West Yas Academy Year Book 2019 / 2020

WEST YAS ACADEMY WEST YAS ACADEMY
YEAR BOOK 2019 - 2020 YEAR BOOK 2019 - 2020

1 DELIVERINGTHEHIGHEST
STANDARDSOF EDUCATION
AND INSPIRING A LOVE OF
LEARNING

Cover Design By Eldhoran Apparu - Grade 3 Mangroves

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YEAR BOOK 2019 - 2020 YEAR BOOK 2019 - 2020

CONTENTS CONTENTS

06. PRINCIPAL MESSAGE 85. GRADE 2 CORALS 177. GRADE 10 HUDAYRIAT 269. PINK DAY
07. VICE PRINCIPAL / HEAD OF ELEMENTARY 89. GRADE 2 DIAMONDS 181. MUSIC DEPARTMENT 270. PYJAMA DAY
08. PARENT RELATIONS EXECUTIVE 93. GRADE 2 SAPPHIRES 183. DRAMA DEPARTMENT 271. NATIONAL DAY
09. STAFF PHOTO 97. GRADE 2 TOPAZ 185. ELEMENTARY ART 272. 7 BILLION IDEAS ENTREPRENEUR CONFERENCE
11. ADMIN SUPPORT 101. GRADES 3, 4 AND 5 TEAM LEAD 187. SENIOR SCHOOL ART 275. ARABIC LANGUAGE AND BOOK WEEK
13. INCLUSION TEAM 105. GRADE 3 JASMINE 189. INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION, DESIGN & 277. UMM AL QUWAIN
14. SCHOOL COUNSELLOR 109. GRADE 3 MANGROVES 279. SWITZERLAND RESIDENTIAL TRIP
15. LITERACY AND EAL 113. GRADE 3 PALMS MANUFACTURING 282. SORBONNE UNIVERSITY VISIT
17. ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE 117. GRADE 4 LILIES 191. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (ELEMENTARY) 283. FIELD TRIPS
19. DISTANCE LEARNING 121. GRADE 4 ORCHIDS 193. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SECONDARY) 291. THE WIZARD OF OZ PRODUCTION
25. KINDERGARTEN TEAM LEAD 125. GRADE 5 GINGER 195. FOOD TECHNOLOGY 293. OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT STAFF
27. KG1 DOLPHINS 129. GRADE 5 SAFFRON 197. LIBRARY
31. KG1 JELLYFISH 133. GRADE 5 ZATAAR 199. ISLAMIC AND UAE SOCIAL STUDIES
35. KG1 SEAHORSES 137. ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL / HEAD OF SECONDARY 213. ARABIC DEPARTMENT
39. KG1 STARFISH 138. PASTORAL LEADS 229. ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL (DIRECTOR OF SPORT)
43. KG2 EAGLES 139. ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL (DEAN OF STUDENTS) 231. PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND EXTRA
47. KG2 FALCONS 140. ACADEMIC ADVISOR
51. KG2 FLAMINGOS 141. GRADE 6 DALMA CURRICULR ACTIVITIES
55. KG2 OWLS 145. GRADE 6 LULU 233. SPORTS AWARDS
59. KG2 STORKS 149. GRADE 6 SAADIYAT 235. PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
63. GRADE 1 AND 2 TEAM LEAD 153. GRADE 7 YAS 239. SPORTS TEAMS
65. GRADE 1 EMERALDS 157. GRADE 7 MARYAH 246. ALDAR OLYMPICS
69. GRADE 1 JADE 161. GRADE 8 REEM 247. FIT FOR FUN WEEK
73. GRADE 1 PEARLS 165. GRADE 8 NURAI 251. EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
77. GRADE 1 RUBIES 169. GRADE 9 JUBAIL 259. BRILLIANT BOOK WEEK
81. GRADE 2 AMBER 173. GRADE 9 ZEERA 261. BOOK CHARACTER DAY
267. DR SEUSS DAY
268. 100 DAYS OF SCHOOL

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OUR PURPOSE PRINCIPAL
MESSAGE
EMPOWERING
OURNEXTGENERATION
TOSHAPEOURFUTURE

This is our “big idea”. It is what we are determined to achieve and
the legacy we wish to leave. It is our intention and what we want to
ensure happens.

