ASD Week Without Walls Program Guide 2016-2017

2016-2017

Week Without Walls

AN A S D M I DD L E S C HOOL TRA D ITION S IN C E 19 9 7

The American School of Dubai, an independent not for profit American community school, offers what is the best about American education to provide learning experiences designed to promote the maximum potential of its students.

OUR MISSION The American School of Dubai’s mission is to challenge and inspire each student to achieve their dreams and to become a passionate learner prepared to adapt and contribute in a rapidly changing world.

CORE VALUES Compassion | Excellence | Integrity | Respect | Responsibility STUDENT PROFILE Thinker | Communicator | Contributor | Learner | Leader & Role Model CONTACT P.O. Box 71188 Dubai, UAE +971 4 395 0005 www.asdubai.org

Contents 4

Introduction to Week Without Walls

14 Grade 8 Trip Descriptions

4

History of Week Without Walls

17 Parent Roles & Responsibility

5

Student Eligibility & Trip Selection

18 Student Expectations & Responsibility

6

Program Objectives

19 Health Information

8

Journal Standards

20 Risk and Safety

9

Grade 6 Trip Descriptions

21 Insurance

10 Grade 7 Trip Descriptions

22 Sample Forms

Dear Middle School parents and students, In 1996 I was working at a school in New South Wales, Australia when I was selected, along with one of my students to participate in the Wilderness Enhanced Program--a 10 day hiking and canoeing adventure in the Australian outback. This first foray into experiential education transformed me as an educator and led to a firm belief that programs like Week Without Walls are an essential part of a young person’s development. Watching students trying to scramble together up a rock chimney, the program leader, Ray Handley reflected, “Nature teaches.”

Since that time with the Wilderness Enhanced Program, these words have echoed back to me each time I watch a student in that challenge zone: – about to jump off a pier into icy water in Aberdovey, Wales – on a windy, early morning run around a lake in the Pennines – about to take the microphone in front of 300 MUN delegates – assisting a friend on those last steps to the summit of a hill – negotiating a price for a locket in a Greek market – having the courage to start the conversation with a new seatmate you hardly know In each of these cases, what was most remarkable was how the students “experienced the power of an idea for themselves”. At ASD we strive to create an environment that facilitates this learning principle. Week Without Walls is the extension of this principle into the real world. To follow on Ray Handley’s observation: Experience teaches.

What is Week Without Walls?

An annual service project program for the American School of Dubai Middle School.

Based on a solid curricular foundation, Week Without Walls (WWW) extends students’ academic skills to authentic, real-life situations through a series of academic, social and interpersonal learning experiences occurring outside a traditional classroom setting. The WWW experience develops a greater understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity, different environments and international awareness.

History of Week Without Walls A tradition for over 15 years, WWW began as a middle school trip to explore the United Arab Emirates. In 1997, students and teachers traveled to Musandam, braved desert tours and studied the marine life in Fujairah.

Teachers quickly realized the great benefit of student learning outside of the classroom walls. Students experienced new cultures and learned about local traditions. ASD was encouraged to create an international trip to enhance student understanding of the world and engage in meaningful community service projects.

Sincerely,

The following year, sixty-three middle school students departed for Thailand for a week of culture, adventure, and community service at a local orphanage, Pakkret Babies Home. Students participated in team building activities and were introduced to the Grand Palace. As ASD grew, so did the WWW program. By 2001, the WWW program expanded to include trips to Nepal,Thailand and Oman.

Ronald Lalonde, Ed. D Middle School Princpal

ASD middle school students have visited more than 25 different countries since the first international trip in 1997.

Today, we are proud to continue the WWW tradition by sending Grade 6, 7 and 8 students to Greece, Nepal, Tanzania, Thailand, Cambodia, South Africa and Sri Lanka.

Someone said to the teacher: ‘You relate stories, but you do not tell us how to understand them.’ He said: ‘How would you like it if the man from whom you bought fruit consumed it before your eyes, leaving only the skin?’ Indries Shah (1971)

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Student Eligibility

All Grade 6, 7 and 8 students at American School of Dubai participate in WWW as part of the middle school curriculum. Each student is required to have a current UAE residency visa and a passport that is valid 6 months from the date of travel. Students with repeated disciplinary or academic concerns will not attend WWW.

Attendance Expectations

Students may participate in Week Without Walls (WWW) if they attend at least one half-day of school on the day of travel. Students may not participate in WWW if they have missed the last day of school before travel date for illness. We reserve the right to disallow students from traveling if, on the day of travel, it is apparent that the child is unwell or has a fever. This is in the interest of your child and all children on the trip. We also reserve the right to disallow students based on behavior issues before the trips.

The Trip Selection Process The trip selection process is an exciting tradition, and just the beginning of the Week Without Walls experience.

Students in Grades 7 and 8 choose between three different WWW destinations through a lottery system.

Each trip is unique and offers students a rewarding experience. To ensure the trip selection process is fair, students pull a lottery number to represent their turn in selecting their first, second or third choice of destinations.

Grade 6 students do not participate in the lottery; all students travel to Greece as part of the Grade 6 curriculum focus on ancient civilizations.

