INTRODUCTION
WELCOME
The Universal American School Dubai reflects the diversity of the community it serves. Students from more than 70 countries enrich the school with many languages, cultures, and educational expectations. This handbook is intended to inform parents and students about how the Universal American School operates.
Universal American School prides itself on offering students a variety of personalized learning pathways that provide both an American and international education. Beginning in Elementary School and culminating at graduation, students receive academically rigorous instruction designed to meet their individual needs and interests. The foundation for a UAS education can be found in the school’s mission, vision, and values. When viewed together with the IB Learner Profile and IB mission statement, they provide a rich set of operating principles that underpin UAS life.
The Elementary School offers a personalized curriculum that is aligned to the New York State Standards, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Program (PYP), and the UAE Ministry of Education. The Middle School continues building on the strong foundation created in Elementary School through the exploration of a variety of course offerings aligned to the New York State Standards. These courses are designed to prepare students for a rigorous high school experience. As students move to High School, they begin to make choices about their future and their pathway to graduation at UAS. They may select an American High School Track, with or without Advanced Placement courses, or the IB Diploma Program.
UAS has an extremely diverse student body with graduating seniors attending universities around the world. UAS aims to provide pathways to graduation which allow students to attend their top choice university. During their 10th grade year, students, teachers, counselors, and parents work together to select appropriate, personalized graduation pathways Both paths lead to an American High School Diploma; additionally, students in the IB Program earn an IB Diploma and students participating in AP course may earn university credits for successfully completing AP exams
Through our personalized pathways, we strive to build confident, empowered, and globally aware citizens who will follow their passions and achieve success wherever they may go in life.
We look forward to working with your family this year.
Kind regards,
The UAS Leadership Team
GLOBAL-MINDEDNESS STATEMENT
UAS values an inclusive and diverse community. Our rich and long-standing central city presence, combined with an international focus, has allowed us to develop our community and celebrate diversity in all its forms. We understand that our schools’ communities are enriched by members’ varying backgrounds, including those of age, cultural tradition, ethnicity, gender, nationality, physical ability, race, and socio-economic position.
We seek to enroll families who will work in partnership with the school to embrace the challenging, yet rewarding, situations borne from diversity. Furthermore, we will support and advocate for our community, recognizing that different perspectives are valued. We recognize that our community includes our families, faculty, staff, and alumni - all of whom contribute to the tapestry of our school.
UAS is committed to a strong sense of global understanding. We recognize that diversity as a concept continues to evolve, and that we, as a community, will evolve with it. Our dedication to this effort shall be ongoing.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Our students understand that education transcends geographical boundaries. While our school is in Dubai, their learning experiences are designed to help them become citizens of the UAE and the world. The International Baccalaureate Program, with its emphasis on inquiry and learning through the study of global contexts, provides a rich framework for this to occur.
UAS values the importance of language acquisition while still honoring the students’ development of their first language. By reducing barriers created by language and broadening our understanding of cultures, our community members can better participate in a more global dialogue. At UAS, the study of language is designed to be inclusive. UAS is part of a network of global International Baccalaureate schools, and our students and teachers have countless opportunities to collaborate on curricular experiences and service opportunities, as well as participate in exchange programs.
At UAS, we strongly advocate the mission of:
"Encouraging students across the world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be right.”
It is through the refinement of empathy and international understanding that our students further develop a more global perspective.
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Universal American School is governed by a Board of Governors, from the Al Futtaim Education Foundation, which advises, supports and works with the Director and the Senior Leadership Team, to think critically about the future of the school and to ensure education provision is of the highest quality.
LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE
Our leadership team is composed of a group of highly experienced individuals whose main role is to develop a comprehensive, cohesive, and developmentally appropriate program for our students and to provide them with opportunities to identify and achieve a personal best in everything they do.
GENERAL INFORMATION
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
The UAS 2025-2026 Academic Calendar can be found here.
SCHOOL OFFICE ADMINISTRATION HOURS
Monday - Thursday 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Friday 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HOURS
PreK - KG1
Monday - Thursday 7:45 am - 12:45 pm
Friday 7:45 am - 11:35 am
KG2 - Grade 5
Monday - Thursday 7:45 am - 3:15 pm
Friday 7:45 am - 11:45 am
MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL HOURS
Monday - Thursday 7:45 am - 3:15 pm
Friday 7:45 am - 11:40 am
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
At 7:20 am, UAS staff supervision begins. Students should not be on campus before 7:20 am unless enrolled in a scheduled and supervised activity.
All students should be picked up from campus immediately after their scheduled dismissal. Parents will be called immediately if students are not picked up by 3:35pm Monday - Thursday or 12:00pm on Friday. There will be no supervision for students after this time.
If you are late picking your child up, you will be asked to sign a late collection sheet stating the reason. Should late pick up happen on multiple occasions, the following will occur:
Elementary Student Drop off/Pick Up Points
Elementary Students may be dropped off (starting at 7:20am) at Door A and Door D each morning. Parents should enter via gate 1 of the campus and exit via gate 4. Teachers are available to help your child at the drop-off zone. Parents should not walk their child inside if using the drop-off lane. For safety reasons, it is not permitted to drop off or pick up in the middle of the road. Limited parking is available if you would like to walk to the door with your child.
