Dear Families,

We have had another successful week of Teacher Orientation and preparations here at ABIS.  This week all staff were together virtually as we explored new technology tools and reviewed expectations for quality learning. We are working on Oman time, but several of us are scattered throughout different time zones around the world! Each and every teacher and classroom assistant has brought a positive attitude to our online sessions and the start of year energy levels are high. It was wonderful for everyone to see each other again and new relationships are forming among new and returning teachers.

Grade level teams are now working closely to prepare engaging learning for your children and ensuring that our goals of developing life long learners are being met. While we wait for the approval of a firm start date for students, please rest assured that teachers are prepared to meet the needs of our students regardless of the learning environment. Inquiry remains the focus of learning at ABIS and the principals of the PYP program are being followed, with additional emphasis placed on developing literacy and numeracy skills within the units of inquiry.  When classroom learning begins, you will begin to hear more information about schedules and grade level learning from your child’s teachers. Primary families will also have the opportunity to meet all teachers, and the leadership team, over the coming weeks.

Please take time to review the Distance Learning information shared with you this week from our Director, Mr. Dominic Robeau. These are guidelines set in place by ABIS to ensure consistency and quality across all of Primary as we head into a new school year together.

Here in Canada we have been having hot summer weather, reaching 35C most days this week. Canadians generally do not like these hot temperatures and are complaining about the heat!  I think the weather is simply preparing me for my move to Sohar. I’ve posted a photo of the park where I walk here.

I remain confident that I will be able to meet you all in person soon.  In the meantime, as always, feel free to contact me: m.doherty@abisoman.com

Maeve Doherty, Primary Team Leader