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The WWW Program Objectives and Learning The program objectives and learning goals are consistent for each trip in the areas of cultural understanding, personal growth, life skills, service project and curriculum enrichment.

The Week Without Walls program enhances middle school curriculum by exposing students to new cultures and academic and personal growth opportunities that cannot be achieved in a regular classroom setting. It is a unique opportunity for ASD middle school students to experience a new country and culture in a small group setting of their peers and ASD faculty. Each grade level may travel to different destinations, but the program objectives and learning goals are consistent for each trip in the areas of cultural understanding, personal growth, life skills, service project and curriculum enrichment.

students to step outside of their comfort zones. Trip activities are designed to encourage students to build camaraderie and experience WWW as a team to further develop students’ social skills.

Cultural Understanding

The skills students learn during WWW become life lessons and building blocks for student growth and maturity. Students learn important traveling skills such as reading a map, photography, time management, communicating in a foreign country, safety awareness and compassion.

To promote an appreciation of cultural understanding, students participate in a number of local activities and interact with residents to understand how life in other countries differs from their own experiences. Students may have the opportunity to learn a traditional dance or song or visit historical sites that help to develop an appreciation for cultural diversity and traditions.

Personal Growth

The WWW experience offers the opportunity for students to grow and mature in their interpersonal relationships and to develop a sense of independence through adventure. Traveling to a new country challenges students to be responsible and teaches

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Trip leaders also encourage self-reflection. Students are coached to take seriously each service learning activity or cultural adventure. As part of the WWW curriculum, each student records their experiences of the trip in a journal along the way.

Life Skills

Service Project

Each student participates in a service activity for the community they visit. Students grow in cultural awareness and global perspective by working handson with the local community. Service project activities include planting trees, building houses and visiting orphanages depending on the WWW location. Middle school students become global citizens and begin to understand the impact they can make on the world around them.

Curriculum Enrichment and Learning Objectives The WWW experience extends the MS curriculum and learning objectives outside the walls of ASD. Each destination is truly a classroom without walls, and learning objectives are tied to every activity and service project. Trip leaders work with students in small groups and evaluate student growth and development in three key areas:

Positive Learning Attitude

Seeks/accepts challenge and copes well with change Demonstrates independence

Organization and Time Management Respects timelines Follows guidelines

Collaboration and Participation Participates enthusiastically Listens actively Respects group goals Works to resolve conflict

Students demonstrate growth in these areas in a student journal. Trip leaders provide prompts throughout the week to challenge students to make connections between the country they are visiting and their own life experience. Students are encouraged to be creative with their words to express their growth and understanding. Journals are evaluated as part of the student grade for WWW.

Sample Journal Prompts How are your pastimes different from people you’ve met on this trip?

How did you challenge yourself out of your comfort zone today/during this trip?

ASD Core Values in Action

What are you finding the most surprising? What is different than expected?

Treats others with compassion and understanding

How would your life be different if you had been born in _____? How would it be the same?

Assumes responsibility for decisions and behavior Respects ASD’s Expectations and Code of Conduct

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Week Without Walls Journal Standards and Checklist Academic Course

Learning Target

The Journal Grading Criteria

Language Arts

I can produce clear and coherent writing where my development, organization and style are appropriate to task, purpose and audience

Exemplary

Social Studies

Learner Development

I can present an argument/claim about an issue and support it with evidence Trip-specific standard and learning targets

What does an exemplary journal look like?

• Students submit 5 journal entries for evaluation. These are clearly labeled so chaperones know which ones to assess.

• Overall journal entries present an argument/claim about an issue. Students support this argument with evidence.

• Journal entries meaningfully address the writing prompts.

Students make a clear connection between the prompt and thier experience. Writing shows reflection and not just a list or itinerary of the activities of that day.

• Journal entries are neat, organized and legible.

• Obvious effort was put into the journal. Students did not just craft it overnight or after the trip.

• Journal contains artifacts and pictures.

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5 journal entries feature the requirements above.

Proficient

4-5 journal entries feature the requirements above.

Adequate

3 journal entries feature the requirements above.

Limited

2 journal entries feature the requirements above.

DND

1 or no journal entries feature the requirements above.

Students Should Remember • Journal entries can take on a variety of formats: sketches, drawings, bullet points, paragraph form, cast of characters, charts, graphic organizers, quotes, memorabilia etc.

• Journal entries can be written outside of times required by chaperones.

• Students may bring a glue stick, tape and envelope to paste and store artifacts and pictures.

• Some journal entries can remain private; students may fold over and/or staple the page.

• Journal entries should include the prompt question (if applicable) and the date.

Grade 6 Greece Experience what life is like today in Greece and learn about the rich, ancient history of the past.

During the Grade 6 trip to Greece, students explore the Acropolos, visit museums, shop and dine in the Plaka, learn traditional Greek dances, and watch Greek theater.

The trip also includes excursions and activities outside of Athens.

Students experience Ancient Delphi, the original Olympic site, visit the historic Poseiden’s Temple, learn the art of pressing olives and much more.

One day is designated to a service project with Plant-a-Tree, an organization that aims to increase urban greenspace in Greece.