OUR PROMISE I can not wait until the day that we all are
able to be back in the school together and
DELIVERINGTHE are able to continue learning together and
HIGHESTSTANDARDS able to create more memories.
OF EDUCATION
AND INSPIRING Until then, I would like you to connect with
A LOVE OF LEARNING the story of Ibn Battuta, a Muslim Scholar /
Traveller from 14th Century Morocco who
travelled all over Afro-Eurasia.

This is our commitment. Dr. Joseph Kotarski Ibn Battuta’s urge to travel was spurred by
This is what we do as a team every day. Principal / CEO interest in finding the best teachers and the
This is what others can expect from us and what we can expect in return. best libraries, which were then in Alexandria,
This is the way we do things. Dear West Yas Academy Students, Teachers, Cairo, and Damascus. In short, he was in
and Parents, pursuit of knowledge, truth, spirituality,
OUR VALUES CREATIVITY PASSION culture, and meaning making. Though his
EXCELLENCE This school year has been an incredible journeys were over 600 years ago, there are
We dream big! We have fun and energy. experience to say the least; we grew many parallels we can draw from his travels.
What we do, we do very well. in enrolment by over 200 students, we I ask, “How will you pursue knowledge?”
COLLABORATION transitioned the school into a blended Just because we are not in a physical school
RESPECT learning model, and have concluded by at all times of the year does not mean that
We do things better, together. transitioning into 100% home learning in we cannot be in pursuit of knowledge. I
We care. very surreal times. I can say that throughout challenge to you adopt a mind set where
all of these significant changes there has you are a lifelong learner constantly pursing
always been one constant; you! knowledge. Where will your interests lead
you? I can’t wait to hear!
Our students have all been amazing
throughout and have brought so much life I wish you all a wonderful summer!
to our learning community!
Sincerely,
Joseph Kotarski

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VICE PRINCIPAL PARENT RELATIONS

HEAD OF ELEMENTARY EXECUTIVE our duties and responsibilities towards our
students in the most productive manner. Our
Thank you for supporting your children and parents are amazing, and interacting with
helping them in the learning process; the them is what makes me excited about coming
partnership between home and school has to school every day. I hope for many of us,
never been so important. Your commitment this experience represents an opportunity to
and care, especially during remote learning become even more engaged and involved
is truly valued and appreciated. I am positive in our students’ education, which will have a
your children will reflect on this historical tremendous impact on the advancement of
global event and cherish the time you spent their success.
together.
On behalf of West Yas Academy, I cannot
I would like to thank our hard working thank you enough for your commitment and
and committed staff members who have support, I would like to thank in particular the
continued to adjust and collaborate to Parent-Teacher Association that I work closely
deliver work to our students. Thank you for with for all their efforts and contributions
providing rich and engaging, well-rounded throughout the year. Our coffee mornings
experiences for our children, offering were really refreshing, and they added
opportunities to promote wonder and a vibrant spirit to our work routine. The
curiosity, along with the development of most exciting part was the positive and
21st century skills so needed to succeed. encouraging feedback from parents. One of
For these, and a million other things, we are my best moments this year was how we came
truly grateful. together as one community and showed our
love for this country during the National Day
Kathryn Head In closing, I take this opportunity to Aida Horany celebration at West Yas Academy.
Vice Principal - Head of congratulate all students at West Yas Parent Relations Executive
Elementary Academy! This year you developed so many To our wonderful teachers and staff, I want to
important skills and attributes that will Being happy at work is like having a best take this opportunity to express my deepest
As the school year ends, our minds and not only enhance your success as learners, friend for life! The first thing I was looking gratitude for the absolutely essential service
hearts are filled with empathy, compassion but also as people. Self -management, for when I searched for a job was having a that you are providing for our students at West
and respect. It’s been an unusual year! collaboration, communication, innovation, lovely environment where I can find comfort Yas Academy. Thank you for stepping up to
Together we’ve learned much and shared creativity, research, problem solving, and professionalism. Fortunately, I got it all the unforeseen challenge with such dedication
experiences that will long remain with us thinking, time management, resilience, when I joined West Yas Academy. and determination. True heroes.
in the years to come. The strength of our inquiry and ICT. These skills will provide you
community and wholehearted passion to a solid foundation to continue to strive and I would like to take this opportunity to To our students, I congratulate you on
ensure we take care of one another and achieve your goals. offer special thanks and appreciation to our successfully navigating the challenging
continue the learning for our children is parents for showing great understanding situation of this very unique year. I am
something to be very proud of. We send our best wishes to those leaving and cooperation in these unusual times. confident that you will be resilient and
Special thanks to our parents who have West Yas Academy and look forward to During the times of uncertainty and learn from this extraordinary experience.
contributed in significant and unimaginable seeing our returning students, families and distance learning, your patience and Remember, this year on top of homework and
ways! staff. May you all enjoy a very happy, safe dedication will be imprinted in our students’ assignments, we are documenting history!
and beautiful summer. minds. Your consistent follow-up, support Have a safe summer as I look forward to seeing
and collaboration has enabled us carry out you all back in school next academic year.

