NEWSLETTER
October 2024
Message from Head of School
As we welcomed a new season of learning and growth this August, we also entered an exciting chapter of expansion and consolidation at Acorns International across all four campuses. Each school remains committed to creating an environment where students flourish academically, socially, and personally.
From innovative programmes to outstanding achievements, there is much to celebrate in our community. I invite you to visit our newly updated website at https://acornsschools.com/ for an in-depth look at the unique journeys taking place at each of our schools.
A great deal of thought and care has gone into every aspect of our growth, from the design of our new logo to the vibrant colours and branding that reflect our shared vision.
Wishing everyone a restful midterm break! May this time offer you a chance to recharge, enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones, and return energised for the exciting weeks ahead.
Updates from Deputy Head of School
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for your continued support and adherence to the enhanced security measures we’ve implemented across Acorns International School. Your cooperation has been instrumental in maintaining a safe environment for our community. It is heartening to see how everyone has embraced these necessary changes, ensuring that the school remains a secure place for learning and growth.
As we move forward, I encourage everyone to maintain this level of vigilance and commitment. Your ongoing support is key to keeping our school safe and welcoming for all. Please remember to carry your School ID at all times and notify the school in advance if someone else is authorised to pick up your child.
Wellbeing Programme Development Plan Updates and Survey
We are excited to announce that the Wellbeing Steering Committee has completed its well-being audits and now seeks your feedback on which ideas you would most like to see incorporated into our IB Programme Development Plan.
In line with the AISA ‘Wellbeing for All’ model, we are focusing our efforts on four key areas of wellbeing:
- Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Child Protection
- Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ)
- Educator Wellbeing
We invite you to take part in shaping this initiative by completing our wellbeing survey. This is your opportunity to vote on the ideas and programs you would most like to see developed to support wellbeing at Acorns International School.
Please click here to participate in the survey.
Updated Child Protection Concern Report
While we await your feedback, we continue our policy review and pursuit of best practices. Based on community input and additional professional development for our Designated Safeguarding Officers (DSOs), we have simplified our Child Protection Concern Report form.
If you have concerns that a child is being mistreated, please use the this link to report it. Reports can be made anonymously.
All members of our school community share the responsibility of keeping our students safe. Your input is invaluable as we work together to build a stronger, healthier community.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Rachelle Hale-Molo
Deputy Head of School
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Email: deputyhos@ais.ac.ug
Updates from Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO)
We are thrilled to announce that the PTO Board has successfully elected new leadership to guide our organisation for the 2024/2025 academic year! This marks an exciting chapter for our PTO as we embark on this journey together.
On September 25, 2024, the new PTO Leadership held its inaugural meeting, which proved to be both productive and inspiring. During this meeting, we discussed our SMART goals and set expectations for the year ahead, all in alignment with our new slogan: “Together for Our Children.”
Thank you for your continued support as we work collaboratively to enrich the educational experience for our children.
Danish Dulo
PTO Chairperson
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pto@ais.ac.ug
Updates from Administration
As we approach the midterm, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication. The beginning of the school year can be challenging, but thanks to your efforts, things are improving daily!
Visitor Pass Process: Individuals without a school ID must leave a government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, National ID) to receive a visitor pass, which must be returned to retrieve the ID. Staff members (e.g., drivers, and nannies) should also carry a government ID if they do not have a school ID.
Unauthorised use of school IDs: Ensure that the individual picking up your child matches the photo on the school ID and is authorised to collect only the students listed on that card.
ID accountability: All school IDs should remain with the adult responsible for drop-off or pick-up. Starting next week, if your ID is with a student, you will need to exchange a government ID for a visitor pass. It’s best to keep your card on you rather than in a vehicle.
Safety after signing out: Children signed out must leave the campus immediately to ensure accountability and safety. Instances of children remaining on campus after signing out have been noted.
Identification clarity: School IDs must display clear photos and names of the adults and students in their care. Staff may not recognise you on sight, so all families must adhere to the same identification procedures, regardless of how long they have been part of the community.
In emergencies, if a family member without a card needs to pick up a student, please notify Ms. Rosyelene via email at admin@ais.ac.ug or frontdesk@ais.ac.ug, providing full details of the authorised individual. Remember to present your family card when entering or exiting the campus.
We kindly ask that you adhere to the designated drop-off and pick-up times to avoid inconvenience. Please do not drop off students before 7:00 am, as supervision is not available before that time. For pick-up, ensure students are collected no later than 15 minutes after class ends: 2:45 pm for Early Years and 3:30 pm for Primary and Secondary.
To minimize lost and unclaimed items, we encourage families to label their children’s uniforms and belongings. If you need assistance with labelling for a fee of UGX 2000, please visit our main reception for guidance. This practice helps foster responsibility for personal items.
