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Issue # 17 - May 31, 2024

The GAAzette Online
  • Whole School News
  • Elementary News
  • Secondary News
  • Elementary PYP Library
  • Secondary Library
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The GAAzette Online

ELEMENTARY NEWS


SECONDARY NEWS


Message from Head of School

MR. ROBERT RINALDO

email: hos_gaa@gemsedu.com

Dear GAA Families,

Last evening, we had the honor of holding this year’s GEMS American Academy Class of 2024 graduation ceremony. It was a beautiful event that provided an opportunity to celebrate the hard work of our students, the dedicated support of our teachers and the love and encouragement from parents.

In the coming days we will also have our Kindergarten, 5th, and 8th - grade promotion ceremonies. These ceremonies are significant moments for our students, marking important transitions in their academic journeys. They offer us all a time to celebrate and reflect on our purpose and the number of possibilities that lie ahead for our students. 

As educators, seeing our students achieve and grow is what we work for every day. We can only see the good in each student, and it is an honor to contribute to their educational journey. 

Thank you to everyone in our community for your continuous support. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of our GAA students.

In closing, I want to share the upcoming events schedule and announcements as we approach the EID holiday and end of the school year.

  • June 3rd – 7th - GAAPA Teacher Appreciation Week.

  • June 6th  – Band Concert.

  • June 10th -13th -  KG2, Grade 5 and Grade 8 Promotion Ceremonies.

Please note that our GAA Parent Survey will run through June 7th. Your feedback is important to us.

Thank you and warm regards,

Robert Rinaldo

SENIOR WALK AND SENIOR ASSEMBLY PHOTOS

May 28, 2024 Senior Walk and Senior Ceremony

NEW CHILD SAFETY GUIDELINES

Subject: Safeguarding our children is our top concern: Unveiling new child safety guidelines! 

Dear parents & caregivers, 

Ensuring the safety of our little ones is paramount to us all. We are fully cognizant of this responsibility at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) and we work closely with you to uphold it. For this reason, we have compiled two comprehensive child safety guides, one for safety at home and another for safety in vehicles. The guidebooks highlight comprehensive instructions and recommendations to help you create a secure environment for children to safely explore their surroundings. They also offer guidance on installing the necessary equipment to safeguard youngsters against hazards, both at home and on the road. 

The two essential guides, prepared and reviewed by ECA in collaboration with ADPHC, adhere to international best practices and policy recommendations as well as global health and safety guidelines. 

Your dedication to the well-being of children entrusted to your care is invaluable, and so we encourage you to download these guides and acquaint yourself with the security protocols outlined within. 

Thank you for allowing us to assist you in nurturing and protecting your precious ones. 

@adphc_ae @abudhabi_eca 

For more information, you can reach us on info@adphc.gov.ae 

Warm regards, 

Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority & Abu Dhabi Public Health Center

New Child Safety Guidelines.pdf
Child Safety Vehicle En.pdf
Car Seat Guidelines.pdf
First Aid Brochure.pdf
How safe is your bathroom - poster.pdf
Watch Me Grow-Poster.pdf
Child Safety Home En.pdf

Message from K-12 Director of Curriculum and Instruction

MR. JUSTIN KIRBY

email: j.kirby_gaa@gemsedu.com

The UAE and Standardized Testing

Dear GEMS American Academy Parents,

As a community committed to providing world-class education, we often discuss the benchmarks that guide our curriculum and teaching methods. Today, we delve into the significance of international assessments like TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS, which the UAE rigorously participates in to ensure that our national education goals are met. These assessments are more than just tests; they are essential tools that help shape the future of education in the UAE.

Understanding TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS

  • TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) assesses the mathematics and science knowledge of fourth and eighth-grade students worldwide. It provides insights into how well students have learned essential math and science concepts.

  • PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) evaluates the reading, mathematics, and science literacy of 15-year-olds. This assessment focuses on the application of knowledge in real-life situations, preparing students for the demands of the modern world.

  • PIRLS (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study) measures the reading comprehension of fourth-grade students, highlighting the importance of early literacy development.

Aligning with the UAE’s National Agenda Goals

The UAE's Vision 2021 and Centennial Plan 2071 outline ambitious goals for educational excellence. By participating in these international assessments, the UAE aims to:

  1. Benchmark Against Global Standards: Understanding how our students perform compared to their peers globally helps identify strengths and areas for improvement. This comparison ensures that our education system remains competitive and meets high international standards.

