Principal's Report
From the Principal...
This is our final newsletter for Term One. A term that has been such a productive and successful time for the school. We had our school review which identified the many successes and achievements that Ormond PS has worked hard for over the previous four years, as well as identifying our priority areas to target in the new strategic plan. I look forward to the journey ahead with students, staff and families. The emphasis will be on collaborative teamwork to continue to maintain high standards and a sense of belonging at OPS. The demographics in Ormond are certainly diversifying and we need to address the ever-changing population of the school community. This is about creating partnerships and being responsive to the needs of all students and families in our care. There has been a review of all school zones and boundaries in Victoria and all Principals were made aware of changes to their zones. I continue to negotiate and work hard with those assessing and creating new zones to ensure Ormond PS is not disadvantaged by any changes.
The capital works project has reached another milestone, in that Ormond PS and the Victorian School Board Authority are signing off on the preparation report. This entails reviewing costings for every aspect of the project and prioritising works that may exceed the original funding. Reviewing items that the school believes are all necessary and significant can be overwhelming and time-consuming but Lorrie Dell and I continue to represent the school and remind all stakeholders that students are at the centre of everything we decide.
Facilities and Grounds
The facilities and grounds committee has recently undergone some significant changes due to members coming off school council. In saying that, we continue to welcome the input and direction of Kylie Cockle and Ben Clark particularly with working bees and hands-on improvements around the school. The major focus of this sub-committee is around a collective responsibility to ensure the grounds and facilities are safe and compliant, but also engaging and maintained for the young people in our care. We are investigating the replacement of seating around the school to ensure we have passive areas where students can rest and play. If you are interested in being part of this team please contact the school or alternatively volunteer at any of our working bees commencing in Term Two.
School Tours & Special Events
School tours have commenced and have been well attended. Our transition program will support any new 2020 Foundation students to the school. This will start late Term Two and continue throughout 2019.
Our school house cross country was held this week. The students enjoyed dressing in house colours and supporting their teams. Thank you to Emma Milliken for her organisation and planning. There were some outstanding performances at each age level. Today was pyjama day and the students and staff relaxed in their comfy sleepwear. Thank you to the SRC for organising this special day.
End of Term
As the end of term approaches, I would like to wish you all a safe and happy break. Enjoy time with family and friends and opportunities to rest and relax. I thank the staff for a wonderful commencement to 2019 and in particular a huge thank you to Lorrie Dell for her support and hard work during the school review process and capital works project. It was greatly appreciated!
- SAVE THE DATE -
Working Bee - Sunday 19th May
All families encouraged to come along and help clean up/maintain the school grounds.
- EARLY DISMISSAL -
A reminder to families that students will be dismissed early this Friday 5th April due to the end of Term. School Assembly will commence at 2:00pm. After School Care will commence early to accommodate for the early finish.
Have a great holiday break and Happy Easter.
Kerri McLeod
Principal