Embedded Files
Issue # 14 - April 11, 2025
Message from Head of National Identity and Pastoral Care
Message from Head of National Identity and Pastoral Care
MS. SAMAH AWAD
MS. SAMAH AWAD
email: s.awad_gaa@gemsedu.com
email: s.awad_gaa@gemsedu.com
Dear GAA Families,
A warm welcome back! I hope this message finds you and your loved ones refreshed, recharged, and joyful after a peaceful Eid and a restful Spring Break. It has been heartwarming to see the smiles and energy of our students back on campus, ready to embrace the final chapter of this academic year.
Returning to routine is an excellent opportunity to remind ourselves of the power of consistency, responsibility, and self-reliance. Routines provide students with stability and direction, especially as we gear up to finish the school year strong. Reestablishing daily habits like setting morning goals, organizing school materials, and prioritizing sleep and study time can make a remarkable difference in how our children perform and feel throughout the coming weeks.
This is also the perfect time to encourage our students to embrace independence. Whether taking initiative with their assignments, managing their time wisely, or advocating for their needs, these skills will empower them for school and life beyond the classroom. At GAA, we believe in nurturing these skills alongside academic excellence, and we are here every step of the way to support our students in their journey.
We’re also pleased to share that preparations for the 2025–2026 Academic Year have been finalized. This gives our families a sense of reassurance and clarity as we continue working together to build a strong and inspiring future for our learners. More information about exciting developments and opportunities will be shared soon.
As we return, I invite all our students and families to make the most of this time, embracing every moment, aiming high, and supporting one another with kindness and determination.
Let’s make the remainder of this year meaningful, productive, and full of growth.
Welcome back, and let’s finish the year with pride and purpose!
Warm regards,
Samah Awad
Head of National Identity and Pastoral Care
أولياد الأمور الكرام،
تحيّة طيبة وبعد،
أرحب بكم جميعًا أجمل ترحيب بعد عطلة العيد وعطلة الربيع، وأتمنى أن تكونوا قد قضيتم أوقاتًا ممتعة ومليئة بالراحة والسعادة مع أحبائكم. لقد كانت عودتنا إلى المدرسة هذا الأسبوع مفعمة بالطاقة الإيجابية، وكان من الرائع رؤية وجوه طلابنا المشرقة وهم يعودون إلى مقاعدهم بكل حماس.
مع بداية هذا الفصل الأخير من العام الدراسي، نؤكد على أهمية العودة إلى الروتين اليومي. فالثبات في العادات اليومية يساعد أبناءنا على الشعور بالاستقرار ويمنحهم التركيز اللازم للنجاح. ننصحهم بإعادة تنظيم أوقاتهم، الاهتمام بنومهم، ومتابعة واجباتهم الدراسية بروح من المسؤولية.
كما نحث طلابنا على تعزيز الاعتماد على الذات، وتحمّل المسؤولية، وبذل الجهد الذاتي لتحقيق أهدافهم. فهذه المرحلة من العام تشكل فرصة رائعة لاكتساب مهارات حياتية قيّمة، مثل إدارة الوقت، المبادرة، والثقة بالنفس، وهي مهارات نحرص على تنميتها جنبًا إلى جنب مع التحصيل الأكاديمي.
يسعدنا أيضًا أن نعلمكم أنه قد تم الانتهاء من التحضيرات للعام الدراسي القادم 2025–2026، ونحن متحمسون لمشاركة المزيد من التفاصيل قريبًا، حيث نواصل مسيرتنا في تقديم تعليم متميز وفرص متنوعة لجميع طلابنا.
فلنجعل من هذا الفصل الأخير فصلًا مليئًا بالإنجازات والنمو والدافعية. معًا، كعائلة واحدة في مدرسة جيمس الأمريكية سنختتم هذا العام بقوة، فخر، وتطلّع مشرق نحو المستقبل.
أهلاً بعودتكم، وكل عام وأنتم بخير.
جمعة مباركة!
تحياتي،
سماح عوض
رئيسة شؤون الهوية الوطنية والإرشاد التربوي
أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية – أبوظبي
IMPORTANT REMINDER ABOUT PARENT LANYARDS
IMPORTANT REMINDER ABOUT PARENT LANYARDS
While on campus parents and guardians MUST wear the GAA yellow lanyard. If lanyard is not worn, we kindly request you to register as a guest before entering the campus. This is to ensure that every adult in school is identified clearly for the safety and security of everyone on campus.
