From the Principal

Hello Gympie East parents, carers and community,

We had a great time on Thursday this week with our PBL Reward of Swap the Teacher. It was terrific to see students get to experience a fun activity run by a different classroom teacher. We will spin the wheel at today's parade to discover what our next whole school PBL reward will be. 

In PBL this week, the focus is 'Using the toilets at breaktime'. It is important that we maximise learning time. Which is why we utilise two bells, the first indicates that it is time to go to the toilet and get a drink then by the second bell they should be lined up ready to learn. Next week, we will be focussing on 'Being organised and responsible'. Feeling organised and ready can help dispel feelings of anxiety or nervousness. We will be teaching lessons around how to be organised and responsible as well as why it is important. 

Today, you will receive an email about our Term 3 Parent/Teacher Interviews which are student-led. We have done this the last two years and decided to do it again as it seemed popular. Four families at a time will be in the classroom and students will lead their parents through a checklist to show what they have been working on. Students will discuss their learning goals, show how they use the Learning Wall, go through their book work and describe what they are working on. Each conference block lasts for 20 minutes with a 10-minute changeover period in between. Parents will have an opportunity to discuss their child’s progress with the teacher but the onus is on the student to lead the conference. Parents will also get to give feedback on two things they are really proud of and a goal they would like to see their child strive for (2 Stars and a wish). Please log in when you receive your email and book a timeslot, contact your child's teacher if you have any questions or cannot make the day/time.

It is only two weeks until Book Week and we have fun events planned. Book Week is held in Week 7 from 24th - 28th August. Premier's Reading Challenge reading logs are due on Friday 28th August.  We have a badge for every student who completes the challenge of reading 20 books for Prep to 4, or reading 15 books for Year 5 and 6. We also have prizes for those who read the most. On Thursday 27th, from 10-11am we will be entertained by Author/Musician Valanga Khoza. We are very excited to hear his story and learn from him. The school will cover the cost of this fantastic experience. Finally, on Friday 28th at 9:15am we will have our annual Book Week Parade. There will be prizes for best dressed students, teachers and even parents, but the best part is having fun and showing your love of reading!

Matt Elson - Principal