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STAFF 10

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ADMIN SUPPORT

Sherin AlJabour Aida Horany
Finance Officer Parent Relations Executive

Bernard Usana Naz Jehan
Front Desk/PRE’s Line Manager PA to the Principal

Nour Al Mohamad Eman Naser Ibrahim
Registrar Admissions Officer

Bayan Al-Tarawneh Marwa Alkhateeb
Elementary School Receptionist Middle School Receptionist

Samira Elsayed - Receptionist Amira Naeem - Librarian
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INCLUSION TEAM COUNSELLOR

I have been very impressed with students’
enthusiasm to work with me on their
wellbeing to achieve the best for themselves
and even for others.

I will always be here to guide and support
students.

Melvina.

Sharlene Espada - Inclusion Teacher Erica Spradley - Inclusion Teacher
SEN Lead for Grades 3-5 SEN Lead for Grades 6-8

Adriana Rios - Inclusion Teacher Marie Constante Melvina Sifri
SEN Lead for KG 1 - Grade 2 Inclusion Classroom Assistant School Counsellor

Janelle Cambarijan I am happy this year that I have worked
Inclusion Classroom Assistant closely with students in the areas
of personal, social, and emotional
13 development. I am also glad that I have
continued to build positive interactions with
students, even outside of a typical school
environment.

I have enjoyed many things this year, like
visiting the classes to present guidance
lessons. I also enjoyed working with
students on spreading bullying awareness,
celebrating mental health week, and
celebrating school Counselling Week.

It had been an honor to work with each
student, whether individually or in groups.

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LITERACY AND EAL ELA & EAL

We had a strong term 1, with wonderful
student progress and participation in the
extra curricular literacy club.

March brought unprecedented times, Jaula Smaili Laden
with schools closing around the world. Higher Level Teaching Assistant
We shifted quickly to a distance learning
model, with teachers, students, and families
showing amazing flexibility and resilience in
adapting to the changes. It’s been awesome
to witness the lessons teachers have
provided using a variety of online platforms,
and the enthusiastic response from our
students. We’ve become experts in video
conferencing, emailing, and sharing our
learning via Flipgrid - all incredibly useful
literacy skills. Despite the challenges, our
students have demonstrated dedication and
positive attitudes, and continued to make
make us proud of their progress.

Amanda Molloy This experience has brought us all together
Head of Literacy and EAL in new ways. The heart of literacy is
connection and communication, and our
What an interesting year this has been! West Yas community has excelled in both,
Literacy is the key to success in nearly in new and innovative ways. We’re proud of
every academic subject, and it’s our what we’ve accomplished together during
mission to help each and every student these uncertain times... but I really can’t wait
at West Yas Academy meet our rigorous to see you all in person again soon!
learning outcomes and develop a lifelong
love of learning. However, the unique
circumstances this year have changed what
that looks like - and for half of the school
year, we’ve done it at home.

No one knew in September how much our
lives would change in March. We started
our year with baseline assessments, and the
literacy team worked closely with teachers
to monitor student growth and identify
students who needed small group support
or enrichment in reading or English as an
Additional Language.

