week 9

Sorry about the delay in posting this weeks notices - my internet was playing up on the weekend (or my teen has used it all up).
Swimming this week

Monday: Raffle Draw 11am
Tuesday: Nativity play being performed for Fergusson and Cantabria Rest Homes.
Wednesday: 
Thursday: Junior Picnic
Friday:

Nativity Play
The children will be travelling by bus to the rest homes and we have a few parents to help manage the chaos - they have been sworn to secrecy about our play.  As the rest homes can only fit 30 children at a time, the angels and shepherds will take turns and the rest of our treasures will stay at school for Christmas fun with Mrs Tabuteau.

Junior Picnic
We have heaps of fantastic events all ready to roll for Thursday.  You will need to bring togs, towel (2 would be a good idea), a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat and something to share for a picnic lunch.
Please make sure your child is wearing a t-shirt (singlet tops = sunburnt shoulders) and shorts/skirt that are easy to put on and off over togs.  Smothering your own child in sunblock before school would also be a good idea and would save us precious picnic time.  Parents are welcome to join us at any time during the morning.  We will be packing up for lunch at about 12:15.  We have singing and quiet activities in the afternoon (and maybe a nap time?).

Only one more Monday to go.

Elf Yourself

Week 8

Monday: 
Tuesday:
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday:       Playtopia Trip!!!!!

A nice quiet week this week - for more than one reason.  The big kids are off to camp this week.  Year 6 leave for Auckland on Monday and the Year 5s are off for an action packed three days on Wednesday.  We like camp week.

Playtopia Trip
We are very excited about this trip.  The cost of admission is covered by last term's soup/nachos fundraiser but we need $3 each for fish and chips.  Mrs T and Mrs P are collecting this in the classes.

Nativity Play
Great job learning your words team! Keep up the great work.  We already have a large number of our cast in costume for practices - our Year 2 Crew have a fantastic support crew.  We are on the road next week to perform at Cantabria and Fergusson Rest Homes.  We'll need the whole cast in costume by then.  If you are stuck for ideas please come and see us.

Shepherds/Joseph/Wisemen: Cheap material from AJs or Spotlight can be turned into a costume really easily. Chop a strip off for headgear and make a hole for the head.  Tie a ribbon, scarf or an extra strip of fabric around the head. Add a piece of rope or a curtain tie around the middle and hey presto you're a shepherd! Add a crown and a cape for a King.  I'd also recommend a plain long sleeved t-shirt underneath and a short pair of shorts - we don't want to see any uniform.

Angels and Mary: Wear a white dress or cut white fabric (see shepherds above).  Add a pair of wings or a blue veil and taadaaaa!  Angel wings and halos can be bought very cheaply from most $2 shops or The Warehouse. 

Mystery Message: six sick hicks 
Lots of people in last weeks draw - Mrs T will pull out a winner on Monday morning. 

Week 7

Swimming this week

Monday: Kapa haka perform tonight.  Best wishes.
Tuesday:
Wednesday: Library books need to be back for stocktake.
Thursday:
Friday: Golden Time

Don't forget your hat - we are a sunsmart crew.

Swimming
We have noticed that a large number of children 'forget' their togs each swimming week.  We spoke to the children about this and discovered that many find the changing rooms too cold first thing in the morning.  As a result, and because we are fairly good at compromise, the children will now change for swimming in the classrooms/bathrooms.  Swimming is part of our curriculum and is not optional. If your child is unable to swim due to medical reasons please provide a note/email.  Thanks.

Year 2 Crew Celebration
We have booked an end of term treat for the Year 2 crew at Playtopia on December 6 and would really appreciate some parent helpers for the day.  We will be walking there and back.  The entrance fee for each child is already covered due to our wonderful fundraising efforts earlier in the year.  We would also like to organise a fish and chips lunch on our return to school so if you know of a place that would give us a great deal for 50 children, can you please let us know?

Nativity Play
It is great to see that so many children have already learned all of their lines - well done!!!  We are hiding the scripts from now on - make sure you keep practicing at home.  All costumes, in a named plastic bag, need to be at school as soon as possible, please. We will keep them safe at school until we have received our standing ovations in the last week of school.

