Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome back to Craigslea for the 2021 school year! A special welcome to our Prep and new families and we are so honoured you have chosen to join our community. This year we are approximately 580 students in 25 classes.  Our priorities for 2021 are as follows:

We look forward to reinforcing and extending our School Community Partnerships in particular given the difficulties around parents not being on-site during the COVID period last year.

It has been wonderful to see parents back on-site this week having the chance to meet their child’s teacher by appointment and we look forward to more parents taking this opportunity into the end of Week 2. https://eq.sobs.com.au/pt3/parent.php?schoolid=70103 

The pick-up and drop-off zones were fairly hectic on the first day but by Day 2 it was much improved. We expect that all our procedures will be like clockwork once everyone is settled into their new routine.  Car visor labels were sent home from today, if you can use rubber bands to attach to the front of your visor (see photo) so we can easily identify your vehicle and call your child to the car on your approach. If you haven’t received a car visor label, please email kcana2@eq.edu.au

FROM WEEK 3

(specific arrangements to be confirmed at end of Week 2)

If things continue to travel in a safe COVID direction, we will move towards

• Parents/carers who wish to, can walk their child into school of a morning and pick up their child from outside their classroom in the afternoon, moving in and out of the school site quickly without congregating or moving inside classrooms except by prior arrangement. Have a mask available as it could be required.
• Discussions with the teacher (if required) will be possible before 9am or after 3pm by emailing the teacher directly to ensure a mutually agreeable time. This is to ensure we can follow the guidelines for distancing indoors. Unscheduled visits make this difficult.
• We are aware that parents would like us to continue with the pick-up and drop-off zones. Therefore, we need to ensure that parents/carers coming into the school grounds are parking a distance away so as not to interfere with these zones or impact negatively on our neighbours by making sure our school community is parking and driving legally and courteously. Please allow yourself time to walk a distance and avoid parking in Ballinger Street and in the cul-de-sac end of Kittabilla Street wherever possible.
• We suggest that parents/carers have built some independence in their children during the period that external adults couldn't access the site. Consider allowing them to walk themselves inside and out some days as this is good for them as well as ensuring not too many adults are on-site at once.
• From sometime in the first half of this term, we will make it possible for parents/carers to volunteer in their child’s classroom, if they wish.

ASSEMBLY WEEK 2

Next week’s face-to-face assembly will be a Year 5 and 6 assembly taking place on Thursday 4 February at 2pm. School Captains, Vice-Captains, House Captains, Music Captains and the Tech Crew will receive their badges at this assembly. Please note this is a change of date. We will be sending a link via email to parents of Year 5 and 6 students as we are able to reserve places for 2 parents to attend for each of the students receiving their badges and we will release 20 additional tickets on Event-Brite for those Year 5 and 6 parents who would also like to come along. We are able to fit 60 parents in the hall once we take account of students and adults. Please note senior leaders will receive their badges at the next 5/6 assembly in Week 8, if they have a successful probationary period.

PARENT-INFORMATION EVENINGS

These evenings will take place in Week 3 with some classes occurring via Zoom and others as face-to-face. I have had detailed discussions with Metropolitan Regional Office as to whether we can hold all these meetings on-site in each of the classrooms as usual. The advice I have received is that it will be impossible to achieve distancing requirements. I also considered holding year level meetings in the hall, however, these evenings are best when specifically prepared by your child’s class teacher and where parents of their child’s class have an opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with their child’s teacher rather than within a much larger group. 

The format will be as follows: the teachers will prepare a PowerPoint and send it out 24 hours prior to the scheduled Zoom or face-to-face meeting. If it is a Zoom Meeting, the link will be sent with the PowerPoint. During the meeting, the teacher will touch on and personalise aspects of the PowerPoint and invite parents to ask questions within the Zoom chat or directly to the teacher in the face-to-face meetings and the teacher will respond to them.  A reminder that this evening is a general information evening. More specific questions pertaining to your child individually, should occur by making a future time via email to discuss with the teacher.

