News from our Secondary Principal, Katherine Banner
Dear Secondary Parents
I am delighted to welcome you back to school for what shall be a wonderful 2017-2018 school year. We look forward to working with you as a partner for ensuring the best possible outcomes for your student’s education. Please join us for our Back To School Night, September 28th beginning at 5:00 pm. You will have the opportunity to meet your child’s teachers and learn more about GAA Secondary.
We have many new and exciting changes to the GAA Secondary Division. There have been numerous upgrades to our facility including fresh paint, new carpet, new furniture and most especially, the remodel of the IB Lounge to a Secondary Library. The Secondary Library is expected to be complete by mid-October.
Last year we spent time planning for the division of grades 9-12 from grades 6-8 to create a separate high school and middle school. We are excited to welcome Mr. Kain Klinkhammer as our new High School Vice-Principal and Mr. Peter Thorpe will be leading our new Middle School. Both the High School and the Middle School will have dedicated teams of teachers working with our students.
This year we have added several new academic elective classes to offer our students more selection. Included are: Global Politics, Creative Writing, Academic Writing and Public Speaking. Please ask your high school student if he/she is taking one of these new elective classes.
I invite you to enjoy our Secondary Newsletter which will keep you informed of upcoming events as well as highlight stories from various departments each week.
Best wishes for a terrific school year at GAA!
Kind Regards-
Katherine Banner
Principal, Secondary Division
I am delighted to welcome you back to school for what shall be a wonderful 2017-2018 school year. We look forward to working with you as a partner for ensuring the best possible outcomes for your student’s education. Please join us for our Back To School Night, September 28th beginning at 5:00 pm. You will have the opportunity to meet your child’s teachers and learn more about GAA Secondary.
We have many new and exciting changes to the GAA Secondary Division. There have been numerous upgrades to our facility including fresh paint, new carpet, new furniture and most especially, the remodel of the IB Lounge to a Secondary Library. The Secondary Library is expected to be complete by mid-October.
Last year we spent time planning for the division of grades 9-12 from grades 6-8 to create a separate high school and middle school. We are excited to welcome Mr. Kain Klinkhammer as our new High School Vice-Principal and Mr. Peter Thorpe will be leading our new Middle School. Both the High School and the Middle School will have dedicated teams of teachers working with our students.
This year we have added several new academic elective classes to offer our students more selection. Included are: Global Politics, Creative Writing, Academic Writing and Public Speaking. Please ask your high school student if he/she is taking one of these new elective classes.
I invite you to enjoy our Secondary Newsletter which will keep you informed of upcoming events as well as highlight stories from various departments each week.
Best wishes for a terrific school year at GAA!
Kind Regards-
Katherine Banner
Principal, Secondary Division
Assessment Information
The MAP assessment is just one point of information we use at this time of year. Teachers are also giving classroom baseline assessments to get a more balanced understanding of your students.
From September 24 to October 5, students in grades 2 through 10 will do the Fall NWEA MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) assessments. Students will receive preparation including test-taking strategies and mindfulness.
NWEA MAP is a form of standardized assessment done on a computer that allow students and teachers to track progress as well as providing a comparison to school and international standards. The purpose of MAP is to see what students are capable of and to monitor and set goals for further learning. In addition, MAP results are one of the data points used for determining acceptance into the IB Diploma Programme. Grade 2 students sit three assessments: Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics. Grade 3 to 10 students take four assessments: Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics, Science. While MAP is untimed, each assessment takes about one hour and have anywhere from 40 to 54 questions.
This assessment is an opportunity for your student to show what they know. Please encourage your child to take their time on this assessment and to try their best - it is not a race! Ensure that your child is well rested the night before the assessment. (Students will have only one assessment per day and may have one or two days of rest in between). MAP assessments are unique in that they adapt the questions based on your child's previous answers; questions get progressively more challenging with each correct response. As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed, show growth and maintain a positive attitude toward testing.
