Dear GAA Families,

I want to begin by congratulating our Elementary School students for their beautiful presentation of the musical “Moana Jr.”. The auditorium was full on consecutive nights, and all present enjoyed the outstanding performance. The show would not have possible without the dedicated efforts of our Elementary School Visual and Performing arts faculty, under the leadership of our VPA Coordinator, Amara Pugh. Thank you!

Also, thank you to all the secondary parents that took part in the recent Course Selection Informative Sessions. Your active participation in understanding our scheduling process, requirements, and the range of core and elective courses offered, plays an important role as students embark on defining their academic interests and pathways.

At GAA, we recognize the importance of a balance between a strict focus on foundational knowledge and skills and supporting and encouraging participation in diverse activities. Both are crucial for holistic development and academic excellence.

Every student has unique strengths and challenges, and it is a school priority to foster an inclusive atmosphere where differences are embraced, and individual needs are addressed. It is my belief, that what distinguishes our GAA school community is defined not only by academic rigor but also our spirit of cooperation and camaraderie.

I thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Warm Regards,

Robert Rinaldo

Supporting Your Child's Mathematical Journey: A Quick Guide for Parents

Dear GAA Community,

As the K-12 Director of Curriculum and Instruction, I am delighted to reach out to you with some insights and strategies to support your child’s mathematical journey at home. Mathematics is a fundamental skill that not only enhances academic success but also nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Understanding that each age group has unique needs, we have tailored suggestions for parents of elementary, middle school, and high school students.

For Parents of Elementary Students (Ages 3-10)

1. Make Math Fun - Incorporate math into everyday activities. Cooking, shopping, and even playtime offer opportunities to discuss numbers, shapes, and basic arithmetic. 

2. Use Educational Games - There are numerous math-focused games and apps designed for this age group that make learning both fun and interactive. 

3. Encourage Questioning - When your child asks, "Why do we need to learn this?" offer real-world examples of math in action – be it in architecture, technology, or nature.

4. Be Positive About Math - Children often mirror their parents' attitudes. A positive outlook on math can significantly boost their confidence and interest.

For Parents of Middle School Students (Ages 11-13)

1. Discuss Practical Applications - Show them how math applies to real-life scenarios like budgeting, home improvements, or sports statistics. 

2. Encourage Persistence - Middle school math can be challenging. Encourage your child to persevere through difficult problems and praise their effort.

3. Create a Study-Friendly Environment - Ensure they have a quiet and well-organized space for homework and studying.

4. Stay Connected with School - Regular communication with math teachers can provide insights into your child’s progress and areas needing extra support.

For Parents of High School Students (Ages 14-18)

1. Discuss Career Connections - Talk about how various professions use math, which can provide motivation and context for their studies.

2. Encourage Advanced Courses and Resources - If they show an aptitude for math, encourage them to take advanced courses or explore online resources and competitions.

3. Support with Time Management - Help them balance their time between academics, extracurriculars, and social activities.

4. Promote Critical Thinking - Engage in discussions that require analytical thinking, such as evaluating data, understanding financial news, or solving complex problems together.

In conclusion, your role in your child’s math education is invaluable. By engaging with them in meaningful ways and showing support for their learning, you can help make a significant difference in their mathematical journey. Remember, your child’s teachers are always here to assist, so feel free to reach out for additional resources or guidance.

Justin Kirby

K-12 Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Track and Field Meet at Dunecreast American School, Dubai

On Saturday, January 27th, an exciting Track and Field meet took place at Dunecreast American School. Students from various schools participated in numerous station activities, showcasing their athletic abilities and team spirit.

The meet featured a range of events, including the long jump, high jump, softball shotput, sprints, and relay races. Students had the opportunity to test their skills and compete against their peers in these thrilling events.

The students from the GAA performed exceptionally well, demonstrating their dedication and talent. Not only did they excel in their individual events, but they also showcased great team spirit throughout the meet. The support from the parents was incredible. They were cheering on the Little Wildcats continuously!

The Track and Field meet at Dunecreast American School, Dubai was a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their athletic abilities, compete in a friendly environment, and foster a sense of camaraderie among participants. It was a day filled with excitement, sportsmanship, and memorable moments.

Special thanks to Coaches Ms. Shereen, Ms. Lamia and Mr. John!

Our Student Support Team, headed by Ms. Jackie Wyncoll would like to invite the families of neurodiverse children to join this Wednesday morning, February 7th

• Where: GAAPA Room

• When: 1st Wednesday of every month

• When: 8:00-9:00am

Why? Come and connect with other families who face similar joys and challenges, struggles and successes. For our first meeting we will get to know each other and our children, and learn a little more about the different strengths and needs of children who have additional needs. You are not alone - let’s build a supportive community together.

Please let us know if you will be joining this week: j.wyncoll_gaa@gemsedu.com 

This week Grade 5 educators, Ms. Shereen and Ms. Maureen were privileged to attend the 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) held at Adnec in Abu Dhabi. The congress has speakers from around the world who focussed on designing, weaving and integrating sustainability in education using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a framework (SDGs). 

Sustainability in education cultivates a sense of environmental stewardship from an early age. By introducing students to the concept of sustainability, they gain an understanding of the relationship between human actions and their impact on the planet. It involves finding a balance between social, economic, and environmental factors within the curriculum. 

• Integrating sustainability in education is crucial because it:

• Creates awareness about environmental issues and sustainable practices.

• Empowers students to become active participants in creating a sustainable future.

• Promotes critical thinking about complex environmental issues.

• Fosters responsible citizenship and encourages students to take action.

We are hopeful that students at GAA will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become responsible global citizens.

