Remote Learning Special Edition

Up and down like a seesaw...

At the end of our third week (is that all!?) of remote learning, everyone is starting to find a little rhythm. Many of us are confident in saying we really don't like this new rhythm ... but we are finding one, at least. 

I think at this stage in the process it is only human and healthy for us to take a moment to pause, reflect on how everything is going and possibly get distracted by the things we wish were different. 

I don't think it's a stretch to say that we are all yearning for some form of normality to return. We are a bit sick and tired of those around us, no matter how much we love them, and we are busting to have a go at those things that have been denied us during lockdown. 

It's almost impossible at the moment not to have moments in a day where you end up feeling guilty, ill-prepared, inadequate and just plain sad. And then there are other moments, where you imagine what life could be like without the regular hustle and bustle: more time spent with the family, more time in the garden, maybe more time exercising or cooking, perhaps even more time spent relaxing, in whatever form that takes for you. Each day feels a bit like playing on a seesaw with its highs and its lows - and you just hope that you don't get stuck at the bottom, playing by yourself waiting for someone to push you back up. 

We are acutely aware that everyone is experiencing something unique and challenging at the moment. This is just as true for students as it is for parents and teachers. 

We recognise that many students have heightened levels of anxiety even at the best of times - and for some students this will be skyrocketing out of control.

I think it is important to state that none of us want this to be our reality, that we all want things to be back to how it was before (even if that wasn't perfect). This includes getting all students back onsite, running around, playing together, laughing with their teacher ... everything that comes with over 500 kids turning up each day to learn, socialise, share and explore. Unfortunately, having seen the destruction this virus has caused throughout the world, this just is considered too risky at this point in time for schools in Victoria.

Recently, we have had some very unhelpful debate being played out through the nation's media that is making it more difficult to accept our current reality. This is unfortunate because the ambiguity and uncertainty is a key trigger for anxiety and stress for many of us.

It is important to remember that there is only one organisation that will determine if government schools in Victoria re-open, and that is the Victorian government. The only message that will impact on student attendance at RNPS, will be that from the Premier Daniel Andrews. 

In the absence of any new announcements from the Victorian government, school continues as it currently is. If listening to discussions about what should happen causes you stress, confusion or anxiety, I advise you to simply switch off. Those conversations, articles or opinions will not provide any insight or guidance that will assist you and if they're adding to your stress, it's just not worth it. You will know when school returns to normal because there will be very clear and obvious messages from both the school and the Victorian government. Until then, we persevere. 

In this week's newsletter we cover some of the things you may be noticing or experiencing at home in your new multi-faceted role. We will also link you to further resources that may be of some assistance to you, your family or friends. We know and fully expect that there will be successes and failures throughout this period; I will cover some things to look out for and consider when helping children but just as importantly, we all need to understand and appreciate that we are learning together. I encourage you to take it easy on yourself: if things don't seem to be working, take a break, ask for help, and try again tomorrow. Do not expect perfection! 

If you didn't catch the first remote learning newsletter or wanted to find something from it, go to this link: https://inewsletter.co/xaqDbx

Again, we don't expect you will read this from first word to last but if we can provide as much information as we have in one space that is hopefully preferable to alternatives. 

Please take care. 

Ken

Our new building

Last Friday was an exciting time in the school as our new building settled into its new home at RNPS. Mrs Mann and I were excited to walk through the building on Tuesday and managed to capture a few quick shots of it being fitted out. Year 1 and 2 students and teachers can be very excited that the next time they are at school, they are likely to be walking into their brand new classrooms.  

I know many families managed to swing by the school on a walk to see the cranes in action. For those that didn't there is also a small time lapse video of some of the day's action. 

Yer 6 to 7 transition

In the last week Year 6 to Year 7 Transition Information Packs have been sent home via post to all Grade 6 families.  Included in this pack is a guide to complete the Application and the Application Form for Year 7 Placement 2021.  Please read the guide carefully and then complete the Application Form and return to the office by the 15th May, 2020.  If  you have any questions or did not receive the Application Pack please contact Natalie in the office asap.