Santa Parade
We have a St Marys School float entered in the Santa Parade this Saturday (30th November).  A note about this was included with the newsletter this week.  We are still in search of angels and shepherds for this.  You will need to provide your own costume and be able to wave and smile for an extended truck ride.   Let Mr Macmillan know if you are interested in taking part. 

Junior Picnic
Our Junior Picnic will be at school on Thursday 12th December.  You are most welcome to join us for part/all of this exciting day - put it in your calendar.

The mystery message is: Red leather yellow leather
Come and whisper it to Mrs T to get on the jellybean list.   

Tara's Birthday

We have been invited to celebrate Tara Chapman's 7th Birthday with her.  We will be going to mass at 9am on Friday for a special mass and will share a morning tea with Tara, her friends and family.  It would be a great help if you could help us out with the morning tea.  A small plate of something yummy to share would be much appreciated. (A note was supposed to go home today but we were competing for an available time slot with the newletter run - check the book bags tomorrow).
Thanks heaps,
The Year 2 Crew

Week 6

Only 4 1/2 weeks left - can you believe it?

No Swimming This Week

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday: Singing 8:45am
Thursday
Friday:        Mass for Tara

Parent Meetings 
We are hosting some community meetings. We want to discuss some aspects of our charter and also some e-learning developments for the school for next year. The meetings will be held in Room 15 and are scheduled for: 

General meeting 3.15pm Wednesday 20 November

Whanau Group 5.30pm Wednesday 20 November

General meeting 8.45am Thursday 21 November (meeting in hall)

Filipino Community. 3.15 pm Thursday 21 November

Pasifika Fono 5.30 pm Thursday 21 November

General meeting 7.00pm Thursday 21 November

Indian Community 6:30pm Tuesday 26 November

Parents of children who are currently in Year 2 and 3 classes are particularly encouraged to attend because we are planning to allow students in Year 3 / 4 in 2014 to bring a Chromebook to school if they wish (probably from start of Term 2).

Golden Time
We are having a wheels day!  Bring your skateboards, scooters, bikes or toy cars on Friday.  We will keep them safe behind our classroom.

We are a sun smart school - sun hats are compulsory.                        Sunhats not only help to protect your skin from sun burn but they also help to protect your eyes.  Children who do not have a hat at lunch time must remain under the big tree outside our classroom - that means no scooters, no playground, no soccer... so boring!!!!   
BRING YOUR HAT. 

Our Nativity play is going well but there are still a number of children who are struggling with their words.  Please help your child to memorise their lines before we take the scripts away at the end of the week.  This play will be performed at one of the big end of year events - we don't want to have to stand anyone down on the day.  Practice, practice, practice.

The Mystery Message is: 'She sells sea shells'
Come and whisper it to Mrs T to go in the prize draw for this week.  Last weeks winner is Jayla!  
Well done to Jayla, Kayla, Brooke and Angus for being the only kids to read the fine print last week.

Character Day

On Thursday 14th November we are having a Character Extravaganza.  Children are invited to dress as their favourite book or movie character.  There are prizes for best costume - junior, middle, senior and teacher sections.  There is also a special prize for the best dressed class (the most costumes).  We don't want you to rush out and spend a fortune on a bought costume.  It's amazing what you can throw together using bits from around the house.  We are asking for a gold coin donation - money raised will go to a very worthy cause.  More to follow.

Costume Ideas from Pinterest (I Love Pinterest) - click here

week 5

We are swimming this week.

Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday: singing
Thursday:
Friday: Grandparents Mass and Concert - all welcome

We had a good turn out for the Andrew Chinn concert last week.  Such a clever man - he is amazing with the kids and can remember so many names in such a short amount of time.    We had so much fun with him and have been playing his cds in class all week.  Thanks for coming along.

Thanks also for your support of Fruit Friday.  This was a big, and delicious, success.  We had so much beautiful fruit that we had platters out at morning tea AND lunchtime.  A few kids were even brave enough to try some new fruit/veges (with a little nudge from their friends). 