Tuesday 9 February:

Prep and Year 1 5.30pm: Classes via Zoom (PA, PD, PK, PT, 1B, 1H, 1T)

Year 2 and 3 6.30pm: Classes via Zoom (2B, 2C, 2G, 2S, 3C,3D, 3HB)

FACE TO FACE MEETING: Sam Hendle 3H in Hall

Wednesday 10 February:

Year 4 and 5: 5.30pm: Classes via Zoom: 4M, 4HN, 5W

FACE TO FACE MEETINGS:

                                         Tim Young  4Y (in hall)

                                         Sophie Morley 5D in classroom

                                         Stephanie McGovern 5M in classroom

Year 6: 6.30pm: Classes via Zoom: 5/6J, 5/6W, 6K

FACE TO FACE MEETING: Stacey Franklin 6F in classroom.

NEW UNIFORMS

Thank you to the P and C for their hard work in ensuring our students were outfitted in our new uniform. The styles and fabrics are such an improvement. Organising a uniform for a school setting isn’t an easy task and all variables are impossible to predict. Despite the P and C’s tireless efforts, it was not easy to predict the numbers of different sizes required particularly for Prep students. There were a much larger number of very small sizes needed than in previous years.  We thank Prep parents for their patience and be assured the P and C have submitted an order for these smaller sizes to the supplier. This will take some time to arrive. Please talk to the P and C or the school leadership team if you have any concerns in this regard and we will seek solutions where we can.

SCHOOL DRESS CODE

Craigslea SS has a distinctive school uniform worn proudly by all our students. The P & C Association supports the wearing of the school uniform and provides a Uniform Shop facility for parents to purchase new and second hand uniforms. It is the policy of the school and the P & C Association that all children wear the uniform every day.  A slip will be sent home with a student to inform parents where an item of uniform does not align with the code.
Special Notes: 

• The school uniform consists of the Craigslea SS shirt, winter jacket, shorts/combo skirt and school hat. Girls also have the option of a dress.
• Only plain navy tracksuit pants, jackets/pullovers and navy tights are acceptable to accompany the school uniform. Winter jumpers and tracksuits are not to have any writing or additional stripes etc. Plans are afoot for uniform specific tracksuit pants to be available from the uniform shop in the future.
• The School Sports House shirts can be worn on Wednesdays, Sports/Gala Days, Swimming Carnival etc. House shirts cannot be worn on school excursions, official functions and photo days. House shirts can only be purchased through the School Uniform Shop.
• Our Year 6 students have the choice to wear a special shirt to celebrate their last year of primary schooling. These shirts can be worn by Year 6 students as a substitute for the uniform shirt.
• School shorts and skorts need to sit no shorter than the mid-point between the thigh and the knee and no longer than the knee as this is a sun-safety requirement of the Department of Education and Training Provision of School Uniform Policy. Cargo shorts, jeans or leggings are not acceptable school wear.
• Short white or black socks that cover the ankle. No knee length socks. Closed shoes such as sneakers or leather school shoes with laces or Velcro for younger students are acceptable. Thongs, sandals, slip-ons and shoes with a high heel or platform do not meet safety requirements. Predominately black or predominantly white is the preferred colour. Laces must be black or white.
• The wearing of a school uniform broad brimmed shade hat or bucket hat is essential. This is only provided by the Craigslea State School Uniform. In accordance with our school’s sun-safe policy when children are playing in the sun they must wear a school broad brimmed hat or bucket hat. Because lessons such as Science, Art, ICT could take place outdoors, it is essential children have a hat at school every day or they would miss important learning. Our expectation of ‘no hat, no play’ is our way of encouraging children to ensure they have a hat available for any learning situation.
• Students’ hair is to be neatly presented, not impair vision and tied back if longer than shoulder length. Hair should be of natural colour and style at all times. Hair accessories should be minimal and in school colours. Large hair bows are prohibited for health and safety reasons.
• Nail polish and make-up is inappropriate for school. Parents will be contacted to make arrangements for removal. The only acceptable jewellery items to be worn at school are watches excluding smart-watches and one set of sleepers or studs worn in the ear only or medical alert bracelets. This ruling is for safety reasons particularly during sporting and physical activities where jewellery cannot be worn at all. No responsibility is taken for the safekeeping of any form of jewellery worn to school by children.
• Swimwear: As part of the Department of Education’s Sun Safety Strategy, it is compulsory for students to wear a sun shirt or t-shirt during school water-based activities. No sun-shirt, no swim.
• Any alteration to uniform worn for religious, cultural or medical reasons is by submission with appropriate medical or other evidence to the Craigslea State School Uniform Exemption Panel who have parents and school staff represented.
• A reminder that representation in Student Councillor, Sporting and Leadership Positions at Craigslea State School, is dependent on conforming with our school dress code.

