Issue #13 - April 24, 2026
During distance learning STEAM lessons, our Grade 1 students explored the fascinating world of weather and seasons. They learned how and why seasons occur, discovering how the Earthâs tilt influences seasonal changes and brings about different types of weather - what we like to call âwacky weather.â
Taking their learning a step further, students were challenged to become young meteorologists by preparing and presenting their own weekly weather forecasts. We are incredibly proud of how confidently and creatively our students rose to this challenge, demonstrating both understanding and enthusiasm.
We invite you to view a selection of student video submissions below.
Our young meteorologists truly brought science to life - well done, Grade 1!
In 3rd grade music, students have been exploring how music connects to art, movement, and technology. We learned about Wassily Kandinsky and how he used shapes and colors to represent sound, helping us understand timbre (the unique quality of sound) in a creative way.
Students also explored key musical elements such as dynamics (loud and soft sounds) and tempo (fast and slow music), learning how these elements change the mood and feeling of a piece.
In addition, students have been using Chrome Music Lab to create their own music. Through this, they experimented with melodies, rhythms, and digital composition, building both their musical skills and creativity.
Overall, students are developing their ability to listen, create, and describe music while making connections across art and technology.
During the recent period of distance learning, our Art Department launched the Together Proud of UAE initiative, inviting students to creatively express their love and pride for the UAE.
Students enthusiastically participated in a variety of ways - recording themselves singing the UAE National Anthem, creating meaningful artwork, and capturing photos with the UAE flag. The initiative provided a wonderful opportunity for students to stay connected, celebrate national identity, and showcase their creativity from home.
We are delighted to share that parents can view a selection of these special moments through the photos shared, highlighting the pride and spirit of our school community.
Thank you to all students and families who participated and helped make this initiative such a meaningful celebration of the UAE.
Our KG1âG5 students recently took part in an exciting Battle of the Books during their online library lessons. Throughout the distance learning period, students explored meaningful texts such as The Arabic Quilt and The Other Side, encouraging thoughtful discussions around kindness, inclusion, and friendship.
Students also developed their storytelling skills through wordless books like Stormy and The Girl and the Bicycle, using visual clues to interpret and share their ideas.
The excitement built up to Championship Week, where students voted for their favorite book. After a close and enthusiastic competition, we are proud to announce our winner:
đ Champion Book: Stormy by Guojing
Well done to all our students for their active participation, thoughtful responses, and growing enthusiasm for reading. It was wonderful to see such engagement and joy throughout the Battle of the Books!
This week during library classes, students were invited to take part in Read with Walid, celebrating poetry and the joy of reading. Students selected a poetry book and chose a creative way to engage with itâwhether reading with a stuffed friend, sharing a poem with a family member, or finding a cozy space to enjoy their book.
It was wonderful to see the many ways students brought reading to life. From reading aloud to siblings to recording heartfelt poetry performances for their families, our young readers truly embraced the spirit of storytelling. Students proudly shared their experiences on Seesaw, giving us a glimpse into their creativity and growing love of reading.
Walid cheered them on every step of the way, reminding us that every story has a voice worth sharing.
May 26-29: Expected Public Holiday Eid Al Adha (no school in session)
Head of Inclusion Team
Christina Coley, email: c.coley_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ
Elementary Principal
John Ashenden, email: j.ashenden_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ
Elementary Assistant Principal
Lauren Sargent, email: l.sargent_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ
Elementary Counselor
Alison Haswell, email: a.haswell_gaa@gemsedu.com
Elementary Dean of Students
Cody Preston, email: c.preston_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ
Curriculum Coordinator
Kim Melloy, email: k.melloy_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ
Elementary Secretary
Email: elemsecretary_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ
Elementary Attendance Secretary
Email: esattendance_gaa@gemsedu.comÂ