Grandparents Day
We would like to extend an invitation to all Grandparents to our Grandparents day.  We begin with a special mass in honour of these fabulous people.  After a delicious morning tea the children will show off a few of their talents in a small concert.  Mums and Dads, you are welcome to come along too.

Golden Time
Bring your water toys and squirt guns - and don't forget your togs. 

The mystery message is: Whistle for the thistle.   Come and see Mrs T with the mystery message and she will add your name to the treasure chest prize draw.  Shhhhh! Don't tell anyone else.

Week 4

Monday:            
Tuesday:           Andrew Chin workshops 
Wednesday:   
Thursday:
Friday:              Fruit Friday morning tea

I hope you were all able to get out and enjoy the sunshine during this gorgeous weekend.  Thank you to everyone who remembered to bring and wear their sunhat last week.  It's great to see so many sun smart kids in the year 2 crew.  

Nativity Play
A few people have asked about costumes for Narrators.  Narrator 1 (girls) are angels and Narrator 2 (the boys) are shepherds. Just simple - girls can wear a light coloured dress and wings and boys a large shirt with a belt or even a bath robe. Keep practicing those words - we'll be taking away the scripts in a week or two.

Andrew Chin
Andrew Chin is the remarkable man who write Christian music for kids (and adults).  You will recognise many of these catchy tunes.  Andrew is touring NZ and will spend the day with us on Tuesday.  The children will get to have a junior team workshop in the morning, a whole school practice in the afternoon AND we will perform our songs in the evening concert at 6:30pm. It's going to be a fantastic day.

Fruit Friday Morning Tea

The Health Promoting Schools team are organising a Fruit Friday on Friday 8 November, to encourage students to bring fresh fruit and veges in their lunchbox each day.

Students are invited to bring a piece of fruit or raw vegetable to the collection box (outside the hall by the Junior Playground) before school on Friday. Some of the parents on the Health Promoting Schools team will then prepare the fruit and veges for shared platters which will be available outside the hall at morning tea time. Please send a piece of fruit or a vegetable that can be eaten raw (e.g. carrot/ celery/tomato/broccoli/ cauliflower) to school on Friday if you are able to. Thank you.

Have a fantastic week!!

Week 3

Monday:            Labour Day 
Tuesday:           
Wednesday:      Singing
Thursday:          All Hallows Eve
Friday:               All Saints Day

Halloween, or All Hallows Eve is always a tricky subject in a Catholic School so here are some interesting facts. "Hallow," as a noun, is an old English word for saint. As a verb, it means to make something holy or to honor it as holy. All Hallows Eve was originally the name given to the vigil for All Hallows Day (All Saints Day). All Saints' Day is when the Christian Church remembers all the forgotten, unknown or unrecognised saints who have not been allocated a special feast-day. 

The ghosts and spooks etc are also based in Catholic beliefs. At certain times in the year, it is believed, that the veil between Earth, Heaven and purgatory is thinner so we can see the souls living there. The carving of pumpkins and collecting of candy are not part of the Catholic celebration.  They are of Celtic origin and were part of the harvest festival.  The choice to celebrate Halloween or not is yours. Either way, we would be grateful if you could link the celebration to the Superheroes of our faith.  Happy All Saints Day everyone. 

- Swimming this week.  Don't forget your togs.
- We are beginning end of year testing - we will try to keep things as routine as possible.  You might want to run over your spelling words and your basic facts.
- Some help with your Saints homework
Saints Fun Facts
Saints Stories
Saints Feast Days
It would be really great if you could bring your Saints info to school on Thursday, please.  You will need to know: Name, birth/death dates, home country, feast day, symbol, patron saint of... and one neat fact.

Term 4 Week 2

A lovely simple week for Week 2.

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday  Singing 8:45
                           Cake Stall
Thursday      Rosary 8:45 (bring your Rosary Beads - if you have some)
Friday             Library and Golden Time

No Swimming this week.