At pick up time, each grade level is assigned an area for dismissal. Assigned areas:
● Door A: KG1 and KG2, G1 and Late
● Door B: Grade 2 and LEAP Jr.
● Door C: PreK, Grade 3
● Door D: Grade 4 and 5
● Secondary Siblings: Reception area
Parents, older siblings, or an adult that you have given permission to, can pick up your child from the assigned area.
Secondary Student Drop off/Pick Up Points
Secondary School Students may be dropped off (starting at 7:20am) and picked up via gate 1 and 2 of the campus. For safety reasons, it is not permitted to drop off or pick up in the middle of the road. Students arriving after 7:45am must sign in at reception.
Lanyards on Campus
All adults on campus must wear a UAS lanyard. Teachers will ask to see the lanyard from a parent or guardian before allowing a child to be dismissed. If you cannot produce a lanyard, you will be asked to go to reception to produce identification and get an assigned lanyard.
CLOSED CAMPUS
UAS is a closed campus. Students are not permitted to leave campus without prior authorization. Students exiting the campus at the end of the school day are not allowed back on campus.
LEAVING CAMPUS EARLY
If there is an instance where you need to pick your child up before the end of the school day, please follow this procedure:
Leaving based on parent request:
• Parents/guardians must email attendance@uasdubai.ae and the homeroom teacher (Elementary) or grade level leader (Secondary) to request early pickup.
• UAS will confirm permission by phone call to parents.
• At pickup, the parent/student must sign the check-out form at Reception.
• Without an email, parents must come to Reception to sign out.
• Early pickup is only allowed before 2:15 pm. After this time, students remain in school until regular dismissal.
Leaving due to illness:
In case of illness during the school day, the UAS clinic will contact the student’s parent/legal guardian and work with reception to dismiss the student.
COMMUNICATION
Communication from the school to parents will be provided via email / phone call, Schoology, Seesaw, or in person. Your preferred email addresses must be updated to ensure you receive the necessary communication.
School Cloud
Universal American School uses online appointment booking system called School Cloud to book Parent Conferences, Week Without Walls and Extra Curricular Activities. Each parent has been assigned a unique code they can use to log onto School Cloud and view their child’s(ren’s) available conferences and ECA bookings. This code does not change.
Click the links below for further support.
• Training Guide on How to Book Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences (PTC)
• Training Guide on How to Book Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs)
Should you have any difficulty logging on to School Cloud, please contact ITsupport@uasdubai.ae
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
Grade Level Device Requirement
Pre-K – KG2 iPads will be provided by the school as needed.
Grade 1 – Grade 5 All students must bring their own iPad with a cover.
Grade 6 – Grade 8
Grade 9 – Grade 12
A device compatible with UAS systems is required. Students are encouraged to bring an iPad with keyboard case and stylus, but students may bring a MacBook or other updated laptop.
A device compatible with UAS systems is required. All students must bring a MacBook or other updated laptop.
ADDRESSING CONCERNS
When concerns about a student’s learning arise, we encourage students to take ownership of their learning and speak directly with the teacher or staff member connected to the issue. Any concerns should follow the flow chart below to ensure the most efficient resolution. If a parent has any other concerns to address, they can contact the Parent Experience Officer who will assist in directing parents to the best person to address their concerns and setting up any necessary appointments.
CLASS PLACEMENT
At UAS our goal is to create a balanced and dynamic learning environment for all students. Our teachers invest significant time and consideration into the class placement process, considering each student’s academic, social, and emotional needs.
While we value parental input, we do not accept requests for specific teachers or classmates. This approach helps to maintain the balance and diversity needed for an optimal learning experience. Any changes to class assignments could disrupt the carefully planned structure and affect the learning environment for all students.
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
OVERVIEW
As an American school, our curriculum provides a broad and balanced approach that encourages creativity and provides flexibility to meet the needs of our learners. Our focus is on the growth and development of the whole child through a well-rounded curriculum that includes experiential learning along with co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
The UAS curriculum is based on the New York State Standards, IB Primary Years Program, IB Diploma Program, Advanced Placement Courses and Arabic, Islamic, and Moral, Social, Cultural Studies standards from the UAE Ministry of Education. These standards are taught through a comprehensive program that is innovative, relevant, and personalized to meet the needs of all learners and develop their knowledge, understanding, and skills in the content areas.
Beyond individual content areas, conceptual and cross-curricular links are thoughtfully developed to model the application of knowledge in the real world and ensure a deeper understanding across subject areas. A key component of our curriculum is the development of critical thinking, research, communication, social, and self-management skills to foster independent, lifelong learners and prepare students for whichever path they may follow in life.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are considered a part of the school curriculum. Field trips are planned to enhance student learning and build community. As these trips are an important part of the curriculum, it is strongly encouraged for all students to attend all field trips.
