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Issue # 11 - February 21, 2025

The GAAzette Online

ELEMENTARY NEWS


SECONDARY NEWS


Message from Head of School

MR. ROBERT RINALDO

email: hos_gaa@gemsedu.com

Dear GAA Families,

I want to remind all parents that our Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled for next week, Monday, Feb. 24 and Tuesday, Feb. 25. These meetings provide an important opportunity to connect with your child’s teachers, gain insight into their progress, and discuss ways to support their learning. While we encourage students to take ownership of their academic journey, your involvement and follow-up can reinforce their growth and development.

We appreciate your partnership in fostering independence while ensuring students have the support they need to succeed. Please take advantage of this time to ask questions, celebrate achievements, and collaborate with teachers on next steps. We look forward to productive conversations that strengthen the home-school connection.

Best regards, 

Robert Rinaldo

COMMUNICATION ABOUT TIMINGS DURING MONTH OF RAMADAN

Information about Holy Month of Ramadan.pdf

Message from Deputy Head of School

MS. SAMAH AWAD

email: s.awad_gaa@gemsedu.com

Embracing the Spirit of Ramadan at GAA

Dear GAA Community,

As we aim to start Ramadan next week, we extend our warmest wishes to all our Muslim families. Ramadan Mubarak! May this blessed month bring you peace, joy, and countless blessings. We congratulate you and your loved ones as you embark on this spiritual journey of faith, reflection, and togetherness.

As we enter the blessed month of Ramadan, we are reminded of the values that define this special time—compassion, generosity, self-reflection, and unity. Ramadan is not only a time of fasting but also a time to deepen our sense of community, empathy, and gratitude. It is an opportunity to extend kindness to others, strengthen our relationships, and reflect on the importance of giving.

At GEMS American Academy, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates the diverse backgrounds and traditions of our students, families, and staff. We recognize that Ramadan holds deep significance for many within our school community, and we are honored to support and share in these meaningful moments together.

Throughout the month, our school will embrace the spirit of Ramadan through various initiatives, including acts of kindness, charity drives, and educational activities that help students understand this sacred time. We encourage our students to engage in thoughtful conversations, support one another, and embrace the values of empathy and respect that Ramadan teaches us.

You’re Invited: GAA Community Iftar

In the spirit of togetherness, we are delighted to invite you to our Community Iftar, organized by GAA and the GAA Parent Association, on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM on the GAA Soccer Field. This unique gathering is an excellent opportunity for us to come together as one community, share a meal, and celebrate the values of Ramadan. Whether you observe Ramadan or simply wish to experience this beautiful tradition, we welcome you with open arms.

To help us make the necessary arrangements, RSVP using THIS LINK. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact our PRE, Miss Fatma, at pre_gaa@gemsedu.com.

We look forward to celebrating this meaningful occasion with you and your families. May this Ramadan bring peace, joy, and countless blessings to all.

Warm regards,

Samah Awad

Deputy Head of School

أولياء الأمور الكرام،

تحيّة طيبة وبعد


يسرّ مدرسة أكاديميّة جيمس الأمريكيّة أن ترسل لكم مع قرب حلول شهر رمضان المبارك أطيب التّهاني والتبريكات، أعاده اللّه علينا وعلى الأمة باليمن و الخير والبركات سائلين المولى عزّ وجلّ أن يتقبل منّا ومنكم صالح الأعمال، و يُعيننا جميعًا على قيامه وصيامه، ويعيده علينا وعليكم باليمن والخير والبركات.


 ولا يسعنا في هذا الشّهر الفضيل سوى أن نتحلى بالصبّر والإيمان، وأن نشجع أبنائنا على صيامه وقيامه، وأداء مناسكه، ولذلك، لقد عملنا على تعليم و تدريب طلابنا على استقبال هذا الشهر الفضيل، ومشاركة أقرانهم عاداتنا وتقاليدنا من باب الاعتزاز بالهوية والدين. 


نسأل الله أن يجلب لكم هذا الشهر الكريم السلام والفرح والبركات الكثيرة. نهنئكم ونتمنى لكم ولعائلاتكم رحلة روحية مليئة بالإيمان والتأمل والتلاحم. يذكرنا شهر رمضان بالقيم التي تميزه الرحمة، والكرم، والتأمل الذاتي، والوحدة. فهو ليس مجرد وقت للصيام، بل فرصة لتعزيز روح المجتمع، والتعاطف، والامتنان. إنه وقت لمد أيدينا بالخير، وتعزيز علاقاتنا، والتفكر في أهمية العطاء.

 نلتزم في أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية بتعزيز بيئة شاملة تحتفي بالخلفيات والتقاليد المتنوعة لطلابنا وعائلاتنا وموظفينا. ندرك أن رمضان يحمل أهمية كبيرة للعديد من أفراد مجتمعنا المدرسي، ونفخر بدعم هذه اللحظات القيمة والمشاركة فيها.

 ستتبنى مدرستنا روح رمضان  خلال هذا الشهر الفضيل من خلال العديد من المبادرات، بما في ذلك أعمال الخير، وحملات التبرع، والأنشطة التعليمية التي تساعد الطلاب على فهم أعمق لهذا الوقت المقدس. نشجع طلابنا على الانخراط في محادثات هادفة، ودعم بعضهم البعض، واحتضان قيم التعاطف والاحترام التي يعلمها رمضان.