A big thank you to the Parents who helped us out with our Rainy Rainbow Springs Trip.  We had a wonderful time.  Thanks also to everyone who managed to wrangle their booster seats in to school for the trip.  From November booster seats will be compulsory for all children until their 7th birthday.  See HERE for more info.

We are beginning our Saints strand in RE this week.  Start researching your favourite Saint.  You might just need to know all about them in a week or two (hint hint)

Room 3, with help from some of the Young Vinnies (and anyone else who would like to contribute cakes), will be holding a cake stall on Wednesday to raise money to help the people effected by the recent earthquake in the Phillipines. Cakes will on sale at 10.30 outside Room 3 for $1 and 50c.  

weetbix tryathlon

Weetbix Tryathlon is coming to Rotorua.
For their 22nd Birthday the Weetbix Tryathlon crew are adding Kuirau Park/Aquatic Centre as their new venue.  Children aged 7+ can enrol soon.  The first 400 registered only have to pay $10 entry.  Get in fast.  
For more info go to their website:  try.weetbix.co.nz

REMINDER Trip Tuesday 15th October

Children need: 

1. raincoat

2. gold coin donation

3. booster seat (named)

4. morning tea 

We are leaving at 9am.  
Don't be late - you will be left behind.

Term 4 Week 1

Welcome Back Everyone!
It's going to another busy term filled with learning.  The next few weeks will fly by - so here's what you need to know.

Swimming every day in weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, 9

Week One
Junior Trip to Rainbow Springs
Rosary Celebrations (led by Junior Team)

Week Two
Rosary Celebration (led by middle team)

Week Three
Labour Day - Complete Summer uniform compulsory from now on - don't forget your hats.
Rosary Procession (led by senior school)
All Saints Day

Week Four
Andrew Chin - wahoo!  We love Andrew Chin

Week Five
Grandparents Mass

Week Nine
Reports and Portfolios should be ready to go home

Week Ten
Orientation day - visit your new class for 2014
Prizegiving Mass
Year 6 Misssioning

There may be one or two minor changes but this will give you a good idea about what to expect.

Week 1 - swimming this week
MONDAY.

TUESDAY.
Junior Team trip to Rainbow Springs

WEDNESDAY.
8.45 am Singing in the hall.
9.00 am Weetbix Kid promo.
7.00 pm Whanau group making poi in hall

THURSDAY.
8.45 am Rosary Juniors leading prayer

FRIDAY.

Don't forget your sunhat 
and your Holiday Reading Log

Keep up your reading logs, team.

We want all of the Year 2 Crew to bring back their reading logs this time - Mr M has even offered a prize for the class with the best return rate. 

IDEAS
The Rotorua Public Library has a great kids area and often have story tellers and kids programmes (a great way to fill in a day during the holidays)

Reading Eggs has online books with comprehension activities

Mrs T has a list of good online book sites on her page

Check out some second hand shops or garage sales for some really great pre-loved reads. 

Swap books with your friends

Week 9

We have a lovely week planned for the Year 2 Crew.  Lots of fun activities for the last week.
 
Monday: Singing in the hall with Mr Norman.  We will be recording for the Gabriel's Presence cd!!
Tuesday: Jump Jam
Wednesday: Jump Jam
Thursday: Jump Jam
Friday: Last day of term = Pirate and pizza party to celebrate the end of term.  Bring your eye patch 
                  and bandana.  It's going to be a great day.

Reminders:
- Readers and other resources need to be collected, repaired and returned for the holidays. 
- Summer uniform after the holidays.  Check the need to know page for uniform room open times.
- All winter sports uniforms will need to returned asap so we can get them ready for summer codes.
- Trip notices need to be back asap, please, so we can get organised.

COME ON TEAM NEW ZEALAND!

Week 8!

2 weeks to go - where did the term go?

Monday: 
Tuesday: Jump Jam 8:45
Wednesday: Singing 8:45
Thursday: Jump jam 8:45
Friday: Library and Golden Time

We will be spending a bit of time on end of term testing during the next 2 weeks. Class programmes will be running as normal but expect some disruption.  

