PARENT ANNOUNCEMENT (19)
JANUARY 15, 2026
SUPERINTENDENT’S UPDATE
2026-27 ASD LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT
As we continue to plan thoughtfully for the future of the American School Dhahran, I am pleased to share the overview of upcoming leadership updates.
Each transition has been approached with care and intention. Our recruitment and interview processes are designed to ensure we identify leaders who align with ASD’s values, culture and commitment to student learning and wellbeing. We are focused not only on experience and expertise, but on finding the right match for our school community.
I am grateful to those who have served ASD with dedication and professionalism, and I look forward to welcoming the incoming leaders.
LEADERSHIP TRANSITION IN STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
We would like to share an update regarding Student Support Services at ISG.
Following the departure of Sarah Dugan, who previously served as Head of Student Support Services, ISG has taken steps to ensure continuity and strong support for students and families. Dr. Jamie Martin will assume this role beginning in the 2026–27 school year. In the meantime, we have engaged an experienced consultant to support our teams during this transition period.
Stacy Stephens, a PK–12 international school leader and consultant with more than 25 years of experience, will be working with ISG both in person and remotely. She will support Student Support Services and our work in Social-Emotional Learning, Wellbeing,and Belonging, working closely with campus teachers and school leadership to ensure consistency and care for our students.
These arrangements allow us to maintain high levels of support while ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition. We appreciate the contributions of Sarah Dugan, look forward to Dr. Jamie Martin’s leadership in this role and are confident that this additional support from Stacy Stephens will benefit our school community.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust.
SAN ENGINEERING SYMPOSIUM RETURNS FOR SECOND EDITION
I am pleased to share that the SAN Engineering Symposium will be returning for its second year, an exciting continuation of an ASD student-led initiative that reflects the innovation, collaboration and leadership we strive to nurture across our school campuses.
Founded and driven by two ASD students, SANES is a powerful example of what is possible when young people are trusted to lead, create and inspire others. This year’s symposium will include two competitive rounds, culminating in a final judging event on May 30, 2026. Registration for the first round is officially open and will close on February 28. I encourage interested students and schools to take part in this meaningful learning experience. More information can be found on the SANES website.
The impact of SANES has already gained regional recognition, and I invite you to read more in the Arab News article. I am incredibly proud of the student leaders behind SANES and grateful to the educators who continue to support and guide them. This symposium represents the very best of student voice, engineering thinking and purposeful learning.
LEARNING AT ISG
CLASS SPOTLIGHT ON GRADE 6 & YEAR 7 AT ISG
This week our spotlight is on Grade 6 and Year 7 at ISG. Please see this presentation for an exciting glimpse into our science classrooms on each campus.
Each week, we’re shining a spotlight on learning across ISG by featuring a different grade level from our schools. Through these weekly highlights, we’ll take you inside our classrooms to show how learning comes to life, from hands-on projects and critical thinking to collaboration and creativity.
Our goal is to celebrate our students’ curiosity and hard work while giving parents a closer look at the value of an ISG education, where every lesson, discussion and experience is designed to inspire growth, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.
ISG COMMUNITY
GRADUATION DATES REMINDER
Please mark your calendars and save the dates:
June 4 - ASD Graduation
June 6 - BSD Graduation
June 8 - ISG Jubail Graduation
June 9 - BSD Leavers Ceremony
June 11 - ISG Dammam Graduation
June 11 - SVS Leavers Ceremony
RAMADAN HOURS AT ISG
ISG will transition to Ramadan working hours beginning February 17, in alignment with the Kingdom-wide schedule adjustment observed during the holy month of Ramadan. School and workday hours will be as follows:
Staff: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Students: 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
This change reflects national guidance and supports the wellbeing of our community during this important time. Further details, including confirmed dates and adjusted schedules for schools will be shared closer to the start of Ramadan.
REMINDER: PEP SESSION
RAISING RESILIENT FAMILIES
Our next parent engagement series session is titled Empowering Parents: A Workshop on Resilient Parenting.
The journey of parenting is filled with joys, challenges and unexpected turns. In today's rapidly changing world, equipping our children with the tools to navigate adversity and bounce back from setbacks is more crucial than ever.
ISG is pleased to offer an engaging workshop designed to empower parents with the skills and insights to foster resilience in their children and themselves.
Dates:
Session 1: Dhahran Campus, January 19
Session 2: ISG Jubail Campus, January 26
Please use this form to register.
We look forward to welcoming you to one of the events above.
Note: You do not need to attend both sessions. The same presentation will be delivered on January 19 and on January 16.
REMINDER: KEEP YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION UPDATED
In order to ensure families have valuable and timely information, please ensure that your personal contact information, including phone numbers, email addresses and emergency contacts, is up to date with ISG. Having accurate information allows us to communicate with you effectively and reach out to you timely for your children in the event of an emergency.
With the change to using personal email addresses as of August 1, you may need to provide contact updates to ISG. If so, please make any updates by reaching out to the campus office for your child at your earliest convenience.
If you think you have missed any of these weekly communications this school year due to changing contact information, please click here for the archive of these communications.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.
SCHOOL UPDATES
Please see campus updates below.
You can also visit the campus social media pages to learn about the student experiences at ISG.
American School Dhahran
