love how you raised your hand!”
Catch them being good and give attention then — not during disruptions
2. For Escape-Maintained Behavior:
Use demand fading: start with smaller, easier tasks and slowly build up
Offer choices: “Do you want to write with a pencil or a marker?”
Use first-then strategies: “First 2 questions, then break.”
Allow breaks — but only for working appropriately, not as a result of refusal
Teach and reinforce asking for help instead of acting out
Pro Tip: Always make sure the student completes some part of the task — even after a break — so they don’t learn that refusal = escape forever.
🌸 This and That 🌸
Amazing events last week showcasing commitment, compassion, and dedication from staff, students and parents involved. Awsaj is a very special community and each and everyone of you are a part of this amazing community! Thank you for all you do everyday each day! ♥️
As we begin to dive in to the Ejadaj Review and prepare for CIS in November. Many different committees will be created to support and to ensure we are doing our best for our students. More information will be shared this week. Thank you in advance for the important work we continue to reflect and revise.
Instructional Assistants: Each day after the students leave, please check in with your teachers if there is any work that needs to be completed for the coming days and weeks. The afternoon expectations are preparing for everything and anything that may need to be completed.
Have a fabulous week ahead!
Some important dates for April and May
April 13-17 Spirit Week
April 15 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI - Makaton Training
April 16 End Quarter 3
April 20 ASA resumes
April 22 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI
April 23 Student-Led Conferences
April 28-30 Refil2Save Initiative
April 27- May 5 Sen Peer Review with Hamilton and Al Tamakon
April 29 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI
OFSSA Boys Basketball
April 30 QFSSA Girls Basketball
May 1 ⭐Star of Quarter⭐
From the Inclusion Team:
Welcome back! I hope you all had a wonderful and relaxing holiday break.
As you may know, April is Autism Awareness Month. In recognition of this month, we have complied a range of resources to support you in having meaningful conversations with your students about autism. You can access everything in our dedicated Google Classroom (link and code provided below).
Link: https://classroom.google.com/c/MjEzODg0ODU2NjRa?cjc=mi744ei
Code: mi744ei
Within the Google classroom, you’ll find:
Lesson plans tailored to each grade level
Videos, handouts, and classroom activities
A ribbon coloring activity for students, which we kindly ask you to complete and display on the bulletin board near the library and school entrance (foyer)
In addition, we will be setting up a hand-painting activity in the foyer, where students can place their painted handprints in honor of Autism Awareness. We’ll share the exact date and further details closer to the time.
Please also keep an eye out for our upcoming Inclusion Behavior Weekly Tips, which will focus on strategies and insights related to autism
Lastly, we are honored to have Dr. Elizabet from HBKU, who will be giving an online presentation on her current research in autism. This session will take place on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 1:45pm.
Thank you for your continued support in fostering an inclusive and understanding school environment.
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 29
April 13-17
School spirit WEEK is a fantastic way to foster community, unity, spirit and creativity among students and staff !
Sunday, April 13
Teacher Leaders Meeting-12:15-1:15
Monday, April 14
Root Cause Analysis Meeting in the Cafeteria for ALL Teachers: 1:45-3:00- Meeting request sent
Tuesday, April 15
Library CLOSED!
Parent workshop titled "Multimodal Communication and the Function of Behavior in Autism", will take place on Tuesday, April 15th, at AWSAJ Academy in the Library from 7:30 AM to 10:00 AM.
PD for Arabic Speaking IA's at EDI from 12:30-3:00
PD for Early Years and Empower- Makaton
PD for Homeroom teachers and English Speaking IA's- Raz- Assembly Room 1:30-2:30
Ms. Trish at an Early Childhood Education Solutions Meeting from 9:00-2:00
Online with Mr. Will 2:45-3:00
Wednesday, April 16
Palestine Art Exhibition 8-12 🍉
Grade 2 Field Trip to Katara Planetarium
Thursday, April 17
Empower Classes Trip to OliOli from 8:00-10:00
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Behavior Boost
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Understanding Stimming Behaviors in Students with Autism
As we continue our journey this April to deepen our understanding of autism and strengthen our support for all learners, this week’s tip highlights stimming—a common and often misunderstood behavior in students with autism.
What is Stimming?
Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behavior, refers to repetitive body movements or sounds that are used to regulate sensory input, manage emotions, or simply bring comfort or pleasure. While stimming is seen in many individuals, it is especially prominent in autistic individuals as a way to navigate overwhelming environments, express excitement, or regulate internal states.
Stimming is not inherently problematic. In fact, it can serve many positive and functional purposes. However, understanding its forms and purposes helps us respond appropriately and support students more effectively.
Types of Stimming Behaviors
Based on sensory domains, here are the six types of stimming behaviors, with examples and their common purposes:
Types
Visual Stimming
Auditory Stimming
Tactile Stimming
Olfactory & Gustatory Stimming
Proprioceptive Stimming
Vestibular Stimming
Examples
Staring at lights, watching spinning objects, flapping fingers in front of eyes, lining up toys
Humming, echoing words, listening to the same song repeatedly
Rubbing fabrics, touching surfaces, skin picking or scratching
Sniffing objects, licking non-food items, mouthing, or chewing items
Jumping, pushing against objects, clenching fists, banging body parts
Spinning, rocking, head shaking, swinging
Purpose
Visual pleasure, self-soothing, processing visual input
Regulating auditory input, enjoying rhythmic sounds, blocking out other noises
Seeking/avoiding textures, comfort, emotional regulation
Exploring the environment, sensory seeking, enjoying strong smells or tastes
Body regulation, managing anxiety, seeking deep pressure or input
Balance regulation, enjoyment of movement, grounding oneself in space
Why It Matters in the Classroom
Stimming can be a powerful coping strategy for autistic students. Rather than attempting to eliminate it, our goal as educators is to:
Recognize the type and purpose of the stimming behavior.
Ensure safety if the behavior could cause harm.
Respect and support the student’s need to self-regulate.
Adapt the environment, when possible, to reduce sensory overload or anxiety.
Understanding stimming allows us to approach behaviors with compassion and intention, reinforcing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Observe stimming not as a disruption, but as communication—an insight into how a student is feeling or what they need to succeed.
🌸 This and That 🌸
Many activities this week for Spirit Week, be creative and have fun!
The Palestine Art Exhibition has collected many beautiful inspiring art work. Let's have a guess as how many submissions? Amazing Congratulations to Ms. Hessa and her team. The Art Exhibition will be on Wednesday from 8-12 at PUE Theatre.
THE LIBRARY WILL BE CLOSED ON TUESDAY!
Thank you for all your support in coverage last week! We hope all are feeling better and back to School!
Reminder in School Timings for Staff: Everyone should be prepared and in class at 7 am
Monday to Wednesday 7-3
Thursday 7-2:30
Have a fabulous week ahead!
Some important dates for April and May
April 13-17 Spirit Week
April 15 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI - Makaton Training
April 16 End Quarter 3
April 20 ASA resumes
April 22 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI
April 23 Student-Led Conferences
April 28-30 Refil2Save Initiative
April 27- May 5 Sen Peer Review with Hamilton and Al Tamakon
April 29 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI
OFSSA Boys Basketball
April 30 QFSSA Girls Basketball
May 1 ⭐Star of Quarter⭐
From the Inclusion Team:
Welcome back! I hope you all had a wonderful and relaxing holiday break.
As you may know, April is Autism Awareness Month. In recognition of this month, we have complied a range of resources to support you in having meaningful conversations with your students about autism. You can access everything in our dedicated Google Classroom (link and code provided below).
Link: https://classroom.google.com/c/MjEzODg0ODU2NjRa?cjc=mi744ei
Code: mi744ei
Within the Google classroom, you’ll find:
Lesson plans tailored to each grade level
Videos, handouts, and classroom activities
A ribbon coloring activity for students, which we kindly ask you to complete and display on the bulletin board near the library and school entrance (foyer)
In addition, we will be setting up a hand-painting activity in the foyer, where students can place their painted handprints in honor of Autism Awareness. We’ll share the exact date and further details closer to the time.
Please also keep an eye out for our upcoming Inclusion Behavior Weekly Tips, which will focus on strategies and insights related to autism
Lastly, we are honored to have Dr. Elizabet from HBKU, who will be giving an online presentation on her current research in autism. This session will take place on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 1:45pm.
Thank you for your continued support in fostering an inclusive and understanding school environment.
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 28
April 8-10
'I'm Just Me'
I’d use it to help,
You understand,
What life’s really like,
In the Autism Land
I’d open the door
For you to walk through,
Come take my hand,
Let me show it to you.
I’d show you how sometimes
Noise hurts our ears,
What makes us feel safe,
Our thoughts and our fears.
The things that we like,
Which seem strange to you,
Like flapping and jumping,
And spinning round too.
With one little wish, I’d help you to see,
How confusing life is,
To children like me.
To see the world through our eyes,
Is my wish to you,
You’d see why we struggle,
If you walked in our shoes.
With only one wish,
I’d change the whole world
Making it a place of acceptance
For all boys and girls.
By: Kenzi Jupp
Tuesday, April 8
PD: Makaton Training: Empower Classes and Early Years
PD- Homeroom and IA's: Time for planning and preparing as grade levels
Online with Mr. Will
Wednesday, April 9
Dr. Elizabeth from HBKU, online at 1:45- link will be shared
Thursday, April 10
Happy Thursday!
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Ms. Maha R April 1
Ms. Sabina April 7
Ms. Kim April 8
Ms. Pascaria April 9
Ms. Sara R April 9
Mr. Gabe April 12
🥳Happy Birthday 🎈
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Awareness is Knowing — Acceptance is Teaching Differently
As we reflect on Autism Acceptance Month, let’s move beyond knowing what autism is—and focus on how we teach and connect with our autistic students.
True acceptance means adjusting the environment, communication, and expectations to support meaningful participation.
1. Communicate Differently
Not all students use words—but all students communicate.
✅ Accept gestures, visuals, or devices as valid communication.
✅ Give extra time to respond—wait without pressure.
✅ Turn activities into opportunities to connect (“Let’s look at this” instead of “What’s this?”).
2. Support Emotional Regulation
Autistic students may struggle with sensory overload or emotional control.
✅ Use visuals: calm-down choices, timers, and feelings charts.
✅ Build predictable routines.
✅ Let them take breaks—don’t force social interaction during dysregulation.
3. Practice True Inclusion
Awareness is noticing difference. Acceptance is adjusting for it.
✅ Focus on why a behavior is happening, not just stopping it.
✅ Accept that connection may look different (e.g., side-by-side play, silence, or parallel work).
✅ Respect their need for space, structure, and support.
Small changes make a big difference!
🌸 This and That 🌸
We hope you had a wonderful Eid Break creating memories with loved ones and friends. And found some time for self- care and relaxation.
After School Activities will begin on April 13, add an activity below. Staff will be assigned for the activity that the students sign up for to create fairness and equality.
