American Community School of Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Superintendent July 1, 2018 www.acs.sch.ae
The Position
Identity The American Community School of Abu Dhabi is a non-profit, U.S. accredited, college preparatory school. Our American, standards-based curriculum provides excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, and service
Vision Together we are a compassionate, student-centered community of learners that engages, prepares, and inspires.
Mission The American Community School of Abu Dhabi provides a balanced learning program to foster excellence in academics, the arts, and athletics. In partnership with parents, we empower all students to define and shape their futures. Our dynamic and challenging educational program prepares a culturally diverse student body for learning, service, and global citizenship.
ACS Core Values Courage: Having the confidence to take risks and do the right thing. Curiosity: Being eager to learn and explore to gain a deeper understanding through inquiry and critical questioning. Compassion: Taking actions to understand how others think and feel and appreciating the value of difference. Integrity: Being honest, fair and responsible in words and actions, and staying true to one’s principles.
The American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS) is a place of wonderful diversity and a shared sense of purpose. Starting in July of 2018, ACS seeks a Superintendent to continue the school’s mission of excellence in academics, the arts, and athletics in order to prepare students to serve as well-rounded, responsible, contributing global citizens. In collaboration with the Board of Trustees, the Superintendent will embody the school’s core values and be a warm, visible leader. The ideal candidate should embrace with excitement the school’s position as a leader in Abu Dhabi and work to move the school forward with confidence. Grounded in the core values of courage, curiosity, compassion, and integrity, ACS provides students with an exceptional educational environment. Its rigorous program prepares students both academically and personally for the ever-changing landscape of our world. The school enjoys a strong reputation, and the next Superintendent should have the experience needed to achieve the goals of this institution and maintain its exceptional standards. He/she will be expected to be the inspirational leader of the school, overseeing all academic, extracurricular, enrollment, and personnel matters, as well as managing the school budget, enhancing the campus, and serving as the primary interface to the regulatory environment of the UAE.
The School Established in 1971, ACS is a coeducational day school for students in grades KG1 through 12 governed by an elected and appointed board of parents and alumni and affiliated with the Office of Overseas Schools and United States Department of State. It is located on a site donated by the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The school holds accreditation and memberships from numerous organizations including the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Near East South Asia Council of Overseas Schools, Association for the Advancement of International Education, and Middle East South Asia Conference, among others. ACS is a highly diverse community of students and teachers, serving Americans, as well as qualified students
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of other nationalities in Abu Dhabi. Fifty-one different nationalities are represented in the current student enrollment of 1,200 students. Among the 135 teachers at ACS, 17 different nationalities are represented. Core values unify the school. The community believes: people have equal intrinsic value; diversity with respect is a strength; ethical and responsible conduct is fundamental to sustaining our society; people are responsible for their choices, actions, and the consequences that result. The school applies these principles on a daily basis to foster a secure and supportive community in which students can develop intellectually and emotionally while growing as responsible global citizens. Students graduate from ACS well-prepared for a successful journey through higher education.
Academics ACS is known for a team of committed and experienced educators; involved parents; and engaged and inspired students. It has earned a strong reputation in the international school community largely due to the strength and commitment of the faculty. Teachers have the opportunity for rich professional development and also spend time learning from each other. Nearly 65% of the faculty hold advanced degrees. The school recognizes that learning empowers students to grow to their full potential. Classes are highly interactive and engaging, and students are challenged to reach their full potential while learning critical thinking and problem solving skills, leadership, and effective communication—all skills necessary for a highly-successful 21st-century learner. Curiosity is nurtured by experiential learning that is infused into all aspects of the curriculum. With a student/teacher ratio of 9:1, teachers can provide individualized attention and care for each student with a holistic perspective, wanting students to become well-rounded while also being able to focus on their own individual interests and talents.
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Elementary School The Elementary School, for students in KG1 (age four) through grade five, plays an important role in developing students who are compassionate, curious, and courageous and who are active and engaged participants in their learning. A core curriculum of programs spirals upward as student progress through the grades, ensuring they remain challenged and interested. Subjects are aligned to nationally-recognized standards and benchmarks and feature programs proven to be effective in meeting the needs of students. In a curriculum that features daily literacy, numeracy, and Arabic instruction, students also receive instruction in social studies and science, and attend art, music, dance/ drama and physical education classes on a rotating four-day schedule. Technology and library skills are integrated throughout the curriculum. A workshop model is utilized to teach reading and writing in the language arts curriculum, integrating grammar and mechanics. Based on the work of the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, the workshops empower students with tools and processes that shape them into skilled readers and writers. All students receive individualized instruction and learning support in order to ensure students are reaching their highest potential as writers. Lessons in spelling and handwriting are targeted to meet individual student needs. Mathematics instruction follows the University of Chicago’s Mathematics Project – Everyday Mathematics series. Through a research-based and tested curriculum, students are exposed to lessons that build computational and problem-solving skills. Teachers also support learning through hands-on activities and projects that extend mathematical understanding. All students in KG1 through grade five take daily Arabic language classes in one of two tracks: either in a Native/Heritage track or a non-native track. Younger students in KG1 learn through a program of oral language development and interactive read-aloud, while older students in KG2 through grade five participate in lessons that incorporate the Qisas & Hiwaraat programs developed by ISS-World Language Initiative.