At Acorns, we prioritise healthy habits through regular health check-ups. We are organising a dental health check-up following the midterm break (dates to be announced). Participation is voluntary; if you do not wish for your child to participate, please email Ms. Rosyelene to exempt them. Additional details will be shared via Toddle.
Thank you to all parents who have registered their children for afterschool clubs this term. A gentle reminder: if your child requires a costume for their club activities, please ensure it is packed in the morning to avoid missing out. If you need to contact a facilitator, feel free to email me at admin@ais.ac.ug to schedule an appointment.
For the well-being of our students, please do not send your child to school if they are unwell. If your child requires medication during school hours, please deliver it to the school nurse with clear instructions. Please note that we do not administer antibiotics to students.
Due to logistical challenges, we are unable to accommodate daily lunch deliveries for students. If your child is not enrolled in the school lunch program, please pack their lunch and send it with them in the morning.
As we approach the break, we hope you find time to rest and recharge for the remainder of the term.
Wishing you all a happy and restful break!
Rosyelene Ampumuza
HoD Administration
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Email: admin@ais.ac.ug
Updates from Admissions
We are excited to see our community continue to grow, welcoming families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. At our school, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every student is celebrated for their unique strengths and perspectives. As we embark on another year of learning and growth, we look forward to the shared experiences that will enrich our vibrant community.
As we expand, it’s important to keep all records up-to-date. Returning parents, please check your child’s Toddle account. If their profile lacks a photo, it likely means their digital admission form hasn’t been completed. In this case, kindly email me at admissions@ais.ac.ug to check the account or share the link.
This form is essential for processing tourist visas, student passes, admission letters, updating emergency contact details, granting permission for marketing photos, and ensuring the correct order of your child’s name on academic documents.
Timely completion will help avoid delays. If you need assistance, our admissions team is ready to help.
Thank you for your cooperation. We look forward to another exciting year with you!
Nishitha Shrivastava
HoD Admissions & Advancement
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Email: admissions@ais.ac.ug
Updates from Human Resource
We are excited to share the success of our recent Staff Appreciation Day, held in honour of International Teacher’s Day, where our team enjoyed a rejuvenating day at the beach. This special event was not just a break from the usual routine—it was a heartfelt tribute to our dedicated staff, who tirelessly nurture our students and uphold the core values of our school.
At Acorns, we prioritise creating a supportive and inspiring work environment. Events like these allow us to express our deep gratitude, boost team morale, and strengthen the sense of community within our staff. It was wonderful to see everyone relax, bond, and enjoy well-deserved moments of fun and leisure.
We remain committed to recognising the hard work and dedication of our team, and we hope this day served as a reminder of how much you are valued. Thank you for your unwavering efforts! Together, we continue to achieve greatness.
Lynn Bugaari Muhangi
HoD Human Resource
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Email: hr@ais.ac.ug
Updates from Finance
Fees
- Term I fees were due by August 22, 2024. If you have any queries, kindly contact the Finance Department at +256 754 202 667 or email accounts@ais.ac.ug.
- Delayed fee payments incur a 5% surcharge. If you have not opted for School Lunch, kindly ignore that component in your invoice.
- Acorns 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 accounts@ais.ac.ug.
Bank requirement
- Please be advised that, following bank regulations, school fee payments will not be accepted if the currency notes have any markings or scribbles on them.
- Please note that, following bank regulations, only US dollar notes from the 2013 series and newer will be accepted. Notes from earlier series 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 15min.
Transport Facility
- We now have 2 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 transport@ais.ac.ug
Binal Patel
HoD Finance
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Email: finance@ais.ac.ug
Updates from Specialties
School Team Training and ISSA League Season 2024-25
Training for our school teams commenced on August 26, 2024, in preparation for the ISSA League Term 1 season. This term, we are focusing on Primary Basketball and Secondary Football, and our athletes are committed to representing Acorns International School with pride. We appreciate the support from our parents, which significantly boosts our athletes’ motivation and success. A reminder to all students: regular attendance at training sessions is crucial for improving skills and endurance, especially as we gear up for competitions. Secondary students on school teams are issued gate passes, which must be carried at all times.
Tryouts for new and interested students took place on September 7, 2024. Congratulations to all the students who made the team!
All team members are required to purchase a customised jersey for $30, payable at the cashier’s office. Athletes should wear appropriate gear during training, including suitable shoes and necessary equipment such as swimming goggles, head masks, and flippers.
Please refer to the schedule for your child’s training days. We will inform you in advance of any upcoming competitions, including those held on Saturdays or other weekdays. We encourage all parents and guardians to come out and support our athletes enthusiastically.
Talent Hunt
Acorns International School is thrilled to invite you to the sixth edition of the International Schools Talent Hunt, scheduled for Saturday, November 9, 2024. This year’s event will be held in the Acorns main auditorium, featuring performances from students across various international schools.