For students to participate in field trips, written permission from a parent or guardian is required and any applicable fees must be paid to accounts by the deadline provided.
Students represent UAS to the greater community during field trips. Therefore, they are expected to wear their full standard uniform (unless otherwise directed) and maintain their best behavior. Students not in proper uniform or behaving inappropriately may be removed from the trip, and no refunds will be provided in such cases.
COMPLETING WORK
Homework
In elementary school, each grade level has collaboratively developed a set of essential agreements for homework. The common agreements are that:
1. Reading at all grades is essential. Regular home reading is considered as part of the students’ daily routine.
2. Home learning should be flexible to accommodate busy family schedules and students' extracurricular activities.
3. Home learning should not require excessive resources or excessive adult support for the students to be successful.
4. Home learning should be inquiry-based where students are self-motivated to complete tasks.
In secondary school, homework is assigned in class and can be found in Schoology. Homework is designed to be meaningful practice and should not exceed 10 minutes multiplied by the grade level (i.e. Grade 6 should expect no more than 60 minutes of homework a day).
No homework will be assigned during school holidays. For families wishing to explore further learning during holidays, it is recommended to utilize the digital platforms adopted by UAS (such as IXL) or other digital platforms available to you outside of school.
If you have concerns about specific homework, please contact the teacher for that content area. If you have concerns about the overall amount of homework your child is assigned, please reach out to their Grade Leader.
Elementary Missed or Incomplete
Assignments
In elementary school, students work with their teachers to complete missed work due to absence.
Secondary Missed or Incomplete Assessments
In secondary school, a doctor’s note is required when a student is absent, when a major assessment is scheduled or on the day that a long-term project is due to be submitted. Students who do not supply a doctor’s note when they are absent from a formal assessment or long-term project will be assigned a “0” in the gradebook for that assessment.
Students who miss assessments due to an illness will be assessed during the next class upon return to school, or at a time determined by the teacher. Any missed assessments must be completed within 24 to 48 hours after the student returns to school. Students are responsible for arranging the makeup time with their teacher. Should the assessment take place at a time other than the next class, students and parents will be provided at least 24 hours’ notice prior to the assessment being administered.
Students who truant (skip class) on the day an assessment is scheduled, or a long-term project is due, will not be able to resit or submit the assessment late. The teacher will indicate a truant assessment as a “0” in the gradebook.
ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING
For each class, students receive grades for their academic performance based on the subject area standards as well as behaviors for learning A Preliminary Report, Semester 1 report and Semester 2 report card will be shared to provide feedback on student learning. For Secondary students, teachers will record student performance regularly on Schoology, where parents will be able to monitor how their child is doing in their classes.
You can read more about our Assessment Policy and Practices here
Types of Assessment
In Elementary school, we use a wide range of assessments to track student progress and guide instruction. These include performance tasks, benchmarks, diagnostics, quizzes, and external assessments.
In Secondary school, student grades are determined by two forms of assessments. These are categorized as minor or major assessments, with major assessments having a higher weight in the determination of formally reported grades. Major assessment dates will be announced in advance. These will be shared via grade level assessment calendars on Schoology.
Secondary Assessment Schedules
Students are not expected to sit more than two major assessments in a day. Long term projects/assignments may not apply to this policy. If a student has more than two major assessments in a day, it is the student’s responsibility to inform their teacher and make arrangements to reschedule.
Final Assessments
Final assessments are administered for Grade 9 to 12 students. Students are expected to sit all of their assessments. An end of semester exam is not a student’s final grade. It is considered a major assessment, with a maximum weight of 26% High School in the calculation of a semester grade.
No prearranged absences are allowed during the exam period. Parents must contact a Secondary School administrator should their child be absent on the day of an exam. A doctor’s note on official letterhead is required should a student be absent when an exam is scheduled. This note must be submitted to the Secondary School office the day the student returns to school following an illness.
Grading Scale Descriptors
Grade/Descriptor
Exceeding (EXC) or A
Mastery (MAS) or B
Secured (SEC) or C
Developing (DEV) or D
Beginning (BEG) or F
Characteristic
• Produces consistently high-quality work.
• Communicates a comprehensive understanding of concepts and contexts.
• Consistently demonstrates sophisticated critical and creative thinking, such as synthesis, analysis, evaluation, and innovation.
• Frequently transfers knowledge and skills with independence and expertise in a variety of situations.
• Produces generally high-quality work.
• Communicates a secure understanding of concepts and contexts.
• Demonstrates critical and creative thinking, sometimes with sophistication.
• Uses knowledge and skills in familiar and unfamiliar classroom and real-world situations, often with independence.
• Produces good quality work.
• Communicates basic understanding of most concepts and contexts with few misunderstandings and minor gaps.
• Often demonstrates basic critical and creative thinking.
• Uses knowledge and skills in familiar classroom and real-world situations and, with support, some unfamiliar real-world situations.
• Produces work of an acceptable quality.
• Communicates basic understanding of many concepts and contexts, with occasionally significant misunderstandings or gaps.
