Dec 23, 2024

Abu Dhabi mandates school policy to identify students at risk; violators will be penalised

The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has identified 10 indicators that schools can use to detect students at risk of educational challenges.

ADEK has introduced a new policy on “educational risks”, highlighting the importance of early detection and support for students in need.

The goal is to enhance their chances of continuing their education, transitioning between grades, graduating and pursuing post-secondary education or alternative career pathways.

Schools are now mandated to establish a policy to support students at risk of educational challenges, develop a mechanism for their identification, and implement intervention programmes with ongoing monitoring and evaluation, adhering to a tiered support model when designing these interventions.

In its new policy, ADEK stressed that schools must regularly analyse and identify students facing educational problems using evidence-based factors and indicators. These include concerns about student safety, overall well-being, behaviour, additional educational needs, family-related circumstances, academic or health assessments provided by the school with parental consent, academic performance, language difficulties, parental engagement, frequent school transfers and referrals from staff, parents or students themselves.

Meeting student needs
The new policy emphasises the necessity for schools to adopt a tiered model to support the needs of students at educational risk. This model begins with evidence-based, inclusive core teaching for all students in the classroom. At this level, the focus is on building positive relationships and creating a supportive environment, with student progress monitored continuously. Students who do not respond to interventions at this level are moved to the next tier, which provides targeted, additional teaching to help them meet academic and behavioral goals.

Penalties for non-compliance

ADEK has warned that non-compliance with this policy will result in legal accountability and penalties as per its regulations and policies. This does not preclude additional penalties under Federal Decree-Law No. (31) of 2021, issuing the Penal Code and its amendments, or any other relevant law. ADEK reserves the right to intervene if a school fails to fulfill its obligations.