Kia ora parents, caregivers and friends of the school,
A huge group of both students and adults enjoyed the middle and junior school picnic last Friday. As the weather was unsettled the ranger suggested we use the site with the large permanent cover. This was a fantastic idea and we were pleased to have an all weather place for the day.
There was however some confusion as a bill was presented to us from the ranger to ‘pay’ for the site. The teachers were worried as we did not budget for an additional cost of $350. The good news is that some BNZ staff who were at Long Bay for a community day arrived and paid the bill.Thank you !Thank you !Thank you! To the Bank Of New Zealand staff, Graeme and Amber, from BNZ Finance and Agri Business in the city office.
Walking Bus
As you will have noticed we have had major works on the traffic island up by the shops at the top of Summerland Drive. The realignment of the traffic island is to make that area safer but we still worry about our children crossing there.We have had a request to see if there is any interest to start a walking bus up the top side of Sturges Road/Summerland Drive to help in getting our children safely to school. As I have been crossing children over at the end of the day I do see that there are some parents who accompany their own and neighbouring children to and from school each day. Please contact the office if you would be keen to support a Walking Bus.
National Administration Guide Lines
Swift action to change NAG 5 was taken by the new Education Minister, Anne Tolley, on 5 February, 2009
Schools no longer required to be food police. Schools will no longer be required to act as food police under changes announced by Education Minister Anne Tolley today."As part of the National Government's commitment to reducing compliance for schools, I have decided to remove the clause in National Administration Guideline (5) which states ‘where food and beverages are sold on schools' premises, to make only healthy options available’. Feedback from schools I have spoken to suggests that this clause has created confusion for many of them particularly around fundraising and school events. The government considers regulation in this area unnecessary. "I believe boards of trustees should be able to make their own decisions about appropriate food and drink options. After all, they are parents who should be aware of what ‘good’ and ‘bad’ foods are. I am confident they will act responsibly."
How does it impact on Western Heights? We will keep the sometime foods off the lunch menu from the bakery and will continue our Health and Physical wellbeing programme that includes education programmes towards keeping ourselves fit and well.
Intermediate Schools Open Nights
Although we do not want to unsettle the year 6 children at this stage, some of you will be starting to think about next year. All the Intermediate schools have open evenings, etc. later in the year and they advertise in the Western Leader and on their websites. Liston College and St Dominic’s College are having their open evenings this term. Liston College: Monday 30 March from 7p.m. - 9p.m.
St Dominic’s College: Tuesday 31 March from 6.30p.m. - 9p.m.
Bereavement
Our sincere sympathy and support goes to Bronwyn Adshead, assistant caretaker, and her daughters on the loss of Bronwyn’s husband, Bruce, this week. A large group of staff attended the funeral on Wednesday afternoon.
Principal Awards
Daymon Shute Sophie Francis Keisha HarrisonLucas Hall Victoria Seng Harry HughesLydia Olo Tarryn MacPherson Zane JenkinsonCherish Maui-Asosa Kristiana Ah Fook Billy WightRozelle Suyker Marieta Pelenato Tyrone Ah Fook
Dates to Note
Mon. 30 March: Senior’s Spelling Bee
Frid. 3 April: Senior Disco
Thurs. 9 April: Term 1 finishes.
Mon. 27 April: Term 2 begins
World Water Day
We will be celebrating World Water Day tomorrow at school with activities relating to the use and conservation of water in syndicates from morning tea onwards. If possible could you please encourage your child to wear blue and bring their water bottle. We will be having water races on the field from 2.30p.m.
Entertainment Books
Flyers have been sent out to pre-order the 2009/2010 Auckland Entertainment Book. If pre-ordered you receive a sheet of special offers. Books will be sent out to every family at the beginning of April with the option to purchase or return the book to the school. They are $65.00 and include lots of extra discounts this year.
Scholastic Book Orders
Orders close tomorrow, Friday 20 March. Make cheques payable to Scholastic N.Z.
Lift Required to School
A very desperate mum requires a ride to school for her Year 2 son from Swanson Road, near Rathgar Road. If you are able to offer help, please call Tracey on 838 1142.
Auckland Down Syndrome Association Buddy Walk Fundraiser
Tahaki Reserve, 250 Mt Eden Road, Mt. Eden on Sunday 22 March. Registration opens 9.00a.m., the 3.5km walk begins at 10.00a.m. Followed by a carnival, rides, spot prizes, silent auction, raffles, etc. All welcome. For information call Christel on 636 0351 or 021 1362537
Whanau Day Out 2009 - Saturday 28 March
Free family festival. Bring a picnic. Live music, dance groups, stalls, free parking. 10a.m. - 6p.m., Parrs Park, 497 West Coast Road, Glen Eden. Further info. contact Stephanie 838 8501.
Piano Teacher Looking for Students
Children of all ages and adults catered for. $15/half hour. Call Monique on 412 8428 or 021 026 79621
DON’T FORGET WORLD VISION COLLECTION AND
SAUSAGE SIZZLE TOMORROW
