Principal's Page

Kia Ora Koutou

Last issue, I wrote several pages sharing our concerns regarding the National Party's proposed new Education Policy.

Thank you to those parents who wrote or spoke of their support. It means a lot. One mum had an experience in her schooling life that fitted well with National's proposed changes. However, she realises those changes that worked for her would actually be devastating for her children.

Here are a couple of responses:

I have just read your latest school newsletter, and it triggered me to email you to say how much I enjoyed the insightful pieces you have written regarding the National Party's policy announcements and your views on this. 

As always, your insightful, researched and practical approaches are so inspiring; it is a real pity they are not published more widely. That they also reflect the day-to-day operation of a school that places students first needs to be a great example for politicians that principals such as yourself know exactly what they are doing, and that those teaching in their schools do not, in fact, start their teaching day by holding their finger up in the air. Unless, of course, it is done for another reason and with another meaning. It would, in my view, be of immense value to the education sector if you could somehow have your insights out there in the wider community, although how that is possible, I have no idea. Anyway, I trust you are OK and that everything is going well for you; please keep up the good work.

I have just read your comments in the newsletter and couldn't agree more. It is so hard to believe that we seem to be going around in circles regarding educating our children! It makes you wonder whether those in Government positions (or "possible'' positions) research what has happened before or look at those countries that are succeeding with their curriculums. I am still working with the University of Auckland as a Professional Supervisor, and to be honest, feel for the Student Teachers as they begin their training and teaching journey. I just want to thank you for speaking out and for being prepared to enlighten your parents - I hope many of them read your comments. All the best to you and your hard-working staff,

While sharing email messages, here is a special joint one from a teacher and a mum:

Today during reading, a little girl mentioned she has money for the children who need it. She went to her bag and brought me a $50 note. I asked if Mum knew, and she said yes. I mentioned I'd hold onto it and we'd phone Mum to check. On speaking to Mum, we learned they were talking last night about where they would give their donation as they donate money every year and were talking about children and people in NZ needing help. She must have taken it out of her money box, her Mum said.

I'm sending this to you during the holidays - a week late. The last couple of weeks were very busy ones, and something had to give, so this was it.

After an Easter Weekend of R and R, I'm ready to get back to work, so I send this with apologies for the lateness and with best wishes for you all to get some R and R yourselves and my hope that you enjoy your time with your precious children.

As always - if you have questions or concerns about anything school-related - email me at macash@mac.com, and I will get back to you asap.

Take care all -

 tofa soifua

noho ora mai

Ash Maindonald

Principal.