Please be informed that CTY On-Campus Programs for academically advanced learners in grades 2-12 are now enrolling for Summer 2024.

Finding community and challenge during the summer can make a lifetime of difference for curious young students.  For many years, we have had the honor to host some of the advanced learners from GEMS Schools at our sites.  We are certainly hoping the same for this year.  Here are some highlights for summer 2024:

• 70+ rigorous, fresh, and fun in-person courses offered at 11 locations throughout the U.S. 

• Discovery Samplers that require no test scores and allow students to explore three multidisciplinary topics in one three-week session.

• Risk-free Refund policy that allows families to receive a full tuition refund, minus the application fee, if plans change before March 1, 2024.

Please see below poster for details and links:

Our amazing GAA Parent Association volunteers have been spreading joy and gratitude with delicious treats to appreciate our amazing students in elementary and high school these past weeks!

GEMS CO-BRANDED CREDIT CARD

GEMS American Academy has partnered with First Abu Dhabi Bank to offer our parents discounted school fees*. 

• Apply for your GEMS card with FAB and avail amazing discount and instalment plan on your child's school fee

• Avail up to 4.25% discount on advanced payment on GEMS school fee

• Convert school fees into Easy Payment Plan for up to 12 months

• EPP 1st 3 months with zero charges no processing fee & no interest, 6 months 1% , 9 months 2% and 12 months 3% processing fee 

• Card is free for the 1st year 

Apply through our School Assigned Staff:

• Amjad Nazir

• Mobile: +971564010406

• Email: Amjad.nazir@bankfab.com

*Terms and conditions apply

SCHOOL TRAFFIC COURTESY

DO'S

• Please be mindful of UAE Traffic Laws (UAE Government Website and LIST OF TRAFFIC OFFENCES AND VIOLATIONS)

• Please exercise Culture of Kindness towards your Community members.

• Be attentive and follow the guidance of our staff members! You will see them directing traffic and ensuring the safety of our students.

• Instruct your drivers to follow the pickup/dropoff guidelines and instructions of our staff members.

• Park in designated parking spaces.

• Please continue forward in the pick-up lane if the car in front of you has picked up his/her child and is exiting. Do not stop midway – continue forward to allow cars lining behind you to enter parking.

• Keep the sidewalks and crosswalks clear.

DON'TS

• Do not double park.

• Do not exit your car if waiting in pick up lane.

• Do not park on the sidewalks (red-bricked areas near back gates) – this is in violation of UAE Traffic Rules.

• Do not drop off or pick up students from the Main Road. For the safety of your children and to avoid traffic congestion, PLEASE DROP OFF AND PICK UP FROM DESIGNATED SCHOOL GATES.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• If you arrive early to park in designated areas within school parking, please be mindful that you may find it difficult to exit immediately after pick up, as transiting cars may be blocking your way. We recommend to arrive during dismissal time. Alternatively, please park in designated parking areas in public roads (for example, after Beverly Cakes pastry shop, on Al Mutaabid Street, or Al Waqaa street).

• Carpool when possible

• Consider using school bus service

• Weather permitting, consider using bikes or walk, if living near school. 

PARKING ENTRY/EXIT PROCEDURE

• We have assigned 2 entry points and 1 exit point in the back parking area (see attached map). NO EXIT IS ALLOWED THROUGH DESIGNATED ENTRY POINTS.

• To enter the back parking area, please use one of the entry points indicated in the map. The 1st entry point is near tennis courts (in front of SmileRite), the 2nd entry point is through Bus parking. If the 1st entry is full, please continue forward on the main street towards the 2nd entry (through the Bus Parking). 

• Please continue forward in the pick-up lane if the car in front of you has picked up his/her child and is exiting. Do not stop midway – continue forward to allow cars lining behind you to enter parking.

• Exit from center (EXIT ONLY POINT) as indicated in the map. Please use common courtesy and Culture of Kindness when exiting from parking and follow our staff members’ directions.

• Students exiting from the back gates will be waiting in the designated waiting areas to be picked up. Please make sure you discuss the pick up timing with your child before school.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

• If you arrive early to park in designated areas within school parking, please be mindful that you may find it difficult to exit immediately after pick up, as transiting cars may be blocking your way. We recommend to arrive during dismissal time. Alternatively, please park in designated parking areas in public roads (for example, after Beverly Cakes pastry shop, on Al Mutaabid Street, or Al Waqaa street).

• Carpool when possible

• Consider using school bus service

• Weather permitting, consider using bikes or walk, if living near school. 

• February 3: TEDxYouth "Breaking Borders - Redefining Life" @1:00pm (tickets sold in Snack Shack)

• February 5-7: PreK, KG1, KG2 and Grade 1 Teddy Bear Party (during their library day)

• February 6: Parent Course Information Meeting for rising Grade 6: 2:15pm and 6:30pm

• February 7: Student/Parent Course Info Meetings, for rising Grade 9: 08:00am and 6:30pm 

• February 7: Grades 1 & 2 Sports Day

• February 8: Grades 3, 4 & 5 Sports Day

• February 9: PreK, KG1, KG2 Sports Day

• February 9: Parent Coffee Morning for Grade 5 & 8 parents about 2024-2025 courses: 7:45am @GAAPA Room

• February 9: Grade 12 Photoshoot for absentee (schedule will be communicated soon)

• February 12-14: New-joiners and absentees official school photoshoot

• February 19-21: MID-TERM BREAK. NO SCHOOL

• February 23: Pizza and Popsicle Day by GAAPA and Booster Club

• February 28-29: Matilda Jr. Musical

• February 29: GAA Cook-A-Book Challenge