The Chronicle - American International School, Abuja

The Chronicle
Plot 346 Cadastral Zone
Durumi District, Abuja FCT
Website: www.aisabuja.com ; Email: info@aisabuja.com
Telephones: 09-672-2224 or 09-672-6316
Friday February 24, 2012
Volume 2, Issue 22
IMPORTANT DATES FOR PARENTS
Please take note of the following events and meetings that will be held in our
school during the month of February and March:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
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PTA Meeting,
3:00pm
28 29 (March)1
Secondary
School Musical,
6:00pm
2
Secondary
School Musical,
6:00pm
Compiled and edited by:
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Mrs. Carol C. Youssif
AISA Librarian
NEW AFTER
SCHOOL CLUBS
BEGIN
Fundraising
Committee Meeting,
4:00pm
Strategic Planning
Committee
Meeting, 4:30pm
Course Selection/
Registration for
Rising 9th and
10th graders,
5:30pm
Course Selection/
Registration for
Rising 11th and
12th graders,
5:30pm
Policy Committee
Meeting, 5:00pm
Noon Dismissal
for EC/ES
PARTNERSHIP
CONFERENCES
Safety & Security
Committee Meeting,
5:00pm
No School for
EC/ES Students
PARTNERSHIP
CONFERENCES
ITBS Testing
begins for MS
Pictures courtesy of:
Mr. Brian Blazek & the
Publication Class
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Elementary Principal’s Note ... 2
12
13 14
15 16
Library Shelf ............................ 2
ITBS Testing
begins for Gr 2
to Gr 5
Board Meeting,
5:00pm
Secondary Scatterings ............. 3
Sec. Counselor’s Corner .......... 4
Nurse’s Corner ......................... 4
Basketball for Peace ................ 5
Saturday February 25: Basketball for Peace Tournament @AISA
Saturday March 3: Secondary School Musical, matinée 2:00pm & evening 6:00pm
Saturday March 5: SAT Exams
AISA is fully accredited by the Middle States Association
Memo to Parents ..................... 5
MS Basketball Tournament .... 6
Basketball for Peace Ad ........... 7
Fiddler on the Roof Ad ............ 8

ADMINISTRATION
Amy Uzoewulu
Director
0803-314-4022
Diana Martelly
MS/HS Principal
0806-953-0608
Deanna Emond
EC/ES Principal
0810-372-6541
Teri Campbell
Assist. Elementary Principal,
Registrar
0805-054-9963
STUDENT SERVICES
Julie Beemer
Activities Coordinator
0813-553-1609
Veronica Smoler
School Nurse
0813-719-9943
A NOTE FROM THE ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL
The Basketball for Peace tournament will be held on Saturday. We hope that you will be able to
come out and show your support. The elementary cheerleaders will be there to cheer all the players
on. Please see page 5 for more information.
REPORT CARDS & PARTNERSHIP CONFERENCE SCHEDULING
The second trimester report cards will be sent home on March 7, 2012. Scheduling of the conferences
has begun for the March 8th and 9th Partnership Conferences. Please call Miranda at 0816-
961-3798, to schedule a conference with your child’s teacher or stop by the elementary office.
Partnership conferences are an important component of home-school communication and family
involvement in AISA. We encourage you to take the opportunity to have a two-way conversation
with your child’s teacher to discuss your child’s progress in school. The emphasis during conferences
should be on your child’s learning and how the child can do even better.
Just like you, teachers want your child to succeed. You will hear positive feedback about your
child’s progress and areas for improvement. Think about your child’s strengths and challenges
beforehand. Be ready to ask questions about ways you and the teacher can help your child with
some of his or her challenges. Be sure to share your thoughts and feelings about your child, including
what you think the child is good at and what he or she needs more help with. Ask what you can
do at home to help your child learn.
Partnership conferences are an opportunity for families to become engaged in meaningful ways to
support student success. We look forward to seeing you there!
