Events @ GWA - George Washington Academy

GEORGE WASHINGTON ACADEMY
Equipping Minds, Building Character
Echo
4th Quarter 2012-2013
Nº 08
News from our commumity, for our community
Mr. D. Welling MA
Head of School
We would be fooling ourselves if we said we
are not looking forward to our summer break.
But this means we will have to disconnect in
measureable ways from the friendships that
were forged during this past school year.
We will never get those days back. It is a
great exercise to reflect upon those days and
consider how they were spent in academic
learning and in relationship building.
Publishing Comittee:
Hasna Fikri
Lamia Najjar
Chrissy Duke
Translator:
Bouchra Moujtahid
GWA journey. Saying goodbye to our seniors
comes with floods of mixed emotions. At the
same time we want to cheer them onward
to pursue a new chapter in their life we are
grabbed in our hearts to imagine the school
without their presence. Will classes be the
same without them? How will we ever survive
soccer, basketball and volleyball competition
without our seniors?
If you are GWA student, I will repeat to you
what I have written to our seniors - You are all
part of a greater GWA community that cares
deeply for you and will watch and support
you every step of the way. It is my hope that
you will move forward with the confidence
that you have been well equipped to face the
challenges of life, and to go through each trial
living a life marked by excellence, integrity
and good character.
Saying goodbye to our classmates as we go
our separate ways this summer brings with
it even more feelings and questions. When
will we see each other again? Will we still be
friends like we were this year? Will we plan
fun together over the summer? Will we really
keep in touch? How different things will be Finish well, it is how you will be remembered.
when we go back to GWA?
Have a wonderful and safe summer. I look
forward to seeing you when you get back.
On June 8th we will be graduating a whole
class of students that have completed their Best regards,
Mr. D. Welling
Principals Corner
Lower School Principal:
The school year is again
rapidly coming to a close.
This time of year is always
marked by a flurry of activity
as students scramble to
complete projects, prepare for
final exams, and plan for their
summers. Hopefully many of
you had the opportunity to see our seniors in action
during their Capstone project presentation evenings.
Culminating nearly a year of research, review and
rewriting, students put on their best as they formally
presented their finished products to parents, teachers
and the GWA community.
Our drama students are breathing huge sighs of
relief after starring in productions of “Annie – The
Musical”, and “Cyrano de Bergerac”. Their hard
work paid off as they entertained audiences of all
ages.
Our visual arts program also just finished their
last show of the year. Creative and diverse student
work from middle and high school art classes was
on display in our MPR during an evening show and
during the week.
A few of our high school students were invited to
compete in a speech and debate tournament last
month in Fes. Several of them placed in this event,
and all represented GWA well in this new activity.
Another new venture this spring has been our
relationship with a nearby local school, “Youssef
Ben Techfin”. A group of high school students have
adopted this school as a community service effort,
and were able to host 100 of them at the GWA campus
for lunch and field games.
Thank you for all of your support this year. We know
that an effective education is the result of a strong
partnership between students, teachers and parents.
I hope all of you have a relaxing summer vacation.
Mr. Tim Warren
Upper School Principal
One of my favorite interview
questions for new teachers is,
“At the end of the year, how are
you going to evaluate if you have
done your job well?” From time
to time, we as educators, and we
as parents, benefit from asking
the same question of ourselves.
As the calendar turns to June, I am asking myself the
same question. Here is my list of questions to myself:
• Do my students know I love them?
• Are my kids kind to others?
• Have they grown academically to their potential?
• Have they been able to pursue their passions as well
as their requirements?
• Is my organization, my family, my spiritual life
healthy and growing?
Life is lived in what we do with the answers to these
questions. On the wall behind my desk I keep a copy
of the GWA Mission Statement which includes the
statement, “We are a learning community that strives
for excellence, applies wisdom, models integrity, and
honors faith.” Right now I’m not trying to do a lot of
new things, but I am working on learning from my first
year in Morocco. And more from my errors than my
successes. I am reflecting, evaluating, and preparing to
rest and renew. In my family, I am looking forward to
spending time and travel together. I am excited for next
year and the years to come. My kids study here too. We
are on this journey together...
Mr. Matt Ihle
Lower School Principal
Education Beat
Lower School
Character Assembly
Mr. Miles Tuttle
T
his year’s focus on student character in the lower school has come to a close, culminating with an assembly. After
focusing month by month on character traits, such as attentiveness, loyalty, and virtue, each lower school class chose
a student to represent their peers for Character Jeopardy. Congratulations to the fourth grade for winning! To round
off character building for the year, students also competed in a song competition with the opportunity for their “music
video” to be shown to the whole school. Thank you to all students who participated.
The Character Committee would also like to thank the student character team, a group of fourth and fifth grade students,
who have applied their talents and hard work to demonstrating positive character by helping with fund-raisers and
created character-centered videos for the lower school.
Gotcha Wall
Ms. Joy Perott
Abigail
Adam
Adam
Adam
Adil
Alex
Amine
Arwa
Ayla
Chemsi
Chemsi
Chloe
Daniel
Ghali
Ghalia
Ghita
Gonzalo
Halima
Hamza
Imane
Ines
Leul
Lila
Lila
Education Beat
Lower School
Gotcha Wall
Ms. Joy Perott
Lilia
Malak
Malak
Mamoun
Mariama
Natasha
Neil
Noor
Noor
Omar
Omar
Othmane
Salaheddine
Sami
Sofia
Sonia
Tommy
Yasmine
Yasmine
Yassine
Zineb
Zineb
Zineb
Education Beat
Upper School
Graduation/ Transitions
T
Mr. Jeremy Perrott
here is a quote hanging on my office wall that says “Past choices affect present options.” An alternate
perspective is that our present choices will affect our future options. From either side, we all want our children
to have many options that will lead to success – and what their options are will depend on choices we all
make now. Parents are welcome anytime to make an appointment and to discuss their questions about college
options for their child.
