Early Learning - American School of Dubai

The Early Learning Center is an on-campus, purpose-built, flexible learning environment for PreK-K2 students. In our Reggio Emilia-inspired play-based environment, children have authentic opportunities to develop foundational skills that define them as innovative, empathetic, and global citizens. Through inquiry, discovery, and exploration, children engage in interrelated experiences including Math, Science, Social Studies, Music, Literacy, and Arabic.

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Meet Debra Strate

Early Learning School Principal

Deb Strate joined ASD in 2009 as a K2 classroom teacher and moved to the role of Elementary Associate Principal for grades K1-G2 in 2011. Following this, she has served as the Elementary Interim Principal and is now the Principal of the Early Learning Center. Deb received her Master of Arts in Education from the University of Nebraska - Kearney and her administrative endorsement from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. Deb has a passion for literacy and early childhood education and works closely with the Early Learning Center faculty to support a Reggio Emilia-inspired, play-based learning approach. This collaborative work creates meaningful opportunities for our PreK, K1, and K2 students to grow as confident, independent learners and active contributors to their learning community.

Principal Q&A

Principal Q&A

What did you want to be when you were in school?
A teacher.

What’s a book, quote, or piece of advice that has stayed with you throughout your career?
Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss.

If we peeked into your weekend, what might we find you doing?
Cooking or baking.

If you could instantly master a new skill or talent, what would it be, and why?
Singing. Music can be such a powerful means of expressing feelings and emotions.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I love the snow and snowmobiling.

If your students described you in three words, what would you hope they’d say?
Caring, fair, loving.

In your opinion, what makes ASD so special?
The people!

Describe your leadership style in three words.
Servant, instructional, coaching.

What’s one thing you hope every student takes with them?
Confidence and belief in themselves.

What’s a school tradition or event you always look forward to?
ELC family picnics.

Finish this sentence: “If you visit our division, you’ll notice…”
..that it is a child-centered space.

Academic Program

The ELC Philosophy

The Early Learning Community at ASD is a place for innovative early childhood education. In a nurturing environment where all children can learn and grow, we celebrate and respect our students as resilient, capable, competent learners who are full of wonder and potential. As such, we value the diversity of our community and appreciate the unique contributions of each family, culture, and background.

Measuring Success

Our teaching is guided by the AERO standards for K2 and the Florida Developmental Standards for PreK and K1. These frameworks help ensure that our students are learning in ways that are both age-appropriate and aligned with key developmental milestones. Our faculty create nurturing, engaging classroom environments where children learn through a mix of whole-group, small-group, and individual activities. Lessons are thoughtfully planned around each student's interests, learning style, and stage of development. By closely observing how children play and interact with others, our teachers can support and guide learning in meaningful, personalized ways. This approach helps build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning, developing strong foundational skills for future success.

In the ELC, we encourage children to be confident learners who ask questions, think about their learning, and advocate for what they need to be successful.