ITBS TESTING
The IOWA Test of Basic Skills and the CogAt are two standardized tests used at AISA to track student
achievement and ability. The ITBS will measure student achievement in the areas of Reading,
Language, and Mathematics in line with the objectives set forth through the accreditation process
with Middle States. Children in grade one will take the practice test only which will familiarize
them with the testing process. Students in grades 2 through 5 will take these components of the
test the week of March 12-16 th . The counselor will be sending home information to parents that
further explains the testing and suggestions for parents.
Kind Regards,
Mrs. Deanna Emond
Elementary School Principal
Rivien Amobi
Secondary School Counselor
0813-669-4880
Dave Dalton
Elementary School Counselor
0706-544-1420
Debbie Gaynor
Learning Support Coordinator
0703-522-7955
Laura Blazek
English Language Learners
0813-657-0209
Carol C. Youssif
School Librarian
0816-439-2448
LIBRARY SHELF
Black History Month
This week during Library Class we studied and discussed the life of Black History Month’s key
figures. We learned that even one person at a time can change the course of history. February
has been titled Black History Month because it holds the birthdays of two very relevant people in
African-American history: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
Library survey
As new technologies have found their way into classrooms, the same has happened to libraries.
There are many new ways to read books and I am exploring the possibility of offering e-readers
to our community. Therefore, I am gathering information through an online survey and I’d like to
ask that you please take the time to answer the 9 questions it contains. Please go to http://
www.surveymonkey.com/s/2W7RLLK Your input is very valuable!
“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents”
~ Emilie Buchwald ~
Mrs. Carol C. Youssif
AISA Librarian
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SECONDARY SCATTERINGS
Progress Reports – Distributed on February 24th to all students
All secondary students have received a progress report for their courses. You should have received a phone message and an e-mail letting
you know that these were distributed. Please ask your child to share the report with you. This report consists of a brief narrative regarding
your child’s performance in the class. No grades are being reported at this time.
It is important for parents to take the time to discuss the progress report with their child. Remember it is your child’s responsibility to do
their best in school. Be constructive in your conversation. Ask your child to identify areas of strength and areas where they need to improve.
In addition, ask for ways in which your child plans to improve. It is a good idea to write a plan of improvement that you can discuss
over the next few weeks. This discussion also offers an opportunity for you as a parent to make suggestions for improvement and set
realistic expectations.
If you have concerns about your child’s performance and need assistance, please contact the respective teacher (s) and/or Ms. Rivien, our
Secondary School Counselor.
Middle School Basketball Tournament and Secondary School Valentine’s Day Dance
The secondary school was very busy last weekend. The Athletic Department hosted a MS Basketball Tournament. Our guests included
teams from the International Community School in Abuja, and the American International School of Lagos. This was the first time AISA
hosted an out-of-town team. We are very appreciative to the families that hosted out visiting athletes. AIS-Lagos felt very welcomed by
our families and schools!
The tournament ended with an awards ceremony that celebrated the participation and success of the teams. In the evening of Saturday,
the Secondary Student Council held a Valentine’s dance. The dance was very well attended and served as a great way to entertain the
teams that participated in the Basketball tournament. This event offered a venue for AISA students to make new friends.
For tournament details and results, make sure to read the Basketball Tournament article in page 6 of this issue of The Chronicle.
Fiddler on the Roof
Our Music and Stagecraft clubs have been working very hard to get “Fiddler on the Roof” on stage. Please come out to enjoy the production
on March 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Make sure to bring your family and friends along! See page 8 for more information
Adjustment to the Reporting Calendar
Due to the late start of the semester, we have adjusted the reporting calendar for Secondary. Please make a note of the new dates:
Secondary Reporting Dates - Semester 2
Date Reporting Strategy Target Information Provided
February 24, 2012 Progress Report All Sec. Parents and Students Narrative, no grades
AP Progress Report All AP Students
March 26, 2012 Mid Semester Report
All Sec. Parents and Students Grades, no narrative
March 28, 2012 Partnership Conferences
All Sec. Parents and Students Parent-Teacher-Student
Conference
May 4, 2012 Progress Reports Only for students with D or F Grades and Narrative
June 12, 2012 Sem. 2 Report Card All Sec. Parents and Students Grades and Narrative
Please note that the Partnership Conferences originally scheduled for Monday, March 26th will now be held on Wednesday, March 28th.
