The Wave - April 2016

Inspiration

Integrity

Achievement

Dr Doolittle Jr.

On April 13th and 14th, GSS put on their 4th Annual Secondary School musical, Dr. Doolittle Jr, for the KAUST community. Over 70 students in G6-12 began rehearsals for the cast and orchestra in February working tirelessly to prepare for the show.

Many members of the school community came forward to help with this outstanding show. Edith Brown-Ploeg and Lauren Molloy developed and created the animal costumes and Rebecca Morris created the beautiful backdrops for the stage. Both of these were instrumental in pulling off a show of this type. This show could not have been a success without the many people involved from TKS and those in the community.

We would like to send a special thank you to our seniors for their ďŹ nal performance of the year: Acacia D’Antoni (Dr. Doolittle), Leesa Tulley (Madeline Mugg), Meghan Lees (Emma Fairfax), and Dylan Finol (Albert Blossom). We wish them luck in all they do in the future.

Principled IB learner characteristic for the month

The students loved sharing their hard work with the community and they really appreciated the fantastic support from those who attended on both nights.

28 April 2016

the.wave@kaust.edu.sa

Note from the ECC Principals Dear parents, Thank you to everyone who contributed to the ECC teacher appreciation luncheon which took place in the week leading up to Spring Break. A special thanks must also be given to the ECC PAC members who coordinator this event.

This year we established classroom blogs in the ECC, primarily as a way of communicating effectively with parents.

The results from a recent parent survey indicate that 92% of parents get a sense of what their children are learning through the blog. This is wonderful feedback to receive as one of the primary functions of the blog is to inform parents about the learning that takes place each week in the classroom. It was also encouraging to read comments like: “Thanks for this great Initiative! it's very engaging and informative. It helps parents be part of child's everyday school experiences.” and “As parents, it helps us initiate conversations about what is happening in class and make connections the world we live in. Thanks.”

As always, we value your input as this helps us to further develop as a learning community.

ECC - Teacher Appreciation Lunch

THANK YOU: PAC and parents for organizing this!

Note from the GES Principals As we celebrate the Grade 5 PYP exhibition I have been reflecting on what makes the PYP such a powerful journey.

After 8 years in this program children have embarked on a journey of inquiry to understand issues relevant to them in their lives both locally and globally. Throughout this process they have been required to draw on all their experiences throughout the time in the PYP. They have been required to act in every way described by the learner profile. They have drawn on all the skills we have been developing over the entire 8 years; Thinking; Communication; Social; Self-Management and Research Skills. Their knowledge and understanding of the world as informed by the previous units of inquiry have given them a platform to inform questions and new wonderings. Finally the call to action has been informed by their new awareness of their world and the issues that lie ahead.

As the problem solvers and leaders of tomorrow I am heartened by an education system that has empowered our students to become responsible and resourceful global citizens of the future.

Sign a Pledge for a Screen Free Week During the Grade 5 exhibition, a group of students from 5SB wanted to take action in the form of organizing a Screen Free Week. Motivated by their class research into teachnology addiction, students - William Norseth, Shubhan Khanderi, Lina Ghaffour, Tumaris Isimjan, and Param Bagade- put together a parent information letter, pledge card and activity log encouraging students and their families to participate in a Screen Free Week.

More information about this initiative can be found at screenfree.org.

It’s not too late to participate.

Contact any of the students for information, or your child’s homeroom teacher for the pledge card and activity log.

Keep a record of all the activities you did instead of sitting down at a screen, or using a device.

Have you signed your pledge card for Screen Free week?

Note: Screen free time does not impact the MAP testing or other school work which requires the use of laptops etc during the school day. william.norseth@thekaustschool.org, shubhan.khanderi@thekaustschool.org, lina.ghaffour@thekaustschool.org, tumaris.isimjan@thekaustschool.org, param.bagade@thekaustschool.org

Sharing the Planet Did you know that many species in the Red Sea are endemic to this ecosystem? Do you know the causes of coral reef bleaching? Ask a third grader these answers and listen to the knowledge they have gained during our Sharing The Planet Unit.

