O'Connor Pipeline

Edition Two 19th February 2019

Principal's Report

Open Board Meeting

Our first Board meeting for 2019 will be held on Wednesday 20th February at 7pm in the school staffroom.  This is an open meeting for any parent or community member who would like to attend to see what happens at Board meetings.  We may be calling for new members later in the term and this gives you an opportunity to get a good understanding of the Board’s role and how you could become involved, if you wished. If you cannot make the meeting but are still interested in learning more, please contact me so I can pass information on.  The Board plays a vital role in ensuring our school continues to grow and develop for the benefit of all.

Assembly

Our first assembly was a whole school event where we acknowledged our new Student Leaders. They are already doing a fantastic job.

Last week were entertained by the Junior students as they sang some songs they have learnt while learning Chinese with Mrs Ung. Well done to all students for their input.

This week will be a Senior assembly, again run by Mrs Ung. I hope to see you there.

Break Times

This is only the third week of school but the three twenty minute breaks during the day appear to be working well.  First lunch is now without the siren mid-way through the break.  This allows any student to remain seated and continue eating if they wish.  Students who have finished are sent off when they are ready.  The afternoon break is very busy with plenty of structured activities as well as the free play in playgrounds, etc.  Students are settling far better after breaks and teachers are reporting that the lesson time is being maximised.  If you have any questions regarding the break times, do not hesitate in contacting me or see me in the grounds during the day.

Parent Information Night

I hope the parents who attended the Information Evening last week enjoyed the opportunity to chat to their child’s teacher for 2019.  Please remember that you can arrange a meeting if you have any concerns or wish to clarify any query.  Please contact your child’s teacher directly.

School Development Day

Parents are reminded that the school is closed on Friday 1st of March as staff will be attending professional development training on that day. This is already in the term planner and was advertised at the end of last year. This day replaces the school development day at the start of Term 4.

Awards

Before School

Parents are asked to remind their children to come to the Undercover Area prior to the first bell, unless you are waiting with them at their room.  This is a safety request as having the students in the Undercover Area ensures they can be supervised correctly.  Parents are also reminded that students should not be at school too early as it will make it a very long day.  Please see me if you have any questions.

Parents are also reminded that we have the Breakfast Club before school on Tuesday and Thursday and Active Club on Wednesday and Friday.  Both activities are a great opportunity for a bit of socialising among the students and staff.  Please see the website for further information.

P&C News

School Canteen

At present the canteen is struggling as the new school year commences, with lunch orders being down.  I would encourage parents to support the canteen as much as they can.  The food is very healthy and buying from them is supporting other activities in the school.  If you are able to assist in the canteen, please drop in and have a chat to Heidi or Nicole as parent help would be very beneficial.

Parents and Citizens Association AGM

The school P&C do a fantastic job around the school managing the canteen and uniform shop as well as conducting fundraising events such as raffles, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls.  This is completed by a very small but dedicated group who are in desperate need of assistance.  Parents are encouraged to come to the AGM on Monday 18th March to show support for the P&C and get involved in activities.  It will not take too much time and any time you can give will be appreciated.

Community News

Positive Parenting Program

This 2 hour seminar will leave parents feeling more confident and better able to deal positively and effectively with common child behavioural and emotional issues.

A Triple P seminar will be offered in the first semester of 2019 on these dates:

The Power of Positive Parenting

Wednesday 3 April 2019 10 am – 12 pm

Wednesday 12 June 2019 10 am – 12 pm                                                                   

There is no cost to attend, however, bookings are essential.

A crèche is available by arrangement.

For more information or to register, please contact Population Health on 9080 8200