Embedded Files
Issue # 12 - March 7, 2025
Dear GAA Families,
Thank you to members of our school community that have come together in a meaningful way through the Basket of Goodness initiative. Families have generously donated essential supplies and food, which our students will prepare and deliver to our dedicated support staff on March 10.
We also look forward to gathering as a community for the Community Iftar on March 14, hosted by GAA and GAAPA on the tennis courts. This is a wonderful opportunity to share a meal and celebrate together.
As Spring Break approaches on March 24, we encourage everyone to take this time for reflection and togetherness.
Warm Regards,
Robert Rinaldo
SERVICE LEARNING FRIDAYS
SERVICE LEARNING FRIDAYS
Parents Letter.pdf
BASKET OF GOODNESS
BASKET OF GOODNESS
In celebration of the Year of Community, our elementary students organized the "Basket of Goodness" with love and generosity. A heartfelt thank you to the parents for donating essential Ramadan supplies making this initiative possible. This experience teaches our students the true value of giving and strengthens our sense of togetherness.
These baskets will be shared with our dedicated school support staff, fostering gratitude and appreciation for their hard work.
Let’s continue spreading kindness!
احتفالًا بـ "عام المجتمع"، قام طلاب المرحلة الابتدائية بتنظيم " سلة الخير" بمحبة وسخاء.
لم يكن تنفيذ هذه المبادرة ممكناً لولا دعم أولياء الأمور الكرام الذين تبرّعوا بالمستلزمات الرمضانية الأساسية لذلك نتقدّم منهم بأسمى عبارات الشّكر والتّقدير. هذه التّجربة تعلّم طلابنا القيمة الحقيقيّة للعطاء وتعزّز روح التّكاتف بينهم.
ستُوزّعُ هذه السّلال على فريق الخدمات في مدرستنا تقديرًا لجهودهم وعملهم الدّؤوب.
لنواصلْ معاً نشرَ الخيرِ والعَطاء ولنكن يداً واحدة تعملُ على تغيير العالم نحو الأفضل!
video for basket of goodness preparation ANTI-BULLYING CAMPAIGN BY BUDDY NETWORKING SYSTEM
ANTI-BULLYING CAMPAIGN BY BUDDY NETWORKING SYSTEM
Anti Bullying- BNS .pptxSCHOOL TIMINGS DURING MONTH OF RAMADAN
SCHOOL TIMINGS DURING MONTH OF RAMADAN
POSITIVE DISCIPLINE IN EVERYDAY PARENTING
POSITIVE DISCIPLINE IN EVERYDAY PARENTING
GAA is excited to offer an 8-week intensive program designed for parents of children from birth to adolescence. This program promotes a non-violent, respectful approach to teaching children while recognizing them as learners and unique individuals.
Start Date: April 11
Schedule: Every Friday, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
To sign up, please fill out this ONLINE FORM.
Join us in fostering a positive and nurturing parenting journey!
THE LAUNCH OF GAA INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
THE LAUNCH OF GAA INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
As part of the Alternative Pathway Program at GAA, we are thrilled to announce that our new Internship Program was launched last month, providing a Grade 12 student with an internship position as a ‘teacher assistant’ in GAA’s Early Years. The program is designed to provide selected Grade 11 & 12 students with a valuable opportunity to gain real-world hands-on work experience within a variety of professional settings, while enhancing their academic and career development.
This initiative within our Alternate Pathways Program empowers students to explore career pathways, build confidence, and develop key workplace skills in a meaningful and supportive environment. Stay tuned for more updates on how our G12 student has made an impact!
Introducing Leadership Gemstones: Fostering Character-Driven Leadership at GEMS Schools
Introducing Leadership Gemstones: Fostering Character-Driven Leadership at GEMS Schools
Dear Parents,
We are excited to share an important new initiative at GEMS Education, introduced by our chairman and founder, Mr. Sunny Varkey, which will play a central role in shaping the future of our students. The Leadership Gemstones framework is designed to empower students to grow into compassionate, ethical, and purpose-driven leaders.
