Parents play an essential and positive role in the life of The Glenelg School of Abu Dhabi. Not only are parents advocates for their children; they also support the faculty and administration through extensive volunteer activities and events.  

Relationship Between Parents and the Faculty 

The relationship between parents and the faculty and administration is formally governed by the school’s Parent/Student Handbook, in which its procedures are spelled out, as well as the “Code of Conduct Agreement” at the end of the handbook. When parents choose to enroll their child in GSAD, they agree to subscribe to its mission, follow its rules, and abide by its decisions. However, most teachers and administrators would agree that trust and mutual respect are the most essential underpinnings of effective working relationships with parents.

GSAD encourages parents to work productively with teachers and administrators by staying informed about their child and important events in the life of the school. Thoughtful questions and suggestions should be welcomed by the school. It is incumbent upon the school to provide parents with timely and pertinent information.

Fostering a Climate of Trust and Respect 

Parents best support a school climate of trust and respect by communicating concerns openly and constructively to the teacher or administrator closest to the problem. Efforts by parents to lobby other parents will be viewed by the school as counterproductive.

While parents may not agree with every decision made by the school, in most cases the parent and school will find enough common ground to continue a mutually respectful relationship. In extreme cases, however, an impasse may be so severe that the parent cannot remain a constructive member of the community. In such cases, both the parent and the school should consider whether another school would be a better match for the family.