Principal Message
Dear Families,
As we reach the midpoint of term 1 it is a great time to reflect and celebrate even more things around the school…
OGPS Day: Last week we celebrated and showed gratitude towards all things OGPS! It was also our first session of Peer Connect where all students across the school are mixed into 27 groups from F-6 and possibly with a new teacher. This helps form new friendships, enables the students to get to know another teacher and mix with other students across the school. We do this once a fortnight throughout the year when we don’t have assembly.
Family-Teacher Meetings: If you have not touched base with your child’s teacher yet either through the formal Meet & Greets or follow up calls, please reach out to them so we establish great relationships and have open two way communication. Thanks to all who have engaged in this process to help our teachers get to know you and your child.
Foundation Students: What a terrific bunch of little learners we have! Thanks to all families who have supported their Little Grover in beginning their school life. You have probably noticed their vocabulary improving (more arguments or stories with more detail), more socialising (monitor their social battery too – don’t exhaust them!) and hopefully more confidence and growing independence. Keep up the great work!
NAPLAN: Preparation work has already begun in Year 3 & 5 for this year’s NAPLAN testing which is held from March 12 – 24. As always, it is a family decision to have your child participate in NAPLAN. If you have any concerns about your child participating, please see Sandra in Year 5 or Kerryn in Year 3 (or Kristy or myself) for further advice and discussion. There are protocols and forms to complete prior (by March 7th) to NAPLAN, should a family withdraw their child. Don’t forget that your child requires headphones too and they are able to use Bluetooth keyboards if you wish.
Apple Fair: A massive shout out to the organisers who are now meeting weekly as we approach March 16th. It’s never too late to offer a hand or add value. And also, a huge thanks to the sponsors who have contributed to the overall fundraising efforts with the Apple Fair and other functions throughout the year. Apart from raising a few dollars, these social aspects are what binds the community together and enable families to connect which can be difficult in our already busy lives.
Helper Training: The staff room was packed out last week with Kerryn McKeon training the volunteers. Some were in for a refresher and a large number of new volunteers which is fantastic. Thanks to all volunteers who are looking to help us in improving the academic outcomes, school experiences and continuing to make OGPS a great place.
School Photos: Next Monday, school photos will be taken in the gym. Don’t forget to order your photos online. Thanks for sending your children in their full school uniform. NO HOUSE COLOURED SHIRTS PLEASE.
Lost Property: Please ensure your child's jumpers, hats, lunchboxes (and containers) along with drink bottles are clearly labelled with your child's name so if the item becomes lost, they can easily be returned to the owner!
Evacuation Drill: As part of our Emergency Management procedures, we conduct various drills. Evacuation drills, lock downs, etc. Next week we will be practising an evacuation drill. After the event we will reflect on what went well and how we can improve. Please talk to your children about the importance of following directions in these drills in the event we have to execute one in the future.
Have a great week everyone.
Scott McCumber
Principal