Students work together to plant trees on a hillside in an area that has been destroyed by forest fires.

JOURNAL ENTRY: The tour Guide Jenny let us go into the Olympic stadium and I nearly cried I was so happy. The whole stadium was made of marble and it has lasted around 1000 years. The track was around the same size as my school track except they used black gravel while we used red gravel.

When I stood up on that podium I really felt like 1st place!

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Grade 7 Tanzania A safari adventure in the Serengeti camping under the stars on Ngorongoro Center, and community building in a local Masai village.

The safari includes games drives and hikes where students encounter elephants, zebras, wildebeest and lions. Team building is a big part of the safari adventure and students work together to learn to set up a campsite and participate in activities that strengthen friendships. Each day ends with a campfire discussion focused on the day’s activity and the WWW objectives.

As part of the service learning goals, a portion of the trip is spent in partnership with the Dorobo Fund to support two remote building projects at local schools just outside of the Serengeti National Park. Students work alongside the Dorobo Fund and the local children to build, play games, talk and learn about one another.

Activities include:

Game drives in National Parks - Ngorongoro Conservation Area - Serengeti National Park - Interaction with the Maasai and Dorobo tribes - Hiking - Stargazing - Camping

JOURNAL ENTRY If I was born in Tanzania, I would have to start working at a young age and I would not be able to gain the education I need. I would not get to live in a nice big house or go to nice big malls everyday. If I was born in Tanzania, I might have been very poor or in extreme poverty.

Local water for people in Tanzania is not always clean which makes it unhealthy and leads to serious health issues.

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Grade 7 Nepal Trek The fabulous adventure to the Annapurna Mountains of Nepal provides an opportunity for students to explore a number of outdoor activities such as mountain trekking and whitewater rafting.

Students will learn to cook a traditional meal, learn to paint Mandalas and interact with the friendly Nepalese community. A highlight of the trip is experiencing one of nature’s amazing wonders – a breath-taking sunrise over the Nepal Himalayan Mountains.

Students will participate in a service project by working with Nepalese children at a local mountain school. ASD students will interact with the children by reading, playing games and sharing in their learning. This service activity will help to foster understanding, compassion and empathy

between students from different cultural backgrounds and experiences.

Activities include: Kathmandu - White Water rafting the Trisuli River - Painting - Cooking - Four full days of mountain trekking - Staying at local Teahouses - Pokhara - Canoeing- World Peace Pagoda - World Heritage Site.

Note: This is an outdoor, physically active trip.

Students will hike 5 to 7 hours for 4 days to allow them to fully immerse into the Nepali culture.

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Grade 7 Nepal South This rewarding trip takes students to Chitwan to work with local villages on a service project building sustainable biogas plants.

Students will learn all about the local Tharu community and participate in the everyday activities of this unique cultural group.

This includes biking, learning to fish, cooking local foods, riding an ox cart, and traditional dancing. In addition, students will learn about the unique ecosystem of the Chitwan National Park through interactive lessons from park managers, a jeep safari and a canoe ride inside the park. Students will also experience camping on the bank of the Budhi Rapti river.

The service project includes biking to the worksite, and working three days on the biogas project, which will provide multiple impactful and positive effects on the village. Each night the students will have an opportunity to 12 | Week Without Walls

participate in traditional village activities. These activities will help foster understanding, compassion, and empathy between people from different cultural backgrounds and experiences.

Activities include:

Exploring Kathmandu - White water rafting - Working on a Biogas project - Biking - Driving an ox cart - Traditional fishing - Cooking lessons - Jeep safari in Chitwan National Park - Canoeing - Traditional dancing - Camping - World Heritage sites Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Temple

Grade 7 Thailand The trip to Thailand promotes a spirit of adventure and inspires students to face challenges, realize their potential and discover their passions through the many wonderful with experiences they will encounter throughout the week.

Students will participate in adventure activities such as rock climbing, trekking and camping, and experience the rich Thai culture by exploring local markets and learning Thai language and cultural etiquette.

Students will engage with established, local non-governmental organizations (NGO) while in Thailand. As part of the service learning goals, students will observe and interact with experts and participate in hands-on activities with community organizations such as Art Relief International, Forest Restoration Research Unit and Fair Earth Farm. Depending on the organization they choose to work alongside, students will use art as a way of outreach to social groups and humanitarian organizations in Chiang Mai, learn about forest restoration in northern Thailand, or engage in a study of ethnic minority groups and learning about the organic and industrial food systems.

Activities include: Rock Climbing – High Ropes Adventures – Trekking – Thai Farm Cooking – Lanna Exploration – Camping.

JOURNAL ENTRY: This experience has allowed me to really appreciate the world and fortunate life that I am living in Dubai. By seeing those children’s smiles and seeing their living and school, I now understand how lucky I am. I loved being around them, spending time with them and learning that to be talented you don’t need the best art supplies but a creative mind. This experience has truly made me a special person. More caring and more appreciative of what I have.

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Grade 8 Cambodia Travel the Cambodian countryside of Siem Reap, bicycle through the famous temples and cruise in the Tonle Sap Lake.

The trip to Cambodia is filled with activities where students can experience the best of Cambodia’s nature and history.