The grade 3 students listened intently as a few Red Sea research students explained the ecosystem of the Red Sea. We learned how all the living species in the Red Sea compete for resources and how coral reefs actually offer very little resources so the species need to adapt in order to survive.

Three students were chosen from the audience to demonstrate how branching, table, and massive coral compete for sunlight and space, and how these species rely on one another for survival. Students were very busy taking notes during this presentation and they had a many great questions to further our inquiry.

By Rebecca Johnson, Grade 3 teacher

Notice from TKS Libraries ECC and GES Libraries will be closing May 26th Kindly return all books and resources by the 26th.

GSS library will be closing on May 31st Kindly return all books and resources by the 31st Summer Check out for all TKS libraries will be available June 5-9 with the exception of K2 and K3.

Data Handling in Grade 4 Grade 4 students have recently completed a Math unit looking at data handling.

In 4MN students were given a central idea to guide them with their learning. The Central Idea was: We can investigate data more easily with suitable graphs.

The class started by discussing the Central Idea.

This informs the teacher of the students’ prior knowledge, their understanding of the key words and what the students were interested in. Lots of questions began to flow. To help shape their questioning, students used the key concepts to create questions. These helped students to drive their process and helped shape their understanding.

For example: How do we know which graph to use to display our data?

The students then began exploring what they were curious about and how data could be collected to help them find out what they wanted to find out.

The students chose their partners to carry out their inquiry and selected a class who they would survey.

One group wanted to find out students’ favourite reading genres. They proceeded to collect their data and considered a variety of graphs to present their findings. They had discovered that fairytale and non-fiction were the most popular.

After collecting their data, students discussed together the suitability of graphs to represent their information.

Discussion of this kind helps to develop not only the students’ research skills but also their thinking and communication skills by requiring the students to analyse and apply the knowledge they are gaining.

Instead of stopping at this point, the group chose to take action with their learning. Their action involved them thinking about what they could do with their data. Who needs it?

They decided that Ms. Sewell, the librarian, would benefit from having the data as knowing what students enjoy reading helps her to know what resources to purchase for the school. The group shared their data with Ms. Sewell who has consequently made adjustments to the library purchasing order for next year.

By Linda Kent

Action! Riding Bikes Safely Recently, the grade one students have been engaged in a Bike Safety unit as a part of the GES PE program. The goal of this unit is to help ensure the safety of our students while riding to and from school or while riding throughout the greater community. As part of the unit, students watched a comprehensive Bike Safety tutorial, explored different kinds of Safety and what to do in different situations to remain safe. They were then asked to apply their knowledge in a practical bike-riding test administered by our PE specialists.

Finally, students earn their GES Bike License. These are awarded to students who were able to: 1. Demonstrate a strong knowledge of bike safety and the rules of the road 2. Apply their knowledge to real life situations 3. Conduct an independent bike safety check of brakes, chain and tires Students feel proud to have earned the GES Bike License.

For some, it’s a first step towards gaining more responsibility and freedom. But, we teach that the license does not automatically give permission to ride wherever and whenever. Parents always have the final say regarding when and where students will ride their bikes.

At KAUST we have the opportunity to ride together and enjoy the roads safely. The success of this program is credited to a strong partnership between our school and the community. By keeping Safety a priority, hopefully we can continue to foster a healthier and happier KAUST. TKS PE Team

Reflections

from the Director of TKS

In a recent IB training seminar I attended, the instructor asked participants to review the learner profile traits and to choose the one that they would consider appropriate for their epitaph. One of the gentlemen quickly selected “Principled.” Along with others in the room, I suddenly found myself considering the gravitas of the word, as well as many meaningful associations I had with it.

Principled: Moral, ethical, virtuous, upright, high-minded, honarable, incorruptible.

What do we stand by?

I listened to the introduction of Dr. Doolittle by 9th grade student Abril Rivera who encouraged us to enjoy the show, and also to consider an idea— the potential for deeper connection to animals, and more humane treatment of them.

Later in the week, I was in a 5th grade class in which students were considering changing their eating habits, taking action with new knowledge and understandings about food production and food itself.

