Dear Families,
We have completed Week 2 of Distance Learning at ABIS and I am so happy to see fantastic growth and learning occurring throughout all Primary classes. Older students are moving almost seamlessly throughout their schedules, using different tech tools and communicating their ideas effectively via google docs and slides, videos, pictures, jamboards and of course in person during face to face lessons. The younger students have learned how to click on links to move between classes, open posts and submit learning on Seesaw and take turns speaking and listening during live lessons with their teachers and classmates. More importantly, students are building relationships and getting to know each other in this new learning environment, and we are building a sense of belonging and community.
ABIS teachers continue to work hard to provide meaningful opportunities for connection, and to provide safe, engaging learning communities for their students.Homeroom teachers are planning and delivering high quality learning and balancing the amount of “on-screen” and “off-screen” time. Specialists classes are lots of fun, with plenty of different ways to explore Arabic, dance, exercise, drawing, and music, in which children are actively involved. The resilience and positive attitude demonstrated by our ABIS students is commendable. I’ve had an opportunity to drop into all grade levels and have had conversations with many of the students so far. I’m impressed with the way they can articulate their ideas and questions and I look forward to getting to know all the students better over the coming weeks.
Please take the time to discuss with your child at home the expectations for Distance Learning at ABIS. With everyone being respectful of these agreements, learning throughout the day runs much smoother for everyone.
- Cameras must be on during class.
- Mics should be off except when speaking.
- Do not type distractions in the chat; the chat is used for learning purposes.
- Participate! If it’s PE time, get up and move. If it’s sharing time, ask questions and communicate ideas. Contribute to a positive learning environment.
- iPads should be fully charged and ready for learning by 8:20am.
- Children should be punctual and follow their schedules.
In addition, if your child needs to be absent from class, kindly email the homeroom teacher and Ms. Eiman:.e.alrisi@abisoman.com
Next Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 6pm, Primary homeroom teachers will be hosting a Parent Information Evening. Please plan to attend this 20-30 minute meeting to find out more about your child’s teacher and the grade level programs at ABIS. If you have more than one child in Primary, the sessions will be recorded so that you can access all the information you need from our school website later. Secondary sessions will begin at 6:45pm.
Another primary materials pick up is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 16. You can pick up learning packages for your child at the front gate of the school between 8-10am and 2-4pm. If you have children in both primary and secondary, you can pick up all materials at once on Thursday, Sept. 17 between 8-10am and 2-4pm.
I appreciate all the feedback I have received from families so far, and the welcoming messages as well, thank you!
As you can see, the learning spaces at ABIS are looking good and we’re looking forward to seeing them filled with students soon.
As always, feel free to contact me: m.doherty@abisoman.com
Maeve