• Begins to demonstrate some basic critical and creative thinking.
• Uses knowledge and skills with some flexibility in familiar classroom situations but requires support in real-world or unfamiliar situations.
• Produces work of limited quality.
• Expresses misunderstandings or significant gaps in understanding for many concepts and contexts.
• Infrequently demonstrates critical or creative thinking.
• Requires significant support.
Academic Honesty Policy
At UAS, it is essential that students understand academic honesty and are held accountable for completing their own work. In some cases, students are allowed or even encouraged to work collaboratively on assignments and projects. Students should always assume they are to work independently unless informed otherwise by the teacher.
Academic dishonesty includes:
● Copying the work of others
● Allowing someone to copy your work
● Sharing information during assessments (requesting or supplying)
● Possessing or using unauthorized material during an assessment (notes, websites, etc.)
● Communicating the contents of an assessment to another student
● Communicating with other students during assessments (messaging, etc.)
● Plagiarism
● Using AI to complete all or part of your assessment
At UAS, we follow an academic honesty policy. Please see the details linked here.
Reporting Student Learning
Ongoing Reporting
Students are assessed regularly, and their assessment work is available for review in their Seesaw / Schoology accounts and in their notebooks. Assessment results are communicated regularly with students to help them take ownership of their learning and remain accountable for their progress. Students are encouraged to speak directly with their teachers as the primary way to ask questions or address concerns about their learning.
For parents wishing to discuss their child’s progress, we recommend reaching out directly to the teacher(s). Due to teachers’ busy schedules, it is best to contact teachers via email to raise any concerns or to arrange a suitable time to meet.
Report Cards
At UAS, Students will receive three formal report cards: a Preliminary Report in the fall to establish a baseline, followed by Semester 1 and Semester 2 reports (Winter and Spring). All report cards will be accessible to students and parents via the PowerSchool platform. No paper report cards will be sent home.
Preliminary report card and semester grades are determined by student’s performance on assessments over the course of the semester.
Elementary School Reporting
In the Elementary School, we use a standards-based reporting system that focuses on student growth and mastery of grade-level skills. Teachers gather evidence of learning through classwork, observations, performance tasks, and assessments to provide a comprehensive picture of each child’s progress.
High School Reporting
IB and AP Exam Policy
Students enrolled in two-year IB, or one-year AP courses, will sit their exams in May. The study leave policy for these students will be communicated in advance by the IB/AP Coordinator. Students enrolled in one year AP and two-year IB courses are expected to register and sit their exams.
Earning Course Credit in High School
High School Students Grade 9 to Grade 12 are expected to demonstrate that they are on track for success by achieving grades of C or better in all subjects. Students that earn an F will not earn credit for the course.
Students who fail a course will have an opportunity to recover the credit in accordance with the credit recovery policy. In some cases, students will need to earn credit from an outside provider, in which case parents are required to cover any and all costs associated with these programs. Officially sealed transcripts from the completed class must be sent to UAS for credit to be awarded.
At the end of semester two, an 11th-Grade student earning a “2” or below in any IB course will be placed on an academic support plan, failing to show improvements in this course may results in being removed from the course and placed in an alternative course. As AP courses are one-year long, students with a ‘1’ at the end of semester one may be removed from the course and offered an alternative.
All students must earn at least a D in Arabic/AFL and Islamic Studies to be promoted to the next Arabic and Islamic course as required by the Ministry of Education.
Transcripts/Grades
Students will be awarded credit on a semester basis. Students enrolled in year-long 220 minute per week courses will earn 0.5 credits for Semester One and 0.5 credits for Semester Two. All 80 minute per week courses will be awarded 0.25 credits for Semester One and 0.25 credits for Semester Two.
Transfer Credits
Students that transfer in as High School students will have their previous coursework evaluated by UAS admissions/counselors and credit will be awarded according to UAS and UAE Ministry of Education guidelines. Weighted grades will only be calculated on UAS coursework.
Students enrolling in or transferring into UAS with missing credits will be expected to recover these credits. In some cases, students will need to earn credit from an outside provider, in which case parents are required to cover any and all costs associated with these programs. Officially sealed transcripts from the completed class must be sent to UAS for credit to be awarded.
Promotion and Retention
Students who do not meet the academic expectations of UAS may be required to repeat the grade level. If a student is in danger of being retained, a meeting will be held with the student, parents, teachers (as necessary), Grade Leader, and Assistant Principal. The final decision on promotion or retention will be made by the principal.
Standardized Testing
Students in KG2 to Grade 10 participate in the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment. MAP assessments are administered three times each year (Fall, Winter, and Spring) and provide information on students' abilities in reading, Math, and Science (Grade 3-10). Students in grades 3, 5, 7 and 9 will also complete the CAT4 assessment during their time in school. In addition, all students in grades 1-10 complete the New Group Reading Test (NGRT) to assess students’ level in reading.
GPA
Semester grades are used to calculate the cumulative grade point average. Only grades earned at UAS are used to determine a student’s GPA. A cumulative GPA is maintained for Grades 9 to 12.