We will need to put away all of our resources for holiday clean up and stock take.  It would be great if you could look under beds, in drawers and on shelves for any school resources that you may have been 'looking after' for us. Thanks.

Have a fantastic week.

Maze Trip

Maze Trip on PhotoPeach

Week 7

Monday
Tuesday: MAZE TRIP
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday: Library and Sausage Sizzle

Trip
Please make sure you have returned your trip note (even if you are not able to help - so we'll know that you have seen it). Don't forget a drink and a warm jacket.

We are in the hall every morning at 8:45am for Jump Jam or singing.  Thank you for getting to school on time - it makes our morning much less rushed.

Welcome back Mikulash!  

Inspiring teachers

Mrs Todd has been nominated for "Inspiring Teacher of the Year" in the Warehouse Stationary Competition.  Click here to see what her kids say about her and to vote for this amazing lady.

Week 6

A nice easy week this week.

Monday: Jump Jam in the hall 8:45
Tuesday: Jump Jam in the hall 8:45
Wednesday: Singing in the hall 8:45
Thursday: Jump Jam in the hall 8:45
Friday: Birth of Mary celebration - Mass at 9:00.  All welcome

Nachos and Soup
Thank you for your fantastic support of our nacho and soup sales.  We made $753!!!!! The Year 2 Crew are going to have some amazing trips with this amount in the kitty. A massive thank you to the great Mums who spent hours at school as they peeled, cut, cooked, stirred and served.  You are our Guardian Angels.

Maze Trip
Our maze trip is booked for 10th September 11:00-12:30ish.  We will need parent help with supervision and transport.  Keep an eye on the school bags -the trip note will go out this week.

Week 5

Monday:  
Tuesday: 
Wednesday:  Singing at 8:45am       
                     PTA AGM
                     Soup making day
Thursday: Soup delivery day
Friday: Library (please remember to return your books)
            Young Vinnies Wacky Hair Day

Soup
We have a wonderful team of volunteer chefs coming to make soup on Wednesday.  All donations of vegetables, soup mix etc will be needed by 9am on Wednesday, please.  Orders will be taken on Tuesday and Wednesday.

PTA AGM
We are very lucky to have such an incredible bunch of Mums and Dads to support our staff and students. Our PTA are always looking for more people to join the ranks of their amazing team. If you are interested (or think you can help in some way) please let us know or check the newsletter for details of the AGM.

Young Vinnies 'Wacky Hair Day'
The Young Vinnies (named for Saint Vincent de Paul) are a student group who try do good deeds in our community. On Friday 30th September they are holding a 'Wacky Hair Day' to raise funds for a missionary organisation.  Children can come to school with crazy hair (and/or socks). The Young Vinnies are offering prizes to the wearer of the wackiest hair - Junior, middle, senior and teacher!!!!  Gold coin donations are all that is needed to enter.

Mathematics Night
We were blown away at the number of parents who braved the chilly night for mathematics - a huge thank you for your support.  We hope you all went home excited about mathematics learning and ready to play with numbers.  Remember: we are always available to answer questions before/after school or by email.

Have a fantastic week, everyone.

Week 4 Term 3

We have been deeply saddened to hear of the sudden death this weekend of Alistair Deakin, beloved husband of Louise (on our teaching staff) and father of their two daughters Robyn and Samantha. Please keep Louise and her family in your prayers at this very sad time. We will pass on information about Alistair's funeral as it becomes available.

Monday: Last day to get Maths Night notices back (a bit of an extension)
Tuesday:
Wednesday: Singing 8:45am
                     Maths Information Night 5:15pm
Thursday: Nacho day
Friday: Golden Time - art challenge/challenge games

Reminders:
We need to know numbers for maths night by Monday at morning tea.  If you have put your notice in 'a safe place' just email us so we can add your name to the list.  We would really like to see as many of our parents as possible.  However, there is a fair amount of work/time involved in putting these bags together, so only those who have notified us by Monday morning tea will receive a goodie bag, sorry.

