Dear Parents/Carers
We have reached the half way point of the school year. In some ways, it feels like we have breezed through the first semester, but as I sit back and reflect on how much has happened it is clear that it has been the most busy period in my tenure here. Some personal highlights have been the smooth roll out of our Prime Mathematics program across the school. This was a monumental undertaking to have all teaching staff trained up, provided with observations and have a timetabled block each day. The feedback I have received has been overwhelmingly positive and the belief amongst staff is unequivocal in that we are going to improve the learning outcomes for our students. From a community perspective we enjoyed some fantastic events such as the Awesome Evening, Magic Breakfast, Lego/Pizza night and our Easter Hat Parade. Semester 2 is already looking jam packed with great community events and P&C fundraisers. I would like to thank you all for the ongoing support and wish you all a safe and happy semester break. Students will return to school on Monday 17 July.
Camp
I was lucky enough to go to camp yesterday and stay overnight. The Year 6 students are having an amazing time and have enjoyed a wide range of activities including zip lining, orienteering, bike riding, archery and bush dancing. They have packed so much into the four days and to be blatantly honest will come home very tired (as will the teachers). The students behaviour has been exemplary and they have been blessed with some sensational weather during the day. I want to thank Mrs McIntosh, Mr Grace, Mr Schwass, Ms Lazic, Mrs Aim, Mrs Higgins and all the parent helpers that attended over the four days. It takes a lot of commitment for these staff to leave their families and volunteer to take care of your children outside of their arranged hours.
PBS Reward
Our PBS reward this term was a silent disco. It was again a big hit with students of all ages and a great way to cap off a great semester. Our PBS system always aims to reward good behaviour at every opportunity. The lucky students who maintained ‘Advanced Good Standing’, which means they didn’t get their name in the tracking book for the term were rewarded with an extra disco.
Kiss and Drop and Parking
The ‘Kiss and Drop’ area and parking around River Rd is a continual issue for motorists. Whilst Mrs Higgins, Mrs Aim and I are out by the gates most mornings and afternoons, the reason for doing so is to greet our children and to make sure they leave the school safely. This is something we love doing, however, we want to be clear, we are NOT parking rangers and have never professed or wanted to be one. As a school, we ask you follow the road rules, act like adults, respect that this space is busy and have patience. The roads surrounding our school are under the jurisdiction of the City of Armadale, who regularly send out a ranger to police the area. There have been a number of vehicles fined as a result. I just ask that everyone acts with courtesy and common sense to ensure that traffic flows smoothly. If you do have an issue or see something that requires assistance, you need to please contact the City of Armadale on 9394 5000.
Attendance
The cold/flu/COVID season has definitely affected student attendance this term. However, there is a concerning trend of students that seem to be missing a lot of school time for birthdays, holidays and just general days off. Every school day is important, so unless your child is too unwell, please ensure they are at school.
New Playgroup at KPS
Our new playgroup service is now operating in the OSH building. This new initiative aims to bring our youngest community members into our school to make some new friends and enjoy playing together. It is also an opportunity for parents/carers to meet some new families in a casual and friendly environment. Children aged 0-5 are welcome to attend.
Please email Samantha.higgins3@education.wa.edu.au for more information.
OHSC
Our out of hours school care provider has started operating onsite at KPS. It is a great opportunity for your children to have a structured day care experience without having to leave the school grounds. Please contact them directly with them for more information on 9473 8402 or 9473 8407.