Parent Conferences
Conferences are held three times a year for all elementary students, and twice a year for secondary students. Teachers will provide feedback to parents regarding the student’s strengths and areas for development.
1. Parent-Student-Teacher conferences: Elementary students will complete a goal setting sheet prior to the conferences.
2. Parent- Teacher- Conference: Elementary and secondary will offer insights into a student's progress, strengths, and areas for improvement, allowing both parties to align their support strategies effectively.
3. Student-Led conferences: Elementary students lead the discussion and share their portfolio of work.
Additional conferences/meetings can be scheduled throughout the academic year at the request of either the teacher or the parents.
STUDENT MANAGEMENT
ATTENDANCE
Reporting Absences
1. Navigate to UAS PowerSchool Parent Portal login page https://powerschool.uasdubai.ae
2. On the left-hand side, click on ‘Attendance Request’
3. In the new window, click on the student you wish to enter attendance for.
4. Under ‘Attendance Type’ choose the applicable for your child.
5. Enter the date and reason for absence.
6. A confirmation window will open confirming your request.
7. If you are unable to log an absence on PowerSchool, parents must contact the school at 045240444 ext. 2000 or email attendance@uasdubai.ae
Parents are asked not to send their child to school if they are unwell. A child must be free of fever for 24 hours without medication before returning to school. UAS asks that families refrain from vacations, extended leaves, etc during academic school days as it negatively impacts student learning.
Parents can keep track of absences and tardies via the PowerSchool portal. Although the school routinely monitors absences and lateness and will contact families when they see a concern, it is the family’s responsibility to monitor the absences and tardy limits. Up-to-date reports are available via the student and parent portal of PowerSchool.
For the link to the Attendance Policy, please click here.
CONTINUITY OF EDUCATION PLAN
Short-Term School Closure
In the event of a short-term school closure, the school will transition to a hybrid asynchronous learning model. The following measures will be implemented:
• Teachers will hold a 10-minute class meeting on Microsoft Teams to provide opportunities for students to ask questions and clarify instructions.
• Activities, assignments, and learning resources will be posted on the student learning platform, Schoology for secondary students and Seesaw for elementary, to facilitate independent learning and ensure continuity.
• Attendance as per the usual school attendance policy will be taken during the Microsoft Teams class meetings.
Long-Term School Closure
In the event of a long-term school closure, the school will transition to a synchronous learning model. This transition will be announced to families. The following measures will be implemented:
• Classes will be conducted in real-time using Microsoft Teams, following the regular school schedule to maintain consistency and structure.
• All resources, assignments, and supplementary materials will be posted on Schoology for secondary students and Seesaw for elementary to support student learning and engagement.
• Attendance will be recorded during live Microsoft Teams sessions as per the usual school attendance policy.
This plan ensures that teaching and learning continue seamlessly, maintaining high standards of education during any disruption.
School closures are subject to KHDA approval.
DRESS CODE
UAS students wear a school uniform to be in line with our school’s core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, and excellence. Our UAS uniform is designed to respect our host country’s culture.
Our uniform supplier is Sumeru. Further information about the available items and the current store locations can be found in the UAS Uniform Catalogue. Sumeru highly encourages parents to use their online purchase portal (www.shopatsumeru.com). Sumeru site location can be found on the 1st floor of J3 Mall on al Wasl Road in Jumeirah.
Accompanying the uniform, students must wear appropriate mono-colored/discretely colored covered footwear with non-marking soles. Sandals, flip-flops, croc-style shoes, slides, high heels, or shoes/boots above the ankle will not be allowed.
Students must also wear a UAS lanyard with an ID card in secondary school. One lanyard and ID card will be issued to existing students moving into grade 6 at the beginning of the school year and for all new students upon joining UAS. If lost or damaged, students must pay 50 AED to replace the ID card and/or 25 AED to replace the lanyard.
Finally, sweatshirts or jackets other than the UAS branded sweatshirt are not permitted to be worn inside the building during the school day. Hats and hoods are not permitted to be worn inside the building during the school day.
PE Uniform
In Elementary the PE uniform is to be worn on PE days only, a schedule will be shared by the homeroom teacher during the first week of school.
In secondary the PE uniform is only allowed to be worn during PE classes. Students must change into their PE uniforms at the beginning of PE class and back into their regular uniform at the end of class.
● Navy blue and red UAS branded mesh shirt
● Navy blue and red UAS branded mesh shorts
● Trainers/tennis shoes/sneakers
Field Lessons/Trips Uniform
When attending field lessons/trips, students represent UAS and are expected to present the best impression possible with their appearance and behavior.
● Students are expected to be in full UAS standard school uniform for all field trips.
● Students should not wear PE uniforms on Field Trips unless specifically directed to do so.
● Students not in proper uniform may not be allowed to attend the trip.