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ACADEMY OF ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE ACADEMIC
EXCELLENCE
Fares Al Mazrouei
Rob Weaver As the day continued ‘market forces’ Roxana Saidi
Academy of Excellence Co Ordinator changed, and the teams needed to Mariam Alozaibi
adapt their strategies accordingly. Hamdan Fadhl
As the Aldar Academy of Excellence Term 2 was affected by the changes in Sultan AlMemari
Programme entered its second year, education and planned activities needed Ghala Alhosani
students at West Yas continued to enrol to be postponed or adapted. Miss King Laila Alozaibi
in the four categories. In Term 1 the delivered the ‘Pencil vs Camera Project’ Zayed Bannoub
Elementary contingent attended the calling for all artists to mix their drawing
Primary collaboration day held at Al skills with photographs to produce new ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE SPORT
Mamoura Academy where they joined art concepts. She was very pleased with
with students from across the network the work produced. Al Reem Alromaithi
to work on an entrepreneurship task. Grevan Apparu
Split into groups each were assigned a We look forward to next year and Seif Mohamed
different set of resources with the aim of organising activities to begin as soon as Mansoor Bakhamis
developing, selling and trading products possible when school re-opens. Mansoor Al Hattali
with other groups with the aim of Sara AlNahdi
making a profit. Kayla Frank
Reem Al Marar
17 Khalifa AlNuami
Abdulla Alali

ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE ART & DESIGN

Hind Alameri
Mahra Al Hosani
Sorcha Saidi
Hind AlYahyaee
Layan Al Naji
Aisha Al Hemeiri
Reem Al Hosani
Maitha Alromaithi
Shahad Alali
Mai Jasem Alnuami
Hind Alnuaimi
Meera AlNahdi
Alyazia Al Hosani
Aysha Alhadrami
Shahad Al Blooshi
Fahed AlNuami

ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE MUSIC

Sean Tibe
Shamma AlNuami

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DISTANCELEARNING

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DISTANCELEARNING

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DISTANCELEARNING

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KG1 & KG2 We had a year of getting to know ourselves, 26
our community helpers and discovering all
about the beautiful living things in our world.
We learned about the sun, moon and stars
and all those planets. We found new ways of
making journeys and creating new spaces! We
researched about weather around the world
that we don’t always experience, learned
about the different types of homes that
people live in and discovered lots of new facts
about animals and their habitats! Not only did
we do all of this, but we also became self-
managers and communicators, we used our
thinking and researching skills every day and
collaborated with all our friends!

Kate Healy Each day, I was sure to see some amazing
KG Team Lead learning going on in your classrooms, with
wonderful smiling faces all around the KG
Hello KG students! pod and beyond, in the swimming pool, the
art room, the library, the playground you just
I cannot believe we are at the end of another immersed yourselves in all parts of school
year at West Yas, and the first year for many life! You were always so eager to share your
of you. It is not quite the end of year we had stories of what you had discovered or created
wished for, but we made it through and oh or encountered anytime I met you and I loved
wow, did we achieve a lot! hearing your tales of adventure.

What a rollercoaster of a year we have had! The end of this year has been a difficult one
It seems so long ago that happy new faces, for us all. Every day of distance learning, we
came to West Yas for the very first time, missed your happy faces, but loved seeing
excited to start your learning journey, ready your videos of the incredible learning you
to meet new friends and have fun along the were doing at home with your parents,
way. There were a few tears, but you quickly siblings, aunties, uncles, grannies – you had
became confident about your new school so many people to help you! You have shown
and surroundings! What a joy it was to see amazing spirit and had a wonderful attitude
so many familiar faces returning to West to changing your learning environment
Yas for another wonderful year, enthusiastic from your classroom to your home! We are
about what new learning was to come. These incredibly proud of you and what you have
familiar faces were so happy and helpful to achieved!
our new students, which was wonderful to
see! KG, you are my favorite! I am sad that we
cannot end this year in person with a smile,
a high five, a hug or a handshake but we will
remember this year forever. This is history
and we are part of it! Enjoy a well-deserved
summer of fun and I cannot wait to see you all
again on our return to school!

Ms. Kate.

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KG1DOLPHINS 28

Class Assistant: Emma Garcia Class Assistant: Jase Thomas

Teacher: Mrs Elmarie Pretorius Co. Teacher: Nour Alrwaidan
KG1 Lead Teacher
and best of luck and good wishes for KG2.
Dear Dolphins, Always remember, you are amazing and are
One of the most rewarding aspects of being capable of anything! Ms. Elmarie.
a teacher has been watching you all grow
over the course of the year. You all have
blossomed into young scholars, and I and
Ms. Emma are so proud of you all!

