From the Assistant Principal 

Re-entry #6 and we're feeling....tired

As we navigate the complexities of re-entry to 'Covid normal' it is perfectly understandable to be tired. As exciting as outings to the hairdressers, overdue dinner dates and social gatherings and returning to work onsite is - it's also ok to admit that you have a sneaking feeling that it all feels too much like hard work in reality. These pearls of wisdom from @chrischeerspsychology on Instagram were recently shared with me and I think it really hits home.

Just like lockdown is different for everyone - so is 're-entry'. Try not to fall prey to the pressures of a 'social media perfect' re-entry of frivolous outings, joyous events and full calendar if some days you are just not feeling up to it. Take this opportunity to practise empathy and kindness - for yourself first and foremost. 

My door is always open, it may be a virtual door right now but please don't hesitate to reach out if you need to chat through any concerns you may have for how your family and children will navigate re-entry to school. In this experience, we are truly 'all in this together' and I'd love to hear from you. 

Lauren Hopkins

lauren.hopkins@education.vic.gov.au

98763289 / 0429871758

Illness at school

Under new DET protocols, any student who is sent home with COVID compatible symptoms will be unable to return to school until they have a COVID test and provide the school with evidence of a Negative result andthey feel well. If your child has an ongoing condition that may mimic these symptoms (such as Hayfever) please provide written advice from a medical professional to that effect. Thank you for your understanding in this regard. 

Negative Covid test results can be emailed to kalinda.ps@education.vic.gov.au. (Whereas a positive result should be communicated with us as soon as possible, via the details shared on Mr. McClare's page.

Some children may feel some apprehension or uncertainty about having a Covid-19 test (although some may be old hand!) The team at Deakin University (including Kalinda parent Megan) have put together this fantastic video to share with children. The video stars one of our own - Lucien in 5/6D! Great job Lucien, your support for this project is a wonderful service to our community. 

Watch “Be brave, Get tested - how a COVID test is done on children” here.

Supporting primary school children in their return to onsite learning.

The Royal Children's Hospital also has these very useful podcasts. 

https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/Podcast/ 

Facemasks

The introduction of facemasks for students in Grades 3-6 (and highly recommended for F-2) is certainly not something we saw coming a year ago but we know that the science clearly points to their benefits in reducing the spread of Coronavirus in schools (see this CDC article for more information). However, we recognise that this causes uncertainty for some children and families. If you are concerned, please reach out to either Shaun McClare or myself for information on how we approach mask-wearing at Kalinda. 

I have copied the Department of Education's information to schools regarding mask wearing below for your information. 

• Face masks will now be mandatory for all school students in Grade 3 and above when indoors including at Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) programs unless a lawful exception applies. Face masks can be removed while outdoors at primary schools.
• Face masks are strongly recommended for Prep to Grade 2 students
• For students with a disability, parents and carers should speak to the child’s doctor or regular health professional and with their school about the best methods to encourage mask wearing. Students and parents can also contact the Disability Liaison Officer program for more information.
• Students with a medical condition that prevents mask use will not be required to wear a mask.
• Face masks are required for students in Grade 3 to Grade 6 unless an exception applies. Exceptions include students with a physical or mental disability where their disability means it would not be suitable. Parent/carers of a student/s who meet the criteria for an exception must provide their approval in writing for their child/ren to not wear a mask to the school.

Information on the correct ways to wear a mask are available.

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