ISG Superintendent's Message

ISG CAMPUS COUNCILS

At ISG, Campus Councils, established at each school site, play a vital role in fostering collaboration, representation and community partnerships. These advisory groups bring together parents, students and staff to provide valuable feedback and support school improvement initiatives. By ensuring open communication and structured engagement, Campus Councils help strengthen relationships and enhance the overall learning experience.

Membership Selection

Each Campus Council consists of:

• Seven elected parents (demographically representative of the school)
• Three students (aged 14 or older)
• Three school staff members
• The Principal (serving as Chair)

Parent elections take place in September and the school principal recommends the final composition to the Superintendent by October each year.

Duties

The Campus Councils are provided with regular updates from the school principals on campus operations, learning plans and activities with opportunities for the Council members to provide feedback. The Campus Council fulfills separate functions to that of ISG’s Parent Teacher Groups (PTGs). They are also separate from the Board of Trustees, which operates at a strategic level.

Reporting Processes

• Councils meet four to six times per year
• Agendas are set and communicated in advance by the Principal
• Minutes are summarized and shared with the school community, the school leadership and provided to the Board for awareness

This campus level group ensures ongoing effectiveness and relevance by fostering collaboration, engagement and continuous improvement. Campus Councils create an avenue where representative voices are heard, contributing to a stronger and more connected school community.

SSAC UPDATE

The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council recently met to discuss feedback collection and analysis, focusing on survey revisions and data interpretation.

Students engaged in activities to understand survey design and provided anonymous feedback for constructive discussion on the next steps on gathering feedback from students to inform planning for next school year.

The session concluded with recognition of student contributions, where certificates and a small gift were awarded, emphasizing the importance of student leadership in shaping school environments.

MPS UPDATE

We’re excited to share the latest progress on the MPS construction. Please click the image above to watch a recorded update from our Project Manager, Ciaran Hays.

With blockwork completed at both ground and mezzanine levels, the site is now ready for window glazing and aluminium frames. Structural work is advancing, including steel frames for cladding and plastering ahead of interior painting.

Key systems like HVAC ducts, electrical cabling and the AV control room are taking shape, ensuring a top-tier facility for sound, lighting and LED displays.

The space will feature multiple seating areas, a running track and a high-performance sports floor. Exterior work is also moving forward with paving, drainage and landscaping.

Stay tuned for more updates as we bring this vision to life!

CATERING IMPROVEMENTS ON ISG CAMPUSES

I would like to give you an update on the catering services across our campuses:

Dhahran Campus

While we continue to see regular sales of our main meal options, the pizza and popcorn additions that were made in January have become popular items amongst the students.

In the coming weeks, we expect to implement the use of Grab & Go carts in both ASD and BSD. Not only will there be a few new food options for students, but this will give the students an additional location in which to purchase food which we expect to alleviate some of the congestion in the cafeterias.

ISG Dammam Campus

The ISG operations team and the caterers continue to prepare for a full kitchen operation in ISG Dammam starting in August 2025.

The cafeteria site will undergo a small renovation process that will allow it to better accommodate the students and ISG is finalizing the purchase order for additional kitchen equipment.

ISG Jubail Campus

Shortly before Ramadan, ISG Jubail switched to a new caterer, Marriott, for their lunch program. The early feedback received is that the food is exceptionally tasty and the portions are large.

ISG will continue to build on the early success we are seeing in this new partnership.

ISG WEEK WITHOUT WALLS SERVICE TRIPS

In the words of Alfred Adler. “Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another, and feeling with the heart of another”

Week Without Walls (WOW Week) is an opportunity for students to step beyond the classroom and engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. This year, our students traveled to various destinations, immersing themselves in new cultures, developing essential life skills, and taking part in impactful service projects.

Whether through environmental initiatives, community outreach or sustainability efforts, each trip provided students with the chance to give back and make a difference. Here’s a look at some of the incredible service projects our students participated in around the world.

Croatia & Bosnia and Herzegovina (ASD)

Three teacher-sponsors and 16 students flew to Croatia and Bosnia and visited two orphanages in Zagreb and Sarajevo respectively.

They interacted with children, donated toys, toothbrushes, books and snacks. These visits allowed our students to reflect on their own lives, blessings and opportunities and commit to helping those in need whenever they can.

Thanks to Shaila Koya, Renju Jacob and Mariam Abdi for leading this trip.

Malaysia (ASD)

Twenty ASD middle school students went on a 10-day trip to Malaysia for an unforgettable experience, where community service was at the heart of every activity:

The students:

• Collected 20 kg of trash in Pangkor at a beach where turtles lay their eggs
• Planted 52 Sea Lettuce/Ambong ambong plants in Pangkor
• Prepared 70 Sea Lettuce seedlings (nursery work)
• Planted 230 mangroves in Lumut
• Planted 60 trees in Merapoh
• Prepared 100 seedlings in Merapoh (nursery work)

For a cultural experience the students met a local tribe and learned to make fire, build shelters, use blow darts and make food over a campfire. They also attended a Batik painting workshop and made their own art.

