Watching our students walk through the gates on Monday 25 May, returning to full time face-to-face learning, we noticed many had grown since we last saw them. Upon reflection, students had been away for 9 weeks, including 2 weeks of holidays, which is longer than the end-of-year 6 week break!
So, it was understandable that a few of our students, particularly Kindergarten, experienced some level of nervousness when now having to adjust to a 'kiss & drop' at the gate, when previously our parents and carers could come in to the playground. It was literally 'take 2' of the 'first day of kindy', without having all the grown ups around, comforting, hugging, kissing and reassuring our youngest members, as they walked into the classrooms for the very first time (in a very long time!)...
It's amazing though, 3 weeks on, to see how quickly we've all adjusted and adapted to the 'new normal'. Our students happily give kisses and hugs to their grown-ups and confidently walk, skip or run, on in!
Although, as of Monday 15 June and from the start of Term 3, additional activities (as per the document below) are recommencing across public schools in NSW, 'non-essential adults are still not permitted on school grounds or at school events – this includes parents/carers unless specifically approved by the principal...Parent/teacher meetings – where these need to take place – strong preference for online where possible unless involving serious matters that require face to face discussion'.
This implies that our current requirement for 'Kiss & Drop', as well as staggered pick-ups, with all parents/carers remaining outside the school gates will continue into Term 3. The continued exception will be for parents and carers dropping off and/or picking up from before- and after-school care.
Any meetings with teachers and/or staff members, will not be face-to-face, until further notice. If you require to speak with your child's teacher and/or any member of staff, please email balmainps@gmail.com to organise a suitable date/time for a phone call. Our monthly P&C meetings will also be occurring via Zoom until further notice.
On behalf of the school, I thank you all for your continued support and understanding in keeping all our students, staff and community safe...we are all definitely looking forward to the day that these restrictions will finally be lifted and we can welcome you back on to our school site...fingers crossed it won't be too much longer!
Maria Lambos - Principal
