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The American School of Bahrain (ASB) welcomed students to its brand-new state-of-the-art campus on Monday, in accordance with instructions from the Ministries of Education and Health, writes Naman Arora.
ASB, part of the Esol Education global group of schools, is introducing technology-enabled classrooms, cutting-edge pedagogy and a 21st century advanced learning approach, whilst prioritising students’ wellbeing.
Dave McMaster, founding director of the school, said: “A collective and unified effort has never been more important than it is today. We are confident that the ASB community will start our inaugural school year positively and successfully and face all challenges with determination as we embark together on our journey of educational excellence.”
Every day at ASB, masks are required, in addition to a 1.5m social distancing restriction, indicated by stickers placed throughout the school.
Every student, staff and visitor must undergo mandatory temperature screening before entering any building, classroom or bus. Anyone showing symptoms will be denied entry and will be required to follow the school’s Covid-19 exposure protocol.
On entrance, students will be divided into four groups and further into smaller pods, to ensure safe conditions and aid in contact tracing in the event of a positive Covid-19 case.
All classrooms, equipment and toilets are disinfected after each use and the school is using technology to minimise contact through paper.
The school is also using Zoom, Google Classroom, Seesaw and PowerSchool for students to complete assessments and attend classes via live broadcast, while helping parents stay updated on their child’s academic progress.
In addition, the school is offering emotional support through its counsellors, principal and teachers to help parents and students maintain their wellbeing during the current situation.
Dave added: “It is crucial, now more than ever, to ensure that health and safety is not compromised in efforts to continue daily life. Although this generation of children is experiencing unprecedented times and has faced many challenges as a result, we are committed to providing a sense of ‘normal’ in the safest way possible.”
