From the Principal's Desk

Hello GIS Families

Just a short note this week; but do remember that if you do require any support - we’re available for a chat.

Another round of SMART testing was completed this week and we now have a good understanding of how the system will work in 2027 - assuming the MOE makes no further changes.  The final set of practice tests are scheduled for late October.  The testing is quite rigorous and every child sitting an assessment will need to adapt to a whole new style of testing - online, timed and challenging.  The good news is that tests will adapt to what the child can do - but the expectation remains for them to perform at their year level.  We can all contribute by helping each child develop a habit of seeking constant improvement as well as improved time management. This means we get excited about challenges and the aspects that are still to be mastered as well as completing tasks in a timely manner.  

This brings us full circle to our school motto: Perseverance Gains Honour.

On Thursday at the regional ‘Spoken Word’ / Speech competition for intermediate students one of the two students from our school Akenza Tewhata, achieved a commendable 2nd placing.

The Bike Track is well underway and a good portion of the track has already been poured in spite of the wet field.  Yes, it was a challenging job, but the contractors made excellent progress.  The next stage is clearing all the extra soil, tidying the fence line and checking for hazards, installing the bike hangars in the container and purchasing the required bicycles.  The plan is to have everything ready by the start of term 4.  

Very soon we will be starting work on revitalising the front of the school.  During that project the drop-off zone will be clearly indicated as for a short period it will be staff and contractor access only.

Food for thought

Have you considered your influence in developing the conversational abilities of your children? Your use of expression, descriptive words, intonation, comments on the ordinary things you see, manner of interacting with business people - go a long way to develop a broad vocabulary and confidence in speaking / offering their view on things they encounter.  

Enjoy the weekend

Jono