Parent's Review of Dubai American Academy in Al Barsha, UAE

What is the name of your child's school? (Please report on one school per survey.)

Dubai American Academy

In what town or city is this school located?

Al Barsha

How would you describe this school? (i.e. American, British, International, Local, etc.)

American

What grade levels are represented at this school?

K-12

How do most children get to school everyday? (bus, train, walk, etc.)

Bus transportation is provided but most parents drive their kids to school each day.

How would you describe the facilities at this school? What extra-curricular activities are available?

Excellent! A brand new elementary building that would rival any world class institution. There is a gym, auditorium, cafeteria track field and swimming pools for both elementary and secondary. There are an incredible number of extracurricular activities all the way from Ski Dubai to bead making. My problem is limiting my children in their choices!!

What has this school done to help your child transition from the curriculum in your home country into the curriculum in your new country? Are there programs to prepare your child for repatriation?

This is our third international school and all the schools have had an American curriculum so that transition was easy. The counselors are very supportive in helping the kids feel welcome. There is no real academic support in the upper grades and they are very honest about it and try to help you find the best place for your kid. We are American and want and international experience for our kids. DAA is that, especially the culutre of kindness that permeates throughout the whole school. It is a warm and inviting place.

How would you describe the social activities available for parents through this school? Are there parent-teacher organizations?

DAAPA is fantastic! These women put in so much time and we love their International Day and the Harvest Festival. Both are time when the DAA community can come together and enjoy ourselves!

What advice would you give to someone considering enrolling their child in this school?

Do it! I know this is a really glowing report but when it comes to my child's education and how happy they are and how they want to learn - I credit the teachers and staff for providing that environment.

DAA has grown incredibly over the past 3 years but the warmth and culture of kindness has never changed.