Valley Forge Academy Qatar - BUGLE #6
Dear VFAQ Community,
As we settle into Term 2, the Academy is far from settled into a routine. We operate always with one eye peering into the future, seeking to challenge ourselves, to challenge our community. I have been considering how leadership is taking shape throughout the Academy and what leadership will look like in the future; our community is becoming one full of leaders.
In an admissions interview, a prospective parent asked me how Valley Forge instills leadership. I could talk about self-discipline, servant leadership, confident grounded in cultural and national identity, the power of being fluent in Arabic and English, but I think the answer is one that comes from our community. It is with great admiration I can acknowledge instances of leadership recently:
Our grade 10 students are seeking to start our school Honor Council.
Our grade 4 students helped us shape our HERO attendance program.
Our grade 2 students standing up for what they believed was unfair.
Our grade 5 students now lead our KG Morning Parade.
Our Medical officers, for leading a health initiative among our staff.
Our security officer greets our secondary students each morning.
Our teachers volunteer to support our growing community in admissions.
Our hiring committee works to prepare the future teachers of VFAQ.
From my conversation with this parent I have come to know the Hadith stating All of you are shepherds, and each of you will be asked concerning his flock. Our flock is our community, within it we all may lead when the beacon calls.
Furthermore, there are bountiful leadership opportunities to come in February; Health Day, Sports Days, Field Trips, Swimming class, Academic challenges and projects, continued efforts towards rank and community service. The opportunities to exercise our leadership are unending and versatile, and I challenge students and parents to get involved in the community here at the Academy and outward in Doha. Share with us how Leadership is taking shape within your families.
Be proud, kind, and resilient,
Joshua Garrett
Academy Principal
18 Feb. – 22 Feb.
Book Week
Thurs. 22 Feb.
Secondary Assembly
Mon. 26 Feb.
Qatari Environment Day
Thurs. 14 March
Elementary Assembly
OUR VISION IS TO BE A SHINING BEACON![]()
Academy Ethos in Review:
1. Establish a Consistent Homework Routine:
Research published in the “Review of Educational Research” emphasizes the importance of a structured homework routine in enhancing academic achievement. Set aside a dedicated time and quiet space for your son to complete his homework. Consistency in this routine contributes to better time management skills and improved academic performance.
2. Foster a Growth Mindset:
Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck’s groundbreaking work on growth mindset highlights the transformative power of believing in the potential for growth. Encourage your son to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. By praising effort and perseverance over innate abilities, you instill resilience and a love for learning.
3. Promote Active Reading and Discussion:
A study published in the “Journal of Educational Psychology” underscores the positive impact of parental involvement in reading activities. Engage your son in active reading by discussing the material, asking questions, and exploring different perspectives. Such involvement not only enhances comprehension but also stimulates critical thinking skills.
4. Utilize Technology for Educational Enrichment:
Incorporating educational technology has proven benefits for learning. According to research from the International Society for Technology in Education, interactive learning platforms and educational apps can supplement classroom teachings. Explore age-appropriate educational tools that align with Valley Forge Academy’s curriculum to reinforce lessons in an engaging manner.
5. Nurture Effective Communication with Teachers:
Communication between parents and teachers is crucial for a student’s academic success. A study in the “Journal of Educational Research and Policy Studies” found that active parent-teacher communication positively influences student achievement. Attend parent-teacher conferences, stay informed about your son’s progress, and collaborate with teachers to address any challenges.
The HERO Initiative is not just a program; it’s a philosophy that encourages every student to be a HERO in their own educational journey.
Here’s a glimpse into what each letter of HERO stands for:
H(Here): We believe in the power of presence. Being physically present in class is the first step toward success. Students with consistent attendance will be recognized, and we have exciting tracking systems to celebrate your journey towards perfect attendance!
E(Every day): Every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference. We’re rewarding students who engage in class every day, emphasizing the correlation between daily participation and academic success.
R(Ready): Success favors the prepared. HERO promotes readiness by ensuring students come to class prepared with the necessary materials. We’re fostering organization and responsibility through exciting classroom activities.
O(On time): Punctuality is a habit that sets the tone for success. HERO stresses the importance of being on time and implements strategies to minimize tardiness. We’ll be acknowledging and celebrating punctual behavior with pride.
We are looking at a a positive shift in our school culture as the HERO Initiative takes center stage. We encourage parents to engage with their children, reinforcing the HERO principles at home.
Let’s all be HEROES every day, because every day is an opportunity to make a difference!
