OUR
Amal Shahine, Director of Education & Executive Principal
I feel privileged to have the opportunity to serve as the Founding Principal of Yasmina American School. With 31 years of experience in the education field, all of which have been spent in the UAE—particularly in Abu Dhabi—I am both excited and honored to take on this new challenge.
When I first arrived in Abu Dhabi as a fresh graduate holding a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Teaching Diploma in Science Education, I began my career at Abu Dhabi International School. Over the next 15 years, I progressed from a teacher to a middle leader, and then to a senior leadership role. Subsequently, I had the privilege of becoming the Founding Principal of Horizon Private School/American Branch, where I spent over 16 years. I witnessed the school grow from just 100 students in its first year to over 1,500 students by its sixth year.
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Dr. Chrisdelin Traylor
Vice Principal
Dr. Chrisdelin Traylor joins Yasmina American School as Vice Principal, bringing over 20 years of experience in education, including nearly a decade in the UAE, where she has been dedicated to improving the educational system and fostering student success. She has a deep respect for the UAE’s culture and values and is committed to ensuring that education aligns with the nation’s vision while providing students with the tools they need to excel in a global society.
As a lifelong learner, Dr. Traylor is deeply passionate about cultivating a love for learning in students and empowering them to reach their true potential. She believes that with the right support, all students can thrive and develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for future success.
Prior to her role at Yasmina, Dr. Traylor served as Assistant Principal at Yas American Academy, where she played a key role in expanding educational opportunities and enhancing teaching and learning practices. Her leadership contributed to higher student achievement on internal and external assessments. She has worked extensively in curriculum development, instructional leadership, and assessment strategies, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded, high-quality education.
As Yasmina American School prepares to open in August 2025, Dr. Traylor is focused on establishing a strong foundation for Pre-K through Grade 5 students, with an emphasis on inquiry-based learning and early childhood development. She is particularly passionate about the implementation of the Creative Curriculum for Pre-K and KG students, ensuring that young learners receive high-quality, developmentally appropriate education.
Dr. Traylor holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and is certified in K-12 administration, school counseling, and teaching. Her experience in curriculum alignment, assessment data analysis, and professional development makes her a key leader in shaping the academic vision of Yasmina American School. Additionally, her background in counseling strengthens her ability to support student well-being and safeguarding, ensuring a nurturing and safe school environment.
Outside of her professional role, Dr. Traylor is a devoted wife and mother. She and her husband have a four-year-old son, which has further deepened her understanding of early childhood education and the importance of fostering a love for learning from the very start.
With a vision for innovation, collaboration, and continuous school improvement, Dr. Traylor looks forward to partnering with parents, students, and staff to create a dynamic and thriving learning community at Yasmina American School, where children are encouraged to explore, grow, and achieve their fullest potential.