دعوتكم لحضور إفطار المجتمع في أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية

يسرنا دعوتكم لحضور إفطار المجتمع  في روح الوحدة والتلاحم، الذي تنظمه أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية بالتعاون مع جمعية أولياء الأمور في أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية، وذلك يوم الجمعة 14 مارس 2025، الساعة 6:00 مساءً في ملعب كرة القدم بأكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية. هذا التجمع المميز هو فرصة رائعة لنا جميعًا للاجتماع معًا كعائلة واحدة، ومشاركة وجبة الإفطار، والاحتفاء بقيم رمضان. سواء كنتم ممن يصومون رمضان أو ترغبون ببساطة في تجربة هذه الشعاذر المميزة، فإننا نرحب بكم بأذرع مفتوحة وقلب محب.

لمساعدتنا في إجراء الترتيبات اللازمة، يُرجى تأكيد الحضور عبر [هذا الرابط].  كما يرجى عدم التردد في التواصل معنا إذا كان لديكم أي استفسارات أو كنتم بحاجة إلى مزيد من المعلومات، يمكنكم التواصل مع السيدة فاطمة مسؤولة علاقات أولياء الأمور عبر البريد الالكتروني pre_gaa@gemsedu.com .

نتطلع إلى الاحتفال بهذه المناسبة العزيزة معكم ومع عائلاتكم. نسأل الله أن يجلب لنا جميعًا شهر رمضان مليئًا بالسلام والفرح والبركات. مبارك علينا الشهر الفضيل!

أطيب التحيات،
سماح عوض
نائب مدير المدرسة
أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية أبوظبي

FEBRUARY 22: Empowering Parents: Understanding Your Child's ADHD Rebroadcast

To register, please CLICK HERE.

FEBRUARY 24-25: PARENT-TEACHER-STUDENT CONFERENCES

We are looking forward to your participation at our Student-Led Conferences on Monday 24th & Tuesday 25th February.

IMPORTANT: There will be no school for students on these days

During these meetings we encourage you to bring your children to come with so that they will be able to share their learning with you.

Conference Timings:

  • Monday 24th February – 10:00am – to 6:00pm (in person for Elementary, virtual for Secondary)

  • Tuesday 25th February – 7:45am to 3:45pm (in person for all Grades)

All our conferences will be done in person for this semester – if this is really not possible then we ask that you arrange an online meeting with the respective teacher by contacting them directly.  Please make sure that you arrive on time for your meeting with the teachers as they will have multiple meetings booked.  

We look forward to very successful conferences once again.

WELLBEING AWARD FOR SCHOOLS

Dear Parents, GEMS American Academy is dedicated to achieving the esteemed Wellbeing Award for Schools this academic year. Your feedback is crucial to our mission of enhancing the wellbeing of the whole school community. Please take a moment to complete THIS SURVEY and share your valuable input. Together, we can drive positive change and make a real impact. Thank you for your partnership!

NEWS FROM GAA PARENT ASSOCIATION (GAAPA)

email: gaa.parentsteam@gmail.com

Last Saturday, the GEMS American Academy International Food Festival brought our diverse community together for an unforgettable celebration!

With 30+ booths representing the nationalities at GAA, incredible cultural performances, and delicious food, it was truly a testimony of unity of our amazing and big Community!

A huge thank you to our Parent Association, parent and student volunteers, Booster Club, support team, facilities staff and Student Cultural Ambassadors for making this event such a success! 

International Food Festival Photos and Videos

GUIDE FOR PARENTS ON ANTI-BULLYING

(FROM SUPREME COUNCIL FOR MOTHERHOOD AND CHILDHOOD)

Guide for Parents on Anti-Bullying.pdf

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

Beginner course:

Saturday, February 22nd and Sunday, February 23rd

07:30h to 12:00h

Intermediate course:

Saturday, February 22nd and Sunday, February 23rd

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: 

Hristo Hristov, General Manager / Principal 

Mobile: 050 614 1689

Abu Dhabi Sailing Academy, operated by Fairwind Sailing Sports Club

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • February 22 - High School Musical Production of Little Shop of Horrors

  • February 24-25 - Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences (no classes in session)

  • March 1 - expected start of Holy Month of Ramadan

  • March 3 - Ramadan timings come into effect

  • March 14 - Community Iftar

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS 

THE GAA EVENTS CALENDAR 

(please note, updated regularly)

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS 

24/25 PARENT CALENDAR


IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Head of School

  • Robert Rinaldo, email: hos_gaa@gemsedu.com

Deputy Head of School

  • 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

  • Admission Secretary (KG-GR5): s.ramakrishnan_gaa@gemsedu.com, ext. 604

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

  • Email: elemsecretary_gaa@gemsedu.com 

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

IT DEPARTMENT:

By Email:

ITSupport_GAA@gemsedu.com 

By Phone/WhatsApp:

02-2019-666

USEFUL APPS AND WEBSITES

Click here for  Summary

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

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

Registration walkthrough - under 18.pdf

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