At GEMS American Academy, we issue parent ID cards to our parents only. No ID Cards are issued for guardians, domestic helpers, drivers or relatives.
The Parent ID includes photos of the parent. The Parent ID does not expire and is valid as long as the child attends GAA. You will be asked to return Parent IDs, should you withdraw from GAA.
New Parents, you may obtain your Parent photo identity card by emailing a photo (jpeg format) along with the parent’s first and last name to pre_gaa@gemsedu.com. Please also include your child/children’s full name and grade in the email as well. You will be notified when your ID cards are ready.
If you have ordered new IDs and received confirmation that they are ready, please remember to collect from Main Reception.
If you have not received your Parent ID yet, please email your photo to pre_gaa@gemsedu.com as soon as possible.
NEWS FROM SCHOOL NURSES
NEWS FROM SCHOOL NURSES
As part of our ongoing commitment to student well-being, we’d like to share the Dietary Guidelines from the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center, which promote balanced nutrition and healthy habits for growing children. These guidelines support our efforts to create a healthier school environment and encourage smart food choices both at school and at home.
We also kindly remind all parents to submit their child’s health information for the school year. For your convenience, we’ve created a quick and easy Google Form—no printing or scanning required.
Your cooperation helps us ensure we’re providing the best possible care for your child throughout the school day. Thank you for supporting our health and safety efforts!
NEWS FROM SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT
NEWS FROM SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT
Dear GAA Parents,
Our bus transportation provider is looking to enhance service areas and introduce new routes to better accommodate our families. If you live in an area not currently covered by our bus routes and would like to register your child for bus service, please fill out this quick Google Form to express your interest.
Your feedback will help us improve transportation options for our community. Thank you for your participation!
SENIOR LETTERS 2025
SENIOR LETTERS 2025
At GAA, we have a cherished tradition of collecting letters for our Graduating Class of 2025. These letters, written by family members, teachers, and friends, celebrate our seniors’ achievements and milestones throughout their years of schooling.
If you would like to share a message with a senior, please complete this ONLINE FORM.
Instructions:
✅ Select the name of the senior first.
✅ Attach your letter to be delivered.
Alternatively, you may drop off a printed version of your letter in the designated box at reception.
Deadline: Letters will be collected until May 18th and will be printed and presented to each senior during the Senior Brunch.
For any questions, please feel free to reach out to:
📩 Ana Chainho – Head of Grade | a.chainho_gaa@gemsedu.com
📩 Kelly Jamieson – Dean of Students | k.jamieson_gaa@gemsedu.com
📩 Monica Martin – Vice Principal | m.martin1_gaa@gemsedu.com
Thank you for helping us make this tradition meaningful for our graduating seniors!
GEMS FAMILY FIRST POETRY COMPETITION 2025
GEMS FAMILY FIRST POETRY COMPETITION 2025
STU WILLIAMSON SCHOOL PHOTOS ARE NOW LIVE!
STU WILLIAMSON SCHOOL PHOTOS ARE NOW LIVE!
Dear Families,
The photographs of your child that were taken in January (Grade 12) and February are now available to order on the Stu Schools website:
Please log on to www.swschoolphotos.com
Click on School Ordering,
Select your country,
and enter the password that you received.
You will need to either log in to your existing account from previous years if you have one, or create a new account if you are a new customer.
If you did not receive the password, or have mislaid it, please contact PRE at pre_gaa@gemsedu.com. If you have any questions please call the Stu Schools team on 04 388 3382 and they will assist you
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Celebrating Student Poetry: Rana Mekki Shines Again
Celebrating Student Poetry: Rana Mekki Shines Again
We’re proud to share that our talented student-poet from Grade 10 Rana Mekki, has once again impressed us with her writing. In honor of World Poetry Day, celebrated globally on March 21, Rana has penned a beautiful new poem titled “As One Nation.”
We invite you to take a moment to read her inspiring work and celebrate the power of student voice through poetry.
Outstanding SAT Achievement – Congratulations, Yuchan!
Outstanding SAT Achievement – Congratulations, Yuchan!
We are incredibly proud of Yuchan, a Grade 10 student who has achieved an exceptional score of 1530—with 760 in Reading and Writing and 770 in Math, at his first SAT exam.
This remarkable result reflects Yuchan’s hard work, dedication, and academic excellence. Congratulations on this outstanding accomplishment!
Honoring Human Space Flight & Student Achievement
Honoring Human Space Flight & Student Achievement
In celebration of the upcoming International Day of Human Space Flight, we recognize two of our students who took part in the UAE Space Olympiad last school year, organized by Edu Mithra Event Management.