What are Leadership Gemstones? The Leadership Gemstones represent 13 core values that embody the essence of strong leadership. These values are grounded in character-building qualities such as empathy, integrity, respect, and resilience. Each gemstone represents a key leadership trait, such as Integrity (Diamond), Empathy (Ruby), Respect (Sapphire), and Purpose (Garnet), among others.
The goal of this initiative is to nurture well-rounded individuals who not only excel academically but also demonstrate strong values in their interactions with others. By embedding these leadership principles into our students' daily lives, we aim to foster an environment of mutual respect, inclusivity, and collaboration.
How Can You Support the Leadership Gemstones? As part of this initiative, we encourage you to discuss these values with your children at home. Reflect on the gemstone values together and explore how they can practice these qualities in their schoolwork, friendships, and community activities. You might also consider highlighting the importance of these values during daily interactions.
We will be integrating these values into lessons, school activities, and conversations with students throughout the year. You’ll also notice visual aids such as posters and quotes throughout the school to reinforce these principles and inspire the students.
Thank you for your ongoing support in helping our students grow into future leaders who make a positive impact on the world.
Warm regards,
Almyra Duarte
Wellbeing Coordinator
Middle School Counsellor
Family First Champion
Leadership Gemstones Launch slidesa.pdf
FAMILY FUSION @GAA
FAMILY FUSION @GAA
Join us for the Family First Art Competition!
Join us for the Family First Art Competition!
This exciting event encourages creativity, collaboration, and family involvement. Students are invited to team up with their families to create artwork that celebrates their unique bond. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your family’s creativity and support a meaningful cause!
WELLBEING AWARD FOR SCHOOLS
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)
NEWS FROM GAA PARENT ASSOCIATION (GAAPA)
Dear Parents,
The sign-up for March 14 Community Iftar is now closed. Thank you for your confirming your attendance to our upcoming Community Iftar, hosted by GAA and GAA Parent Association. We truly appreciate your enthusiasm and support for this special gathering.
Due to limited capacity, we kindly inform you that attendance is reserved exclusively for GAA students, their parents and school staff. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.
Here are some important reminders to enjoy this event in safe and smooth manner:
Please complete this Online Waiver Form.
Please wear your yellow parent lanyards when entering school premises. If you do not have a Parent ID, please email your name and photo to pre_gaa@gemsedu.com
We look forward to sharing this meaningful occasion with our GAA families.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
SPRING BREAK CAMP AT GAA
SPRING BREAK CAMP AT GAA
Dear Parents,
Ramadan Kareem!
The ESM Multi-Activity Spring Holiday Camp operating at GEMS American Academy Khalifa City for children aged 3 – 12 years old is now open for registrations!
Dates: March 24th to 4th April 2025
Times: Drop off: 8.15 – 8.45am, Activities: 9am – 1.25pm, Pick up: 1.30pm – 1.45pm
Price: Daily: AED200/day or Weekly: AED765 (after 15% weekly discount – siblings receive an additional 10% discount)
Bus Service: Fixed fee of AED250/week/child for a Door-to-Door service.
Bus Locations: Masdar City and Khalifa City (Require a minimum of 6 students for service to take place)
Please note that the STS bus service will close every Tuesday at 2pm for the following weeks service.
Activity Schedule:
Activity Schedule:
If you have any questions or would like more details about the camp reach out to us at +97150-3611547 or holidaycamp@esm.ae.
We’d be happy to help!
ESM Holiday Camp Team
EXCITING EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
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
ABU DHABI SAILING ACADEMY
Beginner course:
Beginner course:
Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9
07:30h to 12:00h
Intermediate course:
Intermediate course:
Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9
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:
Contact Team ADSA:
Hristo Hristov, General Manager / Principal
Mobile: 050 614 1689
Abu Dhabi Sailing Academy, operated by Fairwind Sailing Sports Club
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
March 14 - Community Iftar
March 24 - April 6 - Spring Break (NO SCHOOL)
April 7 - TERM 3 STARTS
IMPORTANT CONTACTS
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
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
USEFUL APPS AND WEBSITES
USEFUL APPS AND WEBSITES
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
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.pdfFOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
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TO STAY UP-TO-DATE
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