Assistant Principal's Message

Principal's Awards

The Principal Award will continue this year. Please note that, instead of being presented in Week 10, it will now be presented in Week 1 of term 2.

Parents will be notified of this at the end of the Term 1 of the presentation at the beginning of the new term:

Term 1 - presented week 1 Term 2 

Term 2 - presented week 1 Term 3 

Term 3 - presented week 1 Term 4. 

Term 4 - has awards ceremony including many acknowledgments. 

Labels vs behaviour 

This term, I have engaged in many conversations and follow-up discussions relating to student behaviour that has been identified as undesirable. In seeking to understand these situations more deeply, I am often presented with the terms “bully” or “bullies.”

While these labels may come from genuine concerns, their use in emails can be challenging, as they do not always provide a clear understanding of what has actually occurred. Labels can simplify interactions and may unintentionally limit our ability to examine behaviours, contributing factors, and opportunities for growth and restoration.

Rather than focusing on labels, our priority is to describe behaviours clearly and objectively — what was said, what occurred and how it impacted others. This approach allows us to respond more effectively, teach appropriate social skills, and support all students involved in learning more positive ways of interacting.

In the same way, we seek to avoid defining students as “victims.” While it is essential to acknowledge when harm has occurred and to provide appropriate support, our goal is to foster resilience, agency, and confidence. We aim to help students develop grit and tenacity, empowering them with strategies and a hope-filled mindset that enables them to navigate challenges constructively. There is always more than one side to the story. As parents you only hear one side, usually what your child wishes to share with you.

By focusing on behaviour rather than labels, we create space for learning, accountability, and growth for every student.

In partnership,

Anthony Matthews

Assistant Principal