Some important dates for April
April 13-17 Spirit Week
April 13 ASA resume
April 15 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI - Makaton Training
April 16 End Quarter 3
April 20-24 SEN Peer Review with Hamilton and Al Tamakon Schools- More information to come
April 22 Arabic IAs and Nurse PD at EDI
April 23 Student-Led Conferences
April 28-30 Refil2Save Initiative
April 29 OFSSA Boys Basketball
April 30 QFSSA Girls Basketball
May 1 ⭐Star of Quarter⭐
From the Inclusion Team:
Welcome back! I hope you all had a wonderful and relaxing holiday break.
As you may know, April is Autism Awareness Month. In recognition of this month, we have complied a range of resources to support you in having meaningful conversations with your students about autism. You can access everything in our dedicated Google Classroom (link and code provided below).
Link: https://classroom.google.com/c/MjEzODg0ODU2NjRa?cjc=mi744ei
Code: mi744ei
Within the Google classroom, you’ll find:
Lesson plans tailored to each grade level
Videos, handouts, and classroom activities
A ribbon coloring activity for students, which we kindly ask you to complete and display on the bulletin board near the library and school entrance (foyer)
In addition, we will be setting up a hand-painting activity in the foyer, where students can place their painted handprints in honor of Autism Awareness. We’ll share the exact date and further details closer to the time.
Please also keep an eye out for our upcoming Inclusion Behavior Weekly Tips, which will focus on strategies and insights related to autism
Lastly, we are honored to have Dr. Elizabet from HBKU, who will be giving an online presentation on her current research in autism. This session will take place on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 1:45pm.
Thank you for your continued support in fostering an inclusive and understanding school environment.
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 27
March 23-27
"Wishing you and your family a blessed Eid filled with joy, peace, and prosperity."
Sunday, March 23
Teacher Leaders Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, March 24
Tuesday, March 25
Online with Mr. Will 1:15
Wednesday, March 26
No School
Thursday, March 27
No School
🥳Happy Birthday Ms. Dina March 25 🎈
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Understanding Down Syndrome: Key Insights and Effective Teaching Strategies
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder, affecting approximately 1 in 700 newborns annually. It results from an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to distinct physical traits and cognitive challenges such as short attention spans, slower processing speeds, and difficulty expressing thoughts. However, with the right educational support, students with Down syndrome can thrive.
Top 5 Teaching Strategies for Students with Down Syndrome
Use Clear and Simple Language
Communication challenges are common, so using clear, concise language with visual aids, gestures, and repetition helps students better understand and retain information.Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
Large tasks can be overwhelming. Breaking lessons into manageable steps allows students to focus on one aspect at a time, reducing frustration and increasing success.Leverage Visual Supports
Visual schedules, timetables, and social stories enhance comprehension and provide a structured approach to learning, helping students anticipate activities and transitions.Incorporate Multisensory Learning
Engaging multiple senses—such as using hands-on activities, manipulatives, and interactive lessons—helps reinforce concepts and improve retention.Impart Practical Life Skills
Teaching essential life skills such as self-care, money management, time management, communication, and basic household tasks promotes independence and daily functioning.
By implementing these strategies, educators can create an inclusive, structured, and supportive environment that empowers students with Down syndrome to reach their full potential.
Welcome to WEEK 26
March 16-20
"There is no greater disability in society, then the inability to see a person as more."
🌸 This and That 🌸
It was lovely to see the participation of staff and students for World Down Syndrome Day. Thank you for raising awareness and making the day special for our students.
From Mr. Will, 'I’m excited to share some great news—we will have a holiday on Wednesday and Thursday, March 26-27, 2025.' This well-deserved break comes as an appreciation for everyone's hard work during Ramadan.
Thank you for all your dedication to our students during this Holy Month. Even when times were shorter, we understood and were prepared for the challenges that arose during the month. Well done to all of you!
Please enjoy time with family and friends and take some time for self care and rest. ♥️
See you back at school on April 6 at 7:00 am
Please remember the timings below for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Ramadan Timings:
Staff: 8:15-1:45
Pre-3 and Pre-4: 9:00-12:00
KG and Empower: 9:00-12:30
Mainstream: 9:00-1:00
Foundations: 12:45-2:45
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Sunday, March 16
Teacher Leaders Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, March 17
G4/G5 Presentation AMAN Center- Bullying
Tuesday, March 18
Online with Mr. Will 1:15
Wednesday, March 19
G3 Activity for International Happiness Day 11:40-12:10- Shaded area outside of Secondary
Thursday, March 20
World Downs Syndrome Day- on March 21- presentations on the screen at reception and some activities in the classrooms-https://www.seniainternational.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/World-Down-Syndrome-Day-Resources.pdf
Grade 5 speaker for Qatar History! 10-10:45
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday Ms. Huda F March 16 🎈
Happy Birthday Ms. Rita BC March 18🥳
Happy Birthday Ms. Julie March 19 🥳
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
The Power of Play: Supporting Student Development
Play is an essential part of childhood, providing opportunities for students to develop social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills in a natural and engaging way. Research shows that play is not just about fun—it’s a crucial component of learning and development. There are 16 different types of play, each serving a unique role in a child's growth. From symbolic play, where children use objects to represent ideas, to rough-and-tumble play, which helps build social bonds and self-regulation, every type of play contributes to a child’s overall well-being.
Encouraging diverse play experiences in the classroom and on the playground fosters creativity, problem-solving, cooperation, and resilience. Whether through imaginative play, exploratory play, or socio-dramatic play, students gain valuable skills that support both academic success and social-emotional development.
Check out the resource below to learn more about the 16 types of play and consider how you can integrate more play opportunities into your daily routines!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for the beautiful Iftar on Thursday. It was a lovely representation of the community coming together.
Free Professional Development from EDI: Free Professional Development
Ms. Fathia will begin her initiative below:
Knowledge Recycling Initiative
Introduction:
The knowledge Recycling Initiative is a new idea to make better use of school resources. It focuses on sharing and cooperation by collecting extra educational tools and resources from classrooms and giving them to those who need them . It also supports schools that need these resources .
This initiative helps all students get equal learning opportunities by providing the materials they need, It also support environmental and educational sustainability by reducing waste and use school supplies wisely and this support “ Qatar National Vision 2030”. And as a student and a teacher I want to introduce this initiative to my school “ Al Awsaj Academy “ to create more efficient learning environment .
It also teach the students about the importance of saving resources and sustainability .
The Goals:
1- Organize school resources :
*By making better use of the available learning materials by redistributing unused tools and resources .
2- Encourage the cooperation between schools :
*By sharing extra materials with schools that need them .
3- Support Sustainability Education :
*By Reducing waste and promote a culture of saving resources in the school
How the Initiative Works:
1- Collect extra school supplies from the classes in the elementary .
2- Set a time for each grade to bring unused items .
3- Sort and check the conditions of the collected supplies.
4- Identify classrooms that need materials .
5- Distribute the materials to classrooms in need .
Follow – up and Evaluation:
Fathia will follow up the initiative success through surveys or teacher feedback , to ensure it is helpful for the students and the school.
HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEK AHEAD!
Please remember the timings below. Early hour passes are not to be used during this month.
Ramadan Timings:
Staff: 8:15-1:45
Pre-3 and Pre-4: 9:00-12:00
KG and Empower: 9:00-12:30
Mainstream: 9:00-1:00
Foundations: 12:45-2:45
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 25
March 9-13
Garangao (Garanga'oh), also known as Gargee'an, Gargaaown or Laylat Garanga'oh (Garanga'oh Night), is celebrated in the mid-month night of Ramadan. The Qatari society celebrates Garangao on the 14th day of Ramadan. This year, it will fall on 14 March 2025
Sunday, March 9
Teacher Leaders Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, March 10
Tuesday, March 11
Online with Mr. Will 1:15
Wednesday, March 12
Thursday, March 13
Happy Garangao Day!
Grade 5 speaker for Qatar History! 10-10:45
Happy Thursday!
Welcome to WEEK 24
March 2-6
"Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Ramadan filled with joy, harmony, and countless blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!"
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for all your dedication and support to your students during this first week of Ramadan!
As we know our learners thrive on routine and consistency. Here are some key reminders for supporting our students during Ramadan:
Adjust Schedules: Offer flexible timings, breaks, and rest periods to accommodate energy levels.
Support Fasting Students: Allow flexibility for those unable to fast and provide snacks and water for non-fasting students.
Provide Clear Expectations: Continue to use visual schedules and break tasks into smaller steps for easier understanding.
Emotional Support: Be sensitive to students fasting, encourage empathy, and ensure all students feel included.
Family Communication: Stay in touch with families to address specific needs and ensure coordination between home and school.
Please when inside the classroom close your doors as the mosquitoes are in full force.
A reminder on timings for Ramadan:
Staff: 8:15-1:45
Pre-3 and Pre-4: 9:00-12:00
KG and Empower: 9:00-12:30
Mainstream: 9:00-1:00
Foundations: 12:45-2:45
Have a wonderful week of learning!
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Sunday, March 2
Teacher Leaders Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, March 3
Tuesday, March 4
Online with Mr. Will 1:15
Wednesday, March 5
Thursday, March 6
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday Ms. Maryam Y, March 1 🥳
Happy Birthday Ms. Hiba, March 3 🎈
Happy Birthday Ms. Ayesha, March 3 🎈
Responding to Aggressive Behavior Towards Staff Series
Tip Number 3
How to Safely Release a Bite from a Child with Autism
If a child with autism bites a staff member, it's crucial to stay calm and respond safely to avoid injury and prevent reinforcing the behavior. Follow these steps:
Stay Calm & Avoid Pulling Away
Pulling away suddenly can cause more injury and may trigger the child to bite harder.
Gently Push Into the Bite (Not Away)
Instead of pulling back, gently push the body part being bitten towards the child’s mouth. This unexpected motion often causes the child to release their grip.
Use a Distraction or Redirection
If the bite continues, offer a preferred object (like a chew toy or fidget) to encourage the child to release.
Use a calm, neutral voice to say, "Let go. Hands or mouth safe."
Address the Cause
Check for signs of frustration, sensory overload, or communication difficulties.
Provide alternatives like a communication card, break time, or sensory input.
Reinforce Positive Behavior
Once the child lets go, praise and reinforce safe behaviors, such as using words or gestures instead of biting.
Provide First Aid & Document the Incident
Clean the bite area and seek medical attention if needed.
Document the incident and analyze triggers to prevent future occurrences.
By responding calmly and consistently, you can ensure safety while teaching the child alternative ways to express their needs
For more information on “How to reduce Biting” please click on this video link https://marybarbera.com/autism-and-biting/
🌸 This and That 🌸
Please see the updated timings for staff below during this month. If you are absent, you must submit Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please try the google form from your phone and ensure you can access your google account.
Please remember to take attendance daily for your students, Ms. Dina sends a daily reminder. We are in the next steps of calling parents and following up with a letter.
Review the Powerpoint for Ramadan Expectations that was discussed in the staff meeting on Thursday. If you have any questions, please let us know.
