Hello GAA Families,

You have now received your report cards for Semester One. It is important that you understand how to make the most of the report card. Here are a few recommendations:

• Have your student explain his/her own report card. Students should know why they have the grades and Approaches to Learning (AtLs) they do. Going through this exercise will give your student clarity on how s/he can improve.

• We are a standards-based school, which means that current grades reflect where a student currently stands. A student could finish the year with dramatically different grades than what are currently on his/her report card. In order for a student to grow and have improved grades, s/he should read the teacher comments, which should have specific feedback on how to improve, and look at her/his AtLs. A student who exhibits Mastery in all his/her AtLs has the best opportunity to achieve content mastery as well.

• Use the report cards to strengthen relationships with teachers. Follow up with teachers to have more detailed information about your student. If there is confusion or if you think there is a mistake, contact the teacher first. If mistakes are made, we will change the grade and reprint the report card. Also, teachers love words of appreciation. They work hard, and Thank you can be very meaningful.

If this is your first year at GAA, please contact us. We have intentionally included ample data for you to understand your student’s learning progress. We understand that all the information on our report card might be difficult to understand the first time you see it. We are here to help.

Sincerely,

Kain Klinkhammer

Due to Distance Learning during the month of January, GAA High School Career Day has been rescheduled to Friday February 25th from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM at GEMS American Academy in Khalifa City A.

GAA students are very interested in learning about potential careers and job paths for their futures. We would like to invite you to be a speaker at our event.

As a speaker you would:

• Host one to three 30 minute Sessions that focus on your career journey and specific education required for your career. Sessions will be held through zoom.

• Interact with 15-20 high school students at a time

• Lead informative and engaging discussion in regards to your professional career path

• Ask and answer questions

If you are interested in being a presenter, but are unable to make it on that day, we would appreciate pre-recorded videos, too.

To show your interest, please fill out this Google Form by Wednesday February 9th.

Thank you for your attention to this matter, please feel free to reach out to l.massman_gaa@gemsedu.com with any questions or concerns.

• February 7: Grades 6-12 Absentees and New Joiners official school photoshoot by Stu Williamson

• February 8: In-School PCR Testing for Grades 6-12

• February 14-16: MID-TERM BREAK: NO SCHOOL

• February 23: Virtual Junior Night at 5pm.

• February 25: High School Virtual Career Day