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Science classes provide both classic instruction in relevant and age-appropriate science topics, as well as hands-on experiments related to subject themes that support an inquiry-based approach to teaching science. Lessons cover life, physical, and earth sciences. Social studies classes offer students an opportunity to understand themselves and their place in the world, and studies culminate in fifth grade with a focus on world migration and the chance to reflect on how the world is organized.
Middle School Aware that students in grades six through eight experience tremendous physical, social, and cognitive growth, Middle School at ACS provides a gradual but increasingly challenging and age-appropriate curriculum while ensuring that students’ social and emotional needs are met. The academic program challenges students to think, question, express, create, and transform their ideas into action, and students in Middle School enjoy the freedom to participate in a variety of academic, artistic, and athletic opportunities. Middle School students take a core selection of courses that includes math, science, English/ language arts, and social studies, in addition to a world language, health and wellness, fine arts, and physical education classes. All students are required to take one world language throughout the Middle School years, and can select Spanish, French, or Arabic (as a Native Language or as a Foreign Language). Encore classes are offered as electives, giving students opportunities to learn in variety of different and engaging ways. Choices can include technology, drama, art, guitar, and design technology. Consistent with the ACS philosophy of learning by doing, a highlight of the Middle School experience is its annual Week Without Walls program where the sixth graders travel to Greece to study ancient civilizations; seventh graders to Sicily, Italy to learn about geology and migration; and eighth graders learn about service initiatives in Thailand. As part of the school’s commitment to a supportive and safe environment, each Middle School The Search Group | Carney, Sandoe & Associates
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College Placement Graduates from 2013-16 have matriculated at the following colleges and universities, among others: • American University • American University of Beirut (Lebanon) • Boston University • Brigham Young University, Idaho • Carleton University (Can.) • Carnegie Mellon University • Colorado College • Dalhousie University (Can.) • Elon University • Georgia Institute of Technology • Jacobs University (Ger.) • James Madison University • Marist College • McGill University (Can.) • New York University • Northeastern University • Pennsylvania State University • Princeton University • Purdue University • Rutgers University-New Brunswick • St. Andrews University (Eng.) • Stony Brook University • Texas A&M University • The George Washington University • The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (China) • The London School of Economics (Eng.) • The Ohio State University • The University of Arizona • Trinity University • Tufts University • University of California, Los Angeles • University of Miami • University of Pittsburgh • University of Rochester • University of South Africa (South Africa) • University of Toronto (Can.) • Virginia Tech • Webster University (Austria)
student is also enrolled in an Oasis class. In these advisory classes, students meet for 20 minutes every day with a trusted adult advisor who gets to know the student beyond the classroom. Once a week, all Middle School students gather for a student-council led assembly, providing time to connect with each other and grow as part of the community.
High School The High School teachers and staff at ACS work diligently to foster students’ natural curiosity while providing a college-preparatory curriculum that will equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in an increasingly complex world. Students are challenged to find their identities and inspired to use their talents to leave a lasting impression on their environment. Students pursue challenging coursework in all major disciplines including English, world languages, social studies, science, and mathematics. Core courses are supported by classes in the arts, physical education, health, and technology. Students also select Core Electives, which are additional credits in the core classes, and Non-Core Electives which ensure a well-rounded High School academic experience. Students have abundant opportunities for diverse study through courses in international relations, sociology, biology, chemistry, physics, acting, stagecraft, dance, digital cinematography, Spanish, French, Arabic, robotics engineering, and more. With many options at their disposal, students learn to make thoughtful choices between breadth and depth. Service learning courses are available that foster empowerment and social change and yield students who are active, thoughtful, and compassionate members of our global society. Seniors can elect to participate in an independent project, a semester-long opportunity to pursue an area of interest that is not regularly available in the ACS curriculum. All students have the opportunity to graduate with an ACS High School Diploma. Students in grades 11 and 12 may also pursue an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. The IB program provides a thorough education in a broad scope of subject areas and aims to enhance students’ awareness of our common humanity and social responsibility while preparing students for higher education and career employment. Access to IB courses is not restricted based on academic ability. In 2016, 37 students
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(out of a graduating class of 96) were IB Diploma candidates, with 95% successfully completing the program. ACS saw a 100% pass rate on all IB exams and an average student score of 5.13. Each student graduates with the ability to present ideas clearly and effectively, to understand and apply quantitative reasoning, and to think analytically and creatively to support their arguments and solve problems. Each year, students leave ACS well-prepared to matriculate at some of the most selective schools in the world. In the ACS class of 2016, 98% of graduates matriculated at colleges and universities across the globe.
