Welcome back to Term Four! I simply cannot believe that we are already into fourth term. I hope everyone had a chance to unwind and rejuvenate over the holidays. There are many wonderful learning opportunities and fun activities to look forward to in Term 4 so

please ensure that you keep a close eye on Compass, Snippets and SeeSaw to ensure that you are up to date with news and have all the necessary information.

STUDENT PLACEMENT 2024

During Term 4 our class teachers go through the process of placing students for the 2024 school year. By the end of next week, your children will be nominating their 5 friendly learning partners, which they will be placed with a minimum of one learning partner for their 2024 class. The current year’s teachers compile class lists of students for the following year based on consideration of factors including:

a spread of mixed ability students in every class (i.e. students working at the same level academically)
social and emotional needs
friendships
students with behavioural needs (i.e.. those who require extra support to access the curriculum)
gender balance
other relevant individual needs

As per our school approach, parent requests based on the educational, social and emotional needs of your child should be directed to the principal in writing by Friday 20th October. Each request will be carefully considered on a case-by-case basis. However, please note that requests for specific teachers will not be taken into consideration.

To submit your request, kindly email the school office at donvale.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Referendum Donvale Primary School Election Site- BBQ, Cake Stall and Coffee

This coming Saturday, Donvale Primary School will be an election site for the Refernedum. Our dedicated Parents Association have done a magnificent job of organising a BBQ, Cake Stall and Coffee stand. Thank you to all the families who have provided delicious treats for the cake stall.

We are looking forward to a wonderful day of community connection and fundraising for our fabulous school.

A special thank you to the following Donvale Families for your time and support.

Szedlak family Lucky, Liz, Elroy and Scout, Jamie Mackintosh, Sarah Rubython, Tim and Lou Martin, Lisa Paterson, Cathy Farrell, Leah and Chris Martini, Claire and Rob Blowers, Wanan Ho, Crystill Furneaux, Nicole Cooper, Berry Han, Serena Moroney, Elaine Buszko, Stoney Shou, Tanja Kankaanpaa, Rita Narangala and Diana Cepulo.

At the time of this publication, these are the families that I am aware of. If I have missed anyone, a big thank you, and please come forward so that I can acknowledge your support.

CURRENT EVENTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Many in the broader community and in our school community may be affected by the devastating events in the Middle East. All of us are upset and disturbed by the awful events depicted in media footage and images.

This time is particularly distressing for staff, students, families and carers who have family and friends in Israel and Gaza. We are also aware that students of diverse backgrounds, including Jewish and Muslim students, may be significantly affected by public events, mainstream media coverage and social media at this time.

Please be assured that all staff are aware of the extreme emotional toll on many in our community at this time. But please also feel free to get in contact with any of the staff at our school if you would like to ensure we are aware of what your child is going through at this time. Our support staff will continue doing all they can to support all our students, and support is also available for our staff.

I also want to assure you that the department is monitoring the situation from a school security perspective and have advised there is no further action we need to take at this stage.

It is possible that extremely distressing scenes from the conflict may be posted online in coming days. Please ensure your children are aware of where they can find support in the event they come across such images. At our school, this includes teachers, education support staff and principal team.

You may find some aspects of this resource helpful:

Helping my children after trauma: A guide for parents.

Support is also available through external services including:

headspace: 1800 650 890
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636.

My door is always open, and I am sure we will all look to support one another in this very difficult time.

Wishing you a lovely weekend.

Larissa Vesdrevanis

Principal

Donvale Primary School

Maths News…

Mr Reiter