Students travel the Cambodian countryside of Siem Reap, bicycle through the famous temples and cruise in the Tonle Sap Lake. Students will learn about life in Cambodia during a three-night homestay in a local village.

Students will participate in a service learning activity by supporting and working alongside the Trek Community school spending time with students of all ages, to teach english and lend a hand with a building project.

Activities include: Silver Pagoda Kulen Mountain - Hike to a mountain top temple - Waterfall Swim - Flight of the Gibbon Zipline Floating Village - Crocodile Farm - Bokator Martial Art lesson - Horseback Riding - Angkor Wat Bicycle Tours Tuk Tuks - Khmer Rouge Historical Sites.

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Grade 8 South Africa During this fabulous trip to the Western Cape of Africa, students will explore the bustling port and cultures of Cape Town, as well as experience the natural beauty and adventure of the Garden Route and Nature Reserves.

Students visit many important historical landmarks and natural wonders.

A portion of the trip includes a service project within an indigenous Cape Town community. Students will visit a local farming project and take a tour of the community. The goal is to understand the richness of the community’s capacity to thrive within their cultural context and to see how we may learn from them as we seek to be in service with them. Students will also participate in team building activities throughout the trip. These activities help students to foster a deeper understanding of themselves and the new friends they will meet along the journey. The goal is to expand the students’ cultural awareness and social consciousness in relationship with the people and environment that will host them for this transformative trip.

Activities include:

Table Mountain - Robben Island - Hike in Knysna Nature Reserve Canyoning - High Ropes Course - Kayaking - Traditional Braai - Drum lessons - Gumboot dancing - Game drives - Cape Malay supper.

JOURNAL ENTRY: The drum session stuck with me out of all the activities that evening. I’m not into drumming The instructor told us to let out all of our feelings on the drum. At first I found it pointless, but after the first minute I started to get into the rhythm and various patterns.

This is the event that gave me the most energy and cultural impact. I could feel the power and energy coming from the drums. The instructor also informed us on the different types of drum and how drums play a huge role in South Africa’s culture and history.

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Grade 8 Sri Lanka The trip to Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is an exciting trip with an itinerary that balances fun activities, opportunities for challenge and service learning.

A portion of the trip is dedicated to a service project with SOS Children’s Villages. SOS Children’s Villages cares for children who are orphaned, abandoned or whose families are unable to care for them. Students raise funds to sponsor a family as well as work hands on at the SOS Villages to help with chores, play with the children and learn more about their daily life and routines. In addition, students also work with two rural schools in Sri Lanka by raising funds and also spend time with children and their families.

Activities include: Dutch Fort City of Galle - Tea Plantation of Nuwara Eliya - Madu Mangrove River River Safari - Cinnamon Island Horton Plains National Park - Surfing Lessons in Bentota Elephant Safari in Udawalawe - Whale-watching in Mirissa 16 | Week Without Walls

JOURNAL ENTRY: Steepness and height have always been a huge fear of mine and today I had no choice but to face them. “Should I back away from the stairs or should I climb them?”, I thought carefully.

It was time to suck up the fear, bring out my inner confidence and walk up the fearful stairs. Thank God I had my friends behind me to catch me if I fell. After facing my fear and pushing myself to take risks I learnt that anything is possible and all challenges can be faced.

Parent Roles and Responsibilities It is important for parents to be involved as their child prepares for WWW. Parents become a cheerleader and offer encouragement for their child as they embark on this important experience. Preparing for WWW is a wonderful opportunity for parents to talk about the trip and the growth opportunities ahead.

Stay Informed

Timeline of Key Parent Responsibilities

The best way parents can support their child is to stay informed and engaged. Parents should attend parent meetings and refer often to the trip specific Haiku pages that are managed by trip leaders. The Haiku pages are a key resource for parents and students as they prepare for WWW. Each Haiku page contains important information such as schedules, packing lists, trip itinerary, important announcements and upcoming parent and student meetings.

The general timeline associated with the WWW

Documentation and Permissions

September Student Passports and Residence Documentation check (Parents review documents to ensure they are up to date)

Student documentation, medical requirements and parent permissions are required for all students. Each family is required to complete WWW Forms A – C that provides emergency contact information, parent permission and a medical release form. Samples of these forms can be found in this guide. Forms are also available through the MS Office and webpage.

Every student must have a passport that is valid for six months from the date of travel and a UAE residency visa that is valid during the dates of travel. Parents submit copies of these documents to the MS Office in order for a student to be eligible for WWW.

Financial Responsibility

Parents are responsible for funding their child’s WWW trip. The cost of each trip ranges from AED 7000 - 11000.

The cost includes airfare, accommodations, food and trip activities. Also included in the cost is a standard AED 300 student pledge to support the service learning aspect of the WWW program. A non-refundable deposit of AED 1500 is due in the fall, and the remaining balance is due at the beginning of the spring semester.

All fees are paid to the ASD Business Office located on the second floor of the Administration Building. The Business Office hours are Sunday - Thursday, 7:45 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.

Payments are made by cash, check or credit card.

program are listed below. Trip specific details are communicated by trip leaders through email, parent meetings and the Haiku announcement pages.

