Teach Middle East Magazine Nov-Dec 2015 Issue 2 Volume 3 | Page 18

Featured School Recently won trophies in volleyball, sailing, swimming and basketball. The 2015 UAE WRO national competition was held on September 27 at the Abu Dhabi Exhibition Center. Over 50 teams from schools throughout the UAE competed in the three levels (elementary, middle and high school levels). Five teams represented ACS in the Olympiad this year. Once again, one of their high school teams was awarded the first place trophy and the opportunity to represent the UAE in the International WRO, which is to be held in Doha, Qatar in November. The American Community School enjoys a strong partnership with their parents. This can be attributed to the diligence that is taken during the admissions process to ensure that parents and their students are aware that they are joining the community of learners at ACS. “Our parent community is extremely supportive and involved. On a daily basis you will find parents at the school, volunteering their time to make this school a better place for everyone. This separates us from other schools. There is an expectation that parents are engaged; that they attend the meetings and parent conferences and that they help out at the events that we have,” explains Dr. Heslip. When parents apply for admission for their children at ACS, they sign an agreement committing to participating in all facets of school life and engagement in the school’s activities and events. Parents understand that they are responsible for supporting their children in preparing for academic success. By partnering with the school and being role models through their volunteering and engagement, the ACS parents inspire the students to be Kindergarten students at play. 16 | Nov - Dec 2015 | | Class Time compassionate leaders who are willing to serve others. The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is very active in planning events that support and enhance the entire spirit of the ACS school community. From celebrating special dates such as International Day or National Day to socials where parents and teachers interact with each other, a spirit of collaboration and family is at the forefront of their engagements. “For UAE National Day and throughout the entire year, our Emirati parents are very engaged in helping us connect with various cultural components that are reflective of the UAE. During our National Day assemblies, they share the rich history of the UAE of which they are very proud. This helps to further communicate to our students the importance of respecting and