 Ingredients for Nachos are needed by Wednesday, please.  We have a wonderful team of master chefs who are coming in to help get everything sorted (with help from our many little friends).   Thanks for your support - again.  You are an amazing bunch of parents.  We are very lucky.

Have a great week.

Week 3 Term 3

Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday: Singing 8:45am
Thursday: Assumption Liturgy - all welcome
Friday: Library
             Golden Time - Enterprise based activities

A huge 'Thank You' to the parents who came to interviews last week.  It was great to touch base with you all.  The discussions we have with parents give us a different perspective on learning achievements and struggles and help us to set goals for the following weeks.  Your support and enthusiasm for learning is much appreciated.  If you were unable to make it to interviews, you can still talk nicely to your friendly classroom teacher and I'm sure we can help you out.

There are some pretty hideous bugs floating around the school at the moment.  Mrs T only had half a class for most of week 2.  Please, talk to your children about keeping the bugs at bay:
- wash your hands (with soap, for as long as it takes to sing 'Happy Birthday', dry well)
- cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue 
- dispose of dirty tissues in the toilet or rubbish bin
- eat good food and drink lots of water
- avoid sharing food and utensils (and don't suck on pencils)
If your child is not well enough to be fully involved in all school activities, please, keep them at home.  We need to consider the needs of all 50 of our treasured children - please don't be upset if we ask you to take your child home again.  We know it's hard to juggle work and family - we do it too.  
Thanks heaps for your support.

Ministry of Health Guidelines suggest children stay at home for 24-48 hours after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea - sorry, to be so graphic.   Health ed infectious diseases poster

T3 Week 2

This week
Monday:
Tuesday:         Parent Interviews 3-6pm
Wednesday:    Mary MacKillop Feast Day mass and celebrations
Thursday:       Parent Interviews 3-6pm
Friday:          Mary MacKillop Feast Day mass and celebrations  - including shared lunch
                     Sausage Sizzle and Golden Time

Slight change - there was a little confusion over the day for Mary MacKillop celebrations.  Our Mary MacKillop celebrations and mass are on Friday.  

Reminders/Requests:
- Mrs Pinfold's writers have an exciting writing experience planned for Monday. Children who are in Mrs Pinfold's writing class will need to bring $1 to cover costs please.
- Book your interviews online - let us know if you have any problems. We will be chasing you up for a chat so get in fast for your pick of time.
- If you haven't returned your milk permission slip we can not give you your free milk
- Shared lunch for Mary MacKillop day.  Can you please bring a plate of something for the year 2 crew to share.  Thanks heaps.

Term three

Enterprise

Our concept this term is 'enterprise'.  We are learning that enterprising people are risk takers, they are creative, they problem solve and they never give up.  We will be setting a range of challenges this term that will put the children to the test. Are you enterprising?

Week One    29 July - 03August
Monday: Teacher Only Day with Pam Hook - We are learning more about SOLO Taxonomy.
Tuesday: First Day back.  We have some ignition activities planned.
Wednesday: 
Thursday:
Friday: Reports and Portfolios go home.

Reminders:
- Lessons start at 8:45.  Children should be in and settled before this time.
- Interviews next week.  Check the newsletter for booking information. If you have any trouble please let us know.
- A few people still haven't returned their milk permission slips.
- Reading Logs are due by Friday

Hangi reminders

We need to remember:
- a plastic bowl
- a knife, fork and spoon
- a plastic plate
- plastic bag
- jacket

Week 10

Week 10 - Woooohooooooo!
We have some very tired kids (and teachers) in the classroom.  Make sure you drink lots of water and get plenty of sleep this week - the term is not over yet.  

This week we are going to be doing Readers Theatre.  The kids will bring home a script, rather than a book for reading. We will be performing for eachother on Friday after assembly.  Please help them to remember their lines and talk about how the character might sound on stage.  This will be their homework for the week.  

Monday:  

Tuesday:  Vege preparation for Hangi.  We have jellybeans for the kind souls who come to help us.  Anymore takers?

