Week Nineteen - February 14th, 2025
Sarah McLean
Head of Primary
Dear Primary Families,
I look forward to welcoming families to our World Culture Day taking place tomorrow - 15th February from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at GIS!
What a lovely week in the PYP! This week’s music concerts showcased an inspiring blend of talent and cultural diversity. Students applied their ATL skills by singing, performing, and engaging in creative movement while also demonstrating proficiency with various instruments. The performances ranged from expressive songs about feelings to vibrant pieces representing different cultures from around the world. a huge thank you goes out to the Arts team for the hard work behind the scenes in preparing our students.
Thank you to all the homeroom parents who joined the recent Listening Conferences with me. We appreciate your willingness to share your experiences and suggestions, and we're excited to continue working together to create a supportive and enriching environment for our students. There will be more conferences with other grade-level homeroom parents in the coming weeks.
Simon recently sent out an email detailing our transition from MAP to GL assessments. In the message, he explains the benefits of the new assessment system, how it aligns with our curriculum, and what parents and educators can expect during the change. Be sure to check your inbox for Simon's email to get the full rundown and learn more about how this shift will enhance our approach to student learning and achievement.
Earlier this week, we celebrated Haig al Laila—a cherished cultural tradition that brings our community together. This special event honors heritage through vibrant music, storytelling, and shared experiences, reminding us of the rich traditions that unite us all.
Thank you to all the parents who attended the Parent-Teacher-Conferences last week. Please note that you child will receive their report today through Toddle and GEMS Connect.
Details will be sent next week for families wishing to sign up for the GIS Community Iftar on March 12!
Warm Regards,
Sarah McLean
Exciting news!
Last term the Falcon Book Club ECA created a story book in a box, out of recycled materials, for the annual Emirates Festival of Literature Arcadia Book in a Box, a primary school competition. Jack and the beanstalk was the story chosen by the group, who spent many hours collecting suitable recycled materials, designing and creating their artwork. Images and an explanation were sent in to the Literature Foundation with the result that the Falcon book club’s creation has been shortlisted! We are pleased to say we came 2nd in the competition!
Congratulations to the following students involved: Yara Mesak 4D, Serina Wahib 4D, Aria Raheja 4G, Alisa Tyureva 4D, Kiaan Ruthia 5A, Kden Krishnan 5A and Shatakshi Anand 5A.
Parents have all received a notification to sign up for the Toddle platform. This is an exciting enhancement to our parent communication, and this year you will receive weekly updates through the Toddle platform.
This IB affiliated platform will offer opportunities for parents to remain up to date with their child's academic progress.
The below class pages will host resources for parents and will no longer have weekly messages. All information will be sent through Toddle, so please inform your class teacher if you have any trouble registering.
Any absence (whether it is planned or unplanned ) must be communicated via email to the homeroom teacher and gis_primaryleaverequest@gemsedu.com by 8:00 AM. STS/bus users must also copy the STS manger on the email. vijesh.kumar@sts-group.com
A planned or extended absence beyond 2 days requires the completion of an absence request form.
Absence for more than 3 days requires prior approval if planned or a doctors clearance for illness related leave (in some cases a medical certificate is requested )
Parents are urged to schedule medical, dental and other appointments after school hours or during vacations.
A request must be submitted before a child can be released once in school for health and safety and reasons.
Filling in the form 24hrs in advance is expected where possible.
At the time of collection, please come to the Primary Reception at Gate 4.