Non-Uniform Days
Throughout the year students will have the opportunity to participate in special non-uniform days. Some examples include:
● House Days
○ Students are permitted to wear their house shirt with navy blue or khaki uniform pants/shorts and appropriate footwear
● Spirit Days
○ On spirit days, students must adhere to the theme in order to dress out of uniform. Students not participating in the themed dress should be in their standard uniform. Theme examples include Tropical, Book Character, Sports team, etc.
● Dress Up Days
○ Any clothing, shoes, accessories, etc. should not be disruptive to the learning environment and must be culturally sensitive. Students whose clothing is not considered appropriate will be required to change prior to attending classes.
Uniform Infractions and Consequences
Students who choose not to comply with the uniform expectations listed above will remain in the school office until they are in the appropriate uniform.
For repeat offenses, parents will be contacted, and the student will participate in reflection sessions as deemed appropriate by school administrators The school administrators make the final judgment on uniform infractions.
Student Appearance Guidelines
At UAS, we prioritize creating a safe and conducive learning environment that aligns with the values and cultural norms of the UAE. To ensure this, all students are expected to adhere to the following:
• Face Visibility: Students are required to maintain clear visibility of their faces at all times during school hours. This includes refraining from wearing any items that obstruct the face, including long hair that extends below the eyebrows.
• Excessive Jewelry: While modest jewelry is acceptable, students are not permitted to wear excessive jewelry that may pose safety hazards or cause distractions in the classroom.
• Artificial Hair Color: Students must maintain natural hair colors during school hours. Extreme or vibrant artificial hair colors are not permitted as they may detract from the learning environment and cultural sensitivities.
• Piercings: Facial and body piercings should be limited to culturally acceptable norms and kept to a minimum to ensure safety and maintain a professional learning atmosphere.
BEHAVIOR
UAS provides a safe, orderly, and engaging learning environment where students can learn, and teachers can teach. UAS provides a student management system that defines appropriate behavioral boundaries while promoting student reflection, adaptation, self-regulation, and communal responsibility. We want students to be responsible for their own behavior and develop emotional resilience.
Please refer to the full behavior policy here, and see the PreK-12 Levels of Student Conduct listed below.
Color Card
A student color card is issued when student conduct does not meet the behavioral requirements for learning. Repeated level one offenses in the classroom will result in the completion of a color card reflection, parent contact, and the recording of the behavior in the student’s file. If the behavior does
not improve, the student will be removed from the class. Removal from the class will be accompanied by other consequences, such as lunch or after school reflection.
Secondary Intervention Reports
In the secondary phase, we use a three-tiered intervention report to support students who may need additional strategies to meet our behavior expectations. Initially, students receive support from their homeroom teachers. If they do not meet their agreed targets, the intervention escalates to the Grade Level lead, Assistant Principal and, if necessary, to the Secondary Principal.
Behavioral Improvement Plan (BIP)
This process is in place to identify and support students with ongoing behavioral difficulties. The purpose of this process is to identify areas of concern and open lines of communication for support that include the student, parents, teachers, and school leaders.
A student will be placed on a Behavioral Improvement Plan when they are consistently struggling with maintaining behaviors appropriate for learning. Parents will be notified, and a meeting will be set with parents and the student to discuss the specific areas of concern. The student may be scheduled for regular check-ins to monitor progress and the success of the plan. The Behavioral Improvement Plan will be reviewed quarterly. If a student demonstrates sustained improvement, they can be removed from the Behavioral Improvement Plan.
Acceptable Use of Technology
Students will be required to use a variety of devices and apps for their learning. It is important that students understand that devices at UAS are considered tools for learning and their use is expected to be only for educational purposes. Teaching students how to use these devices appropriately is part of the learning in School. All students and parents are required to sign and adhere to the UAS Acceptable Use Practices (AUP).
Misuse of technology will result in behavioral consequences deemed appropriate by a member of the School Leadership Team. Repeated misuse of technology may result in loss of technology and/or device related privileges.
School Bus Behavior
Students are expected to behave in a safe and respectful manner while on the bus. If the bus driver is distracted by a student’s behavior, they cannot pay strict attention to their driving. This poses a safety problem for all the students on the bus. All bus rules apply on field trips as well as daily transportation. The Maverick School Bus Behavior Rules must be adhered to at all times.
ELEMENTARY CUBBIES
All Elementary students will be assigned a cubby at the beginning of the school year. A cubby is a space to store students’ backpacks, and other belongings during the school day. Bags with wheels will not fit in the cubbies so are therefore not permitted. Students should keep their cubby clean and organized
SECONDARY LOCKERS
Middle School and High School Students have the privilege of being assigned a locker at the beginning of the school year. A locker provides a convenient spot to store your backpack, PE kit, phones, and other belongings during the school day.
MOBILE PHONES
Elementary and Middle School
Mobile phones are not permitted in the Elementary School or Middle School. If a student brings a phone, it must stay inside their bag in their cubby or locker throughout the day. If a phone is seen being used, it will be confiscated and taken to the Elementary or Middle School Office, where it will be turned off and securely stored until the end of the day.