If you would like to look at some practice questions of how the test will look, follow this link with your child: http://warmup.nwea.org/map_student_menu.html
Please bare in mind these are questions that go up to Grade 5 so don't be alarmed! This is just to show you the format, not the exact questions given. The actual MAP assessment will adapt Results of the Spring MAP will be sent home at the end of the school year.
For more information visit: https://www.nwea.org/assessments/resources-for-parents/
The MAP assessment is just one point of information we use at this time of year. Teachers are also giving classroom baseline assessments to get a more balanced understanding of your students.
From September 24 to October 5, students in grades 2 through 10 will do the Fall NWEA MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) assessments. Students will receive preparation including test-taking strategies and mindfulness.
NWEA MAP is a form of standardized assessment done on a computer that allow students and teachers to track progress as well as providing a comparison to school and international standards. The purpose of MAP is to see what students are capable of and to monitor and set goals for further learning. In addition, MAP results are one of the data points used for determining acceptance into the IB Diploma Programme. Grade 2 students sit three assessments: Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics. Grade 3 to 10 students take four assessments: Reading, Language Usage, Mathematics, Science. While MAP is untimed, each assessment takes about one hour and have anywhere from 40 to 54 questions.
This assessment is an opportunity for your student to show what they know. Please encourage your child to take their time on this assessment and to try their best - it is not a race! Ensure that your child is well rested the night before the assessment. (Students will have only one assessment per day and may have one or two days of rest in between). MAP assessments are unique in that they adapt the questions based on your child's previous answers; questions get progressively more challenging with each correct response. As a result, each student has the same opportunity to succeed, show growth and maintain a positive attitude toward testing.
If you would like to look at some practice questions of how the test will look, follow this link with your child: http://warmup.nwea.org/map_student_menu.html
Please bare in mind these are questions that go up to Grade 5 so don't be alarmed! This is just to show you the format, not the exact questions given. The actual MAP assessment will adapt Results of the Spring MAP will be sent home at the end of the school year.
For more information visit: https://www.nwea.org/assessments/resources-for-parents/
Greetings Parents! Our Secondary Student Services Team is excited to kick off the 2017-18 school year! Our SST serves to meet the needs of our various learners that we have throughout our secondary school. We address students that are still acquiring English as a second language, as well as students who might have specific learning challenges. Similar to last year, we are using a model that supports students in and outside of the classroom. However, one major difference that you will notice is that this year you will see many new faces among the department! These excellent specialists are already deep at work getting to know students on their case load, and will absolutely be reaching out to families once the dust of the new year settles. If you have any questions or concerns, please see the breakdown of our SST below.
Grade 6 LS Case Manager: Jonathon Norlin
Grade 6 ELL Case Manager: Zsuzsanna Uveges
Grade 7 LS Case Manager: Elisa Freeman
Grade 7 ELL Case Manager: Kathleen Cathcart
Grade 8 LS Case Manager: Karen Gist
Grade 8 ELL Case Manager: Zsuzsanna Uveges
Grade 9-12 LS Case Manager: Mary White
Grade 9-12 ELL Case Manager: Rebekah Christofi
Grade 6 LS Case Manager: Jonathon Norlin
Grade 6 ELL Case Manager: Zsuzsanna Uveges
Grade 7 LS Case Manager: Elisa Freeman
Grade 7 ELL Case Manager: Kathleen Cathcart
Grade 8 LS Case Manager: Karen Gist
Grade 8 ELL Case Manager: Zsuzsanna Uveges
Grade 9-12 LS Case Manager: Mary White
Grade 9-12 ELL Case Manager: Rebekah Christofi
The GAA English Department is thrilled to welcome three new members to its department. A little over five years ago, the English Department numbered two and is now eight members strong. This year the department is joined by stellar educators Vanessa Hamilton, Kristina Klein and Stacey Ross. With a passion for literature, history and yoga, Vanessa Hamilton is starting her eighth year of professional classroom teaching and just completed her 200 hour yoga instructor certification in June. Kristina Klein, in her 17th year of teaching, has her masters in Curriculum and Instruction. Kristina hails from Wisconsin, loves to travel, read and spend time with her family. A camping enthusiast, Stacey Ross comes from Big Sky Country and is looking forward to earning her PADI certification here in the UAE. Though they have different interests and backgrounds, these three educators agree that GAA is a great place where they can build relationships with students, families and colleagues.