October Grade Level Parent Meetings Student Trip Selection and Lottery for Grade 7 and 8 Student Passports and Residence Documentation due Trip Deposit due to the Business Office November Forms A - C due to MS Office WWW Haiku Pages Launched Health information update form due (online) January Final Payment Due to Business Office Personal Medication Drop-off to Health Office February Pre-Trip Parent Meetings and/or Final Parent Communications Week Without Walls Trips WWW Recovery Day - No school for MS students March Student Journals Due Student Presentations – WWW Exposition

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Students Expectations & Responsibilities Student Service

Service is an important part of the Week Without Walls (WWW) experience. Trip leaders and chaperones work with trip providers and other agencies to develop experiences that help students understand how they can contribute to assisting the disadvantaged, preserve a sustainable environment or enhance social justice in the world. The necessary materials, expertise and programming are built into the cost of each WWW trip.

Student Behavior Expectations

Students are expected to behave in a manner that represents the ASD Core Values, Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, Respect and Responsibility, and follow the Student Code of Conduct at all times.

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The Student Code of Conduct is part of the MS Behavior policy which can be found in the Middle School Handbook.

If a student violates the Student Code of Conduct, parents and the ASD Administration are immediately contacted.

For severe violations, the student is sent home at the parents’ expense if it is feasible. The student is held accountable to the MS Behavior Policy and may lead directly to level 2 consequences.

Student behavior expectations specific to WWW are: • Maintain a positive attitude at all times • Arrive to group meetings on time • Respect project and journal timelines and due dates • Act respectfully with peers, trip leaders, chaperones and tour guides

Health Information Student health and safety are of utmost priority to the American School of Dubai. Please note the following important details associated with supporting a safe and healthy WWW experience.

Instructions for Personal Medications Students are not allowed to carry their own medication with the exception of an asthma inhaler or epipens. All personal medications are to be given to the ASD Health Office before the trip. Parents will be notified of specific dates and times the Health Office will be collecting personal medication. When turning in medications, parents please ensure: • Medications are in their original containers.

Healthy Travel Tips for Students • Wash your hands: Use soap and water and wash frequently to avoid getting sick.

• Stay hydrated: Drink safe water. Trip leaders will let students know if tap water is safe. If not, students should only drink boiled or bottled water and brush teeth with bottled water.

• Check your food: Ensure food is cooked properly.

Students are not to purchase food from street vendors or eat food that is not well cooked. It is important that food is served at the proper temperature.

• Protection from the sun: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat if outdoors.

• Be safe around water: Only swim with trip leader permission and never alone.

• Protect your feet: Prevent foot infections by keeping feet clean and dry. Always wear shoes. Break in hiking shoes before the trip.

• Do not handle or pet any animals: If you are bitten or scratched by any animal, report immediately to your trip leader.

• Avoid mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can transmit disease.

Wear insect repellent, long sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent mosquito and other insect bites.

For further information consult your personal physician and www.cdc.gov/travel.

Personal Medication Needs Trip leaders carry a first-aid kit with common, over-thecounter medications such as Panadol, Advil, Strepsils, Imodium, Maalox, antihistamines (similar to the medication that is stocked in the Health Office). These medications are available to treat any student on the trip, and parents do not need to supply over-the-counter medications.

• Medications are clearly labelled with student name and dose.

• Liquid medications are not allowed.

• Medications are not accepted at trip departure.

The ASD Health Office is available to answer any medical questions during school hours. The Health Office is located in the Elementary School hallway nearest Gate 1 and the red stairwell.

Immunizations and Medications for Healthy Travel It is important for parents to consult their family physician about the proper vaccines and anti-malarial options and to get all necessary vaccinations. The health office recommends students get vaccinated as early as possible.

Vaccinations need time to take effect. It is a good idea to get vaccinations over the winter break before returning to school in January.

Required Immunizations MMR, DPT, Polio and Hepatitis B: These immunizations are required for school and must be up to date before traveling on WWW. Yellow Fever: Required for Tanzania only. This mandatory vaccination can only be obtained at the Dubai Government Travel Clinics: Al Barsha Health Centre (04-502-3301) or Al Mankool Clinic (04-502-1227). The immunization costs approximately AED 380 in cash. Bring your child’s passport or Emirates ID to the clinic. The Yellow Fever vaccine must be documented in the International Yellow Booklet and given to the trip leader.

Recommended Immunizations Typhoid: A bacterial illness spread by fecally contaminated food and water. The CDC recommends typhoid vaccination for all WWW trip locations with the exception of Greece.

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Hepatitis A: Recommended by the CDC for all travellers to intermediate and high risk areas including South Africa, Nepal and Tanzania. All other WWW trips travel to areas considered low risk for Hepatitis A transmission.

Varicella: For children who have not had the chickenpox disease, the CDC recommends two vaccinations, an initial vaccine and a booster. Be sure you receive both.

