NEWSLETTER
August 2023
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL
Tukusanyukidde, Karibu, Khush Amdeem, Swagat, Bienvenue and Welcome to the AIS Family and to the new academic year 2023-24.
With great pleasure, I extend this opening letter as we embark on another exciting academic year filled with learning, inquiry, and growth. A warm welcome to our returning students and a heartfelt embrace to our new students and their families. We trust you’re finding your footing in our vibrant community.
The start of each academic year brings with it a sense of renewal and endless possibilities. This year, as we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of education, we are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment that fosters both academic excellence and personal development.
Some of the things we anticipate this term:
Candidates’ Outstanding Performance
Our students in MYP5, IBDP2, and A Levels have given us numerous moments to take pride in. Notably, the grading system for this year has reverted to the pre-pandemic norms. In contrast, the grades awarded during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 relied on ‘teacher assessed grades,’ which, upon closer inspection, revealed significant inflation compared to preceding years. Consequently, the global average score for the IBDP exams in May 2023 stands at 30.24, a decline from 31.98 in 2022. The global pass rate has undergone a noteworthy reduction of 6.25% in 2023 as compared to the previous year. The race to restore pre-pandemic result standards affected a substantial number of A Levels students, totalling 60,000. Despite the formidable global challenges, our students showcased remarkable resilience and achieved coveted university admissions. We extend our heartfelt commendations to these exceptional students and eagerly anticipate the unfolding of their next endeavours.
Delay in Construction of New Secondary Campus
We apologize for the inconvenience, but we must notify you of a minor delay in the construction progress of our upcoming secondary campus. We acknowledge your enthusiasm and would like to reassure you that the campus will be fully prepared for occupancy by the time of the mid-term break. Rest assured; we will continue to provide you with regular updates regarding any additional advancements. Your understanding and patience in this matter are highly valued.
Revising Our Vision, Mission and Core Values
In the upcoming semester, our cohesive school community comprising of staff, students, and parents, will join hands to collaboratively reexamine and enhance Acorn’s Vision, Mission, and Core Values. Keep an eye on your Toddle app as we set forth on this exhilarating expedition towards shared development and harmonization.
Accreditation and Evaluation Visits
We are proud to share that the AIS staff is diligently preparing for the upcoming CIS accreditation and synchronized IB evaluation visit. This evaluation encompasses all three IB programmes – PYP, MYP, and DP.
Professional Development
Reflecting the past, getting ready for the present, and planning for the future. Thank you, AIS Staff, for your wonderful reflections… candid, hopeful and thoughtful! Getting ready for the academic year 2023 – 24!
We are truly excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and are committed to working together to make this academic year a memorable and enriching experience for all. Thank you for entrusting us with the education and growth of your children.
Mark your calendars.
MESSAGE FROM DEPUTY HEAD OF SCHOOL
Greetings!
Allow me to introduce myself – I’m Ms. Rachelle, your newly appointed Deputy Head of School. My journey at AIS began in 2015 as a PYP2 Homeroom Teacher, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of taking on various roles, progressing from being the Head of Learner Support Services to the Primary Curriculum Coordinator.
Embarking on this new role has ignited a profound sense of excitement within me, not only for my personal growth but also for the positive impact it will have on the AIS Community as a whole. My primary responsibility involves providing support to our Heads of Departments (HODs). In any situation that requires attention, I encourage you to initially engage with your respective HOD. If the situation demands, they will include me at a later juncture.
One of the notable transformations that have taken place since my assumption of office is the introduction of Toddle. This innovative platform has generated a wave of enthusiasm within us. Its capacity to foster seamless collaboration among students, parents, and educators has us truly exhilarated. We anticipate great strides in communication and cooperation as we embrace this resource.
I thank the AIS community for a successful start to the year as we commenced with Open Day! Students and families were able to meet their new teachers, get their new books, learn about Toddle, and candidates and their families received essential information about the year ahead.