Through this trip, students learned that giving back can come in many forms and all are important to our future on this Earth. Thanks to Ms. Ashlie Jensen, Ms. Celeste Guerrero and Mr. Jake Scherer for leading this trip.

Barcelona, Spain (ASD)

During this year’s Week Without Walls trip to Barcelona, Spain, 27 middle school students from ASD had the opportunity to combine service and cultural exploration.

The ASD group partnered with three local NGOs that support community projects and gained hands-on experience in volunteer work.

The first was Iniciatives Solidares, where our students learned about universal human rights, painted a wall for a community center, helped landscape a garden and sorted hygiene supplies to be shipped to housing communities partnered with Iniciatives Solidares.

They then worked with ImpacTrip and the Diving Club Saita Marine Conservation Program to learn about biodegradable vs non-biodegradable waste, do a coastline cleanup collecting trash that had settled into the rocky shore, organize the trash into categories for recycling and then attend a session on local marine life.

Lastly, students went on walking tours of Barcelona neighborhoods where mostly immigrants reside. The tours were led by immigrants who spoke to our group about the legal, financial, cultural and language based challenges of having to leave a home country and settle in a new one. The group had a unique opportunity to explore these neighborhoods through the eyes of a resident, getting a taste for the richness of these communities and firsthand accounts of the challenges they face.

Thanks to Ms. Filza Ahmad, Ms. Nazli Ahmed and Mr. Andrew Archibald for leading the students on this trip.

Madrid, Spain (ASD)

During their trip to Madrid, 24 high school students took part in a hands-on environmental initiative aimed at tackling plastic pollution. With global plastic production surpassing 300 million tons annually, microplastics—plastic particles under 5mm—have rapidly infiltrated ecosystems, posing growing concerns for both the environment and human health. A recent study published in Nature Medicine highlights how these particles accumulate in the human brain, raising awareness about the potential risks of long-term exposure.

To contribute to the fight against plastic pollution, students traveled to the outskirts of Madrid to clean up plastic and microplastic waste along the riverbank. This excursion not only helped restore a local natural area but also provided students with a deeper understanding of how microplastics enter waterways and impact ecosystems.

The experience was both eye-opening and rewarding, as students saw firsthand the extent of plastic waste and its long-term consequences. By actively engaging in the cleanup, they developed a stronger sense of environmental responsibility and a commitment to reducing plastic use in their daily lives. This impactful initiative reinforced the importance of sustainability and inspired students to take action beyond the trip, advocating for cleaner, healthier communities.

Thanks to Ms. Rasha Al-Nasr, Mr. Richard Smith and Mr. Michael Sprague for being sponsors on this trip.

Japan (ASD)

Fifty ASD students traveled to Tokyo, Japan, where they took part in a meaningful environmental service project—cleaning a local river to help purify the surrounding ecosystem.

Through their efforts, they contributed to improving water quality, reducing waste and raising public awareness about environmental conservation.

This project not only benefited the local community but also developed a sense of responsibility and sustainability among our students. By engaging in hands-on environmental work, they gained a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving natural resources and the lasting impact of collective action.

Thanks to Ms. Sarah Ahmed, Mr. Edwin Segbafia, Mr. Michael Smith andMs. Brandi Colvin for leading this trip

Greece (ASD)

During their trip to Athens Greece, 23 students took part in a meaningful environmental initiative combining education and hands-on service. At the local Rescue Center they learned about the rehabilitation of injured marine life, particularly the Mediterranean loggerhead turtle, and the threats these creatures face due to pollution and human activity. Observing the specialized care provided to these turtles gave students a deeper appreciation for marine conservation and the urgent need to protect vulnerable ecosystems.

In addition to their time at the Rescue Center students participated in a beach cleanup, gaining firsthand experience of the impact of pollution on coastal environments. By collecting and analyzing waste—including plastic, glass, metal and rubber—they developed a stronger understanding of how human actions affect marine life.

Over the course of eight hours of dedicated community service, ASD students not only contributed to a cleaner coastline but also strengthened their sense of environmental responsibility. This experience empowered them to become advocates for ocean conservation, inspiring them to adopt more sustainable habits and take action in their own communities.

Thanks to Ms. Engi Abdulsamad, Mr.Mahfooz Faqeeh and Ms. Shouq Zanom for organizing this trip.

Japan (BSD)

While in Japan, 27 students completed multiple service projects in a span of one week. Students participated in a sustainable fashion activity in Asakusa, challenging modern day fast fashion trends. In this activity they helped artisans untie old kimonos to collect material for upcycling. This allowed students to understand why kimonos are thought to be one of the most ethical fashion choices available.

Students also volunteered their time at a local temple to help preserve the cultural site. They helped clean the temple and listened to the monks talk about the importance of giving back.