Their enthusiasm for Space Science and Technology reflects the spirit of exploration this day represents. With their certificates just received, we couldn’t be prouder—who knows, one of them might be a future astronaut!
APRIL 21 - WORKSHOP "FROM MOTHER TO AUTHOR"
APRIL 21 - WORKSHOP "FROM MOTHER TO AUTHOR"
Dear parents,
GEMS Center of Excellence is excited to invite you to an inspiring workshop titled “From Mother to Author” led by Deema Al Alami, Author & Reading Advocate.
This workshop is perfect for those dreaming of writing a children’s book! Join to learn about the most common mistakes made by first-time authors and how to successfully transition from a mother to a published author.
Workshop Details:
📅 Date: Monday, 21st April 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Center of Excellence, GEMS Al Khaleej International School (AKIS), Dubai. Location map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kpBhZBVtEkJZtVS18
💰 Fee: AED 150 per person (payment link will be shared via email upon RSVP)
🚨 Limited to 30 seats only – early registration is highly recommended!
We look forward to seeing you there!
NEWS FROM GAA PARENT ASSOCIATION (GAAPA)
NEWS FROM GAA PARENT ASSOCIATION (GAAPA)
A Few Fun GAAPA Highlights This Week!
We’ve got some exciting things coming up and would love for you to join in!
🌿 Macramé Workshop – Thursday, April 17
Join us in the GAAPA Room from 12 PM to 2 PM for a cozy afternoon of creativity. Limited spots available—reserve yours here: https://forms.gle/rU984cHujE8ahYTa9
🎉 Spring Fair & Movie Night – Friday, April 18
Come support local small businesses and enjoy a family-friendly screening of YES DAY!
Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur? Reserve a table here: https://forms.gle/ecCHrGf9eKkVkfuU7
💛 Thank You!
We’re so grateful for our wonderful GAA community. It was heartwarming to see so many familiar faces—and new ones—at the recent Parent Coffee Morning. Thank you for showing up and making it special!
📸 Follow Us on Instagram!
Stay in the loop with all things GAAPA here: www.instagram.com/gaa_gaapa/
👕 Uniform & Book Donations
Got gently used school uniforms your kids have outgrown? Drop them in the bin in the school lobby.
Also, we’re collecting used children's books—please place them in the dedicated book bin in the lobby.
As always, we truly appreciate your continued support and welcome your feedback.
📧 Reach out anytime at: gaa.parentsteam@gmail.com
The GAAPA Team
NEWS FROM INCLUSION DEPARTMENT
NEWS FROM INCLUSION DEPARTMENT
The Launch of GAA Internship Program
The Launch of GAA Internship Program
As part of the Alternative Pathway Program at GAA, we are thrilled to announce that our new Internship Program was launched last month, providing a Grade 12 student with an internship position as a ‘teacher assistant’ in GAA’s Early Years. The program is designed to provide selected Grade 11 & 12 students with a valuable opportunity to gain real-world hands-on work experience within a variety of professional settings, while enhancing their academic and career development.
This initiative within our Alternate Pathways Program empowers students to explore career pathways, build confidence, and develop key workplace skills in a meaningful and supportive environment. Stay tuned for more updates on how our G12 student has made an impact!
Movie Screening of "Mical" at The Brainy Hub
Movie Screening of "Mical" at The Brainy Hub
This short film is a powerful documentary shedding light on the emotional and educational challenges faced by dyslexic individuals and will be followed by an engaging discussion about the challenges of reading and the importance of personalized, supportive teaching in overcoming learning differences.
The event will take place at “The Brainy Hub”, located at Reem Mall, and is open to all, free of charge. Additionally, Dots & Links will be offering a giveaway to all attendees, along with a 50% discount on one cognitive assessment.
For your convenience, please use the registration link below.
Celebrating Neurodiversity and Autism Awareness and Acceptance at School
Celebrating Neurodiversity and Autism Awareness and Acceptance at School
At our inclusive school, we believe that every student is unique and valuable. This month, we’re taking time to celebrate Autism Awareness and Acceptance—not just by learning about neurodiversity and autism, but by understanding and appreciating the amazing differences in our classmates.
What is Autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person experiences the world around them. Some people with autism might communicate or learn differently, or they may have unique ways of interacting with others. No two people with autism are the same—everyone is wonderfully different.
Why It Matters?