With great anticipation, I am eagerly looking forward to your presence at the upcoming of our next event Coffee with Curriculum
Coordinators(CCC). As this newsletter may be an introduction to our school community and events for new families, kindly note the brief description of what our students and families can to look forward to this half term.
September 1 – Coffee with Curriculum Coordinators
- Offers parents/guardians/family members an opportunity to engage with the programme Curriculum Coordinators and HODs. Presentations and workshops on held to provide a deeper understanding of the curriculum, your students’ experiences at AIS, and will enable you to have a better understanding of our programmes going forward.
September 1 – PTO Selections
- The Parent Teacher Organization is a dedicated group of parents and staff who volunteer their time and ideas to better our school community. If you are interested in joining, please refer to Toddle Accouncements as a Google Form will be sent.
September 18-22 – EYP Family Week
- Our youngest learners enjoy a week of fun activities about, and with, their families.
September 18-19 – Secondary Careers Day
- Secondary students are engaged in sessions with guest speakers and lectures on a wide variety of careers. If you would like to be involved as a speaker or know an inspiring lecturer, reach out to our Career Counsellor Simon Mugisha at [email protected]
September 20 – Secondary University Fair
- AIS partners with UNISERV for our students to meet with counsellors and admissions representatives from various regional and international universities.
October 2-6 – Teacher Appreciation Week
- October 5th is International World Teachers Day, but as AIS, we celebrate all our AIS Staff in this week. Keep referring to Toddle Announcements to see how you can get involved!
October 4 – Academic Integrity and DP1 EE Unpacking
- As our world is increasingly saturated with AI, it is vital that our students have a clear understanding of plagiarism and academic honesty. These sessions empower our Secondary students to correctly source and cite research and outline the expectations set by IB in order to be successful in completing the programme with integrity.
October 12-13 – Global Village
- This event is a jewel in the calendar each academic year. All departments and classes participate in colourful, exciting, musical, and sometimes tasty, presentations within a given theme that can be examined from a global perspective. What is this year’s theme? You will have to wait and see!
October 14-15 – Secondary DofE Short Trip/MYP 1-3 Overnight Trip
- This year is our first Duke of Edinburgh Gold participation year. We look forward to a successful Practice Journey for our Bronze, Silver , and Gold participants. Our MYP 1-3 are not left out from having their fun overnight trip during the same days.
October 16-23 – Midterm Break
- Enjoy a well-deserved break and our teachers will welcome you back on Tuesday, October 24th.
Rachelle Hale-Molo
Deputy Head of School
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMISSIONS DEPARTMENT
It is with great excitement that I extend a warm welcome to each of you as we embark on a new academic year filled with boundless opportunities. Acorns International School’s (AIS) steadfast commitment to excellence in education has set the stage for another year of growth and exploration.
As the Head of Admissions and Advancement, I am honoured to witness a fresh cohort of eager minds from diverse backgrounds joining our academic community, and I am equally thrilled to welcome back returning students excited to continue their educational journeys.
I hope you found our Parent Handbook helpful (shared via Toddle). This handbook is a ready reckoner for several systems at AIS, for example, how to proceed when you need to request an Admission Letter to support your Student Visa or Tourist Visa Application.
Amidst our elation over AIS’s remarkable growth, we find ourselves in the position of having to manage waiting lists for some of our aspiring students. This growth, while a testament to our collective achievements, does necessitate us to make some challenging decisions. However, let me assure you that our commitment to upholding the quality of education for our existing students remains unswerving. We are resolute in our determination to navigate these decisions ensuring that our current students’ experiences are not compromised.
Nishitha Shrivastava
HoD Admissions & Advancements
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF EARLY YEARS DEPARTMENT
Welcome back to a new school year, and a warm welcome to new families and students joining us! The Early Years Programme (EYP) at AIS is abuzz with learning and laughter as we settle into the academic calendar. As a new AIS staff member, I’ve been thrilled to see the campus come alive with vibrant energy for another enriching year.
Here are some key updates for the start:
Toddle Family Access: If you haven’t registered for Toddle Family, please do so for essential class announcements, reminders, the school calendar, attendance info, and updates. Contact us at [email protected] for assistance.
