All schools are to fully comply with this policy starting the Academic Year 2025-26.

Private schools in Abu Dhabi are required to have all parents sign an annual parent-school contracting starting the Academic Year 2025-26. This mandatory agreement applies to both initial enrolments and yearly re-enrolments.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) mandates that this agreement should clearly outline the responsibilities of both schools and parents and mandate that parents accept all school policies. The primary goal for this contract is to ensure the active participation of all parents in students learning and wellbeing. Schools are advised to create open, collaborative environments where parents play a direct role in supporting student learning and school life.

Schools are to fully comply with this policy from the start of the upcoming academic year 2025-26. Non-compliance could result in legal consequences and penalties for the school.

Parent Code of Conduct

Parents are expected to maintain positive and respectful relationships, set a good example, maintain constructive communication with staff, students and other parents. Also, the parents’ code of conduct should reflect the school’s vision, mission, and values. Also, parents are to manage concerns in a professional way, and refrain from posting inappropriate comments-especially on social media- and to be respectful of UAE cultural values and legal standards.

Parents are to share responsibility for their child’s progress and wellbeing. This involves ensuring attendance and punctuality, respecting the school calendar, encouraging academic honesty, supporting teachers when needed. Parents are also expected to keep track of their child’s academic development, attend scheduled meetings and maintain open lines of communication with the school.

If these requirements and expectations are not followed, parent will be denied access to the school premises.

Strengthening Parent Engagement in Learning

ADEK has provided the schools with a list of aspects they are to prioritize to help parents stay involved in their child’s learning and development. Parents should have direct access to their child’s teachers and staff providing additional support. Teachers are to notify parents promptly if there are academic or behavioral concerns, so they can work together for the child’s benefit.

The schools are to share the student progress reports digitally and schedule at least one parent-teacher meeting each term. In addition, schools should encourage home-based learning support to encourage parent-student interaction.

Supporting Student Wellbeing

Schools should make provision to engage parents actively in student wellbeing initiatives. Parents are to provide healthy meals and snacks, be mindful of food restrictions, and support eco-friendly practices. Schools are to educate parents about their mental health policies, including when counselling services are recommended, the need for parental consent, and procedures in case consent in not granted.

Students are to be motivated to be involved in extracurricular activities and responsible use of digital devices at home. Schools must also keep parents informed about guidelines for students’ school bag weights.

Parent Communication and Responsibilities

ADEK requires schools to maintain consistent and effective communication with parents through newsletters, phone calls, text messages, emails, letters, online platforms, and meetings. Schools must facilitate the timely payment of school fees in accordance with ADEK regulations, excluding VAT, and must obtain parental consent before sharing student information with third parties.

Schools are legally required to report any suspicious situations- like frequent unexplained absences or sudden withdrawals to the appropriate authorities. This exhibits the school’s duty to be mandated reporters. Parents must also be kept informed about transport services, drop-off and pick-up procedures, parking regulations, and the list of authorized persons allowed to collect students. Schools are expected to maintain an emergency notification system to quickly alert parents if needed and keep records of all written communications in line with ADEK’s requirements.

This policy aims to build a stronger partnership between schools and families, ensuring every child in Abu Dhabi receives a safe, supportive, and enriching educational experience.

Source: Khaleej Times