Acting Principal's Report

Acting Principal’s Report - 20th August 2021

Remote and Flexible Learning

It has been wonderful to be a part of numerous classroom Zooms this week saying hello, playing games and reading stories. It has been pleasing to hear how our students understand the reasons why we are in lockdown and listening to their stories during Remote and Flexible Learning. I am amazed at the way the students, staff and the community have been able to adapt to this mode once again. It is certainly not where we would like to be, however using evidence of what has worked previously, has enabled us to engage with one and other on a regular basis.

Adjusting to life in lockdowns can be challenging as we come to terms with what it means for our children, schooling, us as adults and life in general. One thing I have been focusing on at the moment is that it is ok for things to be different. Noting the things that were black and white pre-COVID times are now sometimes grey…and that’s ok. Like learning, we know that things don’t always go to plan. However, this provides us with an opportunity to reflect. Our school continues to work with different strategies to engage students in their learning, whilst at the same time being mindful of wellbeing needs. This is adjusting to the ‘grey matter’ that currently exists.

If you are connected to our Facebook page, please take the time to view Adam Voigt’s message. Adam is an educational consultant who has worked with our school previously. His insight into the current situations involving schools are Victorian based and relevant to our current experiences. 

Next week you will notice a slight change to the delivery of online content. Students will continue each morning to be involved in their daily check-ins. Then throughout the week, students will receive further explicit teaching in group settings. Please refer to the information sent out by your child/ren’s class teacher for the days and times these will be occurring. We ask that if you can please ensure your child/ren connect at this time so we can continue to deliver learning at their particular need.

This week I have attached a brief reading from Dr Tom Brunzell about the roles we play as adults during this time. It is a good read of how we behave and act in positive ways that can help stem the tide of arguments and frustration that can set in at times. The three tips are clear and manageable in my opinion. 

https://kiddipedia.com.au/battling-lockdown-fatigue-three-strategies-to-bolster-our-resilience/

Onsite Attendance

We have recently had requests for students to attend onsite for various reasons. Please note that there are restrictions on who can be onsite. The rulings are stringent so please look over the booking emails that come out in great detail. As much as we would like children to attend onsite, we are governed to provide for a set amount of students. This does require some adjustments for us as a school and notably at home for parents/carers. 

Acting Principal Role

Next week I was supposed to be jetting off to Hamilton Island for some long service, however due to the lockdown that is not possible. I will still be taking some of the days allowing Moira McCann to fulfil the Acting Principal position.

I have loved the opportunity to lead the school over the past 7 weeks, although Greg Lacey’s pictures from his holiday adventures have been a bit of a tease! I am very grateful to have lead the students and staff during this time. Equally, I have loved engaging with a number of parents and carers during my time. Ideally, it would be great to see more of you onsite, however, the phone calls and emails have enabled us to keep the link of school to your home and vice versa.

Regards,

Jamie Sharp

Acting Principal