Circle Time Schedule: Our daily circle time starts at 8:30 am. Your punctuality supports children’s engagement in morning routines.
Andi Haskins
HoD Early Years Programme
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF PRIMARY DEPARTMENT
Welcome back, AIS families! The delight of Open Day and the term’s commencement is evident. To new PYP families, your choice of Acorns International School brings us great joy. Reach out to your homeroom teacher to acquaint yourselves with class expectations, ensuring a seamless transition for your child. Warm greetings to our dedicated existing and new teachers, equipped with Toddle training to enhance student learning. Seek support in fostering your child’s success. Students have embarked on a promising start, displaying eagerness for learning. Currently emphasizing the ‘Responsible’ attribute of the Learner Profile, teachers strive to nurture responsibility. By encouraging your collaboration at home, we anticipate a decrease in misplaced belongings. Here’s to an enriching academic year for all!
Family Language Classes
Introducing Family Language Classes, formerly referred to as Mother Tongue Classes. The new name promotes inclusivity, and we appreciate your proactive enrollment for your child. If not done already, kindly register soon.
Attendance and Retention Policy
Kindly review the school calendar to ensure you plan activities only outside school hours. To prevent retention, maintain good attendance and MAP performance. Ensure assignment completion across platforms (Study Ladder, Toddle and Summative Assessments), staying connected with the homeroom teacher for progress updates.
Timings
All PYP students must arrive by 7:50 a.m., since the first lesson begins at 8:00 a.m.. Also, if you have not signed up for a Club, please pick your child at 3:30 pm to avoid daycare fees.
Toddle
Per the previous communication, all students and parents must sign in to Toddle. Ensure to log in by Friday because all communication and assignments for students will be on Toddle. We shall not be using WhatsApp, thereafter.
Shallon Baguma
HoD Primary Department
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SECONDARY DEPARTMENT
A warm welcome goes out to all the new members of our Secondary team—teachers, students, and families. We’re excited to have you join the Acorns International School community.
This is the perfect moment to set new goals and embrace fresh beginnings. Let’s remember that what truly matters is the progress each student makes. With patience and perseverance, we can expect great achievements and recognition.
Let’s commence this school year with optimism, aspirations, and a solid plan for success.
To enhance our commitment to our student’s success, we’re introducing enrichment lessons this year. These lessons are designed to better prepare our students in subjects such as French, Math, and English.
Homeroom: Time and Attendance: Secondary homeroom time begins at 7:45 AM and lasts until 8:00 AM. This time frame is crucial for recording daily attendance, contributing to the mandatory 90% attendance required each term. We kindly ask AIS families to arrange schedules to ensure students are present for homeroom and its essential updates.
Retention Policy: We urge everyone to consult the AIS calendar when planning events outside of school. This practice supports maintaining 90% attendance and improved academic performance. If a student’s attendance falls below 90% and their academic performance is unsatisfactory across assessments, they may be asked to repeat the class. This approach aims to strengthen the foundational knowledge needed for success in higher grades and external exams.
Toddle: As previously communicated, it’s imperative for both students and parents to log in to Toddle. All communication and assignments will be facilitated through Toddle—WhatsApp will no longer be used.
Uniform: Secondary students are expected to adhere to the dress code:
Monday to Friday: Navy blue shirt, beige/khaki trousers, and tie. If a student has Physical Education (PE) during the first three lessons, they can change into the formal uniform during the morning break from 10:10 AM to 11:00 AM. Similarly, if PE is scheduled between the morning break and lunchtime, students can change into their PE uniform either during the morning break or the lunch break, depending on the timing of their PE lesson.
Communication: Starting this year, we will discontinue the use of WhatsApp groups. Instead, important announcements and notifications will be made through the Toddle App.
If you wish to schedule meetings with teachers, you can reach out to them using their official email addresses available on Toddle, or you can contact my office at [email protected].
Let’s work together to make this academic year one of growth, achievement, and memorable experiences for all.