It is our greatest motivation to ensure our students are actively and enthusiastically engaged in learning and play. I hope it has been a positive start to the school year for you and your children.

Don’t forget to follow us on FaceBook. There is helpful and timely information posted there.

Kathy

The Student Code of Conduct is a new, important reference for parents.  This document replaces the Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students. 

It outlines the expectations of behaviour for students and the types of disciplinary actions that may be implemented as a result.  It is important to note that there is a range of disciplinary measures.  This is to ensure the principle of natural justice sees disciplinary action determined on its unique circumstances.  This document is reviewed annually and just as consultation with students, parents and staff took place in the development of the predecessor, stakeholders will be given a voice again before the end of 2021.

 I ask that you please take the time to read how we support children – those that make positive, independent decisions as well as those who need help to self-manage their behaviour.  As parents are critical to their child’s success at school, this will arm you with the strategies and common language we use to build the LIFE values of learning, independence, friendship and environmental safety.  You will find it at https://craigsleass.eq.edu.au/Pages/default.aspx

In each newsletter, I provide social-emotional learning lessons which incorporate conflict resolution and learning in regard to bullying behaviour.  Research confirms links between the teaching of Social and Emotional Skills and students’ outcomes in learning and behaviour. Social and emotional learning involves the development of competencies in self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, social management and responsible decision making. These skills are critical to students’ success and wellbeing in school.

The information below will be presented to students on the next assembly.   Teachers will do some follow-up in the classroom and it would be powerful if parents had a conversation at home, too.   

Please note:  only Years 1, 3 and 5 will work through the Bridge Builders online learning this year.          

WEEK 1 & 2  

1. Praise people who do things well

2. Develop a quality circle of friends

    What does this mean?

3. Part of being a good friend is knowing the difference between CONFLICT and bullying.

Conflict is a normal part of everyday life.  It happens because we are all different.  These differences mean we see things differently and therefore we will have disagreements.  How we respond to it is important.  We teach the Bridge strategies so that children are armed with the knowledge and skills that will help them to confidently resolve conflict.  Our aim is to have them do this independently by the time they leave primary school and they start this learning in Prep!

Prepare, Plan and Organise

• Planning ahead helps things to run smoothly! Create simple afternoon and morning routines so that everyone knows exactly what needs to be done and in what order. Ensure your children know where to meet you in the afternoon!

Develop a relationship with your child's teacher

• If you have any questions/concerns contact your child's teacher by email, phone or arrange a meeting. Teachers are busy people with lots of children and jobs to attend to, so obviously be mindful of that. It is worth taking the time to build a relationship with your child's new teacher. 

• Keep communication open if you are worried that your child may still be struggling after the initial adjustment period. Make extra time alone, without distractions, where you can connect with your child, check in with them and really listen. 

Sarah Abdy 

Head of Curriculum 

Hi My Name is Dee Giudice, I am Head of Inclusion here at Craigslea State School. I started at Craigslea State School Term 3 2020. I am excited to begin a new year in this wonderful school community and get to know more parents this year. Welcome to all our new students and prep families.

Our Inclusion Model here at Craigslea is driven by our passion to include all students and encourage them to thrive and feel safe here at school.

Inclusive education means that all students can access and fully participate in learning alongside their similar-aged peers. Teaching and learning strategies are adjusted to meet students’ individual needs. Inclusive education encompasses all aspects of school life and is supported by culture, policies, programs and practices (Dept. of Education, Policy Statement, Inclusive Education, Version 1.1, 25/6/2018).

As parents we all want the best education and experience for our children at school. An education that caters for all their individual needs. At Craigslea State School, we are committed to making your child’s education the best it can be by providing effective inclusive practices.

Our Inclusion Teams are made up of Classroom Teachers (CT), Targeted Learning Teachers (TLT) and Teacher Aides (TA). Targeted Learning Teachers are allocated to each year level to assist year level teams to both challenge and support the full range of student abilities. This role encompasses learning, behaviour, attendance, and social/emotional support.