Have a blessed first week of Ramadan 🌙
Staff: 8:15-1:45
Pre-3 and Pre-4: 9:00-12:00
KG and Empower: 9:00-12:30
Mainstream: 9:00-1:00
Foundations: 12:45-2:45
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 23
February 23-27
Ramadan is coming
We are waiting for the moon 🌛
The month of blessings
The month of forgiveness
The month full of mercy
Gods blessing in bounty
I can't describe the inner peace,
in this month of pure bliss
Oh Ramadan come soon
We are waiting for your moon. 🌛
Sunday, February 23
Teaching and Learning Forum at QNCC
Monday, February 24
Empower Orange visit to Mathaf 10-11
Sounding Board App PD Session for Early Years, Grade 1 and 2, and Empower, 1-2
Speech Session PD for Early Years, Grade 1 and 2, and Empower, 2-3
Grade Level Meetings, TBC
Tuesday, February 25
Early Dismissal
Wellness Tuesday, Offsite Lunch
Male Staff Camping Night with Mr. Mohammed
Mr. Mohammed at PD on Executive Leadership
Environmental Day
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, February 26
Awsaj Heritage and Ramadan Celebration
Mr. Mohammed at PD on Executive Leadership
Ms. Trish at PD on Microsoft Power Tools
Thursday, February 27
Staff Meeting, 1:30-2:30 in the Assembly Room
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday Ms. Leyla Feb 23 🥳
Happy Birthday Ms. Saba Feb 28 🎈
🌸 This and That 🌸
Looking forward to a day of learning and connecting at the Teaching and Learning Forum. All staff should be in attendance for the sessions.
Wellness Tuesday is back this month! You can have an offsite lunch with your team from 1-3. Like last offsite lunch please share your location in the excel spreadsheet. Enjoy the extra time with your teams wherever you choose to go!
Ejadah will conclude their observations and feedback this week. They have been busy over the past month. We look forward to their feedback as we move forward to improve student outcomes. Thank you for all your dedication to our students growth and learning.
Ramadan hours are below and will begin on March 2. Tina will share the timetable and duty schedule. Please ensure you are on time.
Staff: 8:30-1:30
Pre-3 and Pre-4: 9:00-12:00
KG and Empower: 9:00-12:30
Mainstream: 9:00-1:00
Foundations: 12:45-2:45
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 22
February 16-20
"Community is formed and maintained through a mutual agreement to keep showing up."
Madeline Katz
Sunday, February 16
Visit to Mathaf, Empower Blue 9:00-10:00
Visit to Al Meera Supermarket, Pre 4
Teacher Leaders Meeting, 12:15-1:15
EAST Meeting, 1:30-2:30, if you are involved you will receive an invite from Rita
Monday, February 17
Empower Green Visit to Mathaf, 8:00-9:00am
Ability Friendly Tournament U 10
Grade Level Meetings, TBC
Tuesday, February 18
Early Dismissal
G3 Author Visit-10:15
G4 Author Visit-11:00
PD: UFLI- for Homeroom Teachers at EDI 1230-3:30
Empower Classes Workshop: 'Self Regulation Strategies from an Occupational Therapy Perspective' 1:00-2:00pm
IA's PD from Suha and Reham
Arabic Staff TBC
Online with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, February 19
QFSSA U9 and U11 Boys Athletics
Thursday, February 20
Empower Classes visit to North Sedra Farm 8:30 to 10:30am
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday Ms. Abena Feb 16 🥳
Happy Birthday Ms. Joslyn Feb 20 🎈
Happy Birthday Ms. Robena Feb 21 🎈
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Episode 2 of the series: Responding to Aggressive Behavior Towards Staff
Behavior Tip: Releasing Hair Or Scarf Safely From Pulling
If any child pulls your hijab or hair, follow these steps to stay safe and prevent harm:
1. Stay Calm – Avoid sudden movements that may escalate the situation.
2. Stabilize Your Head/Neck – Hold your hijab/hair to reduce tension
3. Step Forward Gently – Move toward the child rather than pulling away to release pressure with your other hand.
4. Use a Distraction – Offer a preferred item or redirect their hands to a sensory-friendly object.
5. Call for help-Another person can help release the child`s hands from your hair/hijab
6. Teach Alternative Behaviors – Work on safe ways for the child to seek attention or sensory input.
Consistency and proactive strategies will help reduce scarf-pulling over time.
Welcome to WEEK 21
February 9- 13
Kindness
Kindness is caring
and helping and sharing
kindness is giving and also forgiving,
kindness adjusts all that's wrong and unjust, kindness is gently and never judgmental,
kindness is compassion
like love, has no ration kindness is transforming and always heartwarming.
Liz Brownlee
Sunday, February 9
Welcome Back Zoe!
Random Acts of Kindness Week
Teacher Leaders Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, February 10
Grade Level Meetings
International Epilepsy Day!
Dr. Hajer Dauleh Story Reading/ Raising Awareness on Diabetes
Tuesday, February 11
Qatar Sports Day- No School
Wednesday, February 12
Thursday, February 13
Awsaj Sports Day 8:30-10:30
Happy Thursday! Happy Birthday Ms. Aven February 8 🥳
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
The Power of a Behavior Contract:
A behavior contract is a structured agreement that sets clear expectations, rewards, and follow ups to encourage positive behavior. It provides students with a sense of ownership and accountability while helping educators reinforce desired behaviors in a consistent and motivating way.
When Can It Be Used?
Behavior contracts are effective when:
ü A student needs clear guidelines to improve specific behaviors (e.g., following instructions, completing work, using appropriate language).
ü A behavior persists despite verbal reminders and a structured plan is needed.
ü A student benefits from personalized motivation, choosing meaningful rewards that encourage effort.
ü The student responds well to written agreements and thrives with visual structure.
How it Works:
· Define the Goal – Identify a specific behavior to target. Keep it measurable and achievable.
· Discuss Rewards & Consequences – The student and teacher agree on incentives for success and logical consequences if the goal is not met.
· Put it in Writing (or Visuals!) – The agreement should be clear, positive, accessible. Some students may benefit from visual supports such as pictures, symbols, or checklists instead of (or alongside) written text.
· Monitor Progress – The student’s behavior is tracked, and the contract is reviewed regularly to assess effectiveness.
Why are Behavior Contracts Effective?
§ Encourages Ownership – Students take responsibility for their actions.
§ Provides Clarity – Expectations are clear, reducing misunderstandings.
§ Boosts Motivation – Reinforcement makes positive behavior more likely.
§ Promotes Independence – Overtime, students learn self-monitoring and self-management.
A well-designed behavior contract transforms expectations into achievable goals, making positive behavior more consistent and rewarding!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Ejadah will continue observations this week and reach out to all class teachers they are observing.
MOE will drop in to classes unannounced for observations and learning walks! Please have copies of your lesson plans printed and available to the MOE Team. They will be in the building on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday.
The visitors at Awsaj are present to actively engage as partners in the learning process, with a shared commitment to enhancing student outcomes. Through focused observations and learning walks, they aim to collaboratively support and refine teaching practices, fostering an environment of continuous improvement. This collective effort ensures that every step taken is geared toward enriching the educational experience for students, with a unified goal of maximizing their success.
Mid- Year Review- Please review all your GOALS, update and submit by Thursday, February 13.
Random Acts of Kindness week: Please show extra kindness to colleagues. Please remind your students; What does kindness mean? What are some ways I can show kindness?
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
🌸 This and That 🌸
Last week was absolutely fantastic! It was inspiring to see the entire community come together for Sports Day at Oxygen Park and Awsaj Field. A huge thank you to each and every one of you for your unwavering passion, support, and commitment to our students.
Thank you for maintaining your excellence in teaching during the MoE and Ejadah observations.
Don’t forget to sign up for the Teaching and Learning Forum on February 23! Also, be sure to join us for the special S4 sessions this Saturday, the 22nd. These professional development opportunities are not to be missed — sign up today and continue to grow and enhance your skills!
Have a wonderful week ahead!
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 20
February 2- 6
"Love life. Engage in it.
Give it all you've got.
Love it with a passion
because life truly
does give back, many
times over, what you put into it.
-Maya Angelou 💕
Sunday, February 2
Grade 5 Field Trip tp Qatar National Museum 8-12:30
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, February 3
Grade Level Meetings
Tuesday, February 4
Early Dismissal for Students
I am QF 2025
SWIS Training 1:30-2:30
End of Quarter Two
Report Comments and Grades due on PowerSchool
Grade 4 Art Exhibition in the Majilis upstairs 11- 12:15
Online Staff Catch up with Mr. Will at 2:45
Wednesday, February 5
Grade 5 Field Trip to Qatar National Museum 8-12:30
Visit from Mutaz Essa Barshim 8:45-9:45 Grade 4&5 in the Assembly Room
Thursday, February 6
Star of the Quarter! 8:30-12:15 ⭐
Trish at SEN Peer Review Meeting 9-11
Happy Thursday!
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Understanding the 4 Functions of Behavior
All behavior serves a purpose—it’s how students communicate their needs, especially when they may not have the words to express them. Instead of seeing challenging behaviors as random or defiant, we can take a step back and ask, “What is the student trying to tell us?” Research shows that behavior typically falls into one of four functions: escape, attention, access to tangibles, or sensory. When we identify the reason behind a behavior, we can respond in a way that supports the student rather than just managing the behavior in the moment.
The flowchart below breaks down these four functions to help you quickly identify what might be driving a student's behavior and how to respond effectively. By using this framework, we can create a more supportive and structured classroom environment where all students can thrive.
Welcome to WEEK 19
January 26-30
Thank you for creating such a safe, happy space where we could all learn and grow together.
Sunday, January 26
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Monday, January 27
WIDA Refresher for Homeroom teachers 1:45-2:45
Tuesday, January 28
Early Dismissal for Students
Wellness Tuesday
Online Staff Catch up with Mr. Will at 2:45
QFSSA U9 U11, Cross Country at Oxygen Park
Wednesday, January 29
Her Highness Photo Shoot- More information TBC
Thursday, January 30
G4 and G5 Field Trip to the Camel Farm
Mr. Mohammed, Ms. Trish and Ms. Tina visit TBZ 7-11
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday
Ms. Mona Jan 30 🥳
Dania Jan 30 🥳
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Responding to Aggressive Behavior Towards Staff
This Tip Will Be #1 in a Series
When a student becomes aggressive and hits, it is critical to protect oneself while keeping the student safe and maintaining dignity. Here is a sequence of steps with specific clear physical strategies:
________________________________________
1. Remain Calm and Assess the Situation
• Maintain a calm demeanor: Refrain from shouting or reacting aggressively as this may escalate the behavior.
• Check the surroundings: Ensure that other students are safe and eliminate hazards if possible.
________________________________________
2. Defend Your Body
• Maintain a non-confrontational posture: Stand sideways to the student to minimize your target area.
• Keep hands high in neutral position: Maintain your hands near your chest, with palms open to block or deflect strikes with minimal perceived threat to the student.
• Avoid direct eye contact: Focus on the chest or hands of the individual as a means of monitoring their actions without threatening them.