Shirin Bagchi
HoD Secondary Department
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM CURRICULUM COORDINATORS
I am Mr. Jamal, assuming the role of the new PYP Curriculum Coordinator, and I am truly delighted to embrace this new opportunity. My enthusiasm stems from the prospect of positively influencing student learning and innovatively fostering ideas to enrich the educational experience within our classrooms.
A pivotal change for this year is our transition to Toddle. During the upcoming “Coffee with the Curriculum Coordinator” (CCC) session, I will provide an in-depth overview of Toddle. I aim to acquaint you with what parents can anticipate on the platform, elucidate your child’s experience, and detail how our educators will utilize it. Furthermore, I will guide you through our diverse programs, including Big Writing Adventures and Guided Reading.
Notably, the commencement of MAP assessments is scheduled for August 28 onwards. You should have already received an informative letter outlining the assessments’ details and suggestions for preparing your child.
Your presence at the CCC event would be greatly appreciated. Looking forward to connecting with you all.
Jamal Makki
PYP Curriculum Coordinator
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Email: [email protected]
An effective three-way partnership between students, parents and the school is crucial to ensuring the most effective environment for students’ development. To foster this partnership and provide you with deeper insights into your child’s learning journey, the theme of the upcoming Coffee with Curriculum Coordinator (CCC) will be ‘Inside MYP Assessments’. This interactive session aims to provide parents with a comprehensive understanding of the assessment methods employed in the IB Middle Years Programme.
In this workshop, we will delve into the specifics of the MYP assessment criteria allowing you to gain a clearer picture of how your child’s progress is evaluated across different subjects. By participating, you will be better equipped to support your child’s academic growth and success.
We will also spend some time ensuring we are all up to speed with Toddle.
I look forward to your engagement and participation in this workshop and beyond as we take the next steps on the MYP learning journey together.
Sam Weavers
MYP Curriculum Coordinator
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Email: [email protected]
I would like to begin by offering my sincere congratulations to our candidates for their unwavering efforts, which have yielded exceptional results. We extend our best wishes for their continued success in their academic pursuits.
In the spirit of enhancing efficiency, we have implemented an Open Door Policy for this academic year. If you have any inquiries or would like to schedule a meeting session, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected] or use the provided link. This initiative is designed to provide prompt assistance and feedback for any inquiries you may have about your children’s education.
Meet the DP & A Levels Curriculum Coordinator
Moreover, we are thrilled to extend an invitation to you for the upcoming Coffee with the Curriculum Coordinator (CCC) event on September 1. On that day, we will be hosting separate sessions for both the Cambridge A Levels and IBDP programmes. We eagerly anticipate your presence, as we strive to cultivate an environment that fosters our students’ fullest potential.
Kenneth Kanyesigye
DP / A Level Curriculum Coordinator
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF SPECIALTIES
SCHOOL TEAMS
Welcome to the new academic year 2023-24. We are thrilled to announce that the AIS school teams resumed their training on Monday, August 21, 2023. Our school teams (Basketball, Swimming, Football, Badminton, and Table Tennis) have resumed practice. This academic year, we have introduced a Volleyball Team for only students from the Secondary Department. This team will start their training on Thursday, September 7, 2023. Students who would like to join the school teams must
successfully pass the tryouts, which will happen on Saturday, September 2, 2023.
All students in the School Teams will be required to buy a customized school team Jersey for their respective team at a cost of thirty dollars (USD 30). This amount will be paid to the cashiers at school prior to getting the jersey.
Our U13 Boys and the U15 Girls Soccer teams, will be travelling to Barcelona (Spain) to participate in the World Schools Football Cup Competitions, preparations for this trip are underway and we will keep updating you. The Specialties Department would like to appreciate all parents who are collaborating with the school to make this trip possible.
