Dear Families,

School Fete

Thank you to all involved in the organisation of the School Fete. It was my first Yeronga State School Fete and was so heartened by the inclusive and joyous atmosphere of the day. A highlight for me were the student performances. The opportunity to perform in front of an audience is a core component of the performing arts curriculum not to mention the empowering experience for our young people to practise then perform in front of parents and community. I was deeply moved and honoured to welcome Uncle Des Sandy to conduct the Welcome to Country followed by the performance of our Kalari Kids. Such a respectful and joyous opening of this significant community event. I wish to make special mention of the 43 students who submitted art works to the 150th Principal Art Archive. The works were a testament to the ideas, creativity and aspirations of our Yeronga State School Students and will remain as a treasured feature of children’s art in our new administration building. There was something for everyone including my little grandchild who accompanied me in the afternoon. Congratulations and endless gratitude to Juliet Brooks and her calm and diligent event management. We are blessed!

National Reconciliation Week

Last week saw the commencement of National Reconciliation Week. Running from 27 May to 3 June, these dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey: the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision. This year's National Reconciliation Week theme is “More than a word. Reconciliation takes action”. National Reconciliation Week follows National Sorry Day on 26 May, a day to remember and acknowledge the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who were forcibly removed from their families. We respectfully reflect on the sad and painful history of the Stolen Generation and recognise the resilience of these survivors and their descendants, including many of our staff and students.

Teachers and students are in the midst of end of semester assessment and reporting. It is really important students are at school every day unless sick. We are noticing increasing illness at this time and I take this opportunity to remind everyone, the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us. Social distancing, face masks (where distancing is not possible), handwashing and hygiene continue to be of upmost importance. Your cooperation is appreciated. Many of our Yeronga families continued to be separated from family and loved ones as a result of the Pandemic. The impact of this on the wellbeing of our families, staff and students is of concern to me and the leadership team. If any of our families are suffering and need of support please consider the resources available through Head to Health. Head to Health, provided by the Australian Department of Health, brings together apps, online programs, online forums, and phone services, as well as a range of digital information resources from some of Australia’s most trusted mental health organisations. Whether you are trying to improve your own sense of wellbeing, looking for help with something that is bothering you, or helping someone you care about—Head to Health is a good place to start. Nothing does more for wellbeing than connection. If you are feeling alone please consider touching base with our school chaplain Jennifer Bennett. Chappy Jen is wonderful ear to those in need and can put families in touch with community organisations or assist with organising school based help where applicable.

Last newsletter I mentioned the Yeronga State School Parent and Community Code of Conduct. Please take the time to read through the expectations for our school.

Eunice Webb

Principal