Letters and sounds soon became words that
invited you into the world of reading and
writing, giving you strong voices to express
yourselves. You grew as individuals too,
exploring your independence and what it
means to be a kind and caring student and
friend.

As you venture off, we hope that you all
will take what you have learned at West
Yas Academy, and apply it towards your
schoolwork, your friendships, and any other
situations that you may encounter.

Congratulations on your accomplishments

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KG 1 JELLYFISH 32

Class Assistant: Elinie Taguiam

Class Assistant: Esmer Mendoze

Teacher: Lauren Jasmin

Dear KG1 Jellyfish students,

I am super proud of how far you have come Co. Teacher: Jaula Laden
and what you have accomplished in one
year. As your teacher, I’ve come to learn May you always reach for the stars and know
about each one of you and seen you grow. I that nothing is too difficult, the more you try
can’t believe the end of the year is here. the more you will succeed.
I hate to see you go. You are such stars! I
love you all so dearly. Much Love,
Ms Lauren.
You light up my life with such joy. I mean
that sincerely. I remember all the fun we
had learning together. In all the things we
did, but most of all I will remember you all
as being my special and most hardworking
students.

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KG 1 SEAHORSES 36

Class Assistant: Leticia Smith

Teacher: Gina Hanlon. Class Assistant: Jessa Bautista

The school year is now over, our classes
soon will end. You’ve grown so much and
learned a lot. I’m proud of you, my friend!
The knowledge you have gained this year
– you’ll never break or lose. So keep it
safe inside your head, and use it when you
choose.

Although you move and change your grade, Co. Teacher: Janelle Cambarijan
you won’t forget the friends you made.
New friends will enter when you go but I Never forget that you can achieve anything
have a secret that you should know. When you set your mind to. Keep up the hard work .
you come back to visit me, the room won’t I will miss you all so much.
look the same but I’ll always have a hug for
you and be so glad you came. Ms. Gina

Well done on all the fantastic work you have
achieved this year in KG1 Seahorses. I am so
proud of the collabrative thinkers you have
become.

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KG 1 STARFISH 40

Class Assistant: Develie DQuizzagan

Class Assistant: Agnes Capitan

Teacher: Sue Ann Jones

To all my special Starfish friends,

I am so glad I had the opportunity to be
your teacher. I have learnt to know each one
of you, and each one of you are so special to
me.

I have watched you grow and develop in
so many different ways. Remember all the
fun we had, and the things we learnt. But
most of all, remember that you are special
because you are YOU!

I am so proud of each one of you, and wish
you all the success in KG2.

With love from,
Ms. Sue.

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KG 2 EAGLES 44

Class Assistant: Merlyn Esguerra

Teacher: Tracey Cannon Co. Teacher: Teaira Lindsey

Eager You have all made some amazing
friendships that I know you will keep as you
Ambitious move through your learning journey at West
Yas Academy. Ms. Merlyn and I feel very
Generous lucky to have been a part of that journey as
your KG2 class teachers.
Lovable
I can’t believe how quickly this year has
Enthusiastic passed and now you are all getting ready to
move forward to Grade 1, congratulations!
Students Continue being the amazing, wonderful
and kind individuals that you have been this
I have really enjoyed watching you grow year!
into curious and confident learners this year.
Although our time in the classroom was
cut short you have all adapted to the Home
Learning experience so well. I have looked
forward to seeing each of you everyday and
love hearing your stories and watching how
you have engaged with the various different
learning activities.

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KG 2 FALCONS 48

Class Assistant: Nelcy Derilo.

Teacher: Karen Moore Teacher: Kate Healy

Falcon class! What an adventure you have Co. Teacher: Derek Jung.
been on over the past year. You came into
the Falcon class in September ready for a You will be the amazing, super Falcons ready
year of learning and fun and made some to soar into Grade 1!
great new friends along the way!
Continue to be you and you will achieve
From the window, I could see you all with everything! Good luck and see you all very
your big smiles growing and learning each soon!
and every day! I listened to the wonderful
stories of your trips to Emirates Park Zoo and Ms. Kate.
Little World, and your exciting Sports day
with all that foam at the Cricket Stadium.

On your return to Term 2, you faced a
challenge of joining a new class with four
of your friends, and again in Term 3 another
challenge of Distance Learning. But you took
this all in your stride and continued to have
smiling faces ready to learn!

