Dear GAA Families,

This weekend we are proud hosts of the NESAC (Near East Sports and Activities Conference) Swim Meet at GAA. Additionally, this past week our Varsity and Junior Varsity volleyball teams traveled to Qatar and Kuwait respectively for the valuable experience of international competition. 

Engaging in sport not only promotes physical well-being but also fosters teamwork, discipline, and resilience. At GAA we encourage students to be active participants in both athletics and arts, recognizing the holistic development that comes from a well-rounded education.

As the second season of sports and activities begins Monday, November 20, please consider joining. It is an excellent opportunity for students to explore new interests and continue to develop their skills. Whether in sports, arts, academic or service clubs, these opportunities contribute to personal growth, and it is proven have a positive impact on overall academic performance. 

Best of luck to our NESAC athletes in this weekend’s tournaments.

At GAA we believe in the importance of promoting a culture of inclusivity and emphasizing positive behavior. In doing so we can contribute to the well-being of our students. In the face of the ongoing regional conflict, we must actively emphasize the importance of a safe, kind, caring, and respectful campus environment.   

At GAA, in the wake of the conflict, we must remain an apolitical institution as directed by the MOE, ADEK, and GEMS. However, we can and must highlight and celebrate our core values:

• We are an international school which adopts a culture of kindness and acceptance.

• We avoid discussing political events at school.

• We champion positive and responsible use of social media.

• We promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance and mutual acceptance among the citizens and residents of the UAE while avoiding communication that may stir up hatred, or racial discrimination, or racial violence within the school community.

In the days ahead you will receive an important email message stressing our GAA commitment to being an inclusive community and a more detailed description of the behavioral expectations of our students.

Thank you for your continued support.

Warm Regards,

Robert Rinaldo

Dear GAA Parents,

GEMS American Academy had an incredible and vibrant celebration on Friday, November 3rd, commemorating the UAE Flag Day. The school was brimming with excitement and a sense of patriotism as students engaged in various activities to honor the significance of the UAE flag. Here's a glimpse into the memorable day your children had at school:

One of the day's highlights was the ceremonial raising of the UAE flag at 10:00 in the morning.  GAA students gathered around the flagpole with reverence and respect, honoring the national emblem of the United Arab Emirates. At the same time, the GAA Band played and sang the UAE National anthem with another group of students. This symbolic gesture not only instilled a sense of pride but also connected the students to the values and history of the flag.

Additionally, the day was even more unique, with various in-class activities planned by the faculty. Teachers creatively integrated lessons and projects that revolved around the significance of the UAE flag, its history, and what it symbolizes. Students were engaged in discussions, arts and crafts, and presentations, deepening their understanding of the flag's importance in the country's culture and identity. Elementary students in grades 3, 4, and 5 participated in a flag day competition.

The school also organized a 'dress-down' day, allowing students to showcase their enthusiasm by wearing attire representing the UAE flag's colors and the UAE's National dress. The vibrant red, green, white, and black display adorned the hallways, creating an atmosphere of festivity and unity.

Celebrating Flag Day in schools fosters a sense of national pride and educates students about the history and values the flag represents. It allows children to understand the importance of unity, solidarity, and respect for their country.

As educators, it's heartwarming to know that our children are part of such meaningful and educational celebrations. Such events are pivotal in shaping a child's understanding of their identity and fostering a sense of belonging to their country.

By actively engaging students in such celebrations, GAA is nurturing a generation that excels academically and holds a deep respect for their country and its heritage. 

We eagerly look forward to more engaging and informative National celebrations at GAA, knowing that our students are learning from books and the rich tapestry of their nation's culture and history.

Here's to more pride, unity, and celebration moments in the coming days!

Finally, we thank you for your efforts, help, and support! 

Sincerely,

Samah Awad 

Deputy Head of School 

أولياء الأمور الكرام،

تحية طيبة وبعد،

 يسعدنا أن نقدم لكم نبذة عن مشاركة أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية في يوم العلم الإماراتي الموافق ٣ نوفمبر، والذي عشنا خلاله لحظات مليئة بالفخر والحماس وروح الوطنية بين الطلبة الذين شاركوا في أنشطة متنوعة لتكريم أهمية يوم العلم الإماراتي.

