As I visit classrooms and sit in on parts of lessons, I am always struck by how motivated and tuned in our students are. Classes are welcoming and a warm greeting is followed by the enthusiasm to share what is happening in the classroom.

This week our children are sitting their easttle writing on recounts. This piece of writing along with other writing pieces during the term will assist our teachers in forming an Overall Teacher Judgement (OTJ) against the National Standard when we report to you at the end of the term. Mid Term reports will go home in the last week of this term.

Last week we raised $240 from our Chopper Appeal and today we are supporting our Steel Mill in raising money for leukemia and blood cancer. Activities with the Steel Mill Fire Brigde have been postponed to May 20^th. Thank you for your understanding that although these two events were so close together, it is important to support our community. This is another example of whakawhanaunatanga or community partnerships, that we find important at Glenbrook School.

The Life Education bus arrives this week and it will be set up on our courts. Students begin their lessons this Friday. Glenbrook Kindy will come and have visits. We look forward to having them at school.

There continues to be a lof of building and property works being done around the school. Many aspects of our school need to be adjusted to meet the needs of all students. This includes ramps, rails, and the widening of doors. The hall site has a hazards notice identifying possible hazards. However, if you notice any unsafe equipment, areas or possible hazards please contact Miss Stuart immediately. We are working with the Ministry of Education to reduce and identify any possible hazards.

This Friday our senior syndicate teachers leave to do the risk assessment for Snow Camp. This includes visiting places, meeting key people and travelling the routes that our seniors will take for snow camp. I would like to thank Mrs Brown, Mrs Davidson and Mrs Simnor for giving up time with their families so that snow camp can be a safe and well organised event.

Today Mrs Simons, Mrs Buchanan and Miss McKenna attended the Yolanda phonics course. Phonics is an essential part of our juniour literacy programmes. We look forward to the knowledge and skills they will bring back to use.

Have a wonderful week everyone, Nga mihi ki a koutou,

Your Principal

Lysandra Stuart