AIS PTO
AIS PTO Works collaboratively with the School Leadership Team to ensure that the school meets its goals and objectives. PTO has representatives from the teaching staff, parents, and the AIS senior leadership team. With many milestones achieved by the AIS PTO in the past academic year, we would like to extend our thanks to men and women who voluntarily served on the PTO board and extend our gratitude to the parent’s community for working with us collaboratively to achieve our set goals. We would like to bid farewell, at the same time, encourage parents to take on roles to serve the AIS community by taking positions as parent’s representatives on the AIS PTO for the Academic year 2023-24. Please fill out the attached form to stand a chance to be selected and represent other parents on the PTO board. PTO 2023-24 Selections Form
Henry Kalanzi
HoD Specialties
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
It is one of our favourite seasons of the year and how wonderful it is to welcome back both our returning and new AIS Families after a period of time.
We now have uniforms of all sizes in stock. All students (from EYP3 onwards) must wear the complete school uniform throughout the school day. The full school uniform includes the school sweater. If you would like to purchase or have questions regarding these, feel free to let me know.
Our policy for lunch drop-offs remains as before. We encourage parents to choose packed lunches wisely. Furthermore, we offer microwave facilities for food reheating.
For safety, adults collecting students must carry an AIS Exit ID Card. We recognize situations may require changing authorized pickup persons. In such cases, inform the student’s Head of Department or our Administration Department for guidance. If you need an AIS Exit Card, feel free to reach out.
The Administration Team is excited, ready, and fully committed to providing assistance and ensuring a smooth experience throughout the academic year. As we embark on this fresh year, we hope to address your requirements with unwavering commitment.
Whether you require an AIS Exit ID Card, Uniforms, lunches, or daycare, or have an unspecified inquiry, feel free to reach out at [email protected] for support.
Together, let’s make every day count!
Rosyelene Ampumuza
HoD Administration
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCE
Greetings AIS Community!
As we kick off another exciting academic year, I am thrilled to share some important updates from our school’s vibrant community.
Induction of our new teachers: We are delighted to introduce our newest additions to the AIS family! Our dynamic team of educators has recently expanded, bringing fresh perspectives and diverse experiences to our classrooms. With their passion for teaching and commitment to student growth, we are confident that they will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our students. Join us in extending a warm welcome to these exceptional new members!
Successful Team Building and Zero Week: Teamwork lies at the heart of a successful educational institution, and we’re proud to share that our faculty members recently participated in an invigorating team-building workshop. This immersive experience not only enhanced collaboration and communication among our staff but also strengthened the foundation for a productive and harmonious school year.
Review of Code of Conduct Policy – Your Involvement Matters! We have made some important changes to our Code of Conduct Policy; which applies to everyone in the AIS community so please take the time to read and understand it. This Policy can be accessed through the Toddle Family App under ‘School Policies’ or on our school website which can be accessed on the following link to Policies. Your support in reinforcing these guidelines will contribute to a consistent and nurturing atmosphere for every student’s growth.
Here’s to a year filled with curiosity, growth, and meaningful connections!
Lynn Bugaari Muhangi
HoD Human Resource
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Email: [email protected]
MESSAGE FROM HEAD OF FINANCE
Note From Finance Department
Fees
- Term I fees were due by August 22, 2023. If you have any queries, kindly contact the Finance Department at +256 754 202 667 or email [email protected].
- Delayed fee payments incur a 5% surcharge. If you have not opted for School Lunch, kindly ignore that component in your invoice.
- AIS offers a 15% reduction on one term’s fee following the introduction of a newly enrolled student.
- For fee payments made in the bank, we request you to email the receipt to [email protected].
Bank Requirement
- As per the bank requirements, please note that school fee denominations will not be accepted if they have any type of mark or scribbling on them.
- As per the bank requirements, please note that the US dollar series 2013 and above will be accepted; anything below it will not be accepted.
After-School Care
- After-School Care is also payable at a casual rate of $5 per 30 minutes.
- Regular After-School Care hours end at 5:30 pm. Students picked after this time will be charged at the rate of $5 per 15 min.
Transport Facility
- We now have 3 new spacious 40-seater school buses. For any inquiries related to the school transport facilities kindly contact the Finance Department at +256 754 202 667 or email [email protected].
Binal Patel
HoD Finance
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Email: [email protected]