DESTINATION

REQUIRED VACCINATIONS

Malaria Prophylaxis: Malaria is a serious disease, spread by mosquitoes, with significant potential for morbidity and mortality. Following CDC guidelines, the ASD Health Office strongly recommends that your child take malaria prophylaxis if traveling to Cambodia, Nepal South, or Tanzania. Please consult with your personal physician to obtain a prescription for the medication that is best for your child, either malarone or doxycycline. Mefloquine is not an accepted anti-malarial.

RECOMMENDED VACCINATIONS

ANTIMALARIALS (*2)

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Greece

None

None

No

None

Nepal: Trekking

None

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

No

None

Nepal South

None

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

Yes

*1

Tanzania

Yellow Fever

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

Yes

*1

Thailand

None

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

No

*1

Cambodia

None

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

Yes

*1

South Africa

None

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

No

None

Sri Lanka

None

Hepatitis A, Typhoid

No

*1

*1 Take standard precautions to avoid mosquito-borne illness: DEET containing insect repellant, long sleeved shirts and long pants *2 Anti-malarial options are Doxycycline or Malarone (Mephaquin, Larium NOT advised due to resistance, side effects) Consult personal physician to select appropriate medication.

Anti-malarial Options MEDICATION

MALARONE

DOXYCYCLINE

START

2 days prior to trip departure

2 days prior to trip departure

FREQUENCY

once daily with evening meal

once daily with evening meal

FINISH

take for 7 days after return

take for 4 weeks after return

COST

$$$$

$

SIDE EFFECTS

minimal; well tolerated by most people

minimal; well tolerated by most people; increased sun sensitivity; occasional stomach upset

A Note About Risk and Safety The nature and purpose of Week Without Walls may expose students to a degree of risk not typical of regular on-campus classes. Trips may include activities such as hiking and other physical activities that are not risk free. The Middle School Administration recognizes the need to review each WWW destination and itinerary to minimize potential risks and to determine necessary safety procedures. All trips are subject to a risk and safety assessment.

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Parents should be aware of the following: 1. In order for trip leaders to take the best possible care of students, parents are required to disclose any health issues.

2. Some trips may require students to take specific vaccinations or a physical.

3. Student names and passport numbers are given to the US Consulate in Dubai and/or the US Embassies or Consulates in the respective countries of travel.

4. Students do not travel to destinations with a discouraging travel advisory from the US Embassy.

5. WWW trips that include rigorous physical activity or special skills are communicated to parents.

6. Trip leaders and chaperones have up-to-date and current first aid training (within two years).

7. All students are covered by emergency medical and evacuation insurance.

Emergency and travel insurance is included in the cost of each trip.

8. Access to emergency medical care, communication capabilities, proper travel conditions and evacuation procedures are reviewed for each destination. This information is available to parents before their children travel.

Seven Corners Travel Insurance Policy Week without Walls Program Summary

Administered by: Seven Corners, Inc., 303 Congressional Blvd., Camel, IN 46032 USA The Underwriter hereby insures all persons whose Application has been accepted by the Administrator, Seven Corners, Inc., on behalf of the Underwriter and whose name is identified on the ID Card, subject to all the exclusions, limitations and provisions as ser for the herein and in the Master Policy of insurance issued by the Underwriter. Coverage is afforded only with respect to the person, coverage, amounts and limits specified herein and as identified on the ID Card for the insurance requested on such Application and for which their specified plan costs has been paid to the Administrator.

Schedule of Beneftis: All Coverages and plan costs listed in this Evidence of Benefits are in U.S. Dollar amounts Medical Maximums $500,000 (age 80+, maximum limited to $15,000). Medical Maximum is per person per period of coverage Deductible $0. Deductible is per person per period of Coverage

Note: All coverage and benefit amounts herein are in United States Dollars.

Coinsurance After you pay the Deductible, the plan pays 100% to the selected Medical Maximum

Eligibility: Week Without Walls plan provides coverage for individuals and families provided You are either:

Hospital Indemnity $100 per night, up to a maximum of 30 days

Class 1: U.S. or Canadian citizens traveling outside the United States

Dental (Accident Coverage)

Class 3: Non U.S. citizens traveling outside of their Home Country (No travel inside of the U.S.)

Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation

$500,000 (in addition to the Medical Maximum)

Eligible individuals may also purchase coverage for their eligible dependents. An eligible spouse shall be defined as the Primary Insured’s legal spouse. An Eligible Dependent Child shall mean the Primary Insured Person’s unmarried children over fourteen (14) days and under nineteen (19) years of age.

Return of Mortal Remains

$50,000

Return of Minor Child(ren)

$50,000

Emergency Reunion

$50,000

Local Ambulance Benefit

$50,000

Accidental Death &

$25,000 principal sum for

It is the insured Person’s responsibility to maintain all records regarding travel history, age and provide any documents to the Administrator, which would verify Eligibility Requirements.

To a maximum of $550

Dental (Sudden Relief of Pain) To a maximum of $250

Dismemberment (AD&D) Insured or Insured Spouse. $5,000 principal sum for Dependent Child.

Aggregate limit of $250,000 per family

Period of Coverage: The minimum Period of Coverage under Week Without Walls plan is five (5) days, maximum Period of Coverage is twelve (12) months. Coverage can be purchased in a combination of monthly and/or daily periods by paying the appropriate plan cost.