I came across this article from Rita and John Sommers-Flanagan who are counselor educators at the University
of Montana. With some edits – I recommend it to you:
Parents play a critical role in supporting their children on their education path and through the significant
transition of life. When it comes to helping your children with college and career decision-making, the first
rule for parents is self-awareness. Be aware of how your lifestyle and values expose your children to particular
professional activities. For example, if you’re a doctor, your children will likely have exposure to medically
related vocational opportunities. Similarly, if you own your own business, your children will undoubtedly end
up with more exposure to your industry demands and opportunities.
It’s also important to be aware of your attitude toward your own profession and others. It’s easy to see why
the children of a factory worker, rancher or politician might grow up with an aversion toward factory work,
ranching or politics, especially if their parents hate their jobs. Children are, obviously, more likely to follow
in their parents’ footsteps if parents are happy with their college and career decisions rather than miserable
about their life choices.
The second college and career planning rule is financial awareness. Higher education is very expensive.
Sending a student to an American college can easily cost 350000 dirham per year. While top students can
receive scholarships that can ease the burden, how can you as a parent plan now for this additional expense
after graduation?
The final rule, for college planning is to, whenever possible and appropriate, make college financial planning
a collaborative process with your children. For some, it might be the first practice they have at being an adult
and making important, life-altering decisions. In the end, your role as advisor, supporter and financier should
progressively shrink while your child’s self-determination grows. If possible, step back and embrace the
excitement, mystery and opportunity this whole process offers. Take time to sit down and communicate with
your children about the various visions of the future. Make plans in a pleasant and positive way, perhaps over
pizza or ice cream, sometimes even including friends or other family members. The message for your children
is that life planning is an ongoing process involving self-awareness, exploration, communication, increasing
responsibilities and exciting opportunities, one of which is the opportunity to regularly talk about and plan
for the future.
Education Beat
Upper School
Senior Catalog
Significance
successful.
Seniors, you have an
amazing opportunity
before you. In some
ways
the
most
significant stage of
your education is just
beginning. It is at this
time when discipline
and responsibility will
separate the successful
students from the less
Many eyes are watching you during this pivotal time
of your life. The underclassmen look up to you to
see your choices and your values. Your parents now
begin to see ways their long-term investment in your
education will show positive results. Your siblings
and peers are wondering what this transition time will
mean to your relationship.
You are part of a greater GWA community that cares
deeply for you and will watch and support you every
step of the way. It is my hope that you will move
forward with the confidence that you have been well
equipped to face the challenges of life, and to go
through each trial living a life marked by excellence,
integrity and good character.
Stay in touch.
Mr. D. Welling - Head of School
Excellence, Wisdom, Integrity, Faith
As I reach the end
of my second year
at GWA, I reflect
on my time with
our
graduates
with pride and
anticipation. I am
proud of your many
accomplishments
and am excited
about what you
will do next. Everything you have done up to this
point has led to where you are now. I hope that
you will leave GWA feeling equally proud of your
accomplishments, filled with the knowledge and
skills that your education has provided, and eagerly
anticipating the next step of your lives.
Our mission statement says that “we are a learning
community that strives for excellence, applies
wisdom, models integrity and honors faith.” I am
charged with supporting this commitment every
day on our campus. But while important at school,
these values really start to matter as you begin the
next phase of your life. Whether you are headed to
further your education in another part of the world,
are transitioning into a career, or plan to take some
time off, I charge you to makes these traits an integral
part of your life.
Strive for excellence: always endeavor to be the best
person you can be. Seek excellence in everything –
your work, your education, your relationships. Apply
wisdom: make decisions thoughtfully, carefully.
Consider the impact of your choices before you act
so that your actions benefit the most people. Model
integrity: be truthful in all of your interactions. Earn
the respect of others by being honorable, humble
and reliable. Honor faith: seek to understand others’
beliefs and attitudes, and appreciate those differences
as part of what makes the world remarkable.
Academic knowledge is imperative for educational
and career success, but these values define who you
are. They will always be at the core of your success as
a person in whatever you choose to do. I wish you all
of the best in the next phase of your life!
Mr. Tim Warren – Upper School Principal
Zineb Merzak
Basically, Zineb Merzak
is good at everything.
Sports have taught her
the value of teamwork
and friendship, while
art helps bring her
back to the real
world—the world that,
through environmental
engineering, she is going to save. She looks forward to
college in Canada or the USA with high expectations
for herself. “While still pondering the meaning of my
existence, I would graciously like to include my many
thanks to everyone who has supported me throughout
my life. To all my family and friends (they know who
they are), I am indebted, as I owe them my deepest
expressions of gratitude, and without whom I would
be lost and unable to maintain a firm grip on my life.”
Yassine
Bouzoubaa
Yassine
Bouzoubaa
loved his senior year,
because it prepared
him for the upcoming
years in college. He is
more ready than ever
to face any challenges
that may come his way.
He appreciates the support he has received from the
teachers at GWA. Ten years from now, he sees himself
back in Morocco, working as a civil engineer.
Zairin Mukkaram
Jah
Zairin Mukkaram Jah
is easy to read and
warm-hearted toward
everyone. Planning to
study finance at Queen
Mary
University,
she looks forward
to the new start that
college will provide—but she will miss the family
environment of GWA. Advanced Arabic II and
Ancient World history (the latter taught by the most
amazing Mr. Bohne) are cherished memories, but for
Zairin, graduation will be the very best moment of
her GWA career. Ten years from now, she sees herself
back in Casablanca, busy at the office and worrying
about her two kids, who are at home in the care of
a most wonderful babysitter: Zairin’s mother. Zairin
hopes to change Morocco for the better, making her
mother proud and leading a happy life with her family.