Monday, March 26th will be a regular school day for our students.
Dr. Diana Martelly,
Secondary School Principal
AISA’s Library is gathering information through an online survey to explore the possibility
of purchasing e-readers for our school. Please take a moment to answer the
9 questions in the following link: http://surveymonkey.com/s/2W7RLLK
Thank you!!!
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SECONDARY COUNSELOR’S CORNER
COUNSELING CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS)- March 9-16, 2012 for grades
6-8.
Wednesday, March 6, 2012- Course Selection and Registration
Information Session for Rising 9th and 10th graders
(Current 8th and 9th grade students) at 5:30pm.
Thursday, March 7, 2012- Course Selection and Registration
Information Session for Rising 11th and 12th graders
(Current 10th and 11th grade students) at 5:30pm.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012- Partnership Conference College
Presentations- Session 1- 12:00-1:00pm and Session 2-
5:00-6:00pm.
TOEFL EXAM- (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
The TOEFL test measures your ability to use and understand English at
the university level. It also evaluates how well you combine your listening,
reading, speaking and writing skills to perform academic tasks.
The TOEFL Exam dates for the Abuja area are quickly filling
up! Registration is on a first come first serve basis. The next
available TOEFL Exam dates are in MAY!!! If you are applying to
Universities that require the TOEFL Exam, contact the GIEVA Center
for registration information. GIEVA CENTER Contact Number:
07035250399.
Summer Program Opportunities for Middle and High School Students
Summer Discovery is an organization that organizes summer internship
programs at top universities in and outside of the US. Summer
Discovery partners with some of the world’s most prestigious Universities
such as UCLA, Georgetown, Cambridge University in London, University
of Penn, New York University and more. Some programs offer
college credit, academic enrichment, Screenwriting, Sports, music and
fashion design. There is something for everyone’s area of interest.
For more information and to view the Summer Discovery Catalog, see
Ms. Rivien in the Secondary Counseling Office.
SAT Exam Dates for 2012
The next SAT exam will be administered here at AISA on Saturday,
May 5, 2012 at 3:30pm. The registration deadline for
the May SAT is Friday, March 23, 2012.
See Ms. Rivien for an application.
Class of 2012 College Acceptances
It’s that time of the year where College acceptance will start trickling in!
The following Seniors have received Letter of Acceptance:
Kelechi Chukwueke, Drexel University; Marilyn Elechi, Drexel
University; Princesse Mabiala, Temple University; Paul Owoicho,
Drexel University; Jasmine Park, Wheaton College ; Lisa Quinley,
School of Visual Arts in New York City!!!
Congratulations! We are proud of you!
Mrs. Rivien Amobi, Secondary School Counselor
NURSE’S CORNER
Overweight children
The percentage of overweight children is growing at an alarming rate.
Childhood obesity is like an “epidemic” that is fueled by poor eating habits and lack of physical activity.
Overweight children are more likely to become overweight adults and that can lead to health threatening conditions like heart disease, high
blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, arthritis related disabilities and some forms of cancer.
Over weight and obese children also suffer problems with self esteem. A healthy childhood is a building block for a healthy adult life. A number
of factors contribute to becoming overweight, genetics, lifestyle habits, or a combination of both may be involved.
Sound nutrition and regular physical activity are the keys to effective weight management for all ages. Parents should try to be good role models
for their children by eating healthy food and increase activities for the whole family.
If you’re worried that your child or teen may be overweight, make an appointment with your doctor, who can assess eating, and activity habits
and make suggestions on how to make positive changes.
