KŌRERO FROM MIRANDA
Nau mai hoki mai Rototuna e te whānau,
Welcome back to Week one, Term two!
I hope you have all had a good break, despite some very unsettled weather, and that you feel refreshed as we move into Term 2. I am excited to be back after my sabbatical from term 1 and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity.
Over term 1 I have attended a Harvard Leadership programme, a Deeper Learning conference, visited some high performing schools in Australia (all did project learning as part of their curriculum), as well as visiting Melbourne University. Everywhere I went, I was warmly welcomed and people generously shared their expertise and experience. I am looking forward to bringing some of what I have learned back to our school. I would also like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to our Board of Trustees for supporting me, to Karen Stimson who ably stepped into the Acting Principal role, and to Mark Mortensen, who ably took on Acting Deputy Principal for the term.
We have had a strong start to Term 2, overall winning the sports exchange held with Albany Senior High School on Tuesday. Congratulations to all the students who competed, including those from RJHS.
Looking ahead there are a number of significant events scheduled including: a Scholarship Evening for whānau, a Puna Wānanga Expo Day, Semester change over, Pathways/Careers Expo, and the School Ball. There are also two teacher only days for curriculum planning, and moderation. Many of these opportunities give us the chance to connect with you, our young people and our community. A summary of key dates to be aware of is included later in this newsletter.
All the while, our kaiako (teachers) continue to focus on providing deeper learning opportunities that grow our students' abilities to think critically, creatively and in caring ways. As parents and caregivers you will all know the wonderful things your young person is capable of. We are looking forward to sharing their successes with you as this year progresses.
Until next time take care, be safe, and I look forward to reconnecting at some of our upcoming events
Ngā mihi,
Miranda