________________________________________
3. Physically Redirect the Behavior (Safely)
If for safety, redirection is necessary, then do the following:
Step 1: Block and Create Space
• Block strikes with your forearms: If the student strikes, use the side of your forearm to guide the student's arm away without grabbing or squeezing.
• Step back to create distance: Back up or step to the side to create space while maintaining balance.
Step 2: Guided Movement
• Guide from behind or the side: If safe to do so, lightly hold the student's forearms or shoulders from behind or the side and guide them away from the area of conflict.
• Apply minimal force. Use just enough force necessary to enable the movement of the student without causing discomfort or harm.
Step 3: Guide into a Space for Calming
• Direct to calm corner or safe space: Calmly, "Let's take a break here." This should include the gentle urging of the student to the indicated area.
• Avoid physical confrontation. If they resist, let them go and try redirection verbally again.
________________________________________
4. De-escalate Verbally
• State acknowledgment of their feelings: "I can tell you're mad. Let's figure this out together."
• Give choices, "Do you want to sit here or take a walk?
• Use simple language: Keep instructions clear and concise, e.g., "Hands down. Let's walk over here."
________________________________________
5. After the Incident
• Reflect and document: Write down what happened, including triggers and your response.
• Teach replacement behaviors: During calm moments, work with the student to identify better ways to express frustration, such as using words or requesting breaks.
• Collaborate with the support team: Share insights with specialists and adjust the behavior plan as needed
🌸 This and That 🌸
🎉 Exciting News! 🎉
Please join in Congratulating Mr. Mohammed for receiving a well-deserved award at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) this past Thursday! 🏆
His outstanding work and success in creating and engaging 'Wadah' (learning channel) for students, blending the beauty of poetry with the precision of math, has inspired many. His innovative approach to education is making a real difference, and we are so proud of his dedication to empowering students through creative learning.
Thank you, Mr. Mohammed, for sharing your incredible gifts with us all! You are truly making an impact. 🌟
Wonderful celebrations last week for International Day of Education. Thank you for all planning and joy!
Observations will continue this week. Please ensure all your lesson plans, documents are up to date and on the drive. We are here to work together as a team to improve student outcomes.
This week, Please visit the amazing 'Art Exhibition': Miro's Echoes: Inspiration Through Young Eyes in the glass room, by Ms. Hessa and our students.
This is the last week of January! Have a great week ahead!
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 18
January 19-23
EDUCATION is the most powerful weapon which can change the WORLD! 🌍
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for all your support and preparation for the HH Photo Shoot, the students did a fantastic job! Looking forward to seeing the photo and searching for our faces!
Thank you, Ms. Hessa for your beautiful inspiring 'Art Exhibition'. We are so proud of our students and what they have achieved! Thank you for sharing this experience with everyone.
Ejadah observations begin this week. Someone from the Ejadah team will reach out to you to confirm your observation time, if you want them to look at something specific in your lesson, and will ask to see your lesson plan. Please have your materials ready. If you need any support, reach out to us.
Busy week ahead with field trips, visitors and Star of the Quarter! As we come to the end of quarter two, we should all be so proud for all the learning, engagement and smiles around our community.
We hope you have a fantastic week ahead!
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
SAT Consultancy Tier 1 and 2 Form
Sunday, January 19
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Winter Benchmarking Jan 12-Jan 23
Monday, January 20
Cyber Security Workshop- 8:30-9:30 for Grade 5 in the Assembly Room
Grade Level Meetings
Tuesday, January 21
School Conferences
Ejadah information Session- TBC on time
Wednesday, January 22
Thursday, January 23
G5 Field Trip- Ain Mohammed Heritage Village 8:30-12:30
Mr. Mohammed at QNCC for International Education Day!
Trish at SEN Peer Review Meeting at MOHE 9-11
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday
Hima 21 🥳
Amani 21 🎈
Rita S. 22 🥳
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Personalizing the Classroom to Minimize Disruptive Behaviors
Personalization in the classroom means tailoring learning and support to meet the individual needs of each student. When students feel that their unique strengths, preferences, and needs are acknowledged, they are more likely to engage positively and exhibit fewer disruptive behaviors. Here’s how to make the classroom more personalized and why it matters:
Know Your Students:
Take the time to understand each student’s interests, strengths, and challenges. This can help you adapt lessons or classroom activities to be more engaging and relevant, reducing boredom or frustration that may lead to undesired behaviors.
“Understanding students’ needs helps create a proactive approach to behavior management.”Adapt Tasks to Fit Individual Needs:
Modify tasks based on the student’s current level of understanding or skills. Offering appropriate challenges—not too easy, not too hard—helps students feel successful and less likely to act out due to frustration.
“Setting tasks at the right level reduces confusion and keeps frustration at bay.”Provide Choices:
Giving students some autonomy in their learning helps them feel more invested. Allowing them to choose between different activities, tools, or ways of demonstrating their understanding can reduce resistance and increase engagement.
“Choice fosters ownership of learning, reducing resistance and promoting positive behavior.”Use Visual and Sensory Supports:
Some students may benefit from visual aids (like charts, schedules, or visual cues) or sensory supports (such as fidget tools or quiet areas). Personalizing these supports helps reduce anxiety and off-task behavior.
“Visuals and sensory supports offer students the tools they need to stay engaged and on-task.”Create a Safe, Inclusive Environment:
A classroom that values individual differences fosters positive social interactions and reduces behavior problems. Promoting inclusion, respect for diversity, and peer support helps build a community where students feel secure and motivated.
“A safe classroom is a happy classroom—where everyone feels like they belong!”
Key Takeaway:
Personalizing the classroom environment and curriculum can significantly reduce undesired behaviors. When students feel valued, supported, and engaged in ways that fit their individual needs, they are more likely to thrive academically and socially.
Resources:
https://www.prodigygame.com/main-en/blog/personalized-learning/
https://www.modernclassrooms.org/blog/personalized-learning?format=amp
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for all your work last week ensuring a smooth transition for our students after break!
This week different activities may pop up for International Day of Education. Emails and information will be sent for updates.
As discussed in our staff meeting last week, Observations will begin again. Please ensure all your lesson plans, documents are up to date and on the drive. We are here to work together as a team to improve student outcomes.
Please add photos to the link that Tina sent on Thursday. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
There are many new Professional Development offerings for this year: Education Development Institute Calendar
Professional Development- Awsaj Form Please fill in the Awsaj form before registering for EDI!
Have a fantastic week ahead!
Reminders
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 17
January 12-16
♥️A New Year
a fresh start
and infinite possibilities ♥
Sunday, January 12
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
Winter Benchmarking Jan 12-Jan 23
Monday, January 13
Grade Level Meetings
Tuesday, January 14
Early Dismissal for students
Professional Learning Day - Professional Learning Committees- Review of goals
Online with Mr. Will. 2:45
Wednesday, January 15
Thursday, January 16
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday
Borsan Jan 1 🥳
Huda O Jan 1 🥳
Wafa Jan 1 🥳
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
As we welcome the new year, let’s take a moment to pause, reflect, and set the tone for the months ahead. Teaching is a deeply fulfilling yet inherently demanding profession, and amidst the constant flow of responsibilities, it can be easy to place your own well-being at the bottom of the list. This January, we invite you to embrace mindfulness—a practice of being fully present in the moment—to cultivate calm, clarity, and renewed energy in your daily life.
The attached January Mindfulness Calendar is designed with your busy schedule in mind, offering simple, meaningful practices that can be completed in just a few minutes each day. These small yet impactful steps encourage moments of peace, reflection, and self-care, helping you recharge and remain centered throughout the day.
Whether you are new to mindfulness or already weave it into your routine, this calendar provides opportunities to refocus on yourself, create balance, and build resilience. Remember, by nurturing your own well-being, you also bring your best self to your students and colleagues.
Let’s start this year with intentionality and kindness—towards ourselves and those around us. Thank you for the extraordinary work you do each day. Here’s to a mindful and meaningful start to 2025!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Welcome back! We hope you had a lovely holiday creating memories and enjoying special moments with loved ones and found time for self- care!
As we begin this new year together let's review expectations for staff:
Arrival is at at 7 am or before to be prepared for your day.
Dismissal is at 3:00 PM, Sunday to Wednesday and on Thursday at 2:30.
Please bring kindness and a smile.
Please be adaptable and collaborative.
If you are absent, fill in the Awsaj Absence form! Please try the link when you are home and ensure that it works. If it does not, visit IT. Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
If you have an appointment scheduled, please fill in the google form and let us know as soon as possible to ensure cover. At times we do not have cover and then your appointment will need to be rescheduled.
If you have to suddenly leave during the day for any reason, you need to fill in the google form.
Please review the QF polices on dress code, ethics, and absences.
If you have any questions or need any clarification, please let us know.
January 12-23: Winter Benchmarking, please reach out to your leaders if you have any questions.
Good luck!
Reminders
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 16
December 15-19
Happy National Day!
Sunday, December 15
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, December 16
Celebration for Qatar National Day! Please read email that was sent
Grade Level Meetings
Tuesday, December 17
Early Dismissal for students
Professional Learning Day - Time: Unit planning, Team tasks, prepare for return in January
Online with Mr. Will. 2:45
Wednesday, December 18
No School - observance for Qatar National Day
Thursday, December 19
Happy Winter Break! 🥳
Happy Birthday
🎈Amanda Dec 17🥳
🎈Zoe Dec 20🥳
🎈Abini Dec 21 🥳
🎈Sevcan Dec 28 🥳
🎈Carla Dec 29 🥳
🎈Al Anoud A Dec 30 🥳
"Behavior Boost: Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!"
Supporting Students with ASD in an Inclusive Classroom
Build Rapport Through Play:
Encourage all staff to engage with the child using their preferred activities or toys. Playing alongside the child fosters trust, builds positive relationships, and helps the student feel understood and supported.
Set Clear Expectations:
Use simple language, visual aids, and consistent routines to help students with ASD understand classroom rules and expectations.
Incorporate Visual Supports:
Use schedules, first-then charts, and social stories to explain tasks, transitions, and social norms.
Encourage Peer Interaction:
Foster positive relationships by pairing students with patient, and understanding peers during group activities to model appropriate behavior.
Break Tasks into Steps:
Use task analysis to simplify complex assignments, allowing students to complete smaller, manageable steps with guidance.
Use Reinforcement:
Recognize and reward desired behaviors, such as staying on task or participating, with praise, tokens, or preferred activities.
Provide Sensory Breaks:
Include short breaks for movement or quiet time in a sensory area to help students self-regulate and prevent meltdowns.
Anticipate and Prepare for Transitions:
Give advanced warnings and use timers or visual cues to ease transitions between activities.
Promote Inclusive Activities:
Plan activities that accommodate a range of abilities, ensuring all students can participate meaningfully.
Be Proactive with Triggers:
Identify and minimize potential triggers for challenging behavior, such as loud noises, crowded spaces, or sudden changes in routine.
Teach Coping Skills:
Equip students with self-regulation techniques, such as deep breathing, using a stress ball, or asking for help when overwhelmed.