  2. Inform Policy and Curriculum Development: The data from these assessments can provide valuable insights into effective teaching strategies and curricular areas needing enhancement. Policymakers use this information to design initiatives that elevate the overall quality of education in the UAE.

  3. Promote Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Assessments like PISA emphasize real-world application of knowledge, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These competencies are crucial for students' success in the 21st century.

  4. Monitor Progress Over Time: Regular participation in TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS allows the UAE to track the progress of its educational reforms. It helps measure the effectiveness of implemented strategies and make necessary adjustments.

The Role of Parents and Schools

At GEMS American Academy, we believe that parents play a pivotal role in the educational journey. Here’s how you can support your child in the context of these international assessments:

  • Stay Informed: Understand the purpose and structure of these assessments. Discussing them with your child can reduce anxiety and build confidence.

  • Encourage Curiosity: Foster a love for learning at home. Encourage your child to ask questions, explore new ideas, and engage in problem-solving activities.

  • Collaborate with Teachers: Maintain open communication with your child’s teachers. Understanding your child's strengths and areas for improvement can help tailor support at home.

  • Parent Feedback: Provide feedback to the testing bodies when asked to complete surveys. These surveys allow you to share your information and provide feedback to the testing agencies. This information is used in conjunction with student outcome to identify possible needs in the UAE.

By embracing international assessments like TIMSS, PISA, and PIRLS, the UAE ensures that our children receive an education that prepares them for global citizenship. At GEMS American Academy, we are proud to align with these national goals, striving for excellence in every classroom. Together, we can build a future where our students thrive academically and personally, ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to your child’s education.

Justin Kirby

K-12 Curriculum Director

MAY 23 SPORTS BANQUET - AWARDS

Congratulations to All Athletes!

Sports Banquet Photos

Sports Banquet Presentation (2023-2024) - GAAZETTE VERSION

2023-2024 YEARBOOKS ARE HERE!

ORDER FORM.pdf

2023-24 YEARBOOKS ARE HERE!

Pay at Accounts office or through Parent Portal (http://connect.gemseducation.com) and collect your copy from Main Reception!

Price: AED 175

REMINDERS:

  • Have you paid for your 2022-2023 yearbook and not collected? - Please get your copy from Main Reception.

  • Would you like to purchase past years' copies? - Still available at discounted price. Please visit Accounts office.

EXCITING AFTERSCHOOL AND SUMMER ACTIVITIES

ESM SUMMER CAMP

Dear Parents, 

The ESM Summer Holiday Camp is now open for registrations at GEMS American Academy – Khalifa City! 

Join us and discover the magic of our multi-activity holiday camp!

At ESM Camps we believe that spring should be all about fun, friends and plenty of exciting activities!

Take advantage of the Early Bird Discount offer which runs until the 11th of June 2024.

Register for a full week and receive a discount of 30% (AED490/week after discount) *Ts & Cs apply.

  • Single transactions only.

  • Weekly bookings only.

  • No sibling discount on early bird offers.

  • No discount codes needed – just register and receive our early bird offer!

To register CLICK HERE

Don’t miss out on the fun, exciting and safe activities taking place over the summer break - places are limited!  

For more information, please contact holidaycamp@esm.ae or WhatsApp us on +971 50 3611547.

The Harvard Model Congress Young Global Leaders Program hosted by GAA 

Dear Students and Parents,

GEMS American Academy  is hosting the In-person HMC Young Global Leaders Program by the Harvard Model Congress. The 5-day program will bring together exceptional mentors from Harvard Model Congress to engage, mentor, and inspire students.

Please find below the details of the program.

The Harvard Model Congress Young Global Leaders Program hosted by GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi 

Spread over 5 action-packed days, the mission of the Harvard Model Congress Young Global Leaders Program is to indulge school students with strong leadership potential in immersive learning engagements, discussions, and mentorship. The program will focus on leadership, problem-solving, communication, public speaking, and critical thinking while working with students toward a final ‘Actionable Project’ under the guidance of Student mentors. These skills are essential for tomorrow’s changemakers and future leaders.

Students will work in small groups throughout the program on an impactful ‘Actionable Project’ designed to tackle real-world problems, stimulate ideas for future collaborative projects, and mold young learners into future leaders. 

 What will students gain?

  • Learn a systematic, comprehensive approach to solving real-world problems from trained and dedicated Harvard Model Congress mentors.

  • Hone your thought process to become more analytical and creative.

  • Use data to quantify and validate your proposed solutions.

  • Practice your communication skills to convey your recommendations effectively.

  • Brainstorm practical methods to implement your solutions.