Younes Bouftas
Younes Bouftas’s year
has been made up of
responsibilities
and
difficult choices. He
feels that life is full of
tragedies and suspense,
but also dreams. Some
dreams come true,
while others just fade
away. Younes has found that the key to success is to
never give up or lose hope; to always keep moving
on through life no matter what. “I wish for everyone
to have an easier life during their high school, and to
be patient.”
Waleed Helweh
Waleed loves science in general, and chemistry in particular. Next year will find
him at Middlebury College, where he will be studying chemical engineering.
He looks forward to changing environments, meeting new people, and learning
a lot more about his major. Ten years from now Waleed sees himself in a huge
laboratory, creating inventions that change the world for the better. He hopes to
become a successful engineer, and to make himself and his mom proud. He also
wants to have a nice family and keep in touch with his friends. “I want to thank
my dad for being a great role model. I want to thank my mom for being alongside
me throughout my life, for being patient, caring and loving. I love
you, Mom
and Dad.”
Soukaina El Alami
Soukaina El Alami is tall and outgoing, and loves to have fun. Passionate about
spreading smiles, she uses both laughter and philanthropy to help those around her.
It’s a slow start, she says, but one day she hopes to make a difference in Morocco
and the world. Either international business or commercial law will be her means to
achieving this end. She enjoys discovering new cultures and meeting new people,
but it will be hard for her to say goodbye to the teachers and to Soufiane from the
cafeteria staff. The freshman Halloween party is her best GWA memory to date,
but she is also looking forward to graduation. While she has no ten-year forecast,
Soukaina hopes to someday be successful and be able to help her country.
Soukaina
Benjelloun
Passionate about life,
Soukaina Benjelloun
lives like a princess.
She likes to hang out
with her friends, travel,
drive luxury cars, and
have a good time. Her
upcoming
transfer
to Barcelona, therefore, is entirely to be expected.
Souki is looking forward to studying either Business
or Interior Design at European University or IED,
with her best friend Dina Bellemlih. She is excited
about becoming independent and living the college
experience, but she is sure to miss her friends, family,
teachers, classroom atmosphere, and teamwork. In
the long run, she envisions herself back in Morocco,
enjoying life as a married businesswoman with cute
twins. “You only live once, but if you do it right, once
is enough.” Mae West
Sofia Chahel
A person with a big open
heart, Sofia Chahel is a
perfectionist who loves
to make others happy.
Sofia plans to major in
international relations and
minor in political science.
Ten years from now, she
sees herself as a great
politician, debating international issues and representing
her country well. I would like to thank each member of
my family. My mother: for all the help and the support
you have given me. You have always encouraged me
to believe in myself and my capabilities. My father: to
whom I will be recognized my whole life. And finally,
to my little brother Mohamed. I want to let you know
that no matter how many times we fight, I will always
love you.
Soufiane Rizkallah
Driven
by
driving
motorcycles,
Soufiane
Rizkallah is a fun person
who loves to hang out and
joke with friends. He plans
to study hotel management
at Les Roches in Marbella.
After graduating from
college, he looks forward
to getting his master’s and working. He will miss his
friends from GWA, as well as Ms. Badia, Ms. Maria, and
Ms. Naima. While he has many memories from GWA,
“KEFTA O BROCHETTES” stands out from his senior
year. Ten years down the road, he sees himself running
his own restaurant, having a family and living his life.
Sofia Elamrani
Creative,
outgoing
and somewhat silly—
Sofia Elamrani, in her
own words. She is
passionate about art
and driven by a desire
to improve. She plans
to study architecture
in the United States at
Parsons in New York City. While she looks forward to
the relative independence of university and the chance
to study what she loves in an inspiring environment,
Sofia will miss both friends and teachers— especially
Nada, one of her closest friends. In ten years, she sees
herself expressing her creative abilities through her art.
To mom, dad, Jad and Zineb: thank you for being the
most loving family anyone could wish for. To Sara, my
best friend and the big sister I never had, thank you for a
lifetime of friendship.
Rhita
Benmakhlouf
Rhita
has
great
passion for adventure,
education, travelling,
drawing, learning about
different
cultures,
movies, and hanging
out with her friends.
She is a perfectionist
who always throws herself into the task at hand,
giving her best in any challenge she tackles. These
qualities will make her an exceptional addition to
the world of business, which she wishes to join as
an international executive. She hopes to achieve
happiness and satisfaction in her life and better the
lives of underprivileged people. “Special thanks to
my parents, family, friends, and teachers for their
support in my life and education.”
Paul Olson
Paul joined the GWA
community his junior
year and quickly found
his place. We all know
him as the laid back,
chill and fun guys he
is, but not everyone
is aware that he has a
cunning and witty side
that is sure to make him an accomplished businessman.
Paul’s empathy and his huge heart make him deeply
passionate about people and their needs. He does not
know where life will take him, but ten years from now
he sees himself married with one child and a good
job. He simply wishes to be satisfied with the choices
he has made throughout his life. Next year, Paul will
be attending California Baptist University.
Reem Elish
Reem Elish knows
what she wants in life.
Reem plans to master in
economics and politics
and minor in fashion at
a prestigious university.
Ten years from now,
Reem sees herself as
a leader in Egypt. She
also wants to be an amazing mother, a lovable wife,
a fashion trendsetter, and, on top of all, she wants to
pay back her father and Karim for all the love and
care they have given her. “Besm allah al Rahman el
Rahim, It’s finally over. I thank God for giving me
the strength through this roller coaster. Marina &
Jina: You’re my definition of the bestest best friends,
forever I’ll love you. This is not the end; it’s just the
beginning. ’13 was worth the ride, ’14 take over.”