Loss of Baggage

$500

Interruption of Trip

$5,000

Effective Date of Coverage begins on the latest of the following: 1.

The date and time the Underwriter receives a completed application and plan cost for the Period of Coverage; or 2. The Effective Date requested on the application; or 3. The moment You depart Your Home Country; or 4. The date the Underwriter approves the application.

Hospital Room & Board Usual, reasonable and customary to the selected Medical Maximum

Expiration Date of Coverage terminates on the earlier of the following: 1. Your return to Your Home Country (except as provided under the Home Country Coverage); or 2. The expiration of twelve (12) months from the Effective Date of Coverage; or 3. The date shown on the ID card; or 4. The end of the period for which plan cost has been paid; or 5. The date You fail to be considered an Eligible Person; or 6. The maximum benefit amount has been paid.

Home Country Coverage Incidental Trips to the Home Country, Up to $50,000. Extension of Benefits: Up to $5,000

Intensive Care Usual, reasonable and customary to the selected Medical Maximum Outpatient Medical Expenses

Usual, reasonable and customary to the selected Medical Maximum

Unexpected Recurrence Up to $20,000 (Age 65+, up of a Pre-existing Condition to $2,500).

This benefit is payable to U.S. citizens when traveling outside the United States and Canada Amateur Sailboat Racing Benefit

$15,000 Maximum per Policy Period; $60,000 Lifetime Maximum.

Subject to $1,500 Additional Deductible per Policy Period

Benefit Period

180 days Week Without Walls | 21

Form A Sample 2016-2017 Week Without Walls Parent Agreement Form Please return to the MS Office by November 27, 2016 I _______________________________________________________________________________________________ [insert parent name] am the parent of _________________________________________________________________ [insert student name] (“My Student”).

By my signature below and acting on behalf of My Student I acknowledge and understand there are risks involved in _________________________________________________________ [insert trip name], (“ASD Event”) which include, but are not limited to physical and psychological injury and death.

For myself and My Student, I acknowledge that: 1) American School of Dubai (“ASD”) has made available all material information about the ASD Event, including but not limited to the ASD Event schedule and travel information; 2) there are inherent risks in student group travel; 3) I have had the opportunity to raise any and all questions with all appropriate ASD representatives about the ASD Event, the information about the ASD Event made available to me or to My Student, the travel risks known to ASD; the ASD Event structure and the ASD personnel and representatives involved in the ASD Event; 4) I have disclosed to ASD, in writing, all relevant information about My Student that could impact in any manner any of the risks involved in the ASD Event and certify that my student is physically fit and capable to participate in this trip; and 5) I have read and understand this entire Disclosure, Waiver and Release of Liability. For myself and My Student, I release, hold harmless, and agree to indemnify ASD and its representatives, employees, and agents (“Released Parties”), from and against any present or future claims, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses for injury to person or property, or for any other damage, which I or My Student may suffer or for which My Student may be liable to any other person related to My Student’s participation in the ASD Event (including all time in transit to or from the ASD Event destination) resulting from any cause, including but not limited to negligence on the part of My Student, any participant in the ASD Event or any of the Released Parties.

Dated: ______________________________ [insert date] _________________________________________ [Print Parent Name] _____________________________________ [Parent Signature] _________________________________________ [Print Parent Name] _____________________________________ [Parent Signature] Emergency Contact Information: Name: ______________________________________________________ Relationship: _________________________________________ Telephone (home): ________________________________________ Telephone (cell): _________________________________________ Email Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Emergency Contact Information: Name: ______________________________________________________ Relationship: _________________________________________ Telephone (home): ________________________________________ Telephone (cell): _________________________________________ Email Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ 22 | Week Without Walls

Form B Sample 2016-2017 Week Without Walls Student Rules and Expectations Please return to the MS Office by November November 27, 2016

Student Name:______________________________________________________________________ Grade:________________________ Trip: _______________________________________________ Dates of Trip: _________________________________________________ Traveling with the American School of Dubai is an honor and a privilege. At all times students are representing themselves, their families, ASD, their home country, and the UAE. Student behavior and expectations are, therefore, held to the highest standard. The following expectations ensure that the trip is conducted with maximum safety for all participants.

1. Students are expected to attend all trip meetings as scheduled by the trip leader.

2. All laws of the host and home country must be observed.

3. ASD faculty chaperones are the authority while traveling. Expectations set forth by the school, and carried forward by the chaperons, must be followed.

4. Students must inform the faculty chaperon of their whereabouts at all times. Notifying a tour guide or fellow student does not relieve this obligation.

5. Students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in such a manner as to reflect positively on themselves, their family, and the ASD community.

6. Housing arrangements may not be altered. Each student must remain in his/her assigned room after curfew time except for emergency situations. If any student violates this rule, he/she may be suspended from the following day’s activities and will be referred to the administration. Students are not allowed in the rooms of others.

7. Student dress is expected to meet school requirements. As a general guideline, garments must follow the same expectations as set forth in the ASD dress code. During the trip planning process, students will be advised on clothing or equipment requirements specific to their trip and its activities.

8. Use and/or possession of alcohol, tobacco or unauthorized drugs while on the trip is grounds for immediate dismissal from the trip.