GAA’s middle school English teachers are ecstatic about implementing Lucy Calkins’ Writer’s Workshop series for Opinion, Information, and Narrative Writing. Last May, sixth, seventh and eighth grade English teachers participated in an intensive three day training led by literacy expert, Erin Kent. Writer’s Workshop embraces the concept of running a class like a professional writer’s workshop where each student is a working author. According to Teaching that Makes Sense (www.ttms.org),
in Writer’s Workshop classrooms, full class lessons are short and tightly focused on practical real-world issues. As in professional writing workshops, emphasis is placed on sharing work with the class, on peer conferencing and editing, and on the collection of a wide variety of work in a writing folder, and eventually in a portfolio. Teachers write with their students and share their own work as well. The workshop setting encourages students to think of themselves as writers, and to take their writing seriously.
The program has enjoyed tremendous success in thousands of classrooms around the world and, undoubtedly, is an exciting addition to the middle school English curriculum.
GAA’s middle school English teachers are ecstatic about implementing Lucy Calkins’ Writer’s Workshop series for Opinion, Information, and Narrative Writing. Last May, sixth, seventh and eighth grade English teachers participated in an intensive three day training led by literacy expert, Erin Kent. Writer’s Workshop embraces the concept of running a class like a professional writer’s workshop where each student is a working author. According to Teaching that Makes Sense (www.ttms.org),
in Writer’s Workshop classrooms, full class lessons are short and tightly focused on practical real-world issues. As in professional writing workshops, emphasis is placed on sharing work with the class, on peer conferencing and editing, and on the collection of a wide variety of work in a writing folder, and eventually in a portfolio. Teachers write with their students and share their own work as well. The workshop setting encourages students to think of themselves as writers, and to take their writing seriously.
The program has enjoyed tremendous success in thousands of classrooms around the world and, undoubtedly, is an exciting addition to the middle school English curriculum.
High School Concert Band / High School Jazz Band
Our High School ensembles are already rehearsing material ahead of our performances in November. We have a large group with many new faces as well as returning musicians. Our students will have the opportunity to learn from the traditional concert band repertoire as well as chamber music when we break into smaller groups. From the larger ensemble, the GAA Jazz Band will step out and hold regular rehearsals, thus giving them the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds this year. In order to make all of this happen, I’m delighted to be joined by Ms. Kelley Taylor.
Middle School Advanced Band
This ensemble is where our younger musicians have the opportunity to gain a foundation in the concert band style before they advance to the High School groups. We have begun work on a variety of music ahead of the first performance that will allow them to experience traditional repertoire, world music, the classics and more modern compositions. As this group develops their ensemble sound they will enjoy this collaborative experience and prove themselves as the rising stars in the school.
Digital Music
For some of our musicians, the desire to be creative transcends the boundary of traditional instruments. Thanks to a phenomenal response, we have welcomed over 30 students into this new course in 2017/18. These students are exploring the possibilities of digital music production in our studio facilities. Whilst the course is designed to give them freedom to create new music, manage a professional recording environment and market themselves in an ever-changing industry, we are placing emphasis on learning the legal responsibilities of the artist/producer. Each class will be producing their own compilation album at the end of the year and I look forward to sharing this with you.
IB Diploma Music
As we welcome the new students to IB Music we prepare our older students for the submission of their final portfolios. This is an equally busy time for both grade levels and the support from the grade 12 students has remained exceptional as the grade 11’s hit the ground running. This is the third year of GAA’s IB Diploma Music course and it continues to be a vibrant learning environment. As the grade 11’s embark upon their first compositions, out grade 12’s are deep into their Musical Links Investigations as well as studying the works of J.S. Bach and Zoltan Kodaly.