Othmane Oucrhif
Othmane
Oucrhif
doesn’t get angry.
Since his childhood, he
has been friends with
Jassim and dreamed
about business and
having a company of his
own. He plans to study
business management
in college, beginning in Morocco and going to the
US to complete his master’s and doctorate. GWA has
been his school for 14 years, and he will miss some
of the staff, the great familiar entourage of his friends
and teachers, and even the walls. Still, for his best
high school memory he is looking forward to getting
his diploma. In ten years, Othmane sees himself
finishing his doctorate, starting his own company,
and, probably, having a fiancée.
Nizar Bekai
Compassionate, humble, generous, and sweet—and passionate about anything
sports related. This is Nizar Bekai. Driven by the desires to improve and compete,
Nizar will be attending the University of British Columbia. He looks forward to
the challenge of living on his own in a completely different society. He will
miss his friends, however—Lina, Amalya, Maissoun, Zineb, FZ, Ghali, Karim,
Nadim, and Adam are people who mean the world to him. Ten years from now,
he hopes to be done with his medical degree and busy saving lives. Whether he
becomes an NBA player, a Nobel Prize winner, or a world-class neurosurgeon,
one thing is certain: Nizar Bekai is going to make his mark on the world.
Nadim Bendidane
Nadim Bendidane is a very passionate and intense person who hides his true self
under layers of “sleepiness”. His undying loyalty to FC Barcelona is universally
known, but football isn’t the only thing Nadim believes in. His deep commitment
to his friends, his constant smile and contagious laugh have always made him easy
to identify in a group of people. His gaming skills are unrivalled, his cheering will
leave your ears ringing, and his warm personality makes him hard to forget.
Nada Elkayhri
Nada’s gorgeous, fiery
red hair is just one of
the many traits that
distinguish her from
everyone else around
her. Her immense
kindness and warm
heart are felt by anyone
who comes into contact
with her. Her talent for photography is evident and
admired. Passionate about chemistry, she will study
this field next year at Ottowa University. In the future
she aspires to open her own medical laboratory while
successfully balancing her role as the mother of three.
“I want to achieve all that I possibly can with my life.
I want to experience all that this world has to offer.”
Mohamed
Lemhandez Imani
Mohamed Lemhandez
Imani is an intelligent
guy who likes to be
in danger. He plans
to study international
business and relations
at the EU University
in Barcelona, where
he looks forward to studying and being exposed to
new cultures. He will miss GWA’s sports tournaments
with other American schools; especially since his
best high school memory is last year’s badminton
season. Ten years from now, he sees himself owning
an international company, and starting to settle down.
He plans to marry, and have twins: a girl and a boy.
Moulay
Hassani
El
Ghali
Moulay Ghali is one of
GWA’s most talented and
versatile soccer players,
as shown by the transition
he has made between
his junior and senior
years. As a junior, Ghali
played goalkeeper for the
Mustang team that won at Marrakech. This year, after
the majority of the midfielders and attackers graduated,
he transitioned to the midfield and helped the soccer
team make it to the finals. Aside from his talent in
sports, Ghali is considered one of the funniest and most
entertaining students in the senior class.
Mohamed Dekkak
Basketball. It is Mohamed
Dekkak’s passion, dream,
and plan for the future.
Nice, tall, and honest,
Mohamed loves the game
and enjoys watching the
NBA—especially the Los
Angeles Lakers, because
they have Kobe Bryant. He
plans on studying international business, like his father,
and in ten years sees himself as the owner of an NBA
team or an all-star player in the NBA. Whether he ends
up at Florida State, University of Iowa, Ohio University
or the University of Georgia, Mohamed will miss his
friends and teachers from GWA. At the top of that list is
Ali Jassim, who is “extremely nice and intelligent and he
gives without wanting anything in return.”
Mohamed Bennis
Can you hear the music?
Can you feel it building;
filling your ears, your
soul? Cooki lives for
it. Music is his passion
and in the future he
plans to make it. One of
a kind, Cooki is often
described as optimistic,
genuine and full of life. His intoxicating personality
and ambition promise to take him very far in life. He
plans to attend a music school next year where his
skills will only improve— last summer he proved his
talent at Los Angeles’ prestigious UCLA. His dream
is to pursue a career as a DJ and thrive at whatever he
does. We believe he will do just that.
Mehdi Tayeb
Mehdi Tayeb is a funloving, good-spirited
kind of guy who’s not
afraid to get on peoples’
nerves, especially if
they employ shabby
courtroom tricks on
him. He makes his
opinion known and
never backs down from a point— which he inevitably
writes into song. He likes to think of himself as the
powerful philosophical type, but everyone knows that
deep down he just wants to be a nurse. His favorite
activities are challenging his friends with the question
“Are we men?” and asking lots of queries about
subjects in class, especially if lawyers are concerned.
Meryem El
Marjani
An extremely energetic
optimist, Meryem El
Marjani is a fireball! She
has so many dreams:
to represent Morocco
in the United Nations,
to make her country
proud, to marry and
have two beautiful children… Someday she will buy
her dream glass house on the beach and her dream car.
Her biggest dream, however, is to put a satisfied smile
on her mother’s face and to make her father proud.
Ten years from now, Meryem sees herself married
to the love of her life. She’ll have two children: Lilia
and Jade. Each night she will work at her husband’s
prestigious restaurant while her children run all over
the place. Most importantly, though, she wants to
send her parents to Saudi Arabia to do pilgrimage.
Mehdi El Jamali
A future entrepreneur,
Mehdi is determined to
become a millionaire.