9. Behavior not in compliance with the ASD Student Code of Conduct or any behavior not in the best interest of the school that occurs may constitute grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the trip. Should a student be dismissed while on a trip, parents are expected to pick up the student. All costs associated with picking up the student are the responsibility of the parent(s). Upon return, school consequences shall apply according to the Student Handbook.

10. Students are responsible for all personal belongings. Trip leaders reserve the right to prohibit certain items on certain trips (i.e., electronics, valuables).

11. Should a student become ill or injured during a trip and unable to continue, the parent(s) or designated emergency contact is expected to pick up the student. All costs associated with picking up the student are the responsibility of the parent(s) or emergency contact.

12. An Administrator-in-charge (AIC) will be assigned for each student trip. The AIC is available and on-call in order to facilitate communications should a family experience an emergency that requires communication with their student. The AIC will contact the trip leader on behalf of the family.

I have read and understand the above trip agreements. I understand the consequences of not upholding the expectations outlined.

Student Signature: ____________________________________________________ Parent Signature: _______________________________________ Print Parent Name: _________________________________________ ASD Email :_________________________________________________________________________ Date: __________________________ Week Without Walls | 23

Form C Sample 2016-2017 Week Without Walls Medical Information and Consent Form Please return to the MS Office by November 27, 2016

Electronic Medical Information Collection: ASD collects student health information including medical conditions, allergies, personal medications, and dietary preferences through an online Health Information Update Form emailed to parents. The form must be completed for every student before travel.

Consent for Emergency Treatment: As the parent/guardian of ____________________________________________________, I authorize physicians and/or other medical personnel, at the direction of the trip chaperon, to provide medical care to my child while he/she is participating in this trip, including examining, treating, prescribing medication for his/her care. I understand that the trip chaperon will, to the greatest extent possible, consult with me concerning the reasons for and effects of all such care. Recognizing that it may be difficult to reach me, I hereby expressly authorize the trip chaperon to permit commencement of treatment when, in the professional judgement of the physicians or medical personnel involved, such treatment is medically necessary to protect the life, health, or mental well being of my child. In authorizing such emergency treatment, agree to accept the determination of the treating medical personnel. I give this authorization on the condition that the treating physician and/or trip chaperon will attempt to contact me, if at all possible, before the treatment or examination is rendered. I agree to pay all costs, charges, expenses incurred in the relationship to providing this medical care.

Dated: _______________________________________________

Parent Signature: _______________________________________ Print Parent Name: _________________________________________

Parent Signature: _______________________________________ Print Parent Name: _________________________________________

24 | Week Without Walls

Form D Sample 2016-2017 Week Without Walls

Grade 7 Selection Form Please return to the MS Office by November 3, 2016

Please complete the information below and return to the MS Office and a non-refundable deposit of 1500 AED to the ASD Cashier’s Office by 3:45 p.m. on November 3, 2016. The remaining balance is due January 15, 2017.

Students whose selection form and non-refundable deposit is not submitted by this date will lose their lottery number and position.

This means that they may not get a place on the trip they prefer.

Name of Student (Please Print)

______________________________________________ (First Name)

________________________ Parent Signature

______________________________________________ (Last Name)

_________________________ Date

Please indicate the first, second and third trip choice by marking a 1, 2, or 3 in front of the trip option. _____ Nepal

_____Tanzania

_____Thailand

Students will be placed on trips according to a lottery. If your son or daughter has a specific medical need that prevents them from attending a certain trip, please contact Grade 7 Team Leader, Mr. David Cole at dcole@asdubai.org.

Every effort will be made to refund the maximum amount for each trip if there is a cancellation due to political, health or security reasons. Refund amounts will depend on airline cancellation policies.

Thank you, we look forward to a successful Week Without Walls program this year!

Week Without Walls | 25

Form E Sample 2016-2017 Week Without Walls

Grade 8 Selection Form Please return to the MS Office by November 3, 2016

Please complete the information below and return to the MS Office and a non-refundable deposit of 1500 AED to the ASD Cashier’s Office by 3:45 p.m. on November 3, 2016. The remaining balance is due January 15, 2017.

Students whose selection form and non-refundable deposit is not submitted by this date will lose their lottery number and position.

This means that they may not get a place on the trip they prefer.

Name of Student (Please Print) ______________________________________________ (First Name)

________________________ Parent Signature

______________________________________________ (Last Name)

_________________________ Date

Please indicate the first, second and third trip choice by marking a 1, 2, or 3 in front of the trip option. _____ Cambodia

_____ Sri Lanka

_____ South Africa

Students will be placed on trips according to a lottery. If your son or daughter has a specific medical need that prevents them from attending a certain trip, please contact Grade 8 Team Leader, Mr. Sam Ruiz at sruiz@asdubai.org.

Every effort will be made to refund the maximum amount for each trip if there is a cancellation due to political, health or security reasons. Refund amounts will depend on airline cancellation policies.

Thank you, we look forward to a successful Week Without Walls program this year!

26 | Week Without Walls

P.O. Box 71188, Dubai - UAE Tel: +971 4 395 0005 www.asdubai.org