I found the discussion hung on principles of responsibility to self and others, and to the earth.

The IB characterizes the trait in this fashion: We act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness and justice, and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere. We take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

Countless other examples of principle-centered learning are found in the discussions happening at TKS. I invite you to ask your child. "Can you identify one of your most deeply held principles that you were able to test out at TKS this year?”

Enjoy the example, and if you are inspired by at the strength of character your child demonstrates, consider sharing this with another person.

Maddy

Principled IB learner characteristic for the month

Grade 5 Exhibition

The Grade 5 team had a very successful PYP Exhibition on 26 April. The kids’ passion for their inquiries, their depth of understanding, and the emphasis on process really shone through.

A special thanks to all the teachers and mentors that made it possible, as well as the Grade 10’s for their support.

Note from the GSS Principals During the month of April, GSS closed up on many traditions: our fourth annual musical, Dr. Doolittle was a hit!; Out of Kingdom trips were celebrated, along with Earth Day and the graduating seniors during a recent assembly and clap-out; and Spring MAP testing took place.

With six weeks of classes left, there is still much to do. The grade 10-12 students will have exams during the month of May and commencement is around the corner. Teachers will be contacting parents if there is any concern regarding a student’s performance at this stage. We aim to have students ďŹ nishing the year having reached their potential.

Track and Field in Jordan

Beautiful Bali

The bus to the airport home from Bali was caught in traffic. Eighteen one-week veterans of the Out of Kingdom Odyssey trip were relaxed, even smiling. At first we attributed this to the calming spirit of that beautiful island. In fact it was excitement. Excitement at the prospect of missing their plane home. A unanimous chorus came from the back of the bus: “Can we STAY in Bali!!?”

For those considering an Out of Kingdom experience next year, those voices testify to the positive energy and ethos crafted by the Odyssey Bali Institute. At one level the variety of experiences seems miraculous. In a tropical downpour we waded into the rituals and clear fountains of a water temple. We crowded around an ingenious local recycler, able to turn trashed coffee sachets into attractive, sturdy handbags. We mud wrestled on one day and swam through the surf into a bat cave the next.

But the real power lay in the ability of our hosts to weave it all together into a fabric of understanding. A deep understanding of the interrelatedness of things. A powerful connection with the earth, each other and that captivating island. One of the 11th grade girls captured the trip perfectly in just two words: “Life changing”. We are happy to be home,……………. ‘But can we go back?!’

Cabby Tennis, Laura Howley

TKS Art Exhibition at the Campus Library Each year, senior Visual Arts studets have to present an exhibition of their work as their final exam. They have to put up their display by themselves in order to fulfill the exams requirements and experience the life of an artist. This year, for the second year, our seniors were allowed to present their exhibition at the Campus Library.

As it is a special space within KAUST, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Library admin team and staff for their kind support. An Art exhibition is a hard thing to do when you are an adult, but it is even more challenging when you are a teenager.

Although the exhibition is an opportunity to shine and show accomplishments, the planning and realization of the event remains very intimidating.

The fear to be judged can become tangible at times and during the preparation at the library there were moments of accute stress. In the end, I was really pleased with the maturity and the hard work that Emily, Miko, Romane , Rehab, Haneen , Billie and Acacia put in the preparation of their displays.The exam went well and the opening night was a success. Here are some of their comments: Rehab: “Everybody's positive comments in the end made it one of the best nights of my high school life! There's nothing more heart warming than people appreciating your work that has a personal connection to you as a person.”

Romane: "The exhibition was the most challenging thing I have ever done, but I loved every minute of it."

The visitors clearly enjoyed their discussions with the artists and many people commented very positively on the quality of the pieces displayed.

During the week following, the Primary school visited the exhibition. The grade 4 sent fan letters to the seniors and invited them to a Q&A session in the auditorium.

It was a real treat to see how the seniors were boosted by the G4, and how much enthusiasm was coming from the G4.If they all take Art in the DP we have some great exhibitions to look forward to.