His passion for chasing
life and success will
follow him next year
to the University of
Tampa, where he is
eager to become more
independent and enjoy his college years to the fullest!
His spontaneity will allow him to adapt to whatever
life might throw at him, and by strength of character
he will achieve his goals in life: to become a massive
philanthropist and redistribute the gifts that God has
blessed him with.
Majed Al-Shaikh
Majed Al-Shaikh does not like tennis—he loves it with a passion. He lives, eats,
sleeps, and breathes the game. With such a passion for the sport, he is going to
go to Barry University to study…dentistry? Yes, Majed is going to be a very
successful dentist, and a hopefully a champion of the ATP and Grand Slam
tournaments as well. I would like to thank my parents and my sister for all the
support they gave me through my life. I couldn’t make it to where I am right now
without them. Also, I thank my friends and GWA for making me feel at home
in Morocco. I will never forget the moments and times that I have enjoyed with
them.
Maissoun Ksara
Maissoun Ksara has an insatiable hunger for knowledge. Planning to study
civil engineering at Drexel University in order to revolutionize Moroccan
infrastructure, Maissoun describes herself as persistent, patient, and passionate.
Ten years from now, Maissoun will be leading Morocco along the path of
great technological achievements. “I would like to thank many the teachers for
always challenging me and pushing me towards success. If it weren’t for them, I
wouldn’t be half as strong as I am today. I would also like to thank all my friends
(they know who they are) for all the wonderful moments we’ve shared together.
Finally, I would like to thank my parents for always being by my side, giving
110% of their efforts to make me happy. I am forever in debt towards them and I can’t even describe how much
they mean to me. Maman, Papa, je vous aime tellement.”
Lina Sekkat
Passion is a word that fits
Lina Sekkat perfectly.
She is extremely strongwilled, motivated and
spirited about the things
she loves: volleyball,
dance, badminton—oh,
and food, of course!
Her love for nature and
determination to protect the planet, combined with
her fascination for science, will surely make her an
exceptional and eminent environmental engineer. In
her life, Lina hopes to find happiness, working in an
environmental engineering firm in the United States,
or in Australia! She also hopes to be surrounded by
a loving family and friends and to take part in the
improvement of our planet.
Leah McMichael
Although
Leah
McMichael
joined
GWA as a senior, she is
definitely not a stranger
to Africa as she
delightfully considers
herself
“AmericanAfrican”.
Leah’s
calmness and kindness
soothe her classmates, who are unquestionably
fascinated by her accomplishments. Still in high
school, she has written and published Candles in the
Darkness, her first novel—which explains why she
will be majoring in English at Wheaton University.
In 10 years, Leah will probably not be in the United
States. Regardless of the location, she hopes to be
both married and writing. Her greatest goal in life is
to love God and love people; in regard to that and her
various achievements, Leah is considered one of the
most successful students of the senior class.
Karim Bennis
It is simply impossible to imagine Karim Bennis without his headphones,
enjoying the latest tracks. A mixture of creativity, passion, and vividness, Karim
loves art and plans to pursue architecture at Cuesta College in California. Last
year’s MUN in Amsterdam was his best high school memory. He looks forward
to graduation, having a good time in college, and, of course, getting a great
education! In 10 years, he sees himself as one of Morocco’s rare sustainable
architects, travelling around the world and helping as many people as he possibly
can.
Kamil ElFechtali
At first sight, Kamil
ElFechtali seems shy
and reserved. When he
does talk, however, his
deep, TV announcer
voice resonates, making
it impossible for him
to
go
unnoticed.
Incredibly smart when
it comes to technology and science, Kamil never
ceases to impress his entourage with skills that no
one suspected he possessed. While we are continually
surprised by Kamil, his promising future and
inevitable success will surely not come as a shock to
those of us who have grown to know him.
Imane Jamai
Imane
Jamai
is
passionate about her
dreams and her future,
both of which look
bright and promising.
Her kind but strong
personality,
coupled
with her work ethic,
will make her a
dedicated and ardent lawyer. To ensure that, she plans
to major in corporate law in England. She is eager to
gain experience in college, both in and out of school.
She is also looking forward to meeting new people
and having fun! “I would like to thank my family
who has been supporting me all along my high school
years. Without them I would not have been the person
I am today. I also want to thank Mr. and Mrs. Evans
and Mr. Bohne for being such great teachers.”
Jassim Ali
Jassim Ali is passionate
about astronomy; he
nonetheless plans to
pursue finance and
trading. He plans to
attend Webster Geneva.
Though he will miss his
friends and the familiar
atmosphere at GWA, he
looks forward to experiencing new things by living
independently. Ten years from now, he sees himself
in a huge room full of screens displaying the rise and
fall of stock prices. This room is crammed with suitsporting people screaming at each other and calling
other firms. Jassim wants to be firmly in the middle
of this: a trader so successful that some firm in Japan
offers him a job. He will go on to accept the proffered
job and spend the rest of his life in Japan, thereby
achieving the life he’s always wanted.
Imane El Oudghiri
Friendly,
supportive,
thoughtful,
funny…
these are the words that
describe Imane. She
loves to spend quality
time with her friends
enjoying her favorite
pastime:
shopping!
Family and friends are
at the top of her priority list. Imane is looking forward
to college, next year’s challenging experience. She
plans to be independent and successful in school
while preparing for a career in interior design in sunny
Florida. Imane is determined to have a successful
career and a happy and loving family with her current
boyfriend.
Hicham Zaid Ali
Hicham Zaid is well-rounded, generous, kind and warmhearted. Pursuing
happiness, he strives for success and builds his own path. That path will take him
to Concordia University, where he will major in Business or Economics. From
GWA he will miss his friends, teachers, and the staff—especially Soufiane, who
has provided him with fresh cupcakes and cinnamon rolls on a daily basis. In ten
years, he will be back in Morocco with his MBA diploma, married and celebrating
the birth of his first son. He will also be a businessman, holding multiple companies
and helping to make Morocco a better place, EnchAllah.