Model Patience and Empathy:
Show acceptance and understanding, encouraging other students to do the same by celebrating diversity and promoting a positive classroom culture.
By incorporating rapport-building with staff and maintaining structure, flexibility, and inclusive practices, you can create a supportive environment where students with ASD and their peers can thrive together.
🌸 This and That 🌸
♥️To: Awsaj Act of Kindness Team ♥️
Words cannot fully express the admiration and gratitude felt for the extraordinary effort you’ve poured into this year’s Acts of Kindness Donation Drive. Through your vision and hard work, you have created something truly special—a movement that reflects the very heart of what it means to give, to care, and to serve others.
You’ve done more than just organize a donation drive; you’ve inspired a community. The passion, creativity, and dedication you’ve shown in uniting staff, students, and parents behind this cause is a testament to your unwavering commitment to making a difference. Your work is a shining example of how empathy and compassion can ripple through a community, touching lives in ways we can only imagine.
This initiative will not only bring warmth and support to those who work tirelessly for us, but it also teaches our students an invaluable lesson about the power of kindness and the importance of giving back. You have reminded us all of the beauty in service and the strength of unity.
Thank you for your tireless efforts and your big hearts. You are changing lives and inspiring us all to do more and be more.
Congratulations to making it to the last working week in December 2024! We are so proud to be a part of the Awsaj Community! Your dedication, support and love to your students shines through. We see your commitment and you make a difference each day! THANK YOU 🥰
We hope everyone has a beautiful, safe, and well deserved break. See you on January 12, 2025 at 7:00 am! 🤣 🥳
Reminders
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 15
December 8-12
'TEAM'
Together
Everyone
Achieves
More
Sunday, December 8
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Trish at EDI all day for PD on Safer Recruitment
Monday, December 9
G5 Shaikh Faisal Museum- 8:30-12:30
Equine Sessions for Empower Students
G3 Field Trip- QNM- 9-12
Grade Level Meetings
Tuesday, December 10
Human Rights Day
Hour of Code - Please sign up for Awsaj Hour of Code
Early Years Outdoor Activity 10-11
Early Dismissal for students
Professional Learning Day - Take Away Menu of Choice- More information to be comfirmed
Trish away from 8- 1 at SEN Peer Review Meeting at Ministry of Education
Online with Mr. Will. 2:45
Wednesday, December 11
World Arabic Language Day
Awsaj Acts of Kindness Event
QFSSA U11 Girls
Equine Sessions for Empower Students
Thursday, December 12
KG Trip to Snow Dunes 8-11:30
QFSSA U11 Boys
G2 exit unit The 5 senses presentation
Happy Birthday
Dec 14- DAVE 🥳 🎈
Welcome to WEEK 14
December 1-5
'If I could describe happiness to you, I wouldn't use words.'
Sunday, December 1
Grade 1 Firefighters, 8-10
Teachers Leader Meeting, 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, December 2
Tuesday, December 3
Early Dismissal for students
International Day of Persons with Disabilities - separate email for the activities
Professional Learning Day - Parent Conference Preparation
Online with Mr. Will. 2:45
Trish away from 1:30
Wednesday, December 4
Thursday, December 5
Parent Teacher Conferences 7-3, encourage students to come with parents if appropriate
Happy Birthday
Hiba Dec 2 🎈
Hamida Dec 2 🥳
Paul Dec 7 🎈
Athier Dec 7 🥳
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Catch Them Being Good!
Recognizing positive behaviors reinforces what you want to see more of in your classroom rather than constantly focusing on what not to do. By recognizing the good, we’re not just managing the behavior – we’re shaping it. When we constantly highlight and praise appropriate behaviors, we increase the likelihood of those behaviors being repeated. It promotes a more positive relationship between students and teachers. As we wrap up Kindness Month, this strategy helps carry forward the values of positivity and encouragement throughout the year.
Acknowledge Positive Behaviors:
Be specific: Say, “Thank you for raising your hand!” Instead of a vague “Good job”
Make it timely: Praise the behavior as soon as your see it.
Use non-verbal cues like a smile or thumbs up for quieter acknowledgement
Focus on small wins: Recognize effort not just outcomes
Predict and plan for challenging times: Be intentional about catching students being good during high stress moments (e.g. transition or group activities)
Incorporate peer recognition: Say, “Who saw someone being a great helper today? Let’s recognize them!”
Spotlight positive behavior: Start the day by sharing examples of good behavior observed the previous day.
Share/send home positive notes: Write a quick, specific notes to parents about their child’s good behavior.
Celebrate progress: Recognize long-term growth with phrases like – “ I can tell you’re working hard to stay on task, and it’s really paying off”
Your dedication to recognizing and reinforcing positive behaviors is shaping a classroom and a school where students feel supported, valued and inspired to succeed. Thank you for the incredible impact you make every day – your efforts truly matter!.
Welcome to WEEK 13
November 24 - November 28
'Giving is the greatest act of kindness, and it always comes back.'
🌸 This and That 🌸
This week we continue with 'Awsaj Acts of Kindness', please remind your students and families. Thank you to all to support with your kindness. ♥️
We hope everyone enjoyed the 'Wellbeing Tuesday', last week. What a great opportunity to work in a different location with your team. If you have any ideas to care for your wellbeing, submit to the Wellbeing Committee.
Mindfulness Breath Boards- Just Breathe
Practice Breathing
At the start of the Day
Before Transitions
During transitions between groups or activities
After breaks
When students are feeling overwhelmed
As a closing ritual
Reminders
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification. We will begin observations within the next week.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Sunday, November 24
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Monday, November 25
PUE Photoshoot 11-2
Grade Level Meetings
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Tuesday, November 26
Early Dismissal for students
Wellbeing Being Activity- 1-3, to work offsite; could be working lunch, coffee and collaboration or taking the tram and relocating to QNL as long as it’s with a team and someone reports the attendance. It can also be continue working at school by yourself or with a team in a quiet environment.
Online weekly meeting with Mr. Will 2:45
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Wednesday, November 27
Grade 4 field trip to Al- Aatoreya Farm 🐄
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Thursday, November 28
Solidarity with Palestine 🍉
QFSSA Football Tournament- Good luck to our students competing at QAW! ⚽
Paramedics visit the school for Grade 1, 8-10
Grade 4 field trip to Al Khor Zoo 🐒
Grade 5 Science Fair 🔬
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Happy Birthday
Joud 28th 🥳
Sabrina 30th 🎈
"Behavior Boost: Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!"
Before the Fire Alarm (Desensitization and Preparation):
Use Gradual Exposure: Introduce the fire alarm sound at a low volume during a calm setting. Gradually increase the volume over time as the student becomes comfortable.
Pair with Reinforcement: Reinforce calm behavior during exposure to the sound with preferred items, activities, or praise.
Teach Expectations: Use visual schedules, social stories, and role-playing to explain the steps during a fire alarm (e.g., "When we hear the alarm, we stand up, line up, and walk outside").
Simulate Drills: Practice the entire process of responding to a fire alarm in a controlled and predictable way.
Prepare Tools: For noise-sensitive students, offer noise-canceling headphones or earplugs as part of their toolkit.
During the Fire Alarm:
Stay Calm and Model Behavior: Staff should maintain a calm demeanor to help reduce anxiety in students.
Use Pre-Taught Strategies: Prompt students to follow the learned routine (e.g., showing visual cues or using simple verbal prompts).
Provide Immediate Reinforcement: Praise or reward students for completing each step of the process calmly (e.g., "Great job walking safely outside!").
Monitor Emotional Regulation: Assist students who become distressed by using calming strategies like deep breathing or holding a preferred item.
After the Fire Alarm:
Debrief and Reflect: Use visual aids to review what happened and acknowledge the student’s effort. For example, "You did great walking outside when the alarm sounded!"
Provide Additional Reinforcement: Offer extra praise or a preferred activity for successfully managing the experience.
Address Anxiety: If the student found the experience challenging, gradually reintroduce desensitization sessions to rebuild comfort.
Return to Routine Quickly: Re-establish normalcy by transitioning back to typical activities to reduce lingering stress.
To find out more and sign your class up for a time, click: https://awsaj-joining-millions-o-27gqurj.gamma.site
Thank you to Aven and Tim, Awsaj AI Focal points for the above information and creation.
🌸 This and That 🌸
This week begins our 'Awsaj Acts of Kindness', what a beautiful initiative that keeps on giving each year. Thank you to all to support with your kindness. ♥️
We have a busy week ahead with lots of visitors, field trips, the Grade 5 Science Fair and our students competing in the QFSSA Football at QAW! Please have fun and be safe.
Thank you for the staff who responded to our email regarding the follow up from the fire drill. We will meet with Abdul Rashid to review all input and suggestions moving forward. We will send a follow up email with this updated and important information. Thank you for keeping all our students and yourself safe. And thank you to the Inclusion Team for providing important steps to support out students in preparing.
It is the last week of November, time sure flies when you are having fun! Trish is still waiting for her shipment 🚢 of belongings to arrive from Thailand, six months went fast. She is hoping her belongings are not at the bottom of the sea 📦🌊🐋
Benefits of Your Thinking Brain -
The 6 second pause strategy....
Reminders
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification. We will begin observations within the next week.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
A kind reminder to send your appreciation to your colleagues.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 12
November 17 - November 21
" A great ATTITUDE becomes a great DAY, which becomes a great YEAR!"
Sunday, November 17
Grade 4 and 5, TBC: 11 am visit from one of the honorary guests invited to Ajyal Film Festival, Misan Harriman, Please find his biography below and social media profile here.
Teacher Leader Meeting 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Monday, November 18
Grade Level Meetings
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Ms. Trish is away for a SEN Peer Review Meeting from 8:15-11:30
Tuesday, November 19
Early Dismissal for students
Professional Learning: Core Vocabulary with Ms. Noor- TBC
All Staff with Mr. Will 2:45
Wednesday, November 20
International Children's Day
Mr. Mohammed is away at Professional Development
Thursday, November 21
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday
🥳 Natalie Nov 20
Lama T Nov 22 🎈
"Behavior Boost: Weekly Tips from the Elementary Behavior Team!"
Behavioral Steps for Monitoring the Outdoor Spinner Wheel Game:
Prepare the Game Area
Set up clear visual signs: "STOP," "GO," and "WAIT" to help guide students.
Place a timer nearby, visible for both students and adults.
Explain and Model the Rules
Show students how to use the spinner safely before they begin.
Emphasize that only one student should spin, and they should keep it slow.
Remind students that there should be no more than four children on the spinner at a time.
Use the Timer for Turn-Taking
Set the timer for each turn, letting each student know when their time is up.
Guide students to wait in a designated area until it’s their turn, following the “WAIT” sign.
Supervise Closely During Play
Observe the spinner speed and remind the child who is spinning to keep it controlled.
Look for signs of discomfort or dizziness in any child. If you notice these, stop the game and have the child rest aside.
End Play Responsibly
When the game ends, guide students to step off carefully.
Encourage children to reflect on the importance of following the rules to ensure everyone’s safety.
