The term is half over and we are certainly in full swing for the year. There are several important events and experiences for our students in the coming weeks. This morning we recognised the first of our 'Aussie of the Month' students. It is always wonderful to have the opportunity to come together and recognise some of the many students who consistently display effort, practice our habits and display positive attitudes.
HABITS – HAPPY: As you are aware we strongly focus on developing an understanding and assisting our students in practicing our six habits in everything they do to help them to engage with our curriculum and school community.
Evidence based research shows that when students are happy and healthy their capacity to engage is enhanced. Further to this academic development students develop a growth mindset and improve their ability to cope in the complex world around them. Our aim is to develop socially, emotionally and academically competent beings, and enable students to reach their potential and flourish.
Over the next few weeks classes will be focussing on the habit, HAPPY. As the classes learn about and share ways of developing and practicing this habit, they will be introduced to a new member of our school community, our HAPPY kookaburra. You will see this character on our sign when you drive by. Students will be involved in naming our kookaburra and when the final decision is made, we will add the name to the sign. Ms Gannon has put out a family challenge for you all to participate in over the dinner table, Family Challenge – Why do Kookaburras laugh?
Send your family responses to Miss Gannon ggann4@eq.edu.au. (prizes up for grabs).
Congratulations to Mrs HAMILTON: 25 YEARS at Emu Park State School: This week we celebrated and acknowledged Mrs Karen Hamilton's 25 years of service at Emu Park State School. Mrs Hamilton started at Emu Park State School in 1999. Thank you for your many years of service to our community.
Life Education: Liz and Harold will be visiting in Weeks 9 and 10 with their lovely van. Once again we are fortunate that Communities for Families is funding the visit and our students can attend at no cost to families. An email with details, class times and parent information session details will be sent home soon.
NAPLAN: Students in Year 3 and 5 will be participating in the NAPLAN tests during Week 8 and 9. This week the classes completed practice tests. Parents and Carers should have received an email with some information. A timetable of the test days will be emailed home soon. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your child's teacher.
Swimming Carnivals: Swimming lessons are progressing well under the guidance of Ms Karner and Mrs Stieg. Our swimming carnivals will be held in Week 10, Years 3 to 6 on Tuesday 26th 9-3pm and Prep to Year 2 Fun Morning on Wednesday 27th 9-12pm. Students will be walking to and from the pool on that day. There will be a special tuckshop menu on both days. Please watch for information from Mrs Karner.
Regional Shield: Students who have expressed interest in participating in the Regional Shield carnival (Year 5 and 6 only) would have received an email this week. Please respond to this email by next Wednesday so we can make a final decision.
Parent Teacher interviews: Parent teacher interviews will be held on Wednesday 20th March. A link to the SOBS website was sent home this week. Please follow this link to book your interview times. I encourage all families to make a time to meet with the teachers as this gives both parties the opportunity to discuss your child's learning, any adjustments required and celebrate their successes.
Vinnies Student Assistance Program: Emu Park State School has been approached by Vinnies Emu Park, with an offer to support families who are experiencing difficulty meeting the costs of their children's education. Vinnies have funds available to help reduce school expenses including uniforms, text books and stationery, class excursions and other associated costs.
Absolute confidentiality is Vinnies' standard procedure.
If you know of a family requiring support, please tell them about Vinnies. The family can contact Vinnies and arrange a time to meet for about 30 minutes, with two volunteers from Vinnies, to discuss the support that is needed. Discussions and assistance will remain confidential.
Phone 4939 6705 to arrange a time discuss Vinnies' Student Assistance Program.
1 2 3 Magic and Emotional Coaching Inclusive Parenting Course: Please contact the school office for a brochure for this parenting course.
Have a great weekend and we look forward to another week of HAPPY and engaging learning.
Ellen