Thanks to Ms. Rae-Leigh Lyons, Mr. Kevin Monaghan and Mr. Simon Horsey for organizing this trip.

Alhssa, Saudi Arabia (BSD)

During their local trip to Alhassa, Saudi Arabia, 28 BSD students had the opportunity to visit Al Anjal Private Schools in Al Hofuf, where they were warmly welcomed by both students and staff.

This visit provided a meaningful cultural exchange, allowing our students to gain a deeper understanding of Saudi traditions. The students at Al Anjal taught the group about the traditional Saudi dance, Alharradh, offering a hands-on experience that highlighted the country’s rich heritage. Additionally, they introduced them to the values and significance of the Saudi Majles, emphasizing hospitality, respect and community.

Beyond cultural learning, the visit had a strong humanitarian focus. BSD students partnered with Al Anjal students to organize a clothing donation drive for those in need. This experience reinforced the value of giving back and instilled a deeper sense of global responsibility in our students.

Overall, the trip and service project was both educational and impactful, leaving lasting memories and valuable lessons.

A recap of the visit can be seen here.

Thanks to Ms. Ozouf Alsager, Ms. Mayssaa Safadi and Mr. Simon Cullen for organizing the trip.

Thailand (BSD)

During their trip to Kanchanaburi, Thailand, 32 students embarked on a Duke of Edinburgh expedition, pushing their limits through teamwork, resilience and adventure. As they navigated the challenges of the journey, they developed essential life skills, from cooking their own meals and setting up camp to supporting one another through the experience.

Beyond the physical demands, the trip offered rich cultural and social interactions. Students stepped back in time at Malika City, gaining insight into Siamese history, engaged in a friendly basketball match with peers from the International School of Myanmar and soared through the treetops on a ziplining adventure. This expedition was more than a test of endurance—it was a transformative experience that combined challenge, culture and camaraderie, leaving a lasting impact on every participant.

Thank you to Mrs. Hema Kosandar,  Mrs. Tania Schnetler, Mr. Raymond Rowe, Mr. David Gibson and Mr. Adam McLaren for leading the trip.

Czech Republic (ISG Dammam)

Forty-two ISG Dammam students went on a memorable trip to Prague, Czech Republic and participated in various service projects.

During the trip students learned about the homeless community in Prague, cooked a meal for them and engaged in conversations with the community members.

Students also participated in a farming activity and created notebooks from recycled paper. This activity allowed them to connect with the founders of the project, learn about how they started from scratch, and hear about the challenges they faced in their careers. It was also a great way to understand the importance of paper recycling while giving everyone a chance to express their creativity through their own handmade notebooks.

Thanks to Ms. Sara Moustafa, Ms. Rana Fatima, Ms. Dina Aboueita, Ms. Saba Tahir and Mr.  Stephen Pire for leading the students on this trip.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Important Dates:

• March 30 - April 3 - Eid Break.

Ramadan Hours:

• Students:  9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Staff:  8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

College and University Visits:

We are pleased to provide support for our students in a range of counseling services including college and university. You can see the latest information here.

SCHOOL UPDATES

American School Dhahran

• ASD Students Shine at SAIKAC Swimming Championships at BISJ (Jeddah).

• ASD U19 Boys Basketball Team Crowned Champions of the SAIKAC Tournament!

• ASD’s U19 Girls Basketball Team Wins 4th Consecutive SAIKAC Championship.

• ASD Choir Students Shine at AMIS European High School Choir Event.

• ASD Shines at the SAIKAC Tennis Tournament.

British School Dhahran

• BSD Students Make a Global Impact During WOW Week.

• BSD Hosts an Unforgettable Drama Experience During WOW Week.

• BSD U16 Boys Win Gold at SAIKAC Basketball Tournament.

• BSD’s U16 Girls Basketball Team Participate in SAIKAC Tournament.

• BSD Athletes Shine at Aramco Tennis Jamboree.

• BSD Athletes Excel at SAIKAC Tennis Tournament at KAUST.

• Mangrove Visits for Year 1 and Year 2.

ISG Dammam

• ISG Dammam Students Embrace the Spirit of Giving During Ramadan.

• Seniors Iftar at ISG Dammam.

• ISG Dammam Hosts SAIKAC U19 Girls Basketball Tournament.

ISG Jubail

• ISG Jubail Basketball Girls' Team Grows Stronger at U19 SAIKAC Tournament.

• ISG Jubail Elementary Students Explore Poetry in Thrilling World Cup Challenge.

• ISG Jubail Tennis Team’s Memorable Performance at the KAUST Tournament.

SVS: CELEBRATING GRATITUDE IN PSHE DURING RAMADAN

This week in PSHE, students at Sara Village School have been discussing gratitude as part of their Ramadan-themed lessons.

Each class has created a paper chain, with each link representing something they are thankful for. Parents and staff have also been invited to add to the chain.

The completed chain is being displayed along the corridors of the school.