Edwige Thivin-Boutry DP Art Teacher, Diploma Coordinator

Important Notice - TKS Immunization Requirements Immunizations are one of the best, most cost-effective ways to prevent dangerous diseases. TKS requires all students to comply with the school’s published immunization requirements, based on Saudi Ministry of Health requirements. Even if your child was up to date with vaccines on admission, they may now need further vaccines, especially if going into K3 next year.

If your child did not receive the currently recommended vaccinations on admission or was in the process of receiving a series of vaccines at the time of admission, then the health office may still need further proof of immunization.

Be sure to send a copy of your child’s immunization record to the school nurse if your child has had immunizations in the past school year. KAUST Health (formerly KMC) does not update the health office with immunization records.

Students who are not up to date with immunizations will not be able to attend class until the school nurse has received proof that the student has had all required vaccines. If you have any questions about what vaccines your child is due, please contact the health office at the details provided in the blue block on this page.

Garden ECC (K1) Health Office Ph: 808 6280 nurse-gardens-ecc@thekaustschool.org Harbor ECC (K2) Health Office Ph: 808 6212 nurse-harbor-ecc@thekaustschool.org Harbor East (K3) Health Office Ph: 808 6312 nurse-elem-east@thekaustschool.org Gardens Elementary (Grades 1-5) Health Office Ph: 808 6412 nurse-elem-west@thekaustschool.org Garden Secondary (Grades 6-12) Health Office Ph: 808 6812 nurse-gss@thekaustschool.org

Malissa Underwood, School Health Coordinator

Making Immunizations Easier Immunizations can be stressful for children and their families.

Here are some tips to help make this experience less stressful while aiming to give your child a feeling of success:

Health Coordinator, Health Office, Ph: 808 6712 Malissa.underwood@kaust.edu.sa:

• Be honest and give a simple explanation (ie: "You need to have medicine to keep your body healthy. This kind of medicine goes under the skin"). Avoid using the words "shot", "needle", or "injection". These words often provoke fear or false ideas.

• Discuss coping before the event. Ask your child if they will want to watch or look away and help them pick out a small toy or book to use if they want to look away.

• Discuss jobs: "your most important job is to hold still", "my job is to help you count and take deep breaths".

• Encourage slow deep breaths while counting during the immunization and right after. Deep breathing will help to relax muscles and give your child a focus.

• Bring 1-2 small sensory toys (ie: something with sound, light, vibration). This item can be used right after the immunization to encourage a quicker recovery.

• Give positive praise from beginning to end: "Great job breathing, it is helping you stay calm", "great job holding still, it is helping the nurse do her job” A Child Life Specialist is available to help at KAUST Health on Tuesday and Thursday from 8:00-12:30. Please email rpietruszka@drfakeehhospital.com for child life services for your child.

Raye Pietruszka, Child Life Specialist

MAY 2016 EVENTS

TKS - Whole School

Date

TKS Graduation

May 25

ECC Events K3 Assembly

May 25

GES – Gardens Elementary School GES MAP Testing GES Human Growth & Development GES Choir Concert GES Youth Sports Season 5 Ends

May 1 - 5 May 4 May 24 May 26

GSS – Gardens Secondary School GSS G12 IB Exams GSS SAT Testing GSS G5 Transition night GSS G10 MYP E-Assessments GSS Spring Concert GSS Senior Gala GSS G6 Incoming Parent Info night GSS G11 End of year exams GSS Commencement Rehearsal GSS G5 Move-up

May 2 - May 20 May 7 May 9 May 9 - 20 May 11 May 20 May 22 May 22 - 25 May 24 May 24

Co-Curriculum / Sports For updates on schedules and more info visit: ttps://www.facebook.com/TKS-Sharks-Activities-282668925259824 click here RSAC U14 Boys BB @ TKS RSAC U14 Girls BB @ BISJ

May 6 May 7

Print and stick on the fridge Contacting ECC: K1 Receptionist: 808 6320 K1 Health Office: 808-6280 K2 Receptionist: 808 6267 K2 Health Office: 808-6212 K3 Receptionist: 808 6408 K3 Health Office: 808-6312 Contacting GES: Reception: 808-6363 Health Office: 808-6412 Contacting GSS: Reception: 808-6703 Principles offices: 808-6867