Dear Families,

I write this week’s newsletter from the Professional Development Network conference I am attending with our Deputy Principals, Tracy Freeman and Stef Kirk.  I reflect on the keynote message from Professor Pasi Sahlberg and theme of the two-day event, Hope. Pasi shared some sobering global data indicating we are in the midst of a declining trajectory of learning and wellbeing and a rising trajectory of screen time, sleep deprivation and behavioural disorders. The trajectory was well in place prior to the C-19 pandemic and for those who work with young people, is no surprise.  As a community of people who care deeply about our young people, the great disruptor of C-19 is an opportunity to rethink and reimagine what is necessary in addition to excellence for our youngest citizens. High quality education and high equity for all. Pasi left us with a couple of provocations;

Ask not how good is Billy, ask how is Billy good?

Ask not if Mary is ready for school, ask how is the school ready for Mary?

I am sad to inform you our much-loved music teacher Lauren Easey is leaving us to take up work in her new career of law. Lauren has brought great joy to the children and families of Yeronga State School for many years and we will miss her so very much. We have been so fortunate to have you Lauren and thankyou for the legacy you leave.

For the past few months a highly contested tender process to select a new YOSHC provider is now complete. I am pleased to inform you the new provider is Jabiru Community Youth and Children’s Services Association. Jabiru is a local, social for purpose, not-for-profit organisation with more than 35 years of history in Queensland. We look forward to working with Jabiru when they complete the transition to service period. This is expected to take place over the coming weeks. In the meantime, I wish to encourage our current excellent YOSHC team and PandC Executive who have committed to the crucial role of continuity of service and care to our families.

Have a wonderful week,

Eunice