You have been amazing this year and these
challenges have helped you grow into
strong, resilient little humans!
I am so proud of all you have achieved this
year and have been incredibly happy to be
part of your final journey through KG2.

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KG 2 FLAMINGOS 52

Class Assistant: Grace Corgado

Teacher: Ashley Bryant Co. Teacher: Hanem Nahla
Technology Coach

Flamingos,

It’s time to say good-bye,
The school year is at an end,
We hope you’ve had lots of fun,
And count us as a friend.

We have watched you learn and grow ,
And change from day to day,
We hope all the things we’ve done,
Have helped you on your way.

It’s with happy memories,
We send you out the door,
With blessings for good things,
The next year holds in store.

Ms Bryant and Ms Grace.

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KG 2 OWLS 56

Class Assistant: Grace Evangelista

Teacher: Heidi Walker Co. Teacher: Amira Naeem

Dear Owls class, We are both going to miss you all so much,
but we are also excited to see you progress
It has been a pleasure to begin my journey into Grade 1, where we know that you will
at West Yas by being your teacher. We have continue to shine in all that you do! I hope
had a such a great year together and I am so that you have a lovely Summer, and I wish
proud of each and every one of you. you lots of luck with your next adventure.

You have all tried very hard with all of Miss Heidi.
your work and have become incredible,
independent learners. You have shown
me and Ms. Grace that you are capable of
amazing things! Even though we couldn’t be
in class together for the final part of the year,
you have continued to show us that you
have developed many skills and a true love
for learning.

I hope that you take away lots of happy
memories from being in our class – my
favourite is seeing you all having lots of fun
on our field trip to Emirates Park Zoo.

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KG 2 STORKS 60

Class Assistant: Jeraldine Buhayan

Teacher: Julia Wotton Co. Teacher: Marie Constante
KG2 Lead Teacher

What an adventure this year has been in and I will miss each of you so very much.
the Storks class! At the start of the year, Thank you for never giving up, for always
you worked hard to learn new routines and being up for a challenge and for being the
expectations so that you could really make best YOU could be! Good luck in Grade 1
the most of your year as KG2 students. It was Super Storks.
so wonderful watching each and every one
of you grow and learn through play each
day we were in the classroom together.

We also went on exciting trips to Little World
and Emirates Park Zoo to make our learning
experience even more fun! As the year went
on, we had to move to distance learning.
Although this was a challenge for us all,
you rose to the occasion! It was so fantastic
seeing that even though we were no longer
in school, your enthusiasm for learning was
still there.

It has been my honour to watch, guide and
partake in your learning journey this year

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GRADE 1 AND 64
GRADE 2

One significant difference this year was the
shift from learning taking place in school
to distance learning taking place at home.
The resilience and adaptability both of
staff, students and families is incredible and
something to be admired.

Matthw Starr I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of
Team Leader each individual classroom in the Grade 1–2
Department. I am proud and honoured
Dear Parents and Students, to be able to reiterate that I am fortunate
to be working with some of the best
As our academic year draws to a close we educators that I have had the privilege
have much to celebrate and many happy to work alongside. The drive, passion
memories. We celebrated National Day, and determination, underpinned by skill,
World Book Week, Flag Day and Fit for Fun knowledge and empathy has seen Teaching
Week. Most importantly our students have and Learning continue to raise progress
enjoyed another fabulous year. and achievement despite the ever changing
social, learning and emotional needs that
They have excelled in so many fields, it is we are confronted with. The team are aware
impossible to list them all. I have attended of areas to develop and, through reflective
many celebration events and have listened practise, address these as individuals and as
in awe as their achievements have been a whole staff approach.
described. These achievements have been
in their academic studies, sports, music and Have a wonderful and restful summer and
the arts to name just a few and we are justly I look forward to seeing you all again in
proud of them. September!

Best regards,
Mr Matthew Starr.

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G1 EMERALDS 66

Class Assistant: Flordeliza Romaces

Teacher: Alexandria Allen

My Grade 1 Emeralds, I know you will take that same strength and
determination into second grade.
Gems are truly what you are.
I couldn’t have asked for a better group Each and every one of you are truly unique
of students for my first year at West Yas and shine your very own special shade of
Academy. green.

