School Superintendent
American International School Jeddah
PO Box 127328
Jeddah
KSA 21352

Sunday, 07 October 2018
Dear Mr. Hallberg,
Subject: Collective Parental Complaint
As the school Superintendent, we realize you have a tough and demanding job. We know that you are passionate about helping the students succeed at the American International School Jeddah (AISJ). However, as a group of responsible parents it is important that you are made aware of some serious issues that we are concerned about, and would like to have resolved.
As you know, recess is a time for students to enjoy themselves, expend energy, build friendships and take a break from classroom work. However, during recess there is no playground, no benches or any other activities. There is no suitable area for the children to sit comfortably as the ground is hot and rough. Therefore the children are bored and frustrated. Are there any solutions being looked at to improve this situation? For example, bring back some of the playground equipment? Or purchase low cost sports equipment like skipping ropes, bouncing balls, etc.
The transition from the safety and security of the Early Years playground to the ‘big’ playground is always stressful but even more so this year due to the lack of equipment or designated safe area for the younger children. This oversight in our opinion contradicts all the school’s core values and vision.
Our children are avid readers and they are all terribly disappointed due to the unavailability of the school library and access to books, a fundamental pillar of education. I am certain you would understand what an important role, books play in a child’s overall development, keeping a child mentally alert and active whilst enriching one’s vocabulary. Is it possible to arrange alternate activities like a book exchange program? Or classroom book clubs?
Whilst we appreciate the school has faced unforeseen scheduling issues with the planned relocation, the parents are still paying full tuition fees, higher than any of the other private schools in Jeddah. The students are getting a substandard environment without any compensation in the semester charges. When can we expect an update about an adjustment in this semesters payment amount?
In today’s global economy, our students simply cannot afford to lose precious schooling time. It would have been expected that given all the delays to the start of the school year that all the issues would have been resolved prior to allowing children to return to school. If required, we can meet you collectively at your convenience to discuss these points in person to ensure the happiness, welfare and education of our children.
Awaiting a positive response at the earliest