Principal Team Message

DOUBLE THE JOY - CONGRATULATIONS BRENTON & KATE

We are thrilled to share some wonderful news with our school community - the safe arrival of not one, but two bundles of joy into the loving arms of Brenton and his wife Kate! Please join us in congratulating them on the birth of their adorable twins, Elliot Alexander O'Hoy and Willow May O'Hoy.

The newest additions to the O'Hoy family have already brought an abundance of happiness and excitement. Elliot, sporting a charming blue beanie, and Willow, looking angelic in white and green, have captured everyone's hearts with their arrival. We're delighted to report that both babies are thriving, bringing joy and laughter into their home from the moment they arrived.

While Brenton adjusts to the whirlwind of parenthood, we look forward to watching Elliot and Willow grow . Once again, congratulations to Brenton and his wife on the arrival of their precious twins! 

Your school family is overjoyed for you and sends our best wishes. 

 RECONCILIATION WEEK - 27 MAY- 3 JUNE

At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Australia’s colonial history is characterised by devastating land dispossession, violence, and racism. Over the last half-century, however, many significant steps towards reconciliation have been taken.

Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that reminds us that while generations of Australians have fought hard for meaningful change, future gains are likely to take just as much, if not more, effort.

In a just, equitable and reconciled Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will have the same life chances and choices as non-Indigenous children, and the length and quality of a person’s life will not be determined by their racial background.

A vision of reconciliation is based and measured on five dimensions: historical acceptance; race relations; equality and equity; institutional integrity and unity.

These five dimensions do not exist in isolation, but are interrelated. Reconciliation cannot be seen as a single issue or agenda; the contemporary definition of reconciliation must weave all of these threads together. For example, greater historical acceptance of the wrongs done to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can lead to improved race relations, which in turn leads to greater equality and equity.

IDAHOBIT DAY- A MESSAGE OF RESPECT AND INCLUSION

Last Friday was IDAHOBIT Day, a day dedicated to celebrating diversity, advocating for equality, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. 

For all students and staff, it was a reminder of the values we hold dear: respect, inclusion, and the right of every individual to be treated with love and care. It was an opportunity for the entire school community to come together and reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone.

The message echoed throughout the school was clear: discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated at RPS. Whether it's based on sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, or any other characteristic, every member of our community deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. 

This ethos is ingrained in the fabric of our school culture, and IDAHOBIT Day provided a moment for us to reiterate and reinforce it. However, our work doesn't end with IDAHOBIT Day. Respect and inclusion are ongoing commitments that require continuous effort and vigilance. As a school, we must continue to educate our students on what it truly means to embrace diversity and celebrate differences. This includes fostering open dialogue, challenging stereotypes, and creating opportunities for meaningful interaction among students from all backgrounds.

At RPS, we believe that diversity is our strength and that every individual has a unique contribution to make. 

ACKNOWLEDGING OUR EDUCATION SUPPORT STAFF

Today marks the beginning of Education Support Team Week, a time dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of the individuals who form the backbone of our school community. In celebration of their hard work and dedication, we are hosting a special morning tea to express our gratitude for all they do.

Our Education Support Team plays a vital role in ensuring that every child in our school receives the support they need to thrive. From assisting students with additional needs to providing invaluable support to our teachers, their impact is felt in every corner of our classrooms and beyond.

One of the many ways our support team enriches the lives of our students is through facilitating structured outdoor play, where children can engage positively in their social relationships. Their efforts extend far beyond the classroom walls; they are the ones who ensure that no child is left behind, working tirelessly to fill any gaps in reading or learning.

Emily, one of our dedicated team members, exemplifies this commitment to our students' success. Through her tireless efforts, she ensures that every child receives the support they need to excel academically. 

Behind the scenes, our administration team, led by Casey and Kate, work diligently to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Their myriad of tasks ensures that our school operates seamlessly, allowing our teachers and support staff to focus on what truly matters: our students' education and well-being.

