GEMS American Academy in Abu Dhabi is due to open in September 2007 continuing in the tradition of Dubai American Academy (DAA - also a GEMS school), so GAA should be pretty good although the fees are no bargain at over 50k dhs for grade 1.
A press release from GEMS about the Abu Dhabi American Academy dated 25 April 2007 said:
- GAA launch announced by His Excellency Ali Salam Obaid Al Kaabi, Director of the Office of the Minister of Presidential Affairs in Abu Dhabi
- Facilities include a fully automated library (what does "fully automated" mean?), interactive promethean white boards, Music, IT and Art labs, gymnasium, cafetaria
- Initial classes from Kindergarten to Grade 5, progressing to Grade 12 eventually
- GAA principal will be Jason McBride, supported by the DAA Superintendent, Dan Young
- GAA will offer an American curriculum leading to an American High School diploma, and has applied for approval to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma.
- GAA plans to apply for accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), and the Council of International Schools (CIS)
- School location will be off Baniyas Street in central Abu Dhabi
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