 أضفت احتفالية رفع علم دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة في الساعة 10:00 صباحًا شعورًا خاصًا مليئًا بالفخر والاعتزاز، حيث تجمع طلبة أكاديمية جيمس الأمريكية حول سارية العلم بكل إجلال وتقدير، وفي الوقت نفسه، قامت فرقة المدرسة بعزف وغناء النشيد الوطني لدولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة مع مجموعة أخرى من الطلبة، لقد سعدنا بهذه اللفتة الرمزية التي لم تغرس الشعور بالفخر فحسب، بل ربطت الطلبة أيضًا بقيم العلم وتاريخه.

بالإضافة إلى ذلك، كان اليوم أكثر تميزًا مع تنظيم أنشطة متنوعة في الفصول الصفية من قبل هيئة التدريس، حيث قام فيه الأساتذة  بدمج دروس ومشاريع تتعلق بأهمية العلم الإماراتي وتاريخه وما يرمز إليه، كما شارك الطلبة في مناقشات وأنشطة فنية وحرفية وعروض تقديمية، مما عزز فهمهم لأهمية العلم في ثقافة وهوية دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة، وشارك طلبة المرحلة الابتدائية من الصف الثالث حتى الصف الخامس في مسابقة يوم العلم التي نظمها قسم الدّراسات الاجتماعية للمرحلة الابتدائية.

كما شجعت المدرسة في هذا اليوم جميع الطلبة على ارتداء ملابس تعكس حماسهم وانتمائهم الوطني عبر ارتداء ألوان علم دولة الإمارات والزي الوطني الإماراتي، مما خلق جوًا مميزًا من الاحتفال والوحدة في ساحات المدرسة.

كان من دواعي سرورنا كطاقم أكاديمي أن نشرك أطفالنا في الاحتفالات الوطنية الهادفة والتعليمية لأننا نؤمن بأن غرس القيم الوطنية يساهم في بناء جيل قوي وواعٍ و واعي يعتز  بثقافته وتاريخه الوطني، وندرك إن الاحتفال بيوم العلم في المدارس لا يعزز الشعور بالفخر الوطني فحسب، بل يثقف الطلبة أيضًا حول التاريخ والقيم التي يمثلها العلم ويسمح للأطفال بفهم أهمية الوحدة والتضامن واحترام بلدهم.

نتطلع بشغف إلى مزيد من الفرص لنزرع هذه القيم الوطنية في قلوب أطفالنا ونشاركهم في تعزيز حبهم لدولتنا والاحتفاء بإرثها الغني.

شكرًا لكم على دعمكم وتشجيعكم المستمر، ونتطلع سويًا إلى المزيد من النجاحات واللحظات المميزة.

دام عزك يا الإمارات 

عاشت إماراتنا الحبيبة وعاش علمها خفاقًا عاليًا

نائب مدير المدرسة  

                                                                                                                                                 سماح عوض 

Fostering a Culture of Kindness at GEMS American Academy: A Focus on the IB Learner Profile

Dear GEMS American Academy Parents,

I hope this newsletter finds you well and thriving in the midst of another exciting school year at GEMS American Academy. As we embark on this educational journey together, I am delighted to share insights into a fundamental aspect of our school's ethos—our culture of kindness.

At the heart of our commitment to nurturing compassionate and globally-minded individuals is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile. As the K-12 Director of Curriculum and Instruction, I am thrilled to share the ways in which this framework is not only integrated into our curriculum but also serves as the cornerstone of our school's culture of kindness.

The IB Learner Profile, consisting of attributes such as Inquirer, Knowledgeable, Thinker, Communicator, Principled, Open-minded, Caring, Risk-taker, Balanced, and Reflective, is explicitly taught throughout our K-12 program. These qualities are not just words on paper but a living, breathing part of our students' daily experiences. Let me take you on a journey of how the Learner Profile contributes to the development of a culture steeped in kindness.

Cultivating Caring Individuals

One of the key pillars of the IB Learner Profile is the attribute of "Caring." This goes beyond simple acts of kindness; it involves a deep-seated empathy and a genuine concern for others. In our classrooms, students engage in activities and discussions that emphasize the importance of caring for their peers, teachers, and the broader community. Through service-learning projects, collaborative initiatives, daily lessons, and break times, students learn that their actions can have a positive impact on the world around them.