Wednesday:  Hangi for lunch - YUM!  We will be travelling to Whakarewarewa to see our lunch being lifted and will bring it back to school to eat.

Thursday: 

Friday: Golden Time = weaving.

End of Term Reminders:
- Please, please, check under beds, in the bottom of bags etc for reading books.  We need to put these away this week.
- We also have a large number of named jerseys that have vanished.  Please check your child's uniform and return our strays.
- School is back for Term 3 on Tuesday 30th July 2013

Week 9   1-5 July

It was fantastic to see so many of our Year 2 crew at Mass this morning.  Thanks for coming - your singing was beautiful.  

This week we will be completing our end of term assessments and samples.  There may be small interruptions to our normal programme - be patient with us, please. 

Maori Language Week
Rahina/Monday:
 
Ratu/Tuesday: Singing 8:45am

Raapa /Wednesday:

Rapara/Thursday: Singing 8:45am

Ramere/Friday: Room 17 - Museum trip.  See Mrs T page for more
                         Golden Time - clever weaving 

This Sunday at 10am we are celebrating our Parish/School Mass.  Children can sit with you but are asked to attend in uniform.  See you there!

Cross Country Photos are in the photo gallery.
Fantastic running today everyone - you were all stars!

We have a new slide show in our photo gallery.  These are some of the photos taken when Terri-Rose Baynton came to school.  Maybe you could make up a crazy story about the character we invented - Mum and Dad would love to help.

Apologies - Mrs T is still learning to drive google docs so it's a bit too big for the blog.  You look so gorgeous that too big is just fine.  If you click on the little symbol with arrows in all directions it will play full screen.  Enjoy!

Slight change in plan -

Junior Cross Country is now 1:30 on Thursday
Remember your drink, warm jacket and PE Gear.

Photos tomorrow (Wednesday).  Bring your smile!

Week 8

Monday:
Year 2 crew Sustainability Trip to Hannah's Bay

Tuesday:
Move It - Girls please bring your shorts

Wednesday:
School Photos
Whanau Hui - all welcome

Thursday:
Junior School Cross Country - bring a drink, PE Gear and a warm jacket
Indian Parents Meeting

Friday:
Assembly (led by Room 17) to launch Maori Language Week - Parents welcome

Sunday:
Parish Mass

Reading Eggs will be up and running again soon.  Yay! 

Week 7
Monday:  Welcome to Melva Bucha - student teacher in Room 16 with Mrs Pinfold
 
Tuesday: Singing Practice in the hall 8:45
              Move It - Sport BOP Gymnastics Programme.  Girls may need shorts.

Wednesday:  Move It - Sport BOP Gymnastics Programme.  Girls may need shorts.

Thursday: Singing Practice in the hall 8:45
                Author Visit (Terri-Rose Baynton = Mr Bear Branches and the Cloud Conundrum)
                Meeting for Filipino Parents 3:30pm

Friday: Whaea Siniva's last day.  We wish her well for her future studies.

Have a great week everyone.
           

NEXT WEEK
- trip to Hannahs Bay for Recycling Concept
- School Photos
- Move It
- Cross Country
- Room 17s Assembly

Week 6 

Monday:
Tuesday: Singing 8:45 in the hall
Wednesday: Young Vinnies Lunchtime Disco (Gold Coin Donation).  
Thursday: Singing 8:45 in the hall
Friday: Sausage Sizzle

Golden Time: Maori Arts and Crafts - It is going to be awesome!

  We are both Mums and we understand that some mornings just don't go to plan but please, please, please try to get your kids to school on time.  Our school day begins at 8:30am.  This is when children are allowed inside to get organised - put book bags away, take down chairs, sharpen pencils etc. It is also a very important social time - children find their friends, figure out what they are going to play, where they will sit...  Children who miss this time often feel a little left out during the day.  At 8:45am we sit down to pray.  This is a calm and reflective time.  Late comers 'sneaking' into the room disturb this quiet start to the day.  Babies, shift work, etc often cause havoc with the morning routine.  If you are having real problems please see us - perhaps we could help you find someone in your neighbourhood to carpool with?

