Dear Parents, 

We are wrapping up week two at GAA and are so proud of our learners. 

While back to school time is an exciting time of fresh starts and reuniting with friends and school, the start of a school year can also be a hard adjustment for children. Routine, separation, and school habits can create reluctant children. If you are finding adjusting to school hard at this time, you are not alone and this is very normal. We are here to support and we find that things settle by end of month. 

One of the most important ways we work at GAA to make back to school as welcoming as possible is to create a culture of kindness, acceptance, and individuality. We have students at GAA from over 60 countries with many backgrounds and cultures. What better way to celebrate than to support each student’s individuality.  

One way to do that is by participating in International Dot Day on September 15th. International Dot Day is celebrated by adults and children for boosting courage so that their creative potential is released. It is a great day to connect and collaborate, and also to celebrate self-expression.

Dot Day is based on the book, The Dot by Terry Shay. In the story, the child dislikes art class because she is convinced she can't draw. Her teacher gently encourages her to begin with a single dot and her creativity takes off. The story celebrates the creative spirit in everyone.

In collaboration with our librarians Mrs. Kirby and Mrs. Thompson and  Mrs. S, our art teacher (and Mr. Paintbrush!), the students engage in activities, art and literacy related, that inspire creativity and self expression. 

GAA is  excited to embrace a culture of art, literacy, and a space where all children can sharpen their creative selves. This day (Sept 15) is a dress up day for Elementary School (ES) and of course the theme is DOTS! We encourage our learners to come in covered in dots and smiles and know that GAA is where you belong! 

We are happy you are here! 

Leia Kraeuter

Elementary Principal

As the school year begins, we are excited that you have chosen GAA as your school community and we are excited to join you on your child’s educational journey! We want to thank those parents that attended Back to School Night - it’s crucial to establish a strong foundation of support for your elementary and kindergarten-aged child to ensure their success. We thank you for helping us build that strong foundation! 

• First and foremost, create a routine that provides structure and consistency. Set regular bedtimes and wake-up times, as well as designated homework or reading periods. Having a predictable daily schedule can help your child feel secure and ready to learn.

• Additionally, make sure to communicate openly with their teachers: attend parent-teacher meetings, engage in conversations about your child's progress, and ask for any recommendations to support their learning at home. This collaboration between home and school can make a significant difference in your child's academic journey.

• Furthermore, foster a love for learning by making it fun and engaging. Create a dedicated study space in your home, filled with age-appropriate books, puzzles, and educational games. Encourage curiosity by asking open-ended questions and exploring topics of interest together. Be patient and supportive, allowing your child to explore their creativity and problem-solving skills.

• Finally, remember to celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, to boost their confidence and motivation. With a nurturing environment, consistent routines, and a passion for learning, you can set your child on a path to a successful school year filled with growth and development.

Thank you, 

Lauren Sargent Alkhalifa

Elementary VP (KG-Grades 2)

Greetings from KG1A,

Our first full week of school is completed! We are super busy making friends, settling into our routines, meeting our many new teachers, and exploring our classroom.  We are using these next couple of weeks to transition to our new learning environment and familiarize ourselves with all the new emotions we may be feeling.  Building social skills, self-management skills and establishing classroom expectations are a crucial part of these early weeks.

Make sure to ask your little one specific questions about their day.  For example, “Name a girl/boy you played with today? What good choice did you make today?  Tell me your favorite food you ate from your lunchbox?”  This will build a home/school connection, as well as helping to develop your child’s expressive language.

We are excited to continue our learning journey!

Welcome to a New Year of Learning in Grade 5!

As we embark on a fresh academic journey in the Primary Years Program, it’s heartwarming to witness our Grade 5 students already embodying the essential qualities of the IB Learner Profile. In just a short time, we’ve seen remarkable examples of students being risk-takers, open-minded, and balanced in their approach to learning

Nabil showed exhibited remarkable balance in his daily routine. Balancing extracurricular activities like guitar and tennis, academics, and personal time can be a challenge for many, but Nabil’s thoughtful scheduling and commitment to self-care stood out. He shared his time management strategies with classmates, encouraging them to find equilibrium in their own lives. Nabil’s ability to harmonize his pursuitds serves as a shining example of a balanced and holistic approach to education.

We are excited to see more instances of our students embodying the IB Learner Profile traits as the year unfolds, and we look forward to nurturing these qualities as we delve deeper into our learning adventures together. Here’s to an exciting and enriching academic year!

• September 15: Dress Down Day for Elementary (PreK-Grade 5): Theme Dot Day

• September 22: Pizza and Popsicle Day by GAA Parent Association (GAAPA) and Booster Club

• September 27-28: Parent-Teacher Conferences (no classes in session)

• September 29: Expected Religious Holiday: Prophet Mohamad's (P.B.U.H) Birthday (subject to confirmation by UAE Government)