Arts and Athletics Central to the school’s mission, ACS offers an outstanding program in the visual, dramatic, and performing arts that is integrated into the curriculum across all divisions and supported by after school activities. Instruction is supported by visiting artists and authors throughout the year and lessons are enhanced through international exchange with the school’s NESA (Near East South Asia) Conference partners, as well as the local artistic and cultural offerings in the city of Abu Dhabi. In Elementary School, art, dance, drama, and music classes provide students the opportunity to not only build essential skills, but to discover their interests and talents. Exposure to the arts aids in building confidence and creativity at this age while allowing freedom of expression. Students participate in art exhibits and musical concerts throughout the year. Middle School students in grade six all take a semester of drama and art, and can choose either The Search Group | Carney, Sandoe & Associates
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choral music or band as a yearlong elective. In grades seven and eight, students can choose the fine arts classes they wish to take, with band, choir, and art serving as yearlong electives. In addition to these Encore classes, students are able to participate in regional arts festivals hosted by partner schools or a springtime dramatic production. Arts offerings in High School are rich and cover an array of topics and disciplines in band, chorus, visual arts, theatre, and dance. Visual arts students can often be found providing creative flair for publications or working on stage backdrops for the High School Musical, and the Senior Fine Arts Festival each February showcases student work from their two-year course of study. Band and chorus students perform at recitals, ensembles, and festivals held locally and often even abroad. Theatre has a little something for everyone, with opportunities to shine on stage or run the show backstage. Physical education and athletics are also an integral part of the ACS experience. PE classes in Elementary School support students’ physical growth while developing motor skills and providing an outlet for the energy of this age group. The Middle School athletic program supports young athletes as they build skills and learn invaluable lessons in teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. The goal of the program is participation, not winning, and with the newly-formed sixth-grade league, the school hopes to soon follow a “no cut” policy within all Middle School teams. Three seasons of sports are offered, with teams that include volleyball, swimming, soccer, track and field, and more. ACS has a long history of competitive High School athletic participation. The school participates in the Middle East South Asia Conference and the Abu Dhabi Schools Athletics Conference. It is proudly a founding member of the Emirates Athletic Conference, which includes about 10 schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and the Near East South Asia Conference. The Sand Vipers athletic program stimulates the physical, cognitive, and social development of students. High Schoolers can participate in a variety of Under 14, Junior Varsity, and Varsity teams during three seasons, including volleyball, swimming, soccer, basketball, tennis, cross country, softball, baseball, badminton, and track and field.
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School Life The values of Courage, Curiosity, Compassion, and Integrity permeate the community at ACS and are used to frame not only learning, but also the events, field trips, and general environment of the school. Students, teachers, and parents alike model their behavior around these tenets in an atmosphere of respect and trust. ACS has a robust counseling program in each division, working in partnership with students, teachers, parents, and the larger community to foster an inclusive and collaborative school environment. The program operates under a firm belief that each student has the right to a caring adult advocate and should feel safe, supported, and accepted. Counselors are readily available to address the developmental, social, and emotional needs of students in any grade. Believing that learning doesn’t only take place inside the classroom, ACS offers students opportunities to remain engaged in learning while developing their interests and passions. After-school activities begin in the Elementary division and include a variety of options in the After School Recreation Program (ASRP). Elementary students can also participate in three seasons (basketball, soccer, and softball) of Mini-Vipers, an established competitive interschool soccer and basketball league for students in grades four and five, and a Learn to Swim and Age Group Swim program for all Elementary students. In Middle School, students have access to an intramural sports program in addition to Fun After School (FAS) enrichment programs and activities including the school newspaper, Model United Nations, dance, robotics, jazz band, and more. Students interested in leadership can join the Middle School Student Council that runs weekly assemblies and advocates for student issues. Outside of competitive sports, High School activities cover a broad range of topics and focus on several core areas: action/sports, creativity, leadership, and service. Offerings include Arabic Folks Dance Club, Jazz Ensemble, Animal Action Group, Enterprise Club, Fitness Club, and the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund, among others.