Haitam El Ourradi
Haitam El Ourradi is passionate about his country. He gets things done by forcing
himself to work. He will miss his friends from GWA. Next year, Haitam will be
attending Santa Monica College. Ten years from now, Haitam will be back in
Morocco. It is his dream to see his country become one of the elite nations of the
world.
Fatima-Zahra
Bennani Karim
Passionate
about
charity, dance, and the
future, and driven by
both compassion and
interest, Fatima-Zahra
Bennani Karim is a
devoted and caring
person. Planning to
pursue a career in corporate law, FZ will attend UCL
in London. She will miss the familiarity of GWA: the
unforgettable childhood memories and the people she
has grown to know.
In ten years, FZ would definitely like to have a child.
Hopefully, she’ll be done with her law studies and
starting to plan her career. She would also like to start
her own charity—a goal that goes well with her hope
to achieve satisfaction by fulfilling her duties toward
her family, her job, and herself.
Dina Bellemlih
Dina Bellemlih is a
fun and bubbly person.
Next year, Dina will
be attending Barcelona
University. Her artistic
personality and sense of
style are sure to make
her an accomplished
interior designer or
architect. Whatever path she decides to follow,
Dina will always have the support of her friends and
family, whom she adores and cherishes. Dina sees her
future self enjoying life to the fullest, surrounded by
a loving family of her own.
El Ghali Bouchareb
Passionate about physics
and always hungry to
learn, El Ghali Bouchareb
is nonetheless a funny,
easygoing guy always
looking for fun. El Ghali
will be attending Clark
University, and plans to
study physics or some sort
of engineering. While he will miss some of the great
teachers he’s had over the years, and his GWA friends—
especially Nizar Bekai, who he describes as “An honest
guy with a great beard” and “a man of great integrity who
wouldn’t compromise for anything”. Ten years down the
road is too far ahead to project, but he is sure to reach his
goal of living a balanced and fulfilling life.
Camelia Hsaine
“To be a better person and
to live life to the fullest”—
that’s
what
Camelia
Hsaine
is
passionate
about. Planning to study
international
business
management,
Camelia
wants to attend Santa Fe
College in Florida, and
then transfer to the University of Florida. She looks
forward to the new experiences that await her, yet she
will miss the people she has grown up with. Ten years
from now, Camelia will have graduated from UF and
will be back in Morocco, working for a big international
company. She hopes to become an active businesswoman,
in addition to being with the person she loves and having
a loving family and children. She wants to make her
parents proud and show them that in the end, all their
sacrifices for her paid off.
Ayoub Huda
A normal guy with a
unique sense of humor,
Ayoub Huda has a
strong personality. He
dreams of achieving
incredible
success
within his career—a
career that will take him
to Charles University
in Prague, and then on to a successful practice as a
cardiac surgeon in Morocco. He is committed to his
plan— acquiring education and information, meeting
new people, and having fun—but he will certainly
miss his friends from GWA. Ten years from now, he
sees himself sitting in his office, analyzing a patient’s
sickness and providing him/her with the help they
need.
Ayman Badr
A dedicated athlete,
Ayman Badr has spent
the majority of his high
school years as one of
the varsity soccer team’s
best players. During
the team’s Marrakech
championship run at
the end of his junior
year, Ayman was clearly one of the best performers.
In the final game he had two assists and ended up
with MVP honors. He credits his success to his family
and to those that have always stood by his side. Now,
Ayman is embarking on his journey to becoming a
highly successful doctor.
Ayoub Bennani
There’s no question
about
it—Ayoub
Bennani has had a fun
senior year. He’s excited
to be leaving to go it
alone and go to college.
Yet this adventure has
a sad side as well: he
knows he might never
see his friends again. Ten years from now, Ayoub sees
himself working for Google or YouTube.
Amalya
Boulajouahel
Driven by her longing
to make a difference
and to impact the
world around her,
Amalya Boulajouahel
is passionate about
music. While she looks
forward to the collegerelated challenge of living on her own and redefining
herself amongst the strangers she hopes will quickly
become her friends, she will miss the people at GWA.
She has grown up with over half of her classmates,
and not seeing them daily will be both weird and
sad. Ten years from now, she hopes to be successful
in whatever career she decides to pursue. She hopes
to be married and have a loving family—happy and
enjoying whatever life brings her.
Adam Sebti
In a word, Adam Sebti is athletic. He plays multiple sports, but his favorite is
surfing. He plans to study Computer Science at the University of California: Berkley.
Wherever he goes, he hopes to surf every day before class. From GWA he will miss
the students and the teachers, as well as the basketball and volleyball tournaments
that he will remember all his life. In ten years he plans to be working at Google in
California (and probably still surfing), and he hopes to achieve something worth
remembering.
Adam Lyazidi
Versatile, loyal, and ambitious: Adam Lyazidi, in three words. He is passionate
about everything he does, and he does most things well. While this is certainly
an advantage, it also makes it hard to decide on a career. He lives and breathes
basketball, playing on the Varsity Team and this year winning GWA’s first-ever
title. Art is another passion for him: he loves the way it goes beyond words in
expressing human emotion.
Whatever course Adam pursues, he is sure to succeed—with high expectations
and hopes for himself, he is willing to do whatever it takes. Ten years from now,
he sees himself traveling the world while helping people as some type of doctor.
Achraf Zahar
When it comes to
expertise in cars and
vehicles,
few
can
match Achraf Zahar’s
knowledge. Interested
since a young age
in
anything
with
wheels, Achraf knows
everything there is to
know about motorcycles, cars, etc. While he has been
at GWA for only a few years, Achraf is considered
by his classmates to be a helpful person with a funny
personality.