By understanding autism, we become better friends, classmates, and community members. We learn to be patient, kind, and supportive. Instead of seeing differences as challenges, we see them as strengths. For example, some students with autism may have amazing memory skills, creativity, or a unique way of solving problems.
How We Can Celebrate?
Learn Together: Read books, watch videos, or have discussions about autism to grow your understanding.
Be Supportive: Use kind words, include everyone in games and group work, and be respectful of classmates who may need things like quiet spaces or extra time.
Celebrate Differences: Every student brings something special to our school. Let’s recognize and appreciate what makes each of us unique.
Autism Awareness and Acceptance isn’t just for a day or a month—it’s something we practice every day by being caring, inclusive, and respectful. Together, we can create a school community where everyone feels safe, seen, and supported. Thank you for sharing this message with your child at home.
NEWS FROM LITTLE WILDCATS SPORTS
NEWS FROM LITTLE WILDCATS SPORTS
Dear Grade 2-6 Parents & Guardians,
The system for signing your children up to join the Little Wildcats Sports Teams is now open!
Dates: 14th April – 31st May
We are excited to begin Season 3 of the Little Wildcats Sports! This season, we will be offering the following activities:
Grade 2-3 Mini Wildcats Basketball (no games)*
Grade 4-6 Girls Basketball (JEAC League)
Grade 4 Boys Basketball (JEAC League)
Grade 5 Boys Basketball (JEAC League)
Grade 6 Boys Basketball (JEAC League)
Please note that there will be a limit on the number of students who can join each team, and registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
*Some of these activities are designed to expose students to more sports and to help them develop and learn new skills. These are not part of any official league and may only involve internal games.
How to Sign Up:
To sign up for any of the above activities, please use the booking system at www.esm.ae.
This week only:
The booking system will be open from today until Saturday, 12th April – 12 noon
For future weeks:
The booking system will open every Thursday evening and close on Saturday at 12 noon for the upcoming week.
If your child has not been signed up by the deadline, they will not be able to attend until the following week. This is a health and safety requirement.
Important Reminders:
Best Experience: Please use a laptop or computer to complete the sign-up process.
New to the system? We have created a Step-by-Step New User Guide. If you already have an ESM account, you can skip to Step 15.
For all Little Wildcats Sports, please be sure to select Little Wildcats Sports - Season 3 as the term.
Thank you, and we look forward to another fantastic season of sports!
EXCITING EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
EXCITING EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Dear Parents,
We are excited to offer Kids Muscle Fitness classes for Grade 2-6 students here at GEMS American Academy, through esm.ae. Classes will be run by one of our very own teachers, Mr. Marcus, who is a fully licensed trainer! These classes are designed to promote overall physical health, focusing on building strength, endurance, agility, and core stability. We believe that encouraging active lifestyles at an early age is essential for both physical and mental well-being, and we’re thrilled to provide this opportunity to your child.
Class Highlights:
Strength: Exercises that build muscular strength and improve overall body composition.
Endurance: Cardiovascular-focused activities that enhance stamina and cardiovascular health.
Agility: Drills to improve coordination, balance, and quick reflexes.
Core: Targeting the muscles of the core to improve posture and support overall athleticism.
These sessions will be led by an experienced trainer who is passionate about guiding young athletes toward healthier lifestyles. Classes are designed to be fun, engaging, and suitable for all levels, ensuring that each student can progress at their own pace.
We encourage all students to participate, whether they’re new to fitness or looking to take their training to the next level.
If you're interested in enrolling your child, register via ESM or contact us at kidsmuscle24@gmail.com. We are looking forward to helping your child build a solid foundation for lifelong fitness!
ABU DHABI SAILING ACADEMY
ABU DHABI SAILING ACADEMY
Beginner course:
Beginner course:
Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13
07:30h to 12:00h
Intermediate course:
Intermediate course:
Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13
13:30h to 18:00h
It's a two days course.
Please let us know, who would like to give it a go.
NOTE: We may need to cancel the course because of the weather condition.
