Principal's Report

Welcome Back (Again)

It was such a wonderful sight on Monday morning to have all of our students return. I was so pleased when it was announced that all students would be able to return on the same day. Having Monday as a day of celebration was so important for the connectedness of our community. The Rainbow dress day was a fantastic way to step back to being on site. 

We are now slowly setting back into the routine of being at school, and as this week has progressed the toll being back at school for 6 hours every day is showing in different ways for different people. As each day has gone by more and more tired faces are walking through the gates each morning, which is completely expected after 4 months of being at home and learning at their own pace. 

The priorities that we have outlined have not changed, in that Wellbeing is always our number one priority and we are taking cues from the students as individuals. In my visits to the classroom this week there are a lot of activities centered around reconnecting with each other and giving the students much needed time to catch up and socialise with each other. 

It was announced on Tuesday that the State Government is funding $250 million to 'tutors' to support catch up leaning in 2021. This was a welcome announcement, as while we know that our Remote Learning program was as good as it could be, it was not a "like for like" substitute for being in the classroom. I attended a Department of Education meeting today that touched on the area and we will receive more information over the coming weeks, including supports in identifying which students should be included in the program, what our school funding allocation will be, and the process for placing 'tutors' in our school. 

2021 Planning

We are solidly underway with our planning for 2021. If you know that your child is not returning to MPS in 2021 (other than Year 6) I would ask that you notify me as soon as possible as this impacts our planning for next year. Similarly if you have not yet enrolled a younger sibling for next year please also let us know as we are beginning our 2021 program this week. 

Building Works

The works on our Toilet upgrade and Sensory garden have been delayed due to Covid-19. These large projects will still be taking place, however we will need to be patient a little while longer before we see any works as builders are held up on other projects due to the Restrictions in place. 

School Photos

I know that some families are anxious regarding school photos. Currently this are something that cannot occur at school, however we have the 11th November ear marked with our school photographer if things change. If we are not able to have these occur on this date we will look for alternative options to have a class photo arranged as a keepsake for students. There is always the possibility that we will be able to secure another date with the photography company, as with everything flexibility will be the key.