WELCOME TO THE HIGH SCHOOL
On behalf of the entire High School staff, I welcome our parents and students to an exciting 2011-2012 school year!
We welcome our new principal Mr. John Rutten who has been in education for over 28 years and 19 years in educational leadership roles in Elementary and High School departments. Hailing from Minnesota, USA
Mr. Rutten's genuine student centered approach is sure to enrich our school culture and performance. We also welcome Ms. Jacqlyn Shelly to our English department teaching English to our seniors.
We ended our school year last June with lots of uncertainties but it was a pleasant surprise to see this school year begin with a new High School building that houses the VP's and counselors' offices and 8 classrooms. All the classrooms are carpeted and individually air-conditioned. We have been able to retain part of our High School building with our science lab and two classrooms intact. A big thank you is in order for our Support Services Supervisor, Mr. Ravi Nambiar and his custodial team who worked tirelessly all through the summer to get the school in shape.
This year the whole school is on a common bell time that led to eliminating the activity period. Despite this time crunch we will continue with our activities during recess and after school too. Student organizations and various clubs have planned many events and would be utilizing part of the recess for the same.
We continue to focus on our AFG goals that of improving reading and writing across the curriculum. Plans are in place for staff to engage in professional conversations to meet our performance objectives.
You have already received the Parent-Student handbook. Please take time to review the information especially that of the behavior probation pertaining to the school discipline and discuss with your child. Though the school-wide rules remain the same this new Behavioral Probation has been blended with the Saudi Ministry of Education guidelines, ISG policies, ISG-Dammam procedures and has the approval of our ISG Superintendent. Misbehaviors come under 5 categories depending on their severity and are liable for appropriate demerits (more details can be found in the handbook). Please make effective use of this tool in communicating with school. Please feel free to call up school when needed.
The first day of school for students was great and it was good to see 202 students turn up on the first day. 42 new students representing various nationalities have joined our High School family enriching the rich tapestry of the multi-cultural weave of our High School. The Peers and Leaders (PALS) members have helped these new students acclimatize to ISG-Dammam.
Do remember to check our school website for current events and updates.
Back to school event is planned for September 21st from 2:00 4:00 pm. We look forward to meeting you and beginning to work as a team for enriching the lives of our students.
Yours in education
Vineeta Dambal
High School Vice Principal
ISG-Dammam
