Principal's report 

I would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which Kalinda Primary school gathers, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I would like to pay my respects to their elders past, present, and emerging.

Gratitude

I've just come into the office after being outside watching our Year 6 students compete in inter-school sports on this beautiful sunny day. Whilst out there, many of the younger students came out to eat their 'Brain Food' and watch the action for a few minutes.

Watching this scene, with the Dandenongs in the background, made me feel incredibly grateful. Given the conflict happening in Europe at the moment, the terrible floods in Queensland and New South Wales and many other challenges around the world, it reminded me how lucky we are to have this simple pleasure of eating with one another, enjoying nature and learning and living in a safe and free space.

My thoughts go out to any families in our Kalinda community who have family and friends impacted by the conflict in Europe, the floods and many other challenges around the world.

Competing in inter-school sports is just one way in which we are slowly returning to normal. Early next term we are planning to hold a Welcome BBQ for families (which we were unable to do at the beginning of the year). We are also continuing to review the protocols we have in place and will make adjustments over time. Please keep an eye out as we make these announcements via COMPASS.

Sustainability Leaders

Congratulations to our Sustainability Leaders for 2022, Taylah and Dougie . I know that you will both do a wonderful job working with our Wildlife Warriors to continue to improve how sustainable we can be at Kalinda. Protecting our school environment, local environment, and global environment is particularly important. Good luck in this role.

Farewell and Thank-you

I would like to wish a warm farewell and thank you to staff members, Sandra Blackwell and Wendy Doyle. Sandra supported so many kids during her time in the Challenge Program (now known as the Step Up Program) and Wendy has done a great job as our school librarian and integration aide for many years. Thank you both for the contributions you have made to Kalinda.

I would also like to wish good luck to Kristie Bell as she begins her maternity leave next week. Good luck with an exciting new chapter in your life. We look forward to having you return to school in the near future.

School Council Elections

Ballot papers have been sent out this week for the School Council elections. We have seven candidates for the five vacant positions. We have had a number of parents come and cast their votes already.

I am incredibly appreciative that we have such an engaged community. Thank you to the candidates who have been nominated and to everyone who votes in the election.

Riding bikes and scooters to school

I am always so happy to see students riding bikes and scooters to school each day. I used to ride my bike to school many years ago and even did so for many years as a teacher. It is such a nice way to start and end your day, is good exercise and is such an environmentally friendly form of transport.

Just a reminder that within the school grounds you are not allowed to ride your bike or scooter on school days. You need to walk with your bike or scooter until you are out of the school boundaries. This is to avoid an accident between any bike riders and other students as we move around the school grounds.

Shaun McClare,

Principal 

Kalinda Primary School

We are kind. We are resilient. We are respectful.