Have a beautiful and healthy weekend,
Mrs. Veronica Smoler,
School Nurse
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The US Embassy CLO together with USAID and AISA are hosting a basketball tournament to boost US
Mission morale and promote an opportunity to come together and cheer for your favorite team. The games of
the day will include the US Mission and AISA Adult Team vs. Basketball for Peace Adult Team, AISA Boys’
Team vs. Basketball for Peace Boys’ Team, and AISA Girls’ Team vs. Basketball for Peace Girls’ Team. The Basketball
for Peace program started by USAID/ Nigeria “engages unemployed and out-of-school Muslim and
Christian youth between the ages of 14 and 18.” Coach Oliver B. Johnson, or more commonly known as Coach
OBJ, co-founded Basketball for Peace and uses basketball to bring the message of peace to many Nigerian
youth.
The tournament will take place on February 25, 2012 beginning at 11:00am at the American International
School, Abuja. Tickets are ₦500 for ages 12 and up and may be bought through Ramatu, CLO (Community
Liaison Officer ) at 09 -461-4091 or 0803-665-1127 or at the door. There will be hotdogs, popcorn, and baked
goodies for sale.
There are volunteer opportunities for anyone wishing to participate in the fun! We need persons to make baked
goods to sell, price and sell the baked goods, collect tickets for admission, grill hotdogs and make popcorn,
assist with scorekeeping, teach our elementary cheerleaders some cheers, and set -up and clean- up. Please
contact Mrs. Phyllis Maire at phyllis.maire@yahoo.com or 0810-022-9126 to help.
Come and enjoy a day of friendly games and good company!
STARTING TIME HAS BEEN CHANGED TO 11:00 AM DUE TO SANITATION SATURDAY
AISA TRUSTEES
Mr. Bert Ubamadu
Dr. Bello Mohammed
Eng. Sulaiman K. Danladi
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
LTC Jermain R. Sabbatt III,
President
Irene Schmahl, Vice-President
Ify Nwosu, Secretary
Deedee Ewubare, Treasurer
Hauwa Lawan
Kevin Bohne
Alicia Uzor Kalu
Non voting members:
Amy Uzoewulu
Diana Martelly
Deanna Emond
Teri Campbell
Ramses Youssif
MEMORANDUM FOR PARENTS
FROM:
TO:
OFONIME UDOH, AISA SECURITY SUPERVISOR
ALL PARENTS
SUBJECT: NEW DROP OFF AND EXIT PROCEDURES AT THE PARKING AREA
Dear AISA Parents,
The school authorities have recently noticed the increased traffic near Gate 1 during the drop off
period due to vehicles diverting towards the Durumi area to avoid the Federal Road Safety personnel
on the motorway. In response to this recent development, we would like to reverse the entrance
and exit procedures at the parking area in our efforts to reduce the traffic jam.
New Procedures:
The former entrance of the AISA car park is now the new exit while the former exit is now the
new entrance.
Henceforth, all vehicles with AISA decal except the long buses should go straight from the
drop bar at Gate One to Gate two and drop off. Vehicles will not be allowed to turn left into
the parking area before the drop bar.
Parents who want to park and walk their children into the school compound are requested to
proceed straight to Gate two, turn around and drive to enter the car park through the former
exit gate at the zebra crossing area.Only long buses will be allowed to turn left at the drop bar
and enter the car park through the former entrance gate. This is necessary because the long
buses cannot turn at the new entrance gate.
All drivers are requested to drive slowly as they approach the zebra crossing in front of Gate
One to allow pedestrians to cross safely.
The new practice will start on Monday, February 27th.