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Abu Dhabi, UAE Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). One of the seven emirates of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a beautiful seaside city determined to enhance its traditions while embracing modern culture. It lies on a T-shaped island jutting into the Arabian Gulf from the central west coast. With a population of around 1.5 million people, it is the second most populous city in the UAE. Abu Dhabi houses federal government offices, is the seat of the United Arab Emirates Government, and is home to the President of the UAE. Its rapid development and urbanization, coupled with the relatively high average income of its population, has transformed the city into a large and advanced metropolis. Today the city is the country’s center of political and industrial activation, and a major cultural and commercial center, due to its position as the capital. Situated on its own island and thereby separated from the mainland, Abu Dhabi is well laid out, with plenty of expanses of greenery, clean modern buildings, and historic sites. Despite the Middle East regional security issues, the country is regarded as being remarkably safe. An added bonus for visitors to Abu Dhabi is its reliable sunny weather, meaning that no matter what time of year you visit, you can be assured of blue skies. Abu Dhabi has a wide range of enthralling attractions, from historic sites such as Qasr Al-Hosn or the oasis towns of Al Ain and Liwa, to modern edutainment venues such as the Cultural Foundation and Heritage Village. Many of Abu Dhabi’s attractions are located near the city’s Corniche and Breakwater district, which is itself a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The city offers classical music concerts, world music concerts, an annual F1 race, camel races, art exhibitions, modern movie theatres, and shopping of every description. For the outdoor enthusiast there is kayaking, boating, annual marathons, horseback riding and a wide range of amateur sports teams. Dining is one of the favorite pastimes for all Abu Dhabi residents, with small local restaurants to fine European dining (and everything in between) available.
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Opportunities and Challenges at ACS ACS is one of the most highly regarded schools with an extensive waiting list, and the only nonprofit American curriculum school in Abu Dhabi. It has a unique and supportive relationship with the US Embassy, and it is one of two designated family posts in the country. The school is known for its strong sense of community, its academics—including a strong IB Diploma Program—and the inculcation of the school values of integrity, compassion, courage and curiosity—values noted and cited by elementary students to our visiting consultant. There is a strong service learning component school-wide, and open, constructive relations between teachers, parents, students, and school leaders. The Board understands its governance role and entrusts the Superintendent fully with responsibility of running the school. In short, this is a highly functioning school, justifiably proud of its focus on student learning across all grade levels. At the same time the school faces real challenges going forward, the most often cited being operating in a developing and restrictive regulatory climate whereby ACS is in the process of discussing with the educational authority the financial (tuition and fees) and operational needs (school calendar and foreign language requirements) of a non-profit, American curriculum school that serves a strong and diverse community. The second most cited challenge is the aging facility, particularly the Middle and High School, and the desire for a theater, better learning spaces, and more room for the school’s extensive sports and activities program. Campus redevelopment will clearly be a priority for the next Superintendent. Finally, there is currently increased competition among private schools in Abu Dhabi and uncertainties related to fluctuating oil prices. Though the UAE is the third safest place to live in the world according to the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2015 and a pleasant place to live, regional instability is always a backdrop issue.
Qualities and Qualifications for the Next Superintendent • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Is a citizen of the United States of America Possesses demonstrated school leadership experience Ability to find solutions among ambiguity and change Works with the Board closely in relation to vulnerabilities due to the regulatory environment Ability to lead the campus redevelopment effort Runs school internally and externally in order to best promote the value of ACS to Abu Dhabi’s strategic economic and educational vision Embraces the local culture Effective recruiter of excellent teachers: is a “talent magnet” Ability to envision and articulate forward-thinking educational opportunities for ACS and to map out steps needed for achievement of that vision Engages with alumni and actively promotes advancement efforts Is transparent, visible, approachable, and open-minded Is dynamic and consistent Has a good sense of humor and is patient
The school welcomes applicants from overseas American and international schools and from independent schools in the United States. While previous success in an overseas international school would be an asset, it is not crucial. Regardless of current or previous positions, this role requires someone who is adept at navigating multicultural communities. The Search Group | Carney, Sandoe & Associates
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To Apply Interested and qualified candidates should submit electronically in one email and as separate documents (preferably PDFs) the following materials: • • • •
A cover letter expressing their interest in this particular position A current resume A one-page statement of educational philosophy and practice A list of five (5) professional references with name, phone number, and email address of each to:
John Chandler Senior Search Consultant john.chandler@carneysandoe.com Art Charles Managing Associate, International Search art.charles@carneysandoe.com Fred Wesson Senior Search Consultant fred.wesson@carneysandoe.com
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