Looking for some school/moving advice *long*

Hi there, Let me share some of my thoughts on this. I have two daughters. One at ACS and one at Raha. I am also a teacher working at a third school, but for 2011-2012 will be working at one of my daughter's schools. We are very happy with both schools, and our girls have been extremely happy with their experiences at both RIS and ACS. Because our girls were split at two different schols (long story...) we had a difficult housing decision to make. I agree that many of the places are larger out near Raha International School, in a place called Khalifa City A. I was recently at a friend's home in Raha Gardens...large, spacious, and with a yard, and while there were other units around it, it was not like everyone was on top of eachother. I was a bit envious. However, we are living on the island in a compound where we have neighbors on either side of us, and our garden backs onto our neighbor's unit, but I LOVE it here. We have a large dog, and we have just enough yard to keep him happy. In thinking about if we should move out closer to Raha, I know that I might sacrifice the very nice community feel here, where my girls can jump on their bikes and be with friends in a minute, where nothing is very far away. I LOVE being close to the Corniche and all the other neighborhoods here. We explore and venture out a lot, and that is a bit more difficult (time consuming) living off island. I have friends living in detached villas on the island too, and they have loads of privacy. Their units are just a bit smaller since prices are more expensive on island than off ACS is accepting applications NOW. Raha just sent out their letters to their families asking who would be returning. If either are options, send in applications NOW and get on the waiting list NOW. That way, when they begin to assess their numbers, you are already in line. Yes, the applications and the fees are a pain, but it is really imperative you cast your net wide and not wait. ACS always has more openings in the middle school compared to the elementary school. The other option is to check out Gems American School. ACS recommends this to families as their #1 choice for backup schools. Also know that AISA is not co-ed starting in grade 6 (?). For some that is great and for others, not. ACS will hit you up for a first year 'capital funds' fee. This is understandable, but my daughter at ACS did not get a $10K better education. Know also that if you plan to be here long term that ACS is building a new upper school campus, and by the 2012-2013 (?) school year students will be in an altogether different location. I was more freaked out about shipping my dog than anything else before I got here (Getting my 5th grader into ANY school became my full time job and obssession after I arrived). There are two good veterinary clinics that can assist with the shipment/paperwork for pets. I was worried about summer too, but have found an underemployed domestic worker to house sit while we are away. She is grateful for the larger living conditions, the free air conditioning and the money. If you feel you need to bring a couple of your pets, there are solutions to some of the questions you pose. Trust me, I spent many a night worry about my dog. We are so glad that we brought him. This is probably more than you want to know, butI was in your shoes exactly a year ago. The difference was that I had lived here as a single woman from 1991-1995 and KNEW that this would be an incredible experience for my daughters. That has proven to be 100% accurate. I LOVE Abu Dhabi and wouldn't want to be any other place at the moment. Cheers, Lisa

kristi, my daughter and i will be moving to abu dhabi in july. my husband is there every 6 weeks. my daughter is 16 and will be a senior this coming school year. we've checked on schools with an american curriculum and ACS and American International both have an American curriculum and an IB program. They are open for applications since January for the coming school year. they suggest to schedule a time with the registrar to submit the application. ACS requires more documents than AIS, i suggest for you to check their websites and print the application form and list of required documents. good luck and hope to meet you in abu dhabi!

Kristi, I moved here in October 2010 from the States and there is an adjustment period no matter your age, but living in another country is a great adventure. In terms of housing and choosing Dubai or Abu Dhabi, will depend on what type of city you are from. Dubai is more of a city life than Abu Dhabi, which is a bit more laid back in my opinion. You can live in communities outside of Abu Dhabi like Khalifa City if you are looking for a yard and privacy. Best of luck with all your decisions.

As far as schools, I would call ACS and ask about registration for fall. It's been three years since I looked into this, but at that time it was much easier to get into the senior and middle schools than the elementary. It was the elementary that had a crazy waiting list. However, things change quickly here and each year is different, so I'd give them a call to see what the current status is +971-2-681-5115. As far as AD vs. Dubai, what is your housing allowance? I personally prefer AD over Dubai (though some people have the totally opposite opinion) but housing is much more expensive in AD than Dubai. If your package has a substantial housing allowance, I would suggest AD. But if you have a limited housing allowance, Dubai might be a better option. Just my personal opinion, though! I can't speak to the adjustment of a teenage girl specifically, but you can all expect to go through a significant ajustment period. However, I believe the travel/cultural experiences (both in the UAE and all the places you can easily visit) would greatly benefit a teen. Best of luck with your decisions!