Universal American School

UAS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Learning Support Services and Inclusion programs. The Learning Support Services provide equitable opportunities for students with diverse learning needs and language abilities to reach their full learning potential. The Inclusion Department reduces barriers to learning and provides access to the general education curriculum by developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and delivering differentiated instruction, accommodations, and modifications. The English Language Learning (ELL) department supports English language acquisition while encouraging maintenance of mother tongue languages and culture, with focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Counseling services are provided across elementary and secondary divisions to address academic, social/emotional, and behavioral development, complemented by an Advisory curriculum to equip students with tools for well-being and respectful global citizenship. The school emphasizes collaboration with families and the broader community to promote wellbeing and positive social growth.

UAS provides Learning Support Services to support students with diverse learning needs and language abilities, with the aim of equitable opportunities to reach learning potential. The Inclusion Department reduces barriers to learning and provides access to the general education curriculum by developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and offering intensive instruction, differentiation, accommodations, and modifications. The Inclusion Department maximizes inclusion opportunities for SEND students in general education through collaboration with teachers and stakeholders and emphasizes ongoing professional development to apply best practices. The English Language Learning (ELL) department supports language acquisition while encouraging maintenance of mother tongue languages and culture, with services covering speaking, listening, reading, and writing, and collaboration with teachers to support ELL students in general education. Gifted and Talented (G&T) provision develops individualized plans to extend learning and maximize opportunities for students with exceptional abilities. UAS presents inclusive education within the general curriculum rather than advertising itself as a separate specialist SEN institution.

English is the main language of instruction at UAS. Arabic is taught from Pre-K, and French and Spanish are offered from Grade 5. English Language Learning (ELL) support helps students acquire English across speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while encouraging maintenance of mother tongue languages and culture as part of students' development. ELL services emphasize daily practice and building academic and social vocabulary, and they work with general education teachers to support ELL students in regular classes. ELL staff participate in ongoing professional development to implement current best practices for language learners.

UAS provides a wellbeing program addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social needs. The Wellbeing vision is to create a happy, safe, and caring environment with services addressing mental health and emotional well-being through counseling, support groups, and referrals to community resources as needed. The program includes education to prevent bullying and harassment, backed by a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviours. Elementary and Secondary counseling teams advocate for students and deliver academic, social/emotional, and behavioral support, complemented by an Advisory curriculum to promote healthy development. The school emphasizes community involvement and collaboration among parents, staff, and students to foster resilience and inclusive wellbeing.

UAS publishes a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (updated January 2025) that outlines procedures to keep students safe, including screening of employees, a Professional Code of Conduct for adults and volunteers, supervision of private providers, thorough investigation of complaints, and reporting to authorities such as the police and KHDA as required by Wadeema's Law. The policy designates a Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy Safeguarding Leads, with clear quick-reference contacts and a stepped process for handling concerns or disclosures, including use of CPOMS and time-bound actions. It emphasizes our staff's duty of care, multi-agency collaboration, and an ethos of “if you see something, say something.” Early Help and liaison with KHDA/Community Development Authority are described as part of safeguarding practice.