If you need visuals, timers or any other materials to support you with please don`t hesitate to reach out to the Behavior Team
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for all the engagement in all the activities last week ! The Star of the Quarter Assemblies were an amazing way to celebrate the students! They were all so proud and happy to be awarded for their excellence. It was lovely to see the parents involved with smiles and cheers! Well done to all of you!
Student Supervision Reminder
Please ensure you are always supervising students in all areas of the school—classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, play areas, etc. Clear communication is essential:
Assign specific students to staff members: for example, Ms. Trish supervises five students- Mohammed A, Ahmed, Abdulla, Reem and Fatima, and Mr. Mohammed supervises five others- Mohammed Al, Shaikhah, Maryam, Abdulaziz, and Fahad.
Coordinate with your team when transitioning students to ensure everyone knows their responsibilities.
Our students’ safety is our shared responsibility at all times. School should always be a safe space for learning and play, and we must take every step to protect that.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification. We will begin observations within the next week.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Next Sunday on November 24, the staff have PLD 2. More information to come on what to expect for your day. Students do not have school on this day.
Professional Development Reading
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt recommended by Ms. La Condria, you can read and or download the audible option. Please read and or listen and reach out to Ms. La Condria if you have any questions, insights or want further discussion. (A picture of the book is up on the left side of this page)
Congratulations to Mohammad and Gabe for completing the Swimming Instructor Level 1 ! We look forward to seeing the benefits of your hard work reflected in your teaching and swimming ! 🥳🏊
Reminders
A kind reminder to send your appreciation to your colleagues.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
SAT Consultancy Tier 1 and 2 Form
Welcome to WEEK 11
November 10 - November 14
'If You Can Be Anything, Be Kind"
Kindness is the quality of being gentle, caring, respectful and helpful. We have been treated with such kindness by everybody. Synonyms: goodwill, understanding, charity, grace.
Sunday, November 10
Teacher Leader Meeting 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, November 11
'Choose Respect' Assemblies - more information to come
Grade Level Meetings, if needed
Tuesday, November 12
Odd Socks Day- Wear mismatched socks and celebrate individuality!
Early Dismissal for students
52 students and 9 adults from Awsaj Academy for the screening of the film “Saleem” from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Multaqa Cinema
Professional Learning:
Teachers and Instructional Assistants- planning
Wednesday, November 13
'Sunshades' to shade away bullying!
PBIS, Star of the Quarter Assemblies Pre, KG, G1 and Empower 8:00 - 8:45 in the Auditorium and G2- G5 12:30- 1:15 in the Auditorium
Staff Meeting 2:15-3:00 in the Assembly Room
Thursday, November 14
World Diabetes Day! We will wear Blue for World Diabetes Day and Anti-Bullying!
Outdoor Activity for Early Years from the Behavior Team- 10-11:10
Grade 4 Field Trip to the Snow Dunes, have fun!
Happy Birthday
Pushpa Nov 14 🥳
Behavior Boost: Regulation First, Learning Next
Prioritize Emotional Regulation for Effective Learning!
This week let’s dive into the principle of "Regulation First, Learning Next" in our special needs school. Think of it like tuning a guitar: if the strings are out of whack, the music will be a little... off-key! Here are some quick strategies to help our students find their rhythm:
Sensory Diet Components: Implement calming activities, alerting exercises, movement breaks, and adaptive strategies tailored to each student’s needs.
Manage Transition Times: Recognize that every transition can affect regulation. Set aside specific times each week for regulation activities to help students adjust—because who doesn’t need a little extra time to get back in the groove?
Reinforcement Strategies:
- Provide immediate praise or rewards for using regulation strategies.
- Use visual supports, like reward charts, to track progress.
- Allow students to choose from various regulation activities to enhance their sense of control.
- Celebrate group successes to foster a supportive classroom community.
By prioritizing regulation, we create a safe and effective learning environment. Remember, strong relationships and effective emotional regulation are key to student success.
And just like a well-timed joke, a little laughter goes a long way in keeping us all on track!
أهمية التنسيقة التنظيم العاطفي للتعلم الفعال
دعونا نركز على مبدأ "التنظيم أولاً، التعلم ثانياً"
إليكم بعض الاستراتيجيات السريعة لمساعدة طلابنا في العثور على إيقاعهم.
إدارة أوقات الانتقال:
يجب أن ندرك أن كل انتقال، وخاصة خلال درس اللغة العربية، يمكن أن يؤثر على التنظيم. لذا، خصص وقتًا في بداية الدرس لأنشطة تنظيم عاطفي وتعزيز لمساعدة الطلاب على التكيف—
لأن من لا يحتاج إلى بعض الوقت الإضافي للعودة إلى الإيقاع؟
استراتيجيات التعزيز:
-تقديم الثناء الفوري أو المكافآت لاستخدام استراتيجيات التنظيم.
-استخدام وسائل بصرية، مثل لوحات المكافآت، لتتبع التقدم.
-اعطاء الفرصة للطلاب يختارون من بين أنشطة تنظيم مختلفة لتعزيز شعورهم بالتحكم.
من خلال إعطاء الأولوية للتنظيم والتنسيق العاطفي، نحن نخلق بيئة تعليمية آمنة وفعالة. تذكر أن العلاقات القوية والتنظيم العاطفي الفعال هما المفتاح لنجاح الطلاب.
🌸 This and That 🌸
We hope everyone had a lovely extra three days of appreciated holiday. Thank you for the National Unity and the Amiri Diwan for the unexpected appreciated public holidays.
This week is KINDNESS WEEK and ANTI-BULLYING WEEK, this years theme is 'CHOOSE RESPECT'
Student council will come to classes this week to take photos of students showing kindness, wearing odd socks, wearing shades and wearing purple. #KINDNESS #ANTI-BULLYINGWEEK
Anti-Bullying Alliance - Please click the link for different activities to support kindness and anti-bullying
Lots of different KINDNESS activities will pop up throughout the week for staff and students!
Book Fair: Was only two days, we will contact to see if we can have them come back to the school.
The comments for reporting are due on Monday, November 11 in PowerSchool.
Professional Development Reading
Multilingual Preschoolers By Leah Shafer_ Harvard Graduate School of Education
Reminders
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 10
November 3 - November 7
Open a Book
Open a book and you will find,
People and places of every kind;
Open a book and you can be, anything you want to be;
Open a book and you can share, wondrous words you find in there.
Open a book and I will too, you read to me,
And I'll read to you!
Sunday, November 3
Grade 5- Book Fair Activity in the Assembly Room- 9:00-10:00
Teacher Leader Meeting 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, November 4
Influenza vaccination - more information to be provided
Grade Level Meetings, if needed
Tuesday, November 5
Early Dismissal for students
Professional Learning -
Instructional Assistants and Empower: Core Vocabulary training with Noor from 1-2 TBC on location
Teachers- Continue data review and planning
Wednesday, November 6
Thursday, November 7
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday
Rahaf A. Nov 1 🥳
Ebtihal Nov 4 🎉
Al Maha Nov 5 🎈
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Reconnecting and Refocusing After Break
After a school break, students may experience increased stress or difficulty adjusting to routines. This can sometimes lead to challenging behaviors. Here's how to recognize early signs of behavior escalation and take steps to prevent it.
Early Signs of Escalation
Physical Signs Verbal Changes Focus Issues
Fidgeting Speaking out of turn Decreased focus
Tense posture Raised volume Staring off
Task Avoidance Interrupting Resistance to instruction
Proactive Strategy: Reintroduce Routines
Use calm, clear language to guide students back into routines. If you see early signs of escalation, break tasks into smaller steps.
Example: "Let's start by taking out your notebook."
Reactive Strategy: Offer Breaks
1.Offer short, structured breaks 2. Use designated calm space 3. Provide sensory activities
Research shows that students with disabilities are more prone to behavioral escalation following breaks due to difficulty adjusting to routine changes. By recognizing early signs and using proactive, structured interventions, teachers can support smoother transitions and help maintain a stable, inclusive classroom environment.
🌸 This and That 🌸
We hope everyone had a lovely mid-term break to take time for yourself, be with family and friends and enjoy the moments!
Mr. Mohammed is away this week in the UK with S4 colleagues visiting SEN schools and centers. Please see Trish if you need anything.
Book Fair Week! click the link to sign up to take your students to the Book Fair.
Professional Development Reading
Moving Right Along.. Planning Transitions to Prevent Challenging Behaviors
Reminders
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Safety for our Community
Student Injury: In the event of a student experiencing severe crying after a fall or collision that requires nurse’s evaluation, please ensure the student remains still and immediately call for the nurse's assistance.
Suspected Fracture: If a fracture is suspected, even with uncertainty, the nurse should promptly contact the student's parents and inform them that an ambulance will be called for further medical evaluation.
Sensory Room Information
Ctrl + click (Sensory Room - Google Drive)
Please DO NOT use the room for students who have seizures or epilepsy – check with your division nurse for the health plan.
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
SAT Consultancy Tier 1 and 2 Form
Welcome to WEEK 9
October 20- October 24
We’ve never seen your cape or mask, but we see your superpowers every day! Thanks for being a super teacher!
"Behavior Boost: Weekly Tips from the Elementary Behavior Team!"
Teaching the skill of waiting at a young age helps reduce impulsivity over time.
Start with short, manageable waiting periods and reinforce successful waiting with praise or small rewards. Gradually increase the time as the student improves, ensuring success at each step.
Practice in different settings (lining up, waiting for a turn, during transitions) to help generalize the skill.
Using visual timers or cues makes waiting more predictable. By building this skill early, students develop better self-control, which leads to reduced impulsivity in various situations.
🌸 This and That 🌸
WOW, we have almost made it to our first break, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1! These past weeks have been incredible. The growth of the students in such a short time, amazing work to all of you. We appreciate all of your efforts and dedication to our students and the school community!
Mr. Mohammed is away this week at training, please see Trish if you need anything!
Lots of information below, please take your time and read
🤩Congratulations to Carla on her new role as Empower Leader! 🤩
Safety for our Community
Student Injury: In the event of a student experiencing severe crying after a fall or collision that requires nurse’s evaluation, please ensure the student remains still and immediately call for the nurse's assistance.
Suspected Fracture: If a fracture is suspected, even with uncertainty, the nurse should promptly contact the student's parents and inform them that an ambulance will be called for further medical evaluation.
Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students.
Sensory Room Information
Ctrl + click (Sensory Room - Google Drive)
Please email Mr. Abdulrashid for room access and technical support.
Please reach out to the TLC team to enrich your students' learning experience.
If you're considering using the room for your well-being, please check with your direct lead. A friendly piece of advice: try to avoid bringing your mobile phone or laptop to disconnect and unwind, and aim not to disconnect for more than 15 minutes. 😊
Please DO NOT use the room for students who have seizures or epilepsy – check with your division nurse for the health plan.
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Professional Development Recording
6 Strategies to Accelerate Literacy Outcomes in Students
Use Code: LWTears1234!
Reminders
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
SAT Consultancy Tier 1 and 2 Form
Welcome to WEEK 8
October 13- October 17
"Inspiration comes from within yourself. One has to be positive. When you're positive, good things happen."
