Hello GAA Families,

We are quickly coming to our winter break. We are all ready for some rest, travel, and time with families. We hope that everyone has an enjoyable break, but also, we want you to use this time as well.

First, take some time to reflect on this school year. What progress have you made towards your goals? Of what accomplishments are you proud? What has gone well? What would you like to change? January is a great time to adjust behavior and attitudes and relationships. Winter break gives us an opportunity to start the school year anew. There are many factors that contribute to what makes for a successful year. Determine what is in your control.

Second, stay stimulated. Winter break should be for relaxation, but that does not mean one is completely inactive. What are your personal interests that you have to set aside during the school year? Winter break is a great time to read a book, watch a documentary, visit a museum, and/go exploring. Keep your mind engaged.

Finally, keep/start routines that will help you be successful. Often times, students don’t eat well, sleep enough, or exercise enough. These three pillars help build resilience in the face of stress. When we are facing deadlines and loads of work it is difficult to start new habits. With this long break, students can start habits that will help them be successful.

We encourage everyone to keep working. We are all excited about the coming break. We hope everyone has safe travels and happy holidays!

Sincerely,

Kain Klinkhammer

Secondary Principal

email: ssprincipal_gaa@gemsedu.com

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE GAA EVENTS CALENDAR

(please note, updated regularly)

• December 10: Grades 6-7 Sports Day
• December 11: Grades 8-9 Sports Day
• December 12: Last day of school, half-day, school dismisses @ 12:00 pm: Dress Down Day.
• January 5: School resumes
• January 14: IB Info Night @ Auditorium
• January 16: GAA Parent Community Lunch (venue TBC)
• January 25: TED-X @ Auditorium

Our preferred Apple provider, JTRS (Just The Right Solutions), has created an e-store from which you can purchase a number of Apple products below retail costs. JTRS Education is offering discounts on MacBook Pros, MacBook Airs and iPads, as well as add-ons, cases and extended warranties.

Below, you will find a document on how to locate and sign-up for the e-store to see the discounted products and make a purchase. Once purchased, JTRS Education will be in communication with you about when they will be delivered to the school. Once they have been delivered to GAA, you may pick your devices up from the ICT office here at the school.

If you have any further questions, please contact JTRS directly at +971 4 338 0990 or info@jtrs.ae