Dear Parents and Families,

The Fun Fair proved to be a joyous and thrilling occasion for our families and students. How wonderful it was to come together on our school grounds on such a beautiful day. It is events such as this, that for those behind the scenes planning and preparing for months to ensure a safe and positive community event are not thanked enough. Congratulations to our wonderful small team of PandC Executive and Members especially Richard and Neville who from the outset were committed to an event that was family friendly and achievable for busy families and volunteers.

It was a poignant Sorry Day ceremony last Friday leading us into Reconciliation Week. This year our focus was to experience first-hand a culturally enriching experience through dance and storytelling as well as reflective and rightfully respectful of this important occasion in the school calendar.

One of the great joys of being a school principal is seeing children develop their passions and talents. The athletics season is upon us and with that, opportunities for those students who excel in this area, an opportunity to shine. Whilst it is not all about the ribbons, it is important children have the exposure to opportunity and coaching. Each principal over the years has left their mark and contribution to each of these pathways as champions of the cause. I must acknowledge my old colleague John Johnson one of Yeronga State Schools longest servicing Principals for the culture of sporting excellence well established at our school. We have excellent PE and Sport teachers in Mr Bateman and Mr Curness and a passionate schools officer in Mr Sutherland who maintains the oval like his own back yard. I hope to see many of our parents at the upcoming athletics days.

Other opportunities for talent pathways exist through the performing and visual arts at Yeronga State School an area we continue to develop with support from our expert teachers and PandC. Similarly, I look forward to seeing the performances of our students and catching up with families at Big Sing and Big Play this week and next. A sincere thankyou to Ms Eastgate, Mr Grodecki and Ms Truce for your passion and dedication.

With the ongoing presence of COVID-19 in the community and commencement of Flu season please be mindful of the following reminders;

Influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial viruses, can result in significant disruption to families and schools. There are things you can do to help protect yourself and your children:

• Get vaccinated is the most effective way to prevent children and adults from getting flu, becoming seriously ill with flu or passing it on to others.
• Stay at home when sick – see the Timeout brochure
• Practice good hand hygiene wash hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based cleanser
• Practice good respiratory hygiene cough or sneeze into a tissue or your arm, throw tissues away and clean hands
• Clean surfaces regularly
• Ensure good ventilation.

Have a wonderful week,

Eunice