Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Dalia Kamel, Principal of the American School of Creative Science – Al Layyah, to explore how schools are balancing innovation with strong values in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape. In this conversation, she shares insights on teaching artificial intelligence responsibly, strengthening student focus through structured digital boundaries, and embedding cultural identity within a diverse school community. She also highlights the importance of integrity, courage, adaptability, and resilience in preparing students to lead with purpose and confidence in the future.

1. With the UAE making AI a formal subject from Kindergarten to Grade 12 this year, how has your school transitioned from “using AI tools” to “teaching AI” as a core competency?

When AI became a formal subject, we approached it not as a trend, but as a responsibility. Teaching AI is not about tools alone — it is about integrity, ethics, and discernment. For our younger students, we prioritize foundational thinking before exposure to generative technologies. For older students, we focus on responsible use — understanding bias, academic honesty, and digital accountability. Innovation must always be guided by values. Technology without integrity has no direction.

2. In light of the 2025 nationwide smartphone ban, how has your school culture shifted? Have you seen a tangible impact on student social interaction and focus?

The smartphone ban reinforced something powerful: presence. We have witnessed stronger peer interaction, improved focus, and healthier social engagement. Courage, one of our core values, means making decisions that protect learning even when they require adaptation. Structure has allowed students to reconnect with collaboration and authentic human connection.

3. How does the school balance the new AI guidelines (such as the ban on GenAI for students under 13) with the need to keep older students competitive and ethically aware?

Younger students focus on foundational thinking, older students on responsible use and ethics.

4. How is your school integrating the mandatory national subjects (Arabic, Islamic Studies, and National Identity) to ensure they resonate with a diverse, international student body?

Arabic, Islamic Studies, and National Identity are not isolated subjects; they are lived experiences. In our diverse community, we foster tolerance and compassion, ensuring students honor the UAE’s heritage while respecting the identities of others. Excellence rooted in faith means grounding innovation in values and cultural awareness.

5. Beyond academic transcripts, what are the three “non-negotiable” skills you believe a student must graduate with to thrive in the 2030s?

Integrity, adaptability, and courage. Careers will evolve, but character sustains leadership.

6. With the job market evolving so rapidly, how do you steer students toward adaptability rather than just specific career paths?

Through interdisciplinary learning and real-world challenges, we prepare students to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

7. How does your school move beyond the “one-size-fits-all” model to ensure that a student’s unique strengths are recognized and nurtured?

Students of Determination are not merely included; they are empowered through personalized pathways designed for excellence. Our educators are continuously empowered through extensive professional development. When teachers grow, students flourish. Professional learning strengthens collaboration and ensures innovation is implemented thoughtfully and purposefully.

8. How do you practically teach resilience so that students view rapid global changes as opportunities rather than threats?

Resilience is taught deliberately. We normalize effort, reflection, and growth. Students learn that setbacks refine them. This mindset transforms rapid global change from a threat into opportunity.

9. With rising academic pressures, what “boots-on-the-ground” support systems are in place to catch signs of burnout before they become crises?

Our pastoral systems proactively monitor early indicators of stress and disengagement.

10. How is the school evolving its support for “Students of Determination” to ensure they are not just included, but are actively excelling?

As above — empowered through personalized pathways designed for excellence.

11. In an era of hybrid initiatives like “Ramadan with the Family,” how has the role of the parent changed in your school’s ecosystem?

Parents are essential partners in this ecosystem. Initiatives like Ramadan with the Family reinforce that education is a shared responsibility rooted in collaboration and compassion.

12. How do you ensure your veteran teachers feel empowered—rather than overwhelmed—by the constant influx of new educational technologies and mandates?

We invest heavily in our most valuable resource — our people. Our educators are continuously empowered through professional development. Through our dedicated platform, Educap, teachers have access to tens of thousands of training materials at their command. Preparing teachers is not optional; it is foundational.

13. If you could leave one inspiring message or lesson for your school community and the wider world, what would it be?

Education is not about chasing change. It is about leading it — with integrity, compassion, collaboration, and courage. When faith grounds us and innovation drives us, we truly light the way to excellence.