Emeralds are said to have an energy that Love,
promotes creativity and harmony, that’s Ms. Alex.
exactly what you brought to our classroom.
You all have your own unique sparkle.
Emeralds emit a beautiful energy. This
energy I saw everyday whilst you were
learning, laughing, playing and discovering.

Although the end of the year didn’t go as
planned, Emeralds are strong and have
the ability to overcome anything. You’ve
radiated success during your online learning.

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G1 JADE 70

Class Assistant: Ms Jeseil

Teacher: Carole Keane Co. Teacher: Michelle McDermott

Dear Jade, you all again back in West Yas Academy in
It has been so rewarding watching each and September.
every one of you grow over the last year. Ms
Jeseil, Ms Michelle and I are so proud of how I will leave you with this poem -
far you have all come. You have made each
day an adventure and I have thoroughly You are a very special person,
enjoyed my time with you all. And you should know,
How I loved to have you in my care,
We have learned so much this year through How fast the year did go!
our different lines of inquiry- Folktakes,
Animal Kingdom, Night and Day. I think Please come back to visit me,
Animal Kingdom was our favourite as we As through the grades you go,
visited the Emirates Park Zoo and fed the Try hard to learn all that you can,
elephants! We also had a fantasic day out in There’s so much to know,
Wagamamma in February where we cooked
up a storm in their kitchen! One thing I tried to teach you,
To last your whole life through,
Unfortunately our time in school came to an Is to know that you are special,
abrupt end in March and I feel very sad that Just because, you are you.
we did not get a chance to say goodbye,
properly, however, I look forward to seeing Take care my Jades!
Love, Ms Carole.

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G1 PEARLS 74

Class Assistant: Miriam Oliva

Teacher: Ruth Joyce Co. Teacher: Baraa Badriah

Dear Grade 1 Pearls,

Congratulations for all your amazing This progress is due to your hard work and
achievements this year! Miss Miriam and persistence. I was also very proud to see the
I are so proud of you all. We have had a amazing work that you completed at home
wonderful year. during the school closure in Term 3.

I loved hearing about all your adventures You are certainly a very special class and I
and we were lucky to enjoy many will miss you a lot. Miss Mariam and I wish
adventures together too! My favorite you all the very best of luck in Grade 2 and
memory is our trip to Wagamama’s and for your future, we know it will be bright!
Fun City. I loved seeing you all cooking up
a storm! I have many fond memories in Ms Ruth.
our classroom too where I watched you all
develop your unique personalities and show
kindness, manners, creativity, diligence,
critical thinking and problem solving!

It gives me great pleasure in seeing the
progress you have made in reading, writing,
math, science and social studies.

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G1 RUBIES 78

Class Assistant: Simonette Alcantara

Teacher: Adri Becker Co. Teacher: Jennifer McGuigan
Grade 1 Lead Teacher
how to get along when things are tough.
I would like to start with a quote:
“All children are a different kind of flower, all I am confident to say that Rubies class are
together they make this world a beautiful ready for Grade 2. Congratulations to all of
garden.” you. I would like to finish off with a quote
to encourage our beautiful garden to keep
Rubies class have received skills to help growing in their own special way. “You are
them make the world a better place, a braver than you believe, stronger than you
beautiful garden. We have learned to be seem, and smarter than you think. “
friends at all times, and to forgive where we
need to. We have learned the skill of “not Mrs. Becker.
quitting” even if it is tough.

Rubies have learned about so many exciting
topics. Our favourite was definitely visiting
the Zoo. The students were so engaged.
Miss Simonette and I have loved teaching
the Rubies class. Each and every child was so
special to us. We got to know the students
in the classroom, and on the playground,
not only teaching them academics but also

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G2 AMBER 82

Class Assistant: Marites Rocha Reano

Teacher: Joanne Laufs Co. Teacher: Adriana Ines Rios
Grade 2 Lead Teacher

Grade 2 Amber,

It is time to say goodbye as our year has Our researching skills have improved so
come to an end. I so enjoyed greeting each much and we are now able to ask and
one of you at the door every morning. I have answer research questions all on our own
watched you all learn, grow, and change. I using books and the internet. My favourite
hope that all the things we have done have memory was our incredible trip to the
helped in some small way. Louvre and Al Wathba Wetlands, and
watching you all look around in excitement
We have learned about many interesting as your explored the wonderful places that
topics this year such as being world are available to us in Abu Dhabi.
travellers, habitats around the world and
looking after our earth. Some of our Thank you for always being active in your
favourite topics to discover and discuss own learning and making good choices in
were the art projects and artists in our Art our classroom. I hope that you have enjoyed
Detectives Inquiry lessons. I also enjoyed the your time in our Grade 2 class, and that you
research projects around famous inventors always keep your sense of joy and wonder!
and inventions!
Love, Mrs Laufs.