  • Enhance your portfolio with a certificate from Harvard Model Congress, and through actionable projects.

Program Details (program brochure with detailed information attached)

  • Program Dates: 19 - 23 August 2024

  • Program Duration: 5 days

  • Mode: In-person at GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi 

  • Venue: GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi 

  • Eligibility: 

      1. Group 1 - Grades 6th to 8th

      2. Group 2 - Grades 9th to 12th

  • Program fee:  USD 600

  • You can use the following link to make the payment for the program: https://forms.gle/QZdWzT8UzQczTbco6 

Warm Regards,

Team - Learn with Leaders

GEMS American Academy - Abu Dhabi - Brochure.pdf

Dear Parents,

We are thrilled to announce another incredible opportunity for your children to unleash their creative potential and immerse themselves in the world of performing arts. After the success of last summer's course, West End Stage, the world-famous ultimate theatre summer school is returning to Dubai this July.

This unmissable five-day course, running from Monday 8 to Friday 12 July 2024, at GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, offers students the opportunity to be taught by West End stars and leading industry professionals in acting, singing, dance and musical theatre.

Throughout the week, students will rehearse some of the biggest numbers from the most well-known and well-loved musicals, which will then be performed to an audience of friends and family. Furthermore, the summer school will also include exclusive workshops based around hit musicals.

With teachers to be announced soon, students will learn from the very best in the business. 

West End Stage began in London with the aim of igniting a global passion for theatre, bringing young people from all over the world together through their shared love of performing. Students will build their confidence, learn new skills, make friends for life and have an enormous amount of fun.

The summer programme is open to students aged 8 to 18, of all abilities and from all schools.

GEMS families are entitled to a 20 per cent discount when signing up, meaning that the summer school will cost just AED1450 per child.

What West End Stage Dubai offers students:

  • Learn from leading professionals 

  • Masterclasses in West End shows 

  • An intensive week of theatre training in acting, singing, dance and musical theatre 

  • Perform at the end of the week in front of family and friends

  • Boost confidence, self-esteem and creativity

  • Develop social skills and have fun! 

To book your child’s place on the summer school or to find out more information visit https://westendstagedubai.com 

Space on the summer school is limited, so don't miss this opportunity for your children to experience the magic of the stage and learn from the very best in the industry. 

Click here for a glimpse of what’s in store for your child with West End Stage this summer. 

Register today to secure a place for your child in this extraordinary summer stage school. 

Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact West End Stage by emailing info@westendstagedubai.com 

IMPORTANT UPDATE TO GEMS CO-BRANDED CREDIT CARD

Exciting News!

GEMS 0% EPP 0-0 - T&C (May-June 2024).pdf

IMPORTANT REMINDERS!

PARENT ID AND LANYARDS

Gentle reminder to wear your Parent IDs with yellow lanyards when entering school premises.

  • If you have ordered new IDs and received confirmation that they are ready, please remember to collect from Main Reception.

  • If you have not received your Parent ID yet, please email your photo to pre_gaa@gemsedu.com  as soon as possible.

  • If you have received your Parent ID before August 1, please visit Main Reception to reprint the new scannable ID and replace your lanyard.

While on campus parents and guardians are to wear the new GAA yellow lanyard. If lanyard is not worn, we kindly request you to register as a guest before entering the campus. This is to ensure that every adult in school is identified clearly for the safety and security of everyone on campus. 

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.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • June 3-7 - EduTech Book Fair

  • June 3-7 - Teacher/Staff Appreciation Week by GAAPA

  • June 4 - GAAPA Board Voting Closes

  • June 6 - Band 1 Concert

  • June 10 - KG2A & KG2E Promotion Ceremony @9am

  • June 11 - KG2B, KG2C & KG2D Promotion Ceremony @9am

  • June 12 - Grade 5 Promotion Ceremony @9am

  • June 13 - Grade 8 Promotion Ceremony @9am

  • June 28 - LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS 

THE GAA EVENTS CALENDAR 

(please note, updated regularly)

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS 

23/24 APPROVED PARENT CALENDAR

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

Head of School

  • Robert Rinaldo, email: hos_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)

  • Shahd Hamdan: s.hamdan_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: c.davies_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 

  • Amy Copland (Alq-Azz, Q-Z), email: a.reyescopland_gaa@gemsedu.com 

IBDP Coordinator:

  • John Thompson, email: j.thompson2_gaa@Gemsedu.com 

Curriculum Coordinator:

  • David Dasari, email: d.dasari_gaa@gemsedu.com 

IT DEPARTMENT:

By Email:

support_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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