For the first time, schools such as Aga Khan Academy, Kabojja International, KCIS, Green Hills Academy, Taiba International, VIKAS, Asifiwe, Harvest International, North Green, Pine International, Vine International, and Galaxy International School will participate.
Performances will showcase talents in dance, voice, instrumentals, and drama, running from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Congratulations to Acorns’ finalists—Ethan Luggya, Veerangana Kanumura, Zola Mwiza, Rubbie Teera, Zainab Charaniya, Jordana Ndawula, Mwebaze Trinity, Ahir Siddhi, Srunitha Paduchuri, Muhamed Khuzaima, and Faith Okeyo—who excelled in the auditions and will represent Acorns at this exciting event.
Student Council Investiture 2024-25
On September 26, 2024, we held the Student Council Investiture Ceremony in the school auditorium, marking a significant milestone in student leadership at Acorns International School. Congratulations to our newly elected Student Council members! It is vital they represent the entire student body with fairness and integrity. Special thanks to the 2024-25 council patrons, Mr. Rogers and Ms. Sridevi, for their dedication, and heartfelt gratitude to outgoing patrons, Mr. Douglas and Ms. Nellie Macharia, for their guidance and service.
We are deeply appreciative of the unwavering support from parents throughout the election process. Your involvement in your children’s campaigns and attendance at the ceremony has been invaluable. A special thank you to the outgoing student council, led by President Jemimah, for setting a high standard in fostering strong interactions between students and senior management.
The new council is led by:
In the Primary Department:
In the Early Years Department:
Other key positions include:
Celebrating Pluralism at our Global Village event
This year, our Global Village event was celebrated under the theme “Celebrating Pluralism,” reflecting our commitment to fostering an international mindset. Each class embarked on a journey to explore and celebrate the diverse countries represented in our student body, deepening their appreciation for cultural celebrations, festivals, and events of national significance.
Students researched specific countries, presenting their findings through informative presentations and creative projects that showcased the vibrant heritage of these nations. They dressed in traditional attire and shared stories behind cultural festivals, exploring their origins, historical significance, and associated myths or legends. This initiative allowed students to express their creativity while gaining insights into the beauty of different traditions and the values that unite communities worldwide.
The event was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together and celebrate the incredible diversity at Acorns. Thank you for your continued support in nurturing open-minded, culturally aware learners.
Henry Kalanzi
HoD Specialties
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Email: specialtieshod@ais.ac.ug
Message from Student Council President
I am Mwebaze Trinity, your newly elected Student Council President for the 2024-2025 academic year, and I am truly honored to have been chosen for this role. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you for your support and for the votes that made this possible.
As I take on this responsibility, my vision for our school goes beyond it being just a place for learning. I see it as a vibrant community where students and the administration work together through open communication and collaboration. By sharing our ideas and perspectives, we can help our school grow and thrive.
Exciting times are ahead! The Student Council has some fun and engaging activities in store, and I can’t wait to unveil them to you all. Let’s make this year one to remember!
Thank you once again for your trust and support.
Updates from Heads of Departments
Early Years
Another exciting year of exploration and discovery is underway in EYP! Our classrooms buzz with energy as children reconnect with friends and welcome new classmates. Now settled into our routines, we are actively gaining knowledge and skills through collaborative play and learning. Both returning students and newcomers have transitioned smoothly, embodying the IB Learner Profile’s ‘Risk Taker’ attribute.
Please check your emails for weekly updates on class learning and ways to support your child’s development at home. Our regular Toddle Portfolio posts in the app will provide insights into classroom activities and celebrate the milestones we achieve throughout the year!
Andi Haskins
HoD Early Years
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Email: earlyyearshod@ais.ac.ug
Primary
I am delighted to share that the first half of the term has been a tremendous success! Our students have adapted remarkably well, showcasing their enthusiasm and dedication to their learning journeys. It has been inspiring to witness their commitment, which reflects not only their hard work but also the strong values instilled by our community.
We are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support, as it plays a vital role in fostering a positive and enriching environment for all. Together, we are building a nurturing atmosphere where students can thrive academically and personally. Thank you for being such an integral part of our community; your involvement and encouragement make a significant difference!
Shallon Baguma
HoD Primary
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Email: primaryhod@ais.ac.ug
Secondary
The new academic year has begun on a positive note! Our Secondary students are actively engaged in a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, fostering essential 21st-century skills. They participated in the Global Village, where they showcased their knowledge of various countries and cultures.
In addition, students planned and executed service activities, took part in the IB Festival of Hope, and developed their leadership abilities through the IB Global Youth Action Fund programme. Their dedication to community service was further exemplified by their fundraising efforts for the “Reclaiming the Cancer Ribbon” initiative. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and contributions throughout the year!
Shirin Bagchi
HoD Secondary
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Email: secondaryhod@ais.ac.ug