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G2 CORALS 86

Class Assistant: Krystyl Evangelista

Teacher: Ms Kerry-Ann Moodley Co. Teacher: Conor Hartnett

Dear students of Grade 2 Corals, how much it shaped our minds and hearts.
I would like to leave you with a quote from
This will definitely be a year that we will a famous scientist that this school year has
all never forget. We have reached so many reminded me of:
learning milestones together and I am so
proud of you all. I observed all of you find ‘Learn from yesterday, live for today and
your learning voice and show it to everyone hope for tomorrow’ - Albert Einstein
around you. You have shown so much
resilience and character this year with so Love you always my darlings,
many things happening around you and
that makes me even more proud of you. Mrs Kerry-Ann.

I will always remember the fun times in
and out of our classroom and only wish
we could have spent more time with one
another because you are all incredible
human beings. I foresee many great things
happening in each of your great futures’
and I hope one day we can look back at the
school year of 2019-2020 and remember

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G2 DIAMONDS 90

Class Assistant: Marilou Bancod

Teacher: Ms. Sarah Frank Class Assistant: Wahaida Saavedra
Social Media / Year Book Coordinator

Dear Grade 2 Diamonds,

I am so proud of you and all that you’ve Co. Teacher: Wafaa Al Shoumari
accomplished in Grade 2! There were so
many memorable moments such as our I know you will continue to achieve great
trip to the Al Wathba Wetlands where things in Grade 3 and beyond. You are
we walked in the hot sun and saw some capable of whatever you set your mind to,
amazing things like a dead Red Arabian Fox. and I believe in you!

We had a great field trip to the Louvre, Abu Take care, Stay Safe and I look forward to
Dhabi and a picnic lunch outside as we seeing you next year at West Yas Academy.
played together. I loved our conversations
and games on the bus! Please come and visit me!
Ms. Sarah.
In Term 3 we were faced with challenges as
the school closed. We started our Distance
Online Learning. I was so proud of how you
overcame this challenge with maturity and
self-determination. You took responsibility
for your learning and as a team we were
not going to let this get in the way of our
learning and our class!

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G2 SAPPHIRES 94

Classroom Assistant: Analyn de Villeres

Teacher: Mr Paul Ryan Co. Teacher: Bara Malkawai

On our first day in September, My wonderful students,
it was easy to see. it’s time to say bye.
“The best class in West Yas,” When you return in September,
Grade 2 Sapphires would be. don’t be too cool to say Hi!

We learned and we laughed, Mr Paul.
and laughed a bit more.
Our favorite game
was always “Sea, Ship and Shore”

Our school year has ended,
much sooner than I’d cared.
Huge thanks to your parents
for role of teacher they’ve shared,

No more lessons on Flipgrid,
you’ll be happy hear.
Spend time with your family,
I’ll see you next year.

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G2 TOPAZ 98

Class Assistant: Emelie Estrella

Teacher: Nyeema McCaskill Co. Teacher: Seba Alkhatib

To My Dearest Topaz Class, And do you remember the Bee-bots?!?
Those were neat. I’m sad that our year had
Our school year will be one that we will to be cut short. We didn’t end our year in
never forget. You all began the year in a traditional way. We had to do distance
September bright-eyed and bushy tailed learning. Please know that I missed you all
ready to learn. Some of you were shy and and I will never forget any of you. Have a
quiet while others were more outgoing. We great summer and good luck in third grade.
all came together and became an awesome
TEAM.

We had some great moments, didn’t we?
Remember the field trips to Al Wathba
Wetlands and of course BOUNCE! Bounce
was awesome. We also had a fun-filled
National Day celebration. What was your
favorite part of the year? Mine was seeing all
of you each day. It was amazing to see you
all improve your reading and writing and to
learn skills such as telling time, and adding
and subtracting with regrouping.

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