Grade 6 Band
Rome wasn’t built in a day and none of these courses would be possible if our students didn’t receive a foundation in instrumental music and theory. It all starts with our grade 6 students. This year will see a continuation of the rotation system that allows them to try their hand at each of the arts before deciding on the route they wish to take in the following year. It’s always a pleasure to greet these enthusiastic and energetic(!) young minds as they make the transition from Elementary to Secondary School and once again I must congratulate the team of dedicated educators for the learning achieved in grade 5.
We look forward to seeing you at our performances throughout the year and thank you in advance for your ongoing commitment and support.
Mr. Dave Holland
Secondary School Music Director
Our High School ensembles are already rehearsing material ahead of our performances in November. We have a large group with many new faces as well as returning musicians. Our students will have the opportunity to learn from the traditional concert band repertoire as well as chamber music when we break into smaller groups. From the larger ensemble, the GAA Jazz Band will step out and hold regular rehearsals, thus giving them the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds this year. In order to make all of this happen, I’m delighted to be joined by Ms. Kelley Taylor.
Middle School Advanced Band
This ensemble is where our younger musicians have the opportunity to gain a foundation in the concert band style before they advance to the High School groups. We have begun work on a variety of music ahead of the first performance that will allow them to experience traditional repertoire, world music, the classics and more modern compositions. As this group develops their ensemble sound they will enjoy this collaborative experience and prove themselves as the rising stars in the school.
Digital Music
For some of our musicians, the desire to be creative transcends the boundary of traditional instruments. Thanks to a phenomenal response, we have welcomed over 30 students into this new course in 2017/18. These students are exploring the possibilities of digital music production in our studio facilities. Whilst the course is designed to give them freedom to create new music, manage a professional recording environment and market themselves in an ever-changing industry, we are placing emphasis on learning the legal responsibilities of the artist/producer. Each class will be producing their own compilation album at the end of the year and I look forward to sharing this with you.
IB Diploma Music
As we welcome the new students to IB Music we prepare our older students for the submission of their final portfolios. This is an equally busy time for both grade levels and the support from the grade 12 students has remained exceptional as the grade 11’s hit the ground running. This is the third year of GAA’s IB Diploma Music course and it continues to be a vibrant learning environment. As the grade 11’s embark upon their first compositions, out grade 12’s are deep into their Musical Links Investigations as well as studying the works of J.S. Bach and Zoltan Kodaly.
Grade 6 Band
Rome wasn’t built in a day and none of these courses would be possible if our students didn’t receive a foundation in instrumental music and theory. It all starts with our grade 6 students. This year will see a continuation of the rotation system that allows them to try their hand at each of the arts before deciding on the route they wish to take in the following year. It’s always a pleasure to greet these enthusiastic and energetic(!) young minds as they make the transition from Elementary to Secondary School and once again I must congratulate the team of dedicated educators for the learning achieved in grade 5.
We look forward to seeing you at our performances throughout the year and thank you in advance for your ongoing commitment and support.
Mr. Dave Holland
Secondary School Music Director
Innovation and Technology at GAA
At GAA, we believe that we have a responsibility to fully prepare our students for life at university and in the professional world after graduation. In the 21st century, understanding technology is as essential as literacy and numeracy. Because of this, we use systems that support creativity and inquiry-based learning, the cornerstones of our educational philosophy.
Why is the inclusion of technology important in schools?
We value:
Google Apps for Education
Google Apps for Education allows teachers and students to collaborate while creating documents, spreadsheets, and more. Students also have access to mail, calendars, and unlimited online storage space for documents. Using Google Apps, students can easily work from desktops, tablets or laptops both at home or and school. With access to a controlled Gmail account, students have a messaging system that integrates with other online services and is appropriately managed for school communications between teachers and students.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program
Students in Grade 5 have the opportunity to participate in an optional BYOD program. Students in Grades 6 through 12 are required to bring a laptop to school daily. We do not require a specific laptop, and GAA does not sell or distribute laptops. Students may choose to bring either a Mac or a PC; the option is entirely up to each family. Equipment will be registered for Internet access on our system, and students are expected to follow a clearly articulated Acceptable Use Policy (which is found in our Student Handbooks).