High School
High School students are permitted to use their mobile phones during recess in designated areas. Mobile phones should not be visible in the school building, or in use outside of these designated times
HOUSE SYSTEM
Each student and teacher at UAS belongs to one of our four houses: Wolves, Wildcats, Vipers, or Falcons. Students are encouraged to participate actively in house activities and spirit days.
Our house system promotes teamwork, school spirit, and a sense of belonging, while recognizing effort, achievement, and good character. Houses earn Scorpion Points through classroom contributions and special events, including competitions, social activities, and sporting events. At the end of the year, the house with the highest total points is awarded the UAS House Cup.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES
CLINIC
Mandated Health Screenings in Dubai
Throughout a child’s school career, Dubai Health Authority requires certain screenings to be done by the school doctor. Parents will be notified in advance of each screening.
Policy on Administration of Medication
The clinic is stocked with necessary medicines, which will only be given to students after parents are contacted. If parents cannot be reached, the school doctor will provide appropriate treatment.
If medication must be taken during school hours, a parent/guardian must bring it to the clinic, sign a consent form, and ensure it is in its original packaging, clearly labeled with the student’s name and grade, and accompanied by a prescription copy
Students may not carry medication in their bags (except asthma inhalers and Epipens) and must take all medicine under the supervision of a school nurse.
Medical Emergencies
In a life-threatening or serious emergency, the school doctor and nurses will take immediate action to ensure the student’s safety. The emergency contact listed in school records will be notified, and if they cannot be reached, the doctor will provide necessary treatment and call an ambulance if needed.
Students with a high fever, illness, or serious injury will not be sent home on the school bus and must be picked up from the School Clinic by a parent or guardian.
CHILD PROTECTION AND SAFEGUARDING
Our staff and the Board are committed to safeguarding the children at this school and contribute to multi-agency working, to keep all stakeholders safe. Keeping children safe continues to be our top priority and all UAS staff are trained in safeguarding procedures.
You can read more about the UAS Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy here.
DEAN OF STUDENTS
The Dean of Students plays a pivotal role in enhancing student life at our school. This position is dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive environment where every student can thrive
academically, socially, and emotionally. The Dean of Students works closely with students to address their needs, promote positive behavior, and support their overall well-being. By coordinating various programs, activities, and resources, the Dean ensures that students receive the guidance and support necessary to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
ANTIBULLYING
Universal American School is committed to providing a safe, caring, and supportive environment where everyone can learn and work free from bullying. All members of the school community are expected to report any incidents of bullying so that action can be taken.
For more details, please see our Anti-Bullying Policy here.
INCLUSION
At UAS, we believe every child has the right to belong, learn, and succeed. Guided by the UAE’s National Policy for Empowering People of Determination and KHDA’s Inclusive Education Framework and Guidelines, we ensure that students of determination are welcomed and supported in our community. We celebrate the strengths of every learner, provide support where it is needed, and work closely with families to help each student thrive. Our aim is to create an environment where all students feel valued, make progress, and experience educational excellence together.
You can read more about our beliefs about Inclusion on our school here.
LIBRARY
The UAS library provides a collection of both print and digital resources that are accessible to students, staff, and families. The library is open from 7:30am - 3:35pm Monday - Thursday and 7:30am - 11:50 am on Friday.
Checking Out Books
● Students and staff are permitted to check out a limited number of books at a time from the library.
● Books must be returned on the due date in order to ensure our collection is accessible to the whole community. Any books that are long overdue will be considered lost and an invoice for the book will be sent.
● If a book is lost or damaged beyond repair, the person borrowing it will be charged a replacement fee.
COUNSELING
The UAS Counseling and Guidance Team creates a safe, positive, and supportive environment that helps students thrive both academically and personally. Their work is preventative, developmental, and responsive, with a focus on the whole child.
COLLEGE GUIDANCE
College guidance at UAS begins in Grade 8 with general meetings to introduce standardized testing, college selection, and pre-university pathways. Additional appointments with the College Counselor are available throughout Grade 12 for continued support.
FOOD AND CAFETERIA
Cafeteria
Students in KG2 to Grade 12 may purchase food and drinks from the cafeteria during breaks and lunch.
• Cashless Payments: Cash is not accepted. All purchases must be made using a student ID card with sufficient balance. Parents can check balances and top up funds through the SPARE app (see UAS Parent Guide to Using SPARE).
• Lost or Misplaced ID Cards: Contact the IT Office immediately or email uascards@uasdubai.ae to block the card and request a replacement.
• Pre-Order Option: For younger Elementary students, Abela offers a pre-order meal service, with meals delivered directly to classrooms. Instructions can be found in the UAS Parent Guide to Using SPARE.
Prohibited Food Items
Gum, candy, chips, soft drinks, chocolate, energy drinks, high-caffeine beverages, and similar items are not allowed at school. Please do not send snacks containing peanuts, peanut butter, Nutella, or other nuts, as UAS is a nut-free school to keep everyone safe.
Allergy Safety Guidelines
● No sharing of food or utensils.
● Wash hands before school and before and after eating.
● Our cafeteria does not serve nuts or peanut products.
