Principal's report

Dear Parents,Carers, Students,Staff and members of the Moonee Ponds West Community

Last weekend I had the privilege of witnessing our great students in activities outside the school gates.  The students participation in local sport and in the annual Tournaments of the Mind activity enabled life learning experiences.   Being part of a school community enables students, staff and families to acknowledge and celebrate all types of achievement.  We were all proud of what we witnessed over the weekend.

Tournaments of the Mind at La Trobe University

Last Saturday our T.O.M teams (two teams of 7 students) ventured with staff and family to La Trobe University.  One team had an Arts problem to solve and one a Science Technology and Mathematics (STEM).  The format of the day was that each team presented their planned solution to the prepared problem and the second aspect was responding to an unseen situation.  An audience was encouraged for the first problem but not the second. I witnessed confidence, preparation, persistence, creativity and a solution focused outcome from both teams.  Well done to all students and families.  Thank-you to the staff Ben, Melanie and Mandy for their carriage of this experience for children.

Sporting Events over the weekend

Many of us travelled to Greenvale (some may think a country sojourn!) on Sunday to watch our students in a Grand Final.  We had students in BOTH teams! Imagine my dilemma? The best outcome for me was a draw!  Yes, that did occur, with extra time delivering a winner as is the purpose of competitive sport.  Congratulations to all students who played on the day.  Again I witnessed courage, great sportsperson behaviour in success, disappointment but recovery, and great comradery from all involved. Footnote: A correction from last week: The correct team for the St Johns Netball team who were in the Grand Final was: Ava, Elspeth, Jemima, Alicia and Charlotte. My apology for getting this incorrect. 

FAD for our 5/6 students

This day is part of the fabric of Moonee Ponds West.  All past students remember the day with fondness.  In finding out more, I have discovered that this day is a perfect transition experience as children move around to their chosen elective.  This year I am offering a Home Study session.  It will be a bit like a ‘spare’ (remember these on your timetable?) Students will come to this session with learning tasks that are to be completed or where they need assistance. My office will become a ‘Common Room’ for the session.  Giving students in our senior years the chance to complete and read a timetable, and take what is required to these sessions is giving a little experience of what lies ahead. Children in 5/6 are to carry their timetables with them during the day just in case they are asked a question. A day of learning within a different frame.  Let’s see how it goes this year.

Sensory Garden

It’s about to commence.  We have confirmation from the builders that they will be commencing on Monday Sept 2.  The area will be a building site.  The good news is they anticipate that it will take about 5 weeks to complete the work.  Then as Alyena commented its over to us to complete the project.  We will be communicating with our neighbours.  All access to the site will be via the double gates on Eglinton St.

Show Day Wednesday September 4th

Another part of the MPWPS culture.  Show Day has a focus not only on providing a ‘Show’ like atmosphere, but enables independent planning and organisation, collaboration and fun.  Come along if you are free. Show Day Stalls/Amusements will be open from 11.45 am.

Fathers’ Day Stall

Fathers’ Day is the first Sunday in September. Our stall is on Thursday and Friday of this week.  Children will be able to purchase on both these days. We have many wonderful items at our home that have been given from stalls exactly like ours.  I must say however, the standard of gift has improved remarkably.  All items are $5.  B.Y.O  your own bag for your item. Have a happy day to all involved.

Year 5-6 Living and Growing

This term our senior students will be involved in three (3) weekly lessons around Living and Growing.  The content of the learning is closely aligned to the Department of Education’s recommended ‘Catching On' program.   A similar opportunity will be offered to the 3/4 team in Term 4.  A parent session will be offered prior to the classes commencing.  This will be on November 7th in the Performing  Arts Space. 

Please find attached the information sheets provided to attendees at last weeks parent information session.

Well that is about it from me.  Until we meet in person have a great week.

Sincerely and in good faith

Kerri Simpson

Principal (Acting at Moonee Ponds West PS)

ITS FUN RUN TIME!

Get those runners and sponsorship cards out.  I have already raised $20 for our school and charity.

See you  on the pavement this FRIDAY!

Parents we are still looking for helpers if you have time we would appreciate your help!  Please contact the General Office and we will let Bree know.

See you Friday rain, hail or shine!

Kerri

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