Hamza Tazi
In the course of his
life, Hamza Tazi hopes
to achieve wealth and
success. These are his
two passions, and to
pursue them he plans
first to study general
medicine in Europe
or the UK for the next
six years, and then go on to practice plastic surgery
in the US. He says that he will miss Capstone, and
that graduation will be his best GWA memory. He
enjoys meeting new people, making new friends, and
learning about medicine, and in ten years sees himself
as a plastic surgeon married to a beautiful woman.
Majed Al-Shaikh
Jassim Ali
Ayman Badr
Nizar Bekai
Dina Bellemlih
Nadim Bendidane
Soukaina Benjelloun
Rhita Benmakhlouf
Ayoub Bennani
Fatima-Zahra Bennani-Karim
Cooki Bennis
Karim Bennis
El Ghali Bouchareb
Younes Bouftas
Amalya Boulajouahel
Yassine Bouzoubaa
Sofia Chahel Hayani
Mohamed Dekkak
Soukaina El Alami El Hassani
Mehdi El Jamali
Nada El Khayri
Meryem El Marjani
Sofia Elamrani
Kamil ElFechtali
Reem Elish
Haitam Elouarradi
Imane ElOudghiri
Moulay ElGhali Hassani
Waleed Helweh
Camelia Hsaine
Ayoub Huda
Imane Jamai-Ghazlani
Maissoun Ksara
Mohamed Lemhandez Iman
Adam Lyazidi
Leah McMichael
Zineb Merzak
Zairin Mukkaram Jah
Paul Olson
Othmane Ouchrif
Soufiane Rizekallah
Adam Sebti
Lina Sekkat
Mehdi Tayeb
Hamza Tazi
Achraf Zahar
Hicham Zaid Ali
Biographies written by Amalya Boulajouahel, Nizar Bekai, Fatima-Zahra Bennani-Karim, Paul Olson and Leah
McMichael edited by Ms. Rachel Pedigo
Photos taken by Mrs. Marian Welling
Biographies
Education Beat
Upper School
What is the Middle School Principal’s Award?
Mr. Tim Warren
Nothing in the life of a student is anticipated with more exuberance and trepidation than a report card. Students
and parents alike watch for these quarterly academic updates, carefully reviewing grades and scores to evaluate
learning and effort from the past term. Without a doubt, academic knowledge is imperative for educational
success, but our goal at GWA extends beyond guiding students toward achievement of high grades.
Our mission statement says that “we are a learning community that strives for excellence, applies wisdom,
models integrity and honors faith.” Character traits like these are not easily measured, and don’t always show
up in a report card mark. However, these qualities, also key indicators of success, are just as deserving of
recognition.
The Middle School Principal’s Award is one way we acknowledge those students who strive for and display
essential qualities of character. Each quarter, teachers nominate students who stand out in some way, through
personal growth and improvement, through service to their classmates or the school community, or who are
strong role models for their peers. Six students are selected, one boy and one girl in each grade level, who have
exemplified these characteristics during the previous quarter.
For the first three quarters of 2012-13, the Middle School Principal’s Award recipients
were:
Quarter 1
Quarter 2
Quarter 3
Muskaan Kirpalani (6)
Ryan Harper (6)
Doha Mossaden (7)
Younes Reda (7)
Natalia Duane (8)
Younes Labriny (8)
Omar Bensalah (6)
Zaynab Hajjam (6)
Nadia Charkane (7)
Ahmed Aman(7)
Meryeme Alouhmy (8)
Mohamed Bakjaji (8)
Nayel Cherkaoui (6)
Ahlame Khaldoune (6)
Mohamed Zahar (7)
Nour Chbany (7)
David Lugarov (8)
Mary Ann Olson (8)
Athletics Highlights:
Ms. Merrill Ross
Athletic Director
The 1st annual Athletic Banquet was held to celebrate the GWA
Mustangs that competed throughout the year.
There were 170 athletes who took part in the various sports throughout
the year and 162 showed up for the banquet which was an amazing
night of celebration.
I would like to thank the coaches and parents who have supported our
athletes in their endeavors.
Thanks
Events @ GWA
Arts, Music, Culture
ANNIE
Rachael Oulmain
High School Drama Teacher
Last month saw the first ever all student school
production at GWA. Mrs Oulmain directed and
produced ANNIE the Musical, which showcased
some of the amazing talent we have here at GWA. The
show was a huge success, selling out on the second
night and creating the “drama bug” among students.
We are very pleased to say that we will be continuing
to build on the success of ANNIE next academic year
with another outstanding production and offer further
opportunities for students. It will be something which
is exciting and allows drama to develop and students
to nurture their artistic talents within a thriving Arts
department.
4th Annual Year End art show
Ms. Lisa Payne & Mr. Tom Relth
4th Annual Year End art show, “Yalla!”, was a great success. An impressive showcase of talent on display
included student work from the high school program under Mr. Tom Relth and the middle school program
under Ms. Lisa Payne. Fun and functional cardboard chairs invite visitors to sit and view the walls covered
with architectural renderings, cubist paintings, self-portraits and a wild selection of photos from the streets of
casa to the bled. Middle school students showed off their skills in color theory including color wheels and selfportraits. Also displayed were complex perspective drawings, action figures and printed Recent Events stories.
The event marks another semester of student achievement in the visual arts. Students, teachers, families, and
friends attended the evening of the reception. Those who attended enjoyed pleasant music and a treat from the
kitchen as well as a feast for the eyes.