● Parents should not send nuts or nut-based foods as snacks or birthday treats.
● Families must inform the school yearly about their child’s allergies and updates.
● Parents of children at risk of anaphylaxis must complete the Allergy/Anaphylaxis Form and provide prescribed medication, including an EpiPen.
LOST AND FOUND
All personal items should be clearly labeled with the student’s first and last name. Each division has a dedicated Lost and Found area where items found outside classrooms are placed. Electronics and devices are handed to the security team and kept securely in the office until claimed.
Any unclaimed items will be donated if not collected within one week after the end of each term.
BIRTHDAYS
The Elementary Birthday Book Program is a fun, educational alternative to classroom treats.
• Book Selection: On their birthday, students bring or choose a book to donate to the classroom or school library.
• Book Labeling: A special label inside the book will read: “This Birthday Book was donated by (student name) on (date).”
• Guest Reader: A parent, family member, or preferred teacher is invited to read the donated book to the class.
This program allows students to celebrate their birthday, share a love of reading, and give back to the school community. Please note: Balloons and goody bags are not permitted for birthdays.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Student Leadership
UAS offers many opportunities for student leadership roles, viewing leadership as both a responsibility and a privilege. Only students in good academic standing with satisfactory school citizenship are eligible for these positions. Leadership opportunities are advertised at the start of the academic year.
Student Government
UAS students can become involved in the school community through participation in the UAS Student Government. Student Government members are expected to be positive role models and take on a range of responsibilities such as organizing events, planning spirit weeks, and providing a student voice within the school community.
House Captains & Assistant Captains
Each house is led by student leaders selected by their peers. House Captains and Assistant Captains are nominated and elected each year. These leaders are expected to be positive role models and take on a range of responsibilities, including leading teams, organizing events, and supporting house initiatives.
Clubs and Committees
Students can join a variety of clubs and committees that play an important role in school life, supporting wellbeing and life skills. Examples include Student Government, Seniors Committee, Emirate Committee, NHS, Film Festival, Yearbook, PROM, Breakfast Club, MUN, and Environment Club.
In September, the Student Government will host a Club Fair where students can explore options and sign up for the clubs or committees that interest them.
Extra-Curricular
At UAS, we believe learning continues beyond the classroom. Our Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) program gives students opportunities to explore interests, develop skills, and build connections outside the regular curriculum.
We offer internal ECAs led by UAS staff, as well as external, paid activities run by providers. We encourage every student to participate in ECAs to discover their passions and engage with the UAS community. Students may take up to two internal ECAs per cycle. After School Activities can be booked through School Cloud as outlined under the ‘Communication’ section in this document.
LEAP Junior
What do we do at LEAP junior?
• LEARN - The program is designed to allow students in PreK and KG1 to continue their academic development beyond the typical school day.
• ENRICH - Your child will have a safe place to learn valuable skills that give them selfconfidence and the encouragement to find and cultivate their personal passions.
• ACTIVATE - Students will engage in activities to enhance their motor skills and promote health and well-being.
• PERSONALIZE - An individualized schedule of activities will be created to meet the academic and personal needs of each child.
LEAP Jr. is available to families of PreK and KG1 students until 3:15 pm Monday through Thursday. Enrichment activities, outdoor play, arts and crafts, and purposeful play are just some of the highlights that our program provides. The children have many opportunities to engage in activities that help develop their gross and fine motor skills. This after school program encompasses activities that promote language development like storytelling, read alouds, songs and moving to music. Parents should provide an extra snack for their child to eat while at LEAP Jr.
LEAP Jr. runs Monday-Thursday from 12:45pm to 3:15 pm . Cost for LEAP Jr: AED 6,500 per year.
Limited spaces available for this program. Please complete payment at accounts to confirm your space. Full payment must be made prior to the start of LEAP Jr. program
Grade 4-5 Camp
All Grade 4 and Grade 5 students have the opportunity to participate in a camping experience. Each trip is considered an educational trip focusing on cultural awareness, personal growth, life skills and service learning. During the trip, students are assessed in relevant areas by teachers and will be presented with opportunities to self-assess and reflect. It is important to understand that the data collected from this trip may impact report grades. Please note that students on a behavior plan may potentially be prohibited from attending Camping trips.
Week Without Walls
Week Without Walls (WWW) is a special program offering active, hands-on learning experiences for Secondary School students in Grades 6–11. These educational trips, within the UAE or abroad, focus
on cultural awareness, personal growth, life skills, and service learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world environments. Please note that students on Behavioral Improvement Plans may not be permitted to attend WWW trips.
Students have opportunities for self-reflection and personal development. Muslim students may also participate in a special Umrah trip, deepening their understanding of Islamic values through reflection, prayer, and devotion.
Student Awards and Recognition
To encourage a culture of excellence, we aim to recognize students who are living the UAS Mission and displaying the UAS values and learner profile. Recognition will come in many forms including, but not limited to, verbal recognition in class, the awarding of house points, recognition in assemblies, celebrations, and the presentation of formal awards.
