Welcome to elementary school!

Meet the Elementary Leadership Team!

Tooshna Gandhi

Elementary School Principal

t.gandhi_daa@gemsedu.com

Annalise McNeill

Elementary School Assistant Principal

KG1, KG2, & Grade 1

a.mcneill_daa@gemsedu.com

Noha Bishara

Elementary School Assistant Principal

Grade 2 and Grade 3

n.bishara_daa@gemedu.com

Nathalie Salameh

Elementary School Assistant Principal

Grade 4 and Grade 5

n.salameh_daa@gemsedu.com

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PROGRAM (KG1 - GRADE 5)

All learning within the Elementary School is grounded in rigorous academic standards. We believe that all of our students should be suitably challenged within a balanced program of inquiry. We take great pride in exposing our students to a wide range of learning experiences that balance both academic achievement and skill development. Our Elementary students are happy and engaged children who quickly develop a love for learning as we regularly encourage them to demonstrate their LEOPARD PRIDE (Perseverance | Respect | Integrity | Drive | Empathy).

Elementary HANDBOOK 2025 - 2026

Elementary School Parent Handbook 2025 - 2026.docx

Elementary life

Life in Elementary School

Elementary life is a dynamic blend of academic excellence, joyful learning, and meaningful student engagement. Our curriculum is grounded in clearly defined, standards-based learning outcomes that ensure depth, rigor, and continuity across all subjects. We set high expectations for all learners, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance. At the same time, we cultivate an environment where student voice, choice, and agency are central, empowering children to make decisions, express ideas, and pursue their interests. Learning is both purposeful and playful, with curiosity, excitement, and enjoyment woven into daily experiences. This balanced, focused and impactful approach ensures every child is challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

In addition to academic rigor, our Elementary program offers a rich and diverse student life through Fine Arts, Sports, Arabic, and Islamic Education, nurturing well-rounded development and cultural appreciation. We provide thoughtful scaffolding and support to meet each student where they are, ensuring that all learners build confidence and mastery. At the same time, we offer meaningful challenges and extension opportunities to stretch curious minds and foster advanced skills. This balanced approach allows every child to thrive—whether deepening their understanding, exploring new talents, or reaching beyond grade-level expectations.

Student Leadership

At our school, we believe that every student has a voice, a philosophy that is deeply reflected in the opportunities we offer, especially at the Elementary level.

This year, our Wellness Ambassadors have been doing an outstanding job joining the Leadership Team each morning to deliver the Weekly Announcements. They share helpful wellness tips, offer thoughtful insights, and contribute meaningfully to a positive and inclusive school culture.

Our Elementary Student Council also plays an important role in fostering community spirit. They are actively involved in welcoming new students and will be ready to greet you on your first day with enthusiasm and warmth.

Our vibrant Elementary TRIBES program brings students together across grade levels to promote collaboration, teamwork, and healthy competition. Every Friday, students participate in engaging TRIBES assemblies where they can earn points and prizes while celebrating school spirit. Leading the way are our TRIBES Captains, who embody and promote our core values of Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Drive, and Empathy (P.R.I.D.E.). They serve as role models, encouraging positive behavior and a strong sense of unity throughout the school.

Finally, our Student Innovation Team, comprised of students in Grades 3 to 5, takes on the exciting challenge of supporting their peers during Cub Lab and Leopard Lab lessons. These student leaders coach others, troubleshoot problems, and demonstrate adaptability, all while gaining valuable leadership experience and making a real impact in their school community.

ES Student Council

ES Student Innovation Team

ES Wellness Ambassadors

Tribes Captains

What your child needs EVERYDAY

First day of school checklist

KG 1 - Grade 2

Refillable water bottle. Please ensure your child comes to school with a full water bottle each day.
School Jumper
School hat for outdoor play days
Snack and Lunch
Complete change of clothes in a labelled bag (to be left at school)
IMPORTANT: We kindly ask that school bags are small enough for children to carry and do not have wheels to ensure they fit into students' cubbies. The cubby sizes are 33cm Wide x 42 cm High and 37cm deep.

Grade 3 - 5

Refillable water bottle. Please ensure your child comes to school with a full water bottle each day.
School Jumper
Snack and Lunch
School hat for outdoor play days
IMPORTANT: We kindly ask that school bags are small enough for children to carry and do not have wheels to ensure they fit into students' cubbies. The cubby sizes are 33cm Wide x 42 cm High and 37cm deep.

School supplies (books, pens, pencils) will be provided by DAA, along with a personal iPad that is used at school.

Lunch and Snacks

At DAA, we encourage our students to eat a balanced lunch and snack.
You can choose to pack a Snack and Lunch from home, or purchase a school lunch prepared on campus in A* rated kitchen, provided by Slices catering service. Slices is only available for lunch purchases for GR 3 - 5. A break time snack must be provided from home. Lunch and snack is available for pre-ordered delivery for KG-GR2.
Lunch can be provided by our Slices catering service by pre-order and delivered to classrooms (KG-GR2). Further information can be found in your welcome pack HERE.
If your child has a food allergy, please contact our Health Office to arrange a meeting and inform your teacher.