Sunday, October 13
Teacher Leader Meeting 9-10
Student Affairs Meeting 10-11
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, October 14
Tuesday, October 15
Early Dismissal
Professional Learning - Take away menu of Champions 1-3
Wednesday, October 16
ADHD Coffee Morning with Parents in the Library 7:30-8:30
World Food Activity
Thursday, October 17
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday Maria 🥳 🎉
October 11
🌸 This and That 🌸
We had some AMAZING visitors last week. HBKU showing off their interactive and engaging science experiments where the students learned about chemical and mechanical reactions. The students learned and had so much fun!
We also had the honor of Mohammed Al Thani, known as Moe Al Thani, philanthropist and mountaineer. His inspirational motivational talk has all of us wanting to reach to our highest potential and never give up! The questions from our students were well thought out with deep thinking. Thank you La Condria and Akeela for making the visits happen for our school.
Thank you for everyone for being so flexible these past weeks. We have had a lot of absences and we thank you for supporting your colleagues. We hope everyone is feeling better and excited for this week of learning and collaboration.
Congratulations to Rita for completing her Applied Behavior Analysis Technician (ABAT) 🥳
We are looking forward to catching up with Hailey as she was away in Turkiye last week at a Council of International Schools (CIS) visit.
Welcome back to Hima from last Thursday, we missed you 🥰
Professional Reading: ADHD Symptoms & Signs
Reminders:
Continue to review expectations before each lesson. Make sure to include brain breaks with movement for self regulation and reinforce with positive praise!
Everyone should have submitted their goals on October 10, we look forward to reading and reviewing in the next two weeks
Rasekh https://rasekh.qa/en/ - please have a look at the Initiative of Qatar Foundation
After- School Activities will continue, students can be added at a later date as we want to see more participation!
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Attendance for Staff: Please enter your absences into ERP- Thank you for all staff who have added =)
Appreciation Board - It is located at the top of Ma3loomat Elementary now!
Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR......
Links
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 7
October 6- October 10
Thank You, Teacher
With every word and every care,
You show us dreams are meant to share.
Inspire, guide, and help us see—
Thank you, teacher, for believing in me!
Sunday, October 6
Cerebral Palsy Day!- TLC Team will provide activities from 11:30-2 - WEAR GREEN
Celebration of Teachers' Day 🍎
Teacher Leader Meeting 9-10
Student Affairs Meeting 10-11
After School Activities starts today- 1:30-2:30
Monday, October 7
Awsaj and Renad Autism Specialists Collaboration 2:15-3:15 for SAT and Teacher Leaders
Tuesday, October 8
Early Dismissal
Qatari Gathering 11-2
Wednesday, October 9
Grade Band Meeting 2-2:45
Mr. Mohammed Al Thani guest speaker: Assembly Room 12:30-1:00
Thursday, October 10
Happy Birthday, Ms. Andrea🎉
Happy Thursday!
Welcome to WEEK 6
September 29-October 3
"So often you find that the students you're trying to INSPIRE are the ones that end up inspiring you!"
Sunday, September 29
Professional Learning Day
Monday, September 30
Grade Level Meetings
Tuesday, October 1
Early Dismissal
PUE Forum 1:00-3:30
Wednesday, October 2
PUE Photoshoot around the school- more information TBC
Thursday, October 3
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Thank you for your participation and engaging conversation around your SMART Goals on Professional Learning Day! Please remember to enter your goals into ERP by October 10.
Congratulations to the 'Champions' for your award and winning at the PUE Forum! 🎉
Last Sunday 'Foundation' parents attended an informational meeting as the students will begin school for the first time. Parents were beaming with smiles and excitement for their children to be accepted and start school! They all had a great first week! Excellent work, Foundations Team!
Rasekh https://rasekh.qa/en/ - please have a look at the Initiative of Qatar Foundation
Professional Reading: ADHD- symptoms-diagnosis-treatment
Reminders:
After- School Activities start on October 6, students can be added at a later date as we want to see more participation!
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Attendance for Staff: Please enter your absences into ERP
Appreciation Board: Coming SOON! THANK YOU
Links
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 5
September 22-27
“Engagement is more about what you can do for your students, and empowerment is about helping to figure out what they can do for themselves.” Katie Novak
Thank you Team! For being positive, adaptable, and engaging your students to foster their growth!
Sunday, September 22
First PTA Meeting 8-9
Teacher Leader Meeting 9-10
Student Affairs 10-11
PBIS Assembly 12:30-1:00 for Grades 1-5
Monday, September 23
Grade Level Meetings, if needed
Tuesday, September 24
Early Dismissal for all Grades
Empower "This is ME" Unit kickoff with stations in the Hallway, 8-12
Professional Learning: 1:00- 1:30- Behavior Process, 1:30-3:15 Back to School Afternoon Prep
All Staff Catch up with Will 2:45-3
Wednesday, September 25
‘Showtime Workshop’ PUE Theatre 10:20-11 Grade 3-5
Early Dismissal at 11:15
Back to School Afternoon 12-3
Thursday, September 26
Happy Thursday!
🌸 This and That 🌸
Back to School Afternoon was fantastic. It was nice to see the connections with parents and all the valuable information being shared. Thank you for all you do for your students and families.
As we move into week 5 with students, continue to review the classroom expectations and routines. Please continue to give positive praise and reinforcements for each student.
Afterschool Activities: After- School Activities Please make sure you have signed up for an activity. Information will be shared with students and parents this week for sign-ups. ASA's begins October 6.
Appraisal Rating - Goals: Goals need to be entered into ERP by October 10.
Professional Reading: Mindfulness for Early Childhood Professionals
Appreciation Board: More information to come as we create an 'Appreciation Board' where we send recognition and thank you posts to one another! THANK YOU
Reminders:
Attendance for Students: Thank you for adding the attendance for students! Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Absents:
For anyone who has been absent, please ensure they have been entered into ERP
Welcome to WEEK 4
September 15-19
With the busyness of the past two weeks, take a moment to be proud of yourself, your teams and the students. The strong connections that are seen in our community is heart warming. ♥️
🌸 This and That 🌸
Mr. Mohammed will return on Monday! Please see Ms. Trish if you need anything.
Please continue practicing routines and procedures. Be explicit about describing expected behaviors and remember to practice, practice, practice!
Social Media: Please do not post photos or videos of any student
Classrooms: Please do not allow nannies in the classroom, they will be asked to leave the hallways and return at the end of day
Attendance for Students - Homeroom teachers, please ensure that you are completing the Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am. This week we are sending letters home and calling families in accordance with the new PUE Attendance Policy
Reminders:
Absents: If you are going to arrive after 7:45, please message Ms. Trish
If you are absent, fill in the Awsaj Elementary Absent Form please make sure you have access. If you need support on how to navigate the form, please reach out to your teacher leaders
Reminder, you have three days to enter your absence into ERP
Arrival and Dismissal Students will continue to enter the building beginning at 7:00 and go straight to classrooms. Dismissal procedures will continue with numbers being called through the Whatsapp group.
Preschool, KG & Empower (7:15-12:15 starting Sept. 15)
G1 through G5 (7:15-1:20, Tuesday 7:15-12:20)
Benchmark Assessments Homeroom teachers to have literacy and math assessments completed by September 29
After School Activities More information coming soon, think about what activity you would like to offer this Academic Year!
Meet and Greet Ms. Trish will continue to send ‘Meet and Greet’ invitations, thank you for being flexible
Welcome to WEEK 3
September 8-12
THANK YOU, Elementary Team for your incredible dedication, care, commitment and enthusiasm that makes Awsaj AMAZING! This week with students, we saw joy, smiles, laughter and your nurturing support truly makes it all possible!
This Week
Sunday, September 15
Regular School Timings begin today
Monday, September 16
Mr. Mohammed is back from PD!
Grade Level Meeting 2:00-3:00, if needed
Happy Birthday, Ms. Tamara 🎉
Tuesday, September 17
Teacher Leader Meeting 11:00-12:00
Early Dismissal for grades 1-5 at 12:20
Professional Learning 1:00-3:00
Wednesday, September 18
Thursday, September 19
Happy Birthday, Ms. Mariam 🎈
This Week
Sunday, September 8
Teacher Leader Meeting 8:15-9:15
Student Affairs Team Meeting 10:00- 11:00
Monday, September 9
Grade Level Meeting 2:00-3:00
Tuesday, September 10
Early Dismissal for grades 1-5 at 12:20
Professional Learning 1:00-3:00
Wednesday, September 11
Happy Birthday Ms. Fathiya 🥳
🌸 This and That 🌸
**Mr. Mohammed is away this week on Professional Development, Good luck! Please see Ms. Trish if you need anything*
Reminder: Staff are expected to be in school by 7:00am
Absent: If you will be arriving late by 7:45, you need to message Ms. Trish 3308 9139
If later than 7:45 you need to get permission then fill in the form Awsaj Elementary Absent Form please make sure you have access. If you need support on how to navigate the form, please reach out to your teacher leader. Reminder, you have 3 days to enter your absence into ERP
Arrival and Dismissal Students will continue to enter the building beginning at 7:00 and go straight to classrooms. Dismissal procedures will continue like last year with numbers being called through the Whatsapp group.
Preschool, KG & Empower (7:30-10:00 Sept. 1- 12) then (7:15-12:30 starting Sept. 15)
G1 through G5 (7:15-1:20, Tuesday 7:15-12:20)
First 2 weeks, no tardy passes will be given for students
Benchmark Assessments Homeroom teachers to have literacy and math assessments completed by September 29
After School Activities More information coming soon, think about what activity you would like to offer this Academic Year!
Meet and Greet Ms. Trish will continue to send ‘Meet and Greet’ invitations, thank you for being flexible
Please continue to forward recent appraisal Ratings to Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish
Welcome to Week 2 - the first week of students! 😊
Let us LEARN together! Thank you for all your hard work, dedication and commitment as we prepare for the first day with students. It will be an amazing year as we begin this exciting journey together!
This Week
Sunday, September 1
First Day of School for Students!
Monday, September 2
Tuesday, September 3
Early Dismissal for grades 1-5 at 12:20
Professional Learning 1:00-3:00
August/September birthdays
August 5 - Hanadi
August 14 - Daniel
August 16 - Malchus
August 21 - Maryam B
August 26 - LaCondria
🌸 This and That 🌸
The First Two Weeks - Our focus these first two weeks will be getting to know our students and helping them get back into the school routine. We will also be establishing and practicing routines and procedures during this time. Please take time to review the PBIS Four Bs and work with your class to agree upon your classroom guidelines/contract. Be explicit about describing expected behaviors and remember to practice, practice, practice!
Our morning meeting and closing circle times each day are key elements of our daily schedule which help us build classroom communities and offer time to address our students’ social-emotional and academic development.
Morning Meeting
Closing Circle
https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/closing-circle/
Arrival and Dismissal Students will continue to enter the building beginning at 7:00 and go straight to classrooms. Dismissal procedures will continue like last year with numbers being called through the Whatsapp group.