Garden Mural Project
Ms. Lisa Payne
To add to the beauty of the school’s new Kitchen Garden headed by Mr. Rachad, the middle school students
have created a large-scale mural. Students in Ms. Lisa Payne’s 8th grade Advanced Art class were asked to
design a mural based on the themes of nature, the environment and the Earth. Each student team submitted
their design to a panel of judges to decide the winning entry. Mohamed Bakjaji with the team help of Fatine
Tazi created the chosen design. Their bold graphic design is titled “The Ever G(r)owing Branch”. The artwork
was carefully transferred to the back garden wall and painted with the cooperation of students and teachers.
The Garden Mural is a great addition to the school and an enhancement to the Kitchen Garden corner.
Events @ GWA
Arts, Music, Culture
“The Youssef School Community Project”
Ms.Shannon Bruce Ramaka
Upper School Assistant Principal
And Project Coordinator
“This is something our school really needed. Our
students need the opportunity to be of service in the
larger community and at the same time they will learn
about themselves.”—Paula Davey, sharing thoughts
about the “Youssef School Community Project”
initiative.
On April 14th, seven high school students visited the
nearby Moroccan School, “Youssef Ben Techfin” and
immediately wanted to help the students. Three days
later they announced their first bake sale and raised
1000 dirhams to buy cleaning supplies, which would
be used to clean the entire school on April 29th.
Here is what some of the students said when they first
visited the school:
“It looks like our school from the main road, and it is
only 5 minutes away; however, when you get inside
you’ll see that students have nothing. no books, no
materials or equipment, no cafeteria, no soccer
field, and the bathrooms are disgusting”.—Soraya
Bellmelih, grade 10, George Washington Academy
Hasna Elauri and Raneem Jaber cleaning the computer lab.
“We are going to help them. We will raise money to
build a garden, buy books and a computer lab. But
first we need to clean everything because it is all so
dirty.“—Yousra Benjelloun, grade 10
“They are so cute and this is so sad.” –Jamila
Maimouni, grade 10
The Clean Up day was an exciting day. Students
worked hard together with no arguments using a hose
and a little bit of tide in buckets of water with a broom
and large squeegee to wash the windows. Some wore
knee high rubber boots, others flip-flops, some should
have worn gloves and got blisters on their hands, and
some were affected by the dust storms after sweeping,
but they never stopped. Everyone thought that
cleaning the bathroom was a priority no matter how
bad it was. There are 700 elementary students in the
entire school with only 18 teachers running two shifts
of school every day and one “Femme de Ménage.”
Ali AlSaid cleaning the library.
Events @ GWA
Arts, Music, Culture
“The Youssef School Community Project”
This is what some students said during the day:
“I told my mother that we were cleaning the school
today and she said, Son, you should clean our house
first.” Walid Alghamdi
“I bet the school hasn’t been cleaned since it was
built three years ago. There is only one cleaner in the
school and all she can do is gather the daily trash.”Hasna Elauri
“ I was telling my Dad about this school and he really
wants to do more.” Anonymous.
Working in the garden together.
As students waited for their rides home, they discussed
future goals and events. They planned for a “Garden
Day” on May 4th and would kick off a “Book Drive”
from May 13 through 16 and host a “Sports Dress
Day and “Field Day” on May 17th in which they
would invite 100, third grade students to lunch and
then coach them through various games on the soccer
field. The money raised from “Sports Dress Day”
would be used to buy sports equipment for the school
and cover the costs of lunch. GWA administration
offered to pay the cost of the transportation.
“Garden Day” was another great success. Students
visited a pepinere in Dar Bouazza the night before
and purchased a variety of perennial flowers and
vegetables with money they had raised from a “Dress
in Jeans Day.” It was a perfect spring day for planting
and groups of GWA students joined Youssef school
students for the first time with their combined hands
digging into the soil.
“They said that they really liked your kids. They were
so kind and wanting to help. It is brilliant what they
are doing.”-Aissa Oulmain, the local Moroccan man
who first told me about the needs of the school.
Saturday, May 4, 2013 A Beautiful Day to Build a Garden.
Events @ GWA
Arts, Music, Culture
“The Youssef School Community Project”
100 Third Graders From “The Youssef School” Visited
GWA for a Spots Day. Thirty high school students made
the day possible.
It was so inspiriting to see our high school students take such good care of the younger visiting students. They
were required to use important life skills: planning, adapting, communicating, and collaborating. …All which
will be essential to their success in college and life! It really is hard to say, who benefited the most by the
experience.
Please join us! We are at the very beginning stages of what hopes to be a very exciting long-term project
and relationship. We will be collecting clothes (new or in excellent condition) in September. So think about
donating a bag when you clean out your closets this summer!
FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
Kirk Livesay
Another fantastic night of enjoying the arts. Students
from all grades lent their skills and talents to
entertain the audience and showcase the performing
arts. Art is alive here at GWA.
Events @ GWA
Arts, Music, Culture
Cultural trip to the imperial cities of Fez, Meknes and Rabat
Mrs. Ahed Wardeh Benhammou
As a part of the Moroccan History program offered
in high school, a group of 15 students spent two days,
from Thursday 23th to Friday 24th May, visiting Fez,
Meknes and Rabat.
Throughout this trip in time and space, our young
historians reconstituted the glory of our ancestors
from the Phoenician era till independence.
In Fez, the capital of Moroccan nationalism, our
students were taken back to the era of Idrisids,
Marinids and Saadi dynasties.
Students were also impressed by the Alaouite and
Saadian monuments in Meknes and charmed by the
Arabic calligraphy and goldsmith’s trade in Rabat.
Next destination: Andalusia of the Almoravids!
On the Parents Side
On the Parents Side
On the Parents Side
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES @ GWA
On the Parents Side
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES @ GWA
On the Parents Side
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES @ GWA