Developing Open-minded Thinkers

The "Open-minded" attribute encourages our students to appreciate and respect the perspectives and cultures of others. By fostering an open-minded approach, we create an environment where differences are celebrated, and empathy flourishes. Students learn to understand and embrace diverse viewpoints, contributing to a school community that is characterized by inclusivity and mutual understanding.

Empowering Reflective Leaders

Reflection is a crucial component of the IB Learner Profile. Through reflection, our students develop a heightened self-awareness and a sense of responsibility for their actions. This self-awareness extends to how their behavior influences the well-being of those around them. As a result, we witness the emergence of reflective leaders who actively seek opportunities to contribute positively to the school community.

A Holistic Approach to Education

In embracing the full spectrum of the IB Learner Profile, we adopt a holistic approach to education. Our commitment to developing well-rounded individuals extends beyond academic excellence to encompass social and emotional growth. By integrating the Learner Profile into our daily practices, we are cultivating students who not only excel academically but also embody the values of kindness, compassion, and a genuine commitment to making a difference in the world.

As we continue this academic year, I encourage you to engage in conversations with your children about their experiences with the IB Learner Profiles, such as caring. Together, let's celebrate the growth and development of our students as they embody the qualities that define a culture of kindness at GEMS American Academy.

Justin Kirby

K-12 Director of Curriculum and Instruction

TRAFFIC AND PARKING

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. 

GAA CLINIC

A kind reminder on the importance of submitting the forms and documents.

Consent form needed:

• BMI-Vision Screening Consent Form : KG1 till Grade 12

• Student health form  : Pre KG till Grade 12

• Comprehensive health screening consent form : Grade 1, Grade 5 and Grade 9

• Vaccination consent forms : Grade 1, Grade 8 and Grade 11 

Please look out for an email from Nurse GAA nurse_gaa@gemsedu.com with the necessary consent forms.

Thank you,

GAA Nurses

BUS TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT

This is a gentle reminder about bus departure timings:

• 3:15 PM (Monday - Thursday)

• 12:15 PM (Fridays)

For the safety of our students Gate 4 (Bus gate) will close promptly at: 

• 3:14 PM (Monday-Thursday)

• 12:14 PM (Fridays)

Last weekend our Secondary Band teacher Mr. Jefferson Aranda had the opportunity to be part of The Association for Music in International Schools (AMIS) Teachers Convention 2023 at the American International School of Zagreb, Croatia. 

The only teacher representing GEMS Education overall, Mr. Jefferson participated as a presenter and shared with colleagues from all over the world about the work he has been doing as a music educator, especially in GAA in the Digital Music Class and with the Secondary Bands. 

PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

NOVEMBER 20-24 BOOK FAIR

We are looking for 2 volunteers on November 20th to 24th, to supervise the Book Fair area during middle school and high school lunch times on the mentioned dates from 12:30 to 1:30 pm. 

• The main responsibilities will include:

• Supervising the students visiting the fair

• Assisting students in selecting and purchasing books if needed

• Directing students to the payment area or to speak with any Book Fair personnel

• Ensuring that students return to class when their lunchtime is over

If you would like to volunteer, please email gaa.parentsteam@gmail.com 

NOVEMBER 29 - UAE NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS

We need volunteers for National Day Celebration at GAA on Wednesday, November 29. If you are able to help kindly fill out the google form (link below)

https://forms.gle/eDBkFnp7dA6EWDqG8 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

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

• 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. 

Please visit our Lost and Found sections from Monday through Thursday between 7:30AM to 4:30PM and Fridays 7:30 - 12:00 (except on public holidays) to retrieve your child's lost items:

• On the way to Clinic: all clothing items, lunch bags, books, folders, water bottles, etc

• Main reception: all valuables, such as, phones, headphones, airpods, ipads, jewellry, wallets, etc.

Any unclaimed items will be donated to charity.

Please label all clothing items of your child.

• November 13: World Kindness Day

• November 13-17: Official School Photoshoot for Grades 6-10

• November 22: Real Hero Day (Elementary dress down day)

• November 20-24: Little Thinker Book Fair

• November 24: Pizza and Popsicle Day by GAAPA and Booster Club

• November 29: UAE National Day Celebration at school

• December 1: Commemoration Day and National Day Public Holiday (NO SCHOOL)

• December 13: Middle School Sports Day

• December 14: High School Sports Day

• December 18-January 1: WINTER BREAK (NO SCHOOL)