College Counseling Program

Students hit the ground running and are already back in the swing of things! 

Seniors: UCAS done. Most US applications done. Most Canadian applications done. European applications well under way. Whether we’re finishing up those final few applications or ensuring that portals are complete with all necessary documents, we’re staying focused. Just a few more months to go! 

Juniors: Juniors met with Ms Kurdi in groups this week and are beginning to create their college lists, researching requirements and finalizing summer plans. Those registered for the March SAT are encouraged to keep up the prep!

• Stay in touch: Juniors will schedule their own one-on-one meetings with Ms. Kurdi to make course selection decisions for their senior year.

• Mark your calendars: Cardiff Metropolitan University is visiting us during lunch in the LC on Tuesday, Jan 20th. 

Social/Emotional Counseling Program

On top of school work, sports, friendships, and university applications, high school students received their first-semester grades at the end of this week. For some students, their semester grades may feel like recognition and reflection of their efforts. Some students may not feel that their first semester grades represent their efforts and abilities. For some, they may feel a combination of these sentiments. 

To students and parents, please remember that grades are one data point. Though grades can play a key role in course progression and university applications, they are not a representation of who students are. In reality, and the bigger picture, grades are one piece of a complex and robust group of factors and experiences making up our wonderful students.

If you are feeling proud and excited about your grades, congratulations - they are well-earned.  If you feel surprised, upset, or disappointed in your first semester grades, I encourage you to talk to me and your teachers about your strengths and areas of growth so that you can have a semester that you feel represents your abilities. Remember, my door is always open.

Parents, if you are feeling particularly proud of your child or if you are struggling in reaction to your child’s grades, please feel free to reach out to me - I love sharing in successes and pathways to growth, alike.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything further, please don’t hesitate to contact me at: ktouchtonleonard@acsamman.edu.jo

Our HS Counseling Team

• • Ms. Ruba Kurdi: College Counselor rkurdi@acsamman.edu.jo

  • Ms. Kate Touchton-Leonard ktouchtonleonard@acsamman.edu.jo

  • Ms. Ellen Hindeleh: Administrative Assistant ehindeleh@acsamman.edu.jo

We are buzzing with excitement as our student-athletes prepare for several upcoming SAISA tournaments!

First up, our Tennis team is heading out next weekend, January 20–25. We can’t wait to see them represent our school on the courts.

Following closely behind, from February 4–8, we have three more teams heading into competition:

• SAISA Track & Field

• Boys Basketball

• Girls Football

We are incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship these athletes have shown throughout the season. A project like this is truly a team effort, and we want to extend a massive thank you to our parents. Your unwavering support—from early morning drop-offs to cheering from the sidelines—makes these opportunities possible for our students.

Good luck to all our competitors!

Upcoming HS International Travel Opportunities (Mumbai & Amsterdam)

Dear Grade 9–12 Families,

We are thrilled to give you an early look at two incredible international travel opportunities scheduled for March 2026. These trips are designed to foster global advocacy, leadership, and artistic collaboration. We have already sent out commitment forms for both. Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any questions.

Save the Dates

• Event Dates: March 27–29, 2026

• Travel Dates: March 26–30, 2026

• Timing: These dates fall primarily during the Eid Break, minimizing school absence.

The Opportunities

1. Compassion Summit (Mumbai, India)

• Hosted by: The American School of Bombay.

• Focus: Students will engage in global collaboration, develop essential leadership skills, and work with peers from around the world on meaningful service-oriented projects.

• Ideal for: Students passionate about service, leadership, and global changemaking.

2. High School ISTA Festival (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

• Hosted by: International Schools Theatre Association (ISTA).

• Focus: An immersive experience in international arts collaboration. Students will work with professional artists and peers to create and explore theatre in a dynamic global setting.

• Ideal for: Students passionate about the performing arts and creative collaboration.

We look forward to sharing more about these exciting journeys in the new year!

ACS Activities Program: 2025–2026 - Stay up to date with all athletics, arts, and activities information by visiting our ACS Activities Website Here

HS Bus Riders Reminder - If you need to use the late bus but are not on the late bus roster, complete the form before 12:00 PM the same day.

Late Bus Sign-Up Form. The late bus departs at 4:45 PM. Students not registered will not be accommodated.