Preschool, KG & Empower (7:30-10:00 Sept. 1- 12) then (7:15-12:30 starting Sept. 15)
G1 through G5 (7:15-1:20, Tuesday 7:15-12:20)
First 2 weeks, no tardy passes will be given for students
Arrival Please ensure that you arrive early enough to be on duty and ready to greet students at 7:00 am, even if you are not a homeroom teacher. Thank you for ensuring a timely arrival in order to provide the best learning environment for our students.
Seesaw New parents will be setting up accounts this week.
Please forward recent appraisal Ratings to Mr Mohammed and Ms. Trish
Please be patient as we arrange Amwaj covering for the classes.
Beginning of Year - Check in
Classroom Setup
Wall displays complete
Behavior expectations visible
Student lists
🌸 This and That 🌸
We have loved coming into classrooms this week to see you and the students. We have seen connections, engaging lessons, guided play, and smiles. And we also enjoyed seeing all the interactive posts on SEESAW. Excellent work !
We will continue the same Back to School Afternoon as last years model. Please prepare a slideshow for parent engagement and enjoy the time sharing about your students. We will be present and in the classrooms if anyone needs us!
Professional Reading: Think Better from: Harvard Graduate School of Education
Safeguarding Training: Please make sure your training is completed
Sub Plans: Please make sure you have your sub plans in the folder, they have been needed for cover
Reminders:
Attendance for Students: Thank you for adding the attendance for students! Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Absents: If you are going to arrive after 7:45, please message Ms. Trish
If you are absent, fill in the Awsaj Elementary Absent Form please make sure you have access.
Reminder, you have three days to enter your absence into ERP
Benchmark Assessments Thank you for all your hard work on the Benchmark Assessments. Please ensure to add the data by September 29
After School Activities Thank you for those who signed up, we see creative and engaging activities. Please continue for all to sign up, the new updated PUE policy is 18 hours per academic year.
Sunday, October 20
Teacher Leader Meeting 9-10
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, October 21
Stuttering Awareness Day: interactive session from the SLP Team, 2-3 in the auditorium
Tuesday, October 22
Early Dismissal
Professional Learning -
Grade-level data analysis and planning- report card comments
LEAN = Awsaj - Professional Learning
Wednesday, October 23
Qatar Library- will be coming to have sign-ups for a Library card
Thursday, October 24
Happy Thursday and Holidays!!!
Happy Birthday
October 19 Areej 🥳
October 20 Haneen 🥳
October 26 - Hana 🥳
November 1- Rahaf A. 🥳
Sunday, November 3
Grade 5- Book Fair Activity in the Assembly Room- 9:00-10:00
Teacher Leader Meeting 12:15-1:15
After School Activities 1:30-2:30
Monday, November 4
Influenza vaccination - more information to be provided
Grade Level Meetings, if needed
Tuesday, November 5
Early Dismissal for students
Professional Learning -
Instructional Assistants and Empower: Core Vocabulary training with Noor from 1-2 TBC on location
Teachers- Continue data review and planning
Wednesday, November 6
Thursday, November 7
Happy Thursday!
Happy Birthday
Rahaf A. Nov 1 🥳
Ebtihal Nov 4 🎉
Al Maha Nov 5 🎈
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Crafting a Well-Balanced Circle Time
Have you explored the enchantment of a well-balanced circle time? This week, we're diving into the art of infusing physical, sensory, social, and cognitive pillars into your circle time routines. Let us unravel the secrets of crafting engaging sessions that cater to these essential elements, creating a dynamic and purposeful learning experience for all participants.
Tailored Planning:
🚀 Embark on a journey of personalized learning by incorporating the four pillars of physical, sensory, social, and cognitive elements into your planning. Design activities that stimulate physical movement, engage the senses, foster social interaction, and challenge cognitive abilities. By addressing each pillar, you ensure a well-rounded and enriching circle time experience for your students. Devise activities that strike a harmonious balance between these pillars, ensuring that the circle time is neither too lengthy nor too brief.
Expectations with Strategies:
🎯 Picture success with strategic planning! Use visual aids, verbal cues, and interactive prompts to set clear expectations during circle time, fostering a shared understanding of desired outcomes and behaviors.
Reinforcement for Success:
🌟 Cement achievements with positive reinforcement! Celebrate milestones with praise, rewards, and acknowledgments, motivating ongoing engagement and participation.
Objective-Oriented Fun:
🎉 Infuse purpose into the fun! Define precise objectives for each session, aligning activities with educational goals and students' learning requirements to ensure meaningful growth and development.
Fun-tastic Results:
🥳 Witness the transformation from fun to fulfillment! Watch as your engaging circle time activities lead to tangible outcomes, creating a classroom abuzz with excitement and achievement.
Discover the resources below on achieving a well-balanced circle time experience
https://lovelycommotion.com/the-do-s-and-don-ts-of-circle-time/
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Hello Amazing Educators,
Ramadan is almost here! This special month is a time of reflection, empathy, and gratitude. While most of our younger students may not be fasting yet, they are surrounded by family members, teachers, and older peers who are. This is a great opportunity to encourage kindness, patience, and mindfulness in the classroom.
A Time for Compassion
Ramadan naturally encourages a strong sense of community and caring. Some students may notice changes in their family’s routines or see older siblings and adults fasting. This can be a wonderful chance to model and encourage kindness, patience, and helpfulness—whether through small acts like sharing, comforting a friend, or showing appreciation.
📌 Classroom Tip: Create a “Kindness Chain” where students write or draw acts of kindness they see in the classroom and link them together.
Emotional Highs and Lows
Even if younger students aren’t fasting, they may sense changes in energy from teachers or older peers. Teachers who are fasting may feel more tired, especially later in the day, and students might pick up on this. Encouraging a gentle, supportive classroom atmosphere can help everyone stay positive.
📌 Classroom Tip: If students seem restless, try a soft reset—low-light reading time, a stretching break, or a mindfulness moment with deep breaths.
Gratitude and Reflection
Ramadan is a time for appreciation and self-improvement, and even young students can take part in this spirit! Encouraging gratitude and reflection can help create a peaceful and mindful environment for everyone.
📌 Classroom Tip: Try a Gratitude Wall where students can share drawings or simple words about things they are thankful for—family, friends, nature, or even a fun school activity!
Finding Moments of Calm
Ramadan naturally encourages self-regulation and mindfulness, which makes it a great time to introduce calming techniques in the classroom. Whether fasting or not, students benefit from moments of quiet and balance.
📌 Classroom Tip: Designate a Calm Corner with soft pillows, books, or sensory activities where students can take a moment to reset when needed.
Wishing everyone a month filled with peace, unity, and positive connections. Thank you for creating a warm and supportive space for our students!
Welcome to WEEK 24
March 2-6
"Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Ramadan filled with joy, harmony, and countless blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!"
Welcome to WEEK 24
March 2-6
"Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Ramadan filled with joy, harmony, and countless blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!"
Behavior Boost
Weekly Tips from the Elementary Inclusion Team!
Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day
Celebrating Differences:
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition, occurring in about 1 in every 1,000 live births worldwide. People with Down syndrome bring joy, warmth, and unique perspectives to our communities. They are often social, affectionate, and have a great sense of humor. Their strong visual learning skills, determination, and ability to form deep connections make them invaluable members of any classroom.
Behavioral Characteristics
Strong Social Drive: Many individuals with Down syndrome have a natural inclination for social interaction and seek positive relationships.
Noncompliance: Research shows that students with Down syndrome may demonstrate strong-willed behavior, difficulty with transitions, or resistance to changes in routine. Providing choices and using structured supports can reduce frustration.
Strength in Imitation & Visual Learning: They learn well through modeling and hands-on activities, making peer modeling an effective strategy.
Sensory Processing Differences: Some may have hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to stimuli, which can impact attention and regulation in the classroom.
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Use Predictable Routines with Flexibility: While students with Down syndrome thrive in structured settings, sudden changes can cause stress. Use visual schedules and pre-teach transitions to help them adapt.
Support Emotional Regulation: Due to challenges in expressive language, frustration can manifest as refusal or withdrawal. Teaching alternative communication strategies, such as key phrases or visual supports, can help.
Promote Peer Engagement with Structured Interactions: Studies suggest that structured social opportunities, like buddy systems or cooperative tasks, enhance social inclusion and reduce isolation.
Let’s embrace and celebrate the joy, resilience, and uniqueness of individuals with Down syndrome!
Resources for Further Learning:
Down Syndrome International – Global advocacy, resources, and best practices.
The Down Syndrome Education (DSE) Organization – Research-based strategies for education and learning.
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) – Information on support, inclusion, and advocacy.
British Journal of Developmental Psychology – Research on Down Syndrome – Evidence-based insights on behavior and learning.
Welcome to WEEK 26
March 16-20
"There is no greater disability in society, then the inability to see a person as more."
Welcome to WEEK 30
April 20-24
"Today a READER, tomorrow a LEADER."
🌸 This and That 🌸
Amazing busy weeks! Thank you all for your hard work and positive mindsets! As the Inclusion Team reminds us above of clear expectations let's also remember routines, consistency and positive praise!
Have an amazing week ahead!
Dates to look forward to in the first week of May:
May 1: Star of the Quarter ⭐
May 4: Al Tamakon visit Awsaj- SEN Peer Review
May 4: MAP Testing begins
May 5: Grade 5 visit DECC Book Fair
May 7: Mr. Mohammed and Ms. Trish visit Al Tamakon- SEN Peer Review
May 7: Desert King Performance 9:15-10:00
Reminders
Please add photos to the link. https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1kWUhTgt-tUntx1BayBmmEMZJUkDOt3DI
Please visit IT to ensure the Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25 is working.
Please review Danielson's Framework and reach out for any questions or clarification.
Leadership team members will be using Danielson’s Framework
Attendance for Students: Please continue by entering in Power School absences daily in the morning by 8am.
Appreciation Board - Send your appreciation to colleagues THANK YOU FOR..... and look at ones that have been posted!
Resources
The Learning Center (TLC) Resources
Links
Professional Development- Awsaj Form
Education Development Institute Calendar
Elementary Absence Request Form 24-25
Welcome to WEEK 35
May 25-29
Welcome to WEEK 38
June 22-27
Gratitude can transform our life. Sooner than anything else.
Be Grateful!
Sri Chimney
Welcome to WEEK 5
September 28- October 2
Start each day with a positive thought and a grateful heart! ♥️
Welcome to WEEK 8
October 19-23
Nine Types of Rest
time away
permission to not be helpful
connection to art and nature
solitude to recharge
something 'unproductive'
a break from responsibility
stillness to decompress
safe space
alone time
Welcome to Week 10
November 9-13
Welcome to Week 11
November 16-20
Everyday we must try to make one person happy. A smile goes a long way.
Welcome to Week 10
November 9-13
In a world you can be anything.
Be kind.
Welcome to Week 9
November 2-6
If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change!
Welcome to WEEK 8
November 16-20
Everyday we must try to make one person happy. A smile goes a long way.😁
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