Principal's Report

Jells Park Primary School

Principal:                         Kevin Oakey (Acting)

Assistant Principal:     David O'Kane

It's not OK to be away (or late!)

Leading parenting educator, Michael Grose, has some interesting research and thoughts concerning student absences from school.

"The correlation between school attendance and children's achievement levels is well established. The more time kids spend at school, the more likely they are to experience school success."

Interestingly, while most people intuitively understand and agree with this statement, most student absenteeism is parent-condoned. Most often it is extended family holidays, an additional day on a long weekend, having a birthday at home, tiredness from a late night or a 'special' day with mum/dad, etc. "This type of absenteeism sends a strong message to kids that parents don't really value learning or their children's school experiences."

Being late for school is also an issue. While being a few minutes late might not seem like a big deal, current research shows that mornings are the most productive time for student learning, especially for the younger children. Medical, and other appointments, are ideally best arranged in the afternoon or after school.

As parents, everyone needs to make a commitment that their kids need to make the most of their precious time at school. That means send them to school every day, on time and ready to make the most of the school day.

Everyone knows that some days we just want to be like Spongebob (below), but resist the urge and commit to "It's not OK to be away."

Further information to parents/carers on 'It's not OK to be away' is available on the school website, in the school notices section.

Thanks...

A huge thank you to Crystal Langshaw and the Exego Group for the beautiful new glass cabinet at the front office. We will soon fill it with all the awards, trophies and certificates we get for all the great student activities. They will look fantastic in the new cabinet.

Music Teacher

Our Music Teacher Rose Fearon has accepted a position as Music teacher at Wesley College, starting in Term 2. It is a loss for us as Rose’s input in the music department has been excellent. However we all wish her well in future endeavours.

Jells Park PS will be taking every step to fill this position as quickly as possible.