Week 8 Principal's News 5/9/25
The last few weeks have been especially busy with a huge range of events and activities for our students. We've had dog educators from the Dunedin City Council, an artist educator from the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, swimming lessons for the Tūī and Pīwakawaka Hapori, Polyfest, a school disco, a Read-a-thon, and the Otago Cross Country Championships, just to name a few things.
With so much going on, it's no wonder our students and staff are looking forward to a break in a few weeks. I know you'll agree that our teachers and support staff deserve all the praise. They consistently go above and beyond, and they do it all for your children. If you haven't had a chance to acknowledge their hard work lately, please do.
I am away next week to the annual NZ Principals' Federation Conference and really look forward to being inspired by some talented and educated speakers. Our Deputy Principal, Kristen, will be at the helm while I am in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington.
The conference themes and speakers will be centred around the meaning embodied in the conference title - Tākina Te Hau.
The programme will focus on harnessing those winds of change and developing leadership strategies for turbulent times. Speakers will focus on ways principals can leverage the energy and direction of each of the four winds to effectively lead schools through periods of change, uncertainty, and transformation. I am excited for the new learning ahead.
Polyfest 🎶
How amazing was our kapa haka rōpū - to have our entire Pīwakawaka Hapori on stage, followed by our Y3-6 Kaikorai Tuakana, was simply sensational!
A huge shout out and mihi to Whaea Ana, Matua Kane, Miss Sims and Ms Armstrong for their efforts and energy
So very proud! 💙
Read-a-thon 📚
Thanks for all your help with our first read-a-thon! It's so exciting to see the kids eager to read and share their books. I'll share an update on our new resources shortly.
Principal's Awards 🌟
Tino pai to our students who have been recognised this week for their mah.
Henry K | For the effort you have put into our class assembly preparation. You have been a great leader, and you have set a wonderful example for others. |
Liam M | For always showing the Kaik values and working hard when completing tasks. Ka rawe! |
Jett | For your amazing attitude in class, you have been producing excellent persuasive writing and are always willing to lend others a hand. Tino pai |
Kailaya | You are such a kind member of our classroom. You worked so hard on your calendar art and produced an amazing piece of artwork – ka pai |
Edward C | For always being a positive role model in our class, uplifting others with encouragement and setting a great example through his actions and attitude. Ka pai! |
Eric | For demonstrating outstanding skill in persuasive writing, creating convincing and engaging arguments that show true talent. Ka pai hoki koe! |
Rebecca | For your amazing theme park inspired persuasive writing. Your ideas are creative and beautifully presented. Ka pai! |
Anja | For the consistent improvement you are making in your writing. Each story you write is better than the last. I am very proud of you! |
Nollie | You have shown good improvements in reading comprehension. You are learning to understand stories more deeply, and can answer questions related to texts more thoughtfully. Tino pai! |
Nia | You have shown that you have persistence and a good attitude in mathematics. You have got better at reviewing your work and improving your answers. Tino pai! |
Ethan | You are such an uplifting and supportive member of Rūma Ono. You show optimism and positivity every day, and you encourage and complement tamariki and adults alike. Ka rawe - how lovely! |
Millie | You have been making a considerable effort in choosing a good learning buddy. You are giving your mahi your best attempt and demonstrating KAIK values. Ka pai hoki koe! |
Addi F | For the focus and determination she has demonstrated during our swimming sessions. Ka pai hoki koe! |
Max M | For working hard to focus and demonstrate his skills during our swimming sessions. Ka pai! |
Alana | For asking thoughtful questions and showing curiosity towards her learning. Tino pai rawa atu! |
Max M | It's great to see how far you've come in swimming – your listening and determination is really paying off! |
Malakai | For managing your time well to complete your learning tasks. You approach your learning with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. Ka rawe! |
Imogen O | For your fantastic effort and positive attitude during swimming lessons this week. You are a valued member of Rūma Iwa. |
Edward R | For your wonderful effort and positive attitude during our Polyfest practices. Edward, you are becoming a fine leader and we are so proud of you. Ka pai hoki koe! |
Quinn | For tackling all of your learning tasks with confidence and a ‘can do’ attitude. Quinn, you have become an independent learner who is making terrific progress in all areas. Ka pai! |
Louis | For making good choices in the classroom and trying hard to think about your learning and behaviour. You can be a good role model to others when you manage yourself well. Ka pai! |
Harper | For completing your learning tasks on time and making sure you have tried your best. You are making good progress, and have a positive attitude towards trying new things. Keep it up! |
Ellie L | For doing everything with a smile! You consistently try your very best in everything you do. We are lucky to have a great KAIK kid like you in Room 12! Ka pai! |
Andrew | For being a silent hero! Always watching out for your friends with kindness and working hard in class like a silent superstar! Mīharo! |
Kanvi | You are a caring and kind member of Room 13. Your enthusiasm and effort you showed in swimming lessons was lovely to see. Mīharo! |
Stewie | You have been such an enthusiastic participant in both our Production dance and Polyfest this week. Mīharo! |