Contact Team ADSA:
Contact Team ADSA:
Hristo Hristov, General Manager / Principal
Mobile: 050 614 1689
Abu Dhabi Sailing Academy, operated by Fairwind Sailing Sports Club
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
April 15 - IB Arts Exhibition opening and IB Awards Night, @5PM
April 16 - Night of Music, @6PM
April 18 - Spring Fair and Movie Night by GAA Parent Association, @5PM
April 21-25 - Book Fair
April 25 - Book Character Day (Dressdown day)
May 1-June 11 - MAP Testing
IMPORTANT CONTACTS
IMPORTANT CONTACTS
Head of School
Email: hos_gaa@gemsedu.com
Head of National Identity and Pastoral Care
Samah Awad, email: s.awad_gaa@gemsedu.com
ADMISSIONS
Registrar: registrar_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 515
Admission Secretary (GR6-GR12): c.dumo_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 603
FINANCE
Email: finance_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 102
CLINIC
Email: nurse_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 688
Parent Relations Executive
Fatma Chabanova: pre_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 502
Government Relations Executive (for ADEK issues)
Mahmoud Huraimel: m.huraimel_gaa@gemsedu.com ext. 505
SLICES CATERING
Email: slicesgaa@gmail.com, ext. 566
BBT BUS TRANSPORTATION
Rameez Rasheed, email: rameez.rasheed@sts-group.com, ext. 608
GAAPA (GAA Parent Association)
email: gaa.parentsteam@gmail.com
Booster Club
email: boosterclub.gaa@gmail.com
IT
Email: support_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 666
ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
Email: r.demarco_gaa@gemsedu.com ext. 627
Elementary Principal
Leia Kraeuter, email: l.kraeuter_gaa@gemsedu.com
Elementary Vice Principal (Gr. KG-2)
Lauren Sargent, email: l.sargent_gaa@gemsedu.com
Elementary Vice Principal (Gr. 3-5)
Douglas Sherrill, email: d.sherrill_gaa@gemsedu.com
Elementary Secretary
KG-Grade 1 Guidance Counsellor
Alison Haswell, email: a.haswell_gaa@gemsedu.com
Grades 2-5 Guidance Counsellor
Melanie Moses, email: m.moses_gaa@gemsedu.com
PYP Coordinator
Tiffany Pulci, email: t.pulci_gaa@gemsedu.com
Secondary Principal
Garth Wyncoll, email: g.wyncoll_gaa@gemsedu.com
Middle School Vice Principal (Grades 6-8)
Mollie Williams, email: m.williams3_gaa@gemsedu.com
High School Vice Principal (Grades 9-10)
Zahra Bhatty, email: z.bhatty_gaa@gemsedu.com
High School Vice Principal (Grades 11-12)
Monica Martin, email: m.martin1_gaa@gemsedu.com
Secondary Secretary:
Email: secsecretary_gaa@gemsedu.com
Middle School Counsellor (Grades 6-8)
Almyra Duarte, email: a.duarte_gaa@gemsedu.com
High School Counsellors
Catherine Sciolis (Ali-Alp, I-P), email: c.sciolis_gaa@gemsedu.com
Lia Noronha (Aaa-Alh, B-H), email: l.noronha_gaa@gemsedu.com
Keisha McCray (Alq-Azz, Q-Z), email: k.mccray_gaa@gemsedu.com
IBDP Coordinator:
Elliot Brodie, email: e.brodie_gaa@gemsedu.com
AP and Curriculum Coordinator:
Andreia Barbu, email: a.barbu_gaa@gemsedu.com
USEFUL APPS AND WEBSITES
USEFUL APPS AND WEBSITES
Welcome Pack is designed to provide you with all the information you require to gain a solid understanding of the policies and procedures in the division in which your child is learning.
The information provided in this Welcome Pack gives you the basis of a successful start at GAA.
If you have a question that is not covered here, our Parent Relations Executive (PRE), Divisional Secretaries, Reception and the Senior Leadership Team are all great next stops in helping to find answers.
We present to you GAAPA Community Resource Guide, compiled with the help of our members, fellow GAA families.
We understand the struggles each family faces when moving to a new country, new school, new residence, as we have all been through the same. It is only natural that we want to support each other as a Community.
This website is designed to provide that helpful information for all our community members. Your feedback and contribution will be highly appreciated to make sure that information is accurate and up-to-date. You can recommend your resource by clicking below link:
Please make sure you have downloaded GEMS Connect parent portal app for your convenience:
Pay fees online
Track your child's bus transportation
School communication (emails, newsletter, etc)
Submit requests (re-enrollment, Transfer Certificates)
GEMS Ambassador program (refer a friend, get 4% discount on school fees)
and much more...
GEMS Alumni App
GEMS Alumni App
As the GEMS community, we understand that it is not just mere nostalgia that we associate our alma mater with, it is much beyond that. Our GEMS alumni across 80 countries are doing amazing things and we want to celebrate their successes every step of the way! Download and join the #GEMSAlumni App today by clicking on the links below:
Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details…
App Store : https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gems-alumni/id1496962338
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