For any questions concerning these new procedures, please feel free to contact AISA Director, Amy
Uzoewulu, and me directly on 0703-900-7727 or via my e-mail ofonimeu@aisabuja.com.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
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MIDDLE SCHOOL BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
The Middle School Basketball team comprised of 10 players (2 girls and 8 boys) wrapped up its season this past weekend in a 4-team tournament
hosted by AISA. The AISA Eagles finished in second place behind the AISL’s ‘A’ team. It was a match up comparable to the classic
battle of David and Goliath. Heading into day 1 of the 2-day (Friday and Saturday) tournament, the Eagles were undefeated (4-0) against 2
local teams (The Regent School and ICS) as well as their own High School Girl’s Basketball team. The Eagles were prepared and excited to
begin playing. In their first game against ICS, a team they had successfully contested against twice before, the Eagles of Abuja sailed to an
easy victory by allowing ICS only 8 points to their 48. An hour later, the Abuja Eagles faced the ‘B’ team from Lagos. The Eagles from Lagos
brought more of a challenge to the field of play. Alas, AISA’s Eagles adjusted accordingly to the increased level of competition and walked
away with a win; 34-8. Before the third and final game of the day to determine the semi-final rankings, ONLY 2 teams thus far remained
undefeated and they would face one another next; AISA and AISL’s ‘A’ team. Each game the AISA Eagles played had increased in skill level
and difficulty. This game was the most challenging of the day for both teams involved. AISL’s ‘A’ team made up in height and age advantage
what AISA possessed in skill. Simply, the AISA Eagles just did not “measure” up; Rebound after rebound was picked up by the
towering AISL players. Nonetheless, the AISA Eagles remained committed to playing. They suffered their first loss of the season and tournament;
14-52.
The standings heading into the final day of competition
AISL ‘A’ – 1st ; AISA – 2nd ; AISL ‘B’ – 3rd ; ICS – 4th
Day 2 of the tournament began with both semi final games on the outside court; 1st vs. 4th and 2nd vs. 3rd. AISL’s ‘A’ team cruised to an
easy victory over their own ‘B’ team (64-3) and secured their place in the Championship match that would take place early in the afternoon.
AISA and ICS played a very physical semi-final match. AISA came away victorious with a score of 33-5 and secured their spot against
AISL ‘A’ for the Championship. After lunch and the conclusion of the basketball contests, the games to decide the trophy winners commenced.
AISL’s ‘B’ team captured third place in a very physical, but low scoring game (11-8). With nothing but excitement and confidence
on both sides, the AISA and AISL Eagles took the grand stage one more time for a championship showdown; A very much anticipated
game that remained electrifying to the final buzzer. Although the AISL ‘A’ team walked away with the victory and ultimately the championship,
the win was not served on a silver platter. The AISA Eagles played their “miniature” hearts out. The AISL ‘A’ team may have won by a
large margin (71-22), but each point scored did not go uncontested by AISA. One team, AISL ‘A’, walked away undefeated champions from
the tournament, but both teams played like champions and in the end deserve to be recognized as champions. AISA concluded its season 7-
2 with the only 2 losses coming from the same team. Although a bit disappointed that they did not walk away with the championship trophy,
the AISA Eagles walked away with a great lesson in sportsmanship. Being the best is not just about winning, being the best means
going against the best and improving. What the AISA Eagles did was to adjust their strategy in the Championship match. The team together
scored 8 more points against the same team in the championship match. Only by working together and supporting one another were
those feisty bunch of Middle Schoolers able to walk away mentally champions.
Contest Winners
Pass-Dribble-Shoot Relay – AISL ‘A’
Free throw contest – Itamar Gariby (3rd place)
3-Point shoot out – AISA (1st place with 13 points)
Team Roster
Chike Amobi – Grade 5
Annissa Ammoum – Grade 7
Matan Elias – Grade 6
Itamar Gariby – Grade 6
Mark Maire – Grade 6
Kelechi Nwosu – Grade 6
Chinweizu Oham – Grade 6
Ololade Omotoba – Grade 6
Obiazirije Nwosu – Grade 5
Emmanuel Onolenemen– Grade 5
Coach: Stephanie Omueti
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New starting time: 11:00am
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Please consider traffic and security delays . We recommend that you plan to arrive and be seated by 5:30pm
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