Dear GAA Families,

I hope that you are all safe and well, and thank you for your understanding as we continue to navigate through these uncertain and sometimes difficult times.

As an update, I am happy to report that the faculty member and student that initially tested positive for Covid-19 have since tested negative on two occasions. Both have not been in school since October 28^th. Of equal importance, their identified close contacts have also tested negative.

We are working with ADEK to develop and finalize our return plan, and more information will be sent as soon as we know more.

The need to be back on campus is clear and obvious to us all. With the recent news from ADEK announcing the return of grade 6-9 students in January, 2021, I remain positive and optimistic that we are on the path to providing the student opportunities that are characterized as an integral part of a holistic American style education.

Student participation in the visual and performing arts, athletics, leadership, values, cultural and service activities will have a definite impact on school spirit, and create a greater sense of belonging, and a more cohesive and supportive environment. Excellence in co-curricular efforts must become as important a part of the GAA experience as the outstanding and dedicated work being done in the classroom. Academics, art, music, sport, service, this is what we do, this is the GAA experience. As a student-centered institution that firmly believes in the life-long skills that are developed through participation in all the school has to offer, we will continue to advocate for every student to be involved.

Now more than ever we must prioritize our student’s physical, emotional, social as well as intellectual development. As an example, please scroll down in this GAAzette edition to find information on an upcoming wellness event (Wellness Wednesday VOLKSMARCH) on November 25^th. All are welcome!

As we work our way out of the pandemic, we will stay committed to offering opportunities for our students to cultivate their creativity and explore and find their passions. Thank you for your continued partnership in our efforts to build confident and prepared students for the future.

Regards,

Robert Rinaldo

Head of School

Please remember to update the Data Protection and Consent Form, through:

Oasis Parent Portal or GEMS Connect App

For more details and clarifications, please read below letters from Mr. Rinaldo

• November 25: Volksmarch at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, 6:30pm-8:30pm.

• November 25-26: KG and Elementary Dress Down Day. Theme: UAE National Day Celebration

• November 26: Half-Day. School dismisses at 12:00. Secondary Dress Down Day. Theme: UAE National Day Celebration

• December 1-3: Commemoration Day and National Day: NO SCHOOL

• December 10: Half-Day. School dismisses at 12:00.

• December 13 - January 2: Winter Break

• January 3: School Resumes

We would like to invite GAA staff, students, and family to the Grand Mosque this coming Wednesday November 25 for a Wellness Wednesday Volksmarch in order to help promote fellowship, wellness, fitness, and Wildcat pride! It is a nice public track with breathtaking views of the Mosque.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:

• Mr. David Rashleigh @ d.rashleigh_gaa@gemsedu.com

• Ms. Iliana Jaltova @ i.jaltova_gaa@gemsedu.com