Microsoft Office
Microsoft Office is available for download for each GEMS student. Here are the directions to download Office.
Middle School and High School Technology
GEMS Oasis
This is used in middle and high school for paying tuition fees, updating contact information and re-enrollment. GEMS Oasis can be accessed here.
PlusPortals
This is an online space where students and parents can see schedules, grades, assessment calendars and can communicate with teachers. This is the formal reporting program within our Secondary School. Plus Portals can be accessed here.
PowerSchool Learning (Formerly Haiku)
This is our Learning Management System (LMS). This is where class resources are placed in an effort to add context to the learning. With the help of BYOD, this space allows the learning to be extended outside of the classroom. Students log in through their Google accounts. Parents are sent activation codes from the IT department. PowerSchool Learning can be accessed here.
Managebac (Diploma Program Only)
Managebac is exclusively for Diploma Program students. This is where students and parents can see their grades, assessment calendar, CAS progress, Extended Essay Progress and communicate with teachers. Managebac can be accessed here.
We hope that this can give some clarity as to how these systems fit together. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected].
GAA Innovation and Technology Team
At GAA, we believe that we have a responsibility to fully prepare our students for life at university and in the professional world after graduation. In the 21st century, understanding technology is as essential as literacy and numeracy. Because of this, we use systems that support creativity and inquiry-based learning, the cornerstones of our educational philosophy.
Why is the inclusion of technology important in schools?
We value:
- the development of 21st century learning skills of communication, collaboration, creativity, and problem solving – all highly important in today’s world;
- learning that is engaging, relevant, and rigorous;
- flexibility for teachers to address different learning styles, including interventions for students with special educational needs and English Language Learners;
- formative and summative assessments that allow learners to truly show what they know;
- promotion of inquiry and critical thinking skills.
Google Apps for Education
Google Apps for Education allows teachers and students to collaborate while creating documents, spreadsheets, and more. Students also have access to mail, calendars, and unlimited online storage space for documents. Using Google Apps, students can easily work from desktops, tablets or laptops both at home or and school. With access to a controlled Gmail account, students have a messaging system that integrates with other online services and is appropriately managed for school communications between teachers and students.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program
Students in Grade 5 have the opportunity to participate in an optional BYOD program. Students in Grades 6 through 12 are required to bring a laptop to school daily. We do not require a specific laptop, and GAA does not sell or distribute laptops. Students may choose to bring either a Mac or a PC; the option is entirely up to each family. Equipment will be registered for Internet access on our system, and students are expected to follow a clearly articulated Acceptable Use Policy (which is found in our Student Handbooks).
Microsoft Office
Microsoft Office is available for download for each GEMS student. Here are the directions to download Office.
Middle School and High School Technology
GEMS Oasis
This is used in middle and high school for paying tuition fees, updating contact information and re-enrollment. GEMS Oasis can be accessed here.
PlusPortals
This is an online space where students and parents can see schedules, grades, assessment calendars and can communicate with teachers. This is the formal reporting program within our Secondary School. Plus Portals can be accessed here.
PowerSchool Learning (Formerly Haiku)
This is our Learning Management System (LMS). This is where class resources are placed in an effort to add context to the learning. With the help of BYOD, this space allows the learning to be extended outside of the classroom. Students log in through their Google accounts. Parents are sent activation codes from the IT department. PowerSchool Learning can be accessed here.
Managebac (Diploma Program Only)
Managebac is exclusively for Diploma Program students. This is where students and parents can see their grades, assessment calendar, CAS progress, Extended Essay Progress and communicate with teachers. Managebac can be accessed here.
We hope that this can give some clarity as to how these systems fit together. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected].
GAA Innovation and Technology Team
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