These teams are then supported by our Head of Curriculum, Sarah Abdy and myself as Head of Inclusion.

Your child’s Year Level teams are listed below.

Don't hesitate to contact me if you would like further information about how we can challenge and support students at our school. 

Dee Giudice

Head of Inclusion

dlgiu0@eq.edu.au

Welcome to 2021. Swimming will start Term 1 Week 2 for Years 1 - 6 (Prep swimming will commence in Term 4). Students will need a swimming bag including swimmers, swim shirt, towel, cap all clearly named. Check the swimming timetable for lessons. Please contact your child's classroom teacher if you are able to volunteer to help with swimming. If you are new to helping with swimming please contact Gena in the Office to complete the required paperwork. 

Years 5 and 6 students will be training for Winter Interschool Sport on Friday afternoons Term 1 Week 3. Dates for Gala Sports and Covid-19 requirements will be advised as soon as possible. 

We look forward to an active year. 

Mr H. 

Welcome to 2021. We are so excited to be back. Craigslea State School offers many music based extra curricular activities that are starting from Week 2. 

Choir 
Performance Choir: Students in Year 4, 5 and 6 may audition 1st break Wednesday Week 2 in the Music Room.  

Inclusive Choir: Given the current Queensland Education Covid-19 Industry Plan Guidelines we are unable to run Inclusive Choir. The Guidelines are very strict about social distancing and, given the large number of students who usually particpate in Inclusive Choir, we are unable to have this choir at the current time. We hope to review this decision later in the year as circumstances change. 

Instrumental Music
Brass, Woodwind and Percussion lessons will start in Week 3.

Strings lessons for 2021 starting beginners will start in Week 2. Followed by all strings lessons starting in Week 3. 

Please check emails for your timetable. Please ensure all students have correct books and accessories for their instrument ready to start. 

String Orchestra rehearsal will begin Week 4 Tuesday 8:00am.

Band rehearsal will begin Week 4 Friday 7:45am.

Concerts & Performances
Check our school calendar and Facebook page for coming details regarding assembly performances and concerts that will be held throughout the year. 

Let the fun begin!
Pauline Stockill

Welcome back to school, I am excited to support your child as they start another year of reading. Our Library offers a range of quality picture books, fiction chapter books and series and non-fiction books for students from Prep to Year 6. The Library is open at first break for reading, borrowing and games. 

Library Borrowing
The Library borrowing timetable will be confirmed by the end of Week 2. Please check the school calendar so that your child is prepared for their borrowing time.

Students in Prep to Year 2 must have a Library bag to borrow. A Library bag keeps Library books safe and helps younger students to easily organise their books. 

All students can borrow 2 books for 14 days. Students may choose their own books but may have support from their classroom teacher or myself to ensure that their selections are appropriate for their reading level.

Please remind your child throughout the year to return their books to the Library. Students with overdue books will not be allowed to borrow until books have been returned. Students who have overdue books will be issued with a notice to parents, asking that the book be located and returned. If books are damaged or lost, parents are expected to donate a sum of money towards the replacement cost.

Digital Library
This year students in Year 3 to Year 6, who are participating in the Student Resource Scheme, will have access to the Education Queensland Digital Library through the Sora app and Sora Online. Students should have access to the Digital Library by Week 3. 

Year 6 Senior Fiction
The Senior Fiction section is reserved for students in Year 6 who may only borrow from this area with parent permission. Books in this section are clearly labelled as 'Senior Fiction' and may contain mature themes and language. I encourage parents to speak with their Year 6 student about reading books from this section. A digital permission form will be emailed in Week 3 and must be signed before Year 6 students can borrow Senior Fiction books. 

Beginning Reading Resource
Reading Eggs is a digital resource that is designed to help beginning readers. Reading Eggs are currently offering a back to school deal for 30 Days Free and 32% off a yearly subscription.This is a simple and fun program to introduce beginning readers to inital sounds and sight words through repetitive digital activites, songs and books. 

If you have any questions about books, borrowing or the Library please contact me: tknig93@eq.edu.au 
Tess Bryce