We cannot overstate the importance of our Education Support Team. They are the heart and soul of our school, and words of thanks are simply not enough to express our gratitude. If you see any member of our support team in the yard, please take a moment to let them know just how valued they are at RPS.

To Mark, Natalie, Fiona, Woody, Janine, Josie, Isabella, Mia, Rachel, Narelle, Lewis, Sharon, Jenny, Kate, Casey, and Emily, Thank you for all that you do. Your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to our students truly transform lives, and our entire community is grateful to have you by our side.

NAVIGATING THE N-WORD: A GUIDE FOR PARENTS DISCUSSING RACISM WITH THEIR CHILDREN

As parents, we bear the crucial responsibility of shaping our children's understanding of the world, including complex issues like racism. One particularly challenging aspect of these conversations is addressing the N-word. This term carries a weighty history of oppression and discrimination against people of coulour, making it essential for parents to approach the topic with sensitivity and clarity. Here’s a guide to help parents navigate discussions about the N-word and its relationship to racism.

The N-word, historically used as a racial slur, carries deep-rooted pain and trauma. It originated during periods of slavery and continued through centuries of systemic racism and segregation. Its usage has been weaponised to dehumanise and oppress individuals, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and reinforcing racial hierarchies.

It's crucial to explain to children that words have power. The N-word is not just a collection of letters; it's a symbol of hatred and bigotry. By using this word, individuals perpetuate the pain of the past and contribute to the ongoing marginalization of Black communities. Encourage empathy by asking children to imagine how they would feel if someone used hurtful language against them based on their race.

Children are often exposed to the N-word through various forms of media, including music, movies, and social media. While these mediums may normalise its usage, it's essential to emphasise that its presence does not diminish its harmful impact. Teach children to critically analyse media messages and understand the difference between entertainment and reality.

Equip your children with the tools to respond appropriately if they encounter the N-word or other forms of racism. Teach them that silence is not an option; they have the power to speak up against injustice. Encourage open dialogue and guide how to confront prejudice respectfully but firmly. Role-playing scenarios can help children feel more confident in navigating difficult conversations.

Racism is not just a problem for the communities directly affected; it's a societal issue that requires collective action. Please encourage your children to stand in solidarity with their peers and actively work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Emphasise the importance of being an ally by challenging discriminatory attitudes and behaviours, both in their social circles and within society at large.

Discussing the N-word and its connection to racism can be uncomfortable, but it's an essential conversation for parents to have with their children. By providing context, promoting empathy, and empowering children to take a stand against racism, parents can play a vital role in shaping a future generation that values diversity, equity, and justice. Let’s commit to fostering open dialogue and creating a more inclusive world for all.

ENGAGING OUR COMMUNITY FOR A WORTHY CAUSE

Excitement fills the air as we prepare for a significant initiative launched during Monday's whole school assembly. Dugald Jellie, working closely with our Sustainability team, students, and families, has a heartfelt request to rally our support for a meaningful cause. Together, we've been collaborating on the creation of the Koor Indigenous Garden Stages 1 and 2, with plans for future projects on the horizon.

Dugald's proposal embodies community spirit, compassion, and environmental responsibility. He's introduced two collection boxes and challenged our students to gather $500 worth of recyclable cans, bottles, and plastics. The proceeds will support an Afghan refugee family, aiming to raise a total of $5000 across many schools.

In addition to this initiative, Dugald has shared a personal project titled "The Sorting Circle - a rubbish experiment, of sorts - recycling for refugees," created alongside his brother, Hugh. This heartwarming film, featuring members of our Ripponlea community, reflects warmth, inclusivity, and the pursuit of a better world.

Dugald warmly invites our entire school community to view this film, with the link available until 5 pm on Friday. Let's spread the word to ensure everyone has the chance to witness this beautiful creation.

Let's embrace Dugald's call to action, seizing the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others and our environment.

Until next fortnight!

Natalie Rose             &                        Marta Campbell 

      Principal                                         Assistant Principal