Week 5
First an apology - I didn't update the blog in week 4.  Some of you may know that we had a bit of a sad week last week.  We had funerals for a past teacher and a past student.  The church was packed, both times, with people who wanted to share their love with the families. St Marys is a wonderful community.  We are so lucky to be surrounded by so many caring and supportive people. 

 This Week:
Tuesday:
Back to business after a loooooong weekend

Thursday: 
Tessa Gray 6:30-7:30 - Parent Evening.  Tessa Gray is an expert in cyber-safety for children.  Tessa worked with staff last year and I can recommend her.  She is a very good presenter and this evening will be very informative.

Friday: Feast of The Sacred Heart mass.  All welcome.
Golden Time - we have a special afternoon planned - we'll keep you posted.

We would like to welcome Whaia Sineva to our team.  Whaia Sineva is a training teacher and will be honing her craft in Room 17 for a few weeks.  We know she will love working in our little crew as much as we do.

A message from Father Mark
 

Hi everyone. As some of you may be aware, Tara Chapman has been diagnosed with a very aggressive brain tumour, and the prognosis is not good. We want to help Tara, and her family! (Tara is the 6-year old daughter of Jenny and Eden Chapman. Jenny leads Children’s Liturgy and led a group in the Sacramental Programme run recently.)                        And so you are asked:

·         To pray, every day, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul, that Tara will be healed of this affliction.

·         To give, to help the family with their many expenses at this time. We will hold an account in the parish for them – you can contribute by placing your donation in an envelope marked “Tara”, and put it in the collection basket, or hand it in to the parish office, or deposit it in the St Mary’s Parish account           ( 02 0342 0050016 026; code: Tara)

·         To help in any way you can – contact Rachel Pola (021 250 4726) or Rose Florence (3666 796) if you can help in any way – gardening, baking, firewood. One immediate need is someone to house-sit their small, house-trained dog for six weeks!

I have attached a prayer that can be used for this very special intention. Wouldn’t it be great if every Catholic school pupil and their family prayed for Tara.

 

God bless you all

Fr Mark 

Prayer for Tara

(through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II)

O Blessed Trinity, we thank You for having graced the Church with Blessed John Paul II and for allowing the tenderness of Your Fatherly care, the glory of the Cross of Christ, and the splendour of the Spirit of love, to shine through him.

Trusting fully in Your infinite mercy and in the maternal intercession of Mary, he has given us a living image of Jesus the Good Shepherd, and has shown us that holiness is the necessary measure of ordinary Christian life and is the way of achieving eternal communion with You.

Grant us, by his intercession, and according to Your will, healing for Tara, in the hope that Blessed John Paul will soon be numbered among Your saints.  Amen.

Week 3 Term 2

Wednesday - Lunch time disco.  Postponed until 12th June.

Bring your disco clothes and a gold coin donation.   The Young Vinnies will do great things with these donations.  Please support this hard working team.

Thursday  - Teacher Only Day
Mary-Anne Rolling is opening her out of school care programme for kids.  Give her a call if you would like to book a spot for your little treasure.  She is really lovely and will take great care of them.

Friday - Mufti Day for Tara
Tara Chapman is a little 6yr old girl who was diagnosed with a brain tumor during the school holidays.  Tara's big sister Hannah attended St Marys a couple of years ago.  Gold coin donations will go to Tara and her family to help them in this very difficult time.  Your prayers will also be appreciated.

Golden Time = PJ Party

Cake Stall
The middle school are holding a cake stall tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday at morning tea.  They are raising money for a trip.  Cakes are usually 50c - $1. 

Week 2
Sorry about the delay - our staff weekly notices and reminders were emailed after my bedtime.

Tuesday: singing in the hall (8:45am)
Wednesday: recycling trip at 9am
Thursday: singing in the hall (8:45am)
Friday: Pentecost Mass - hosted by our junior team.  All welcome.
             Golden Time - Talent Quest.  You will have 1minute to wow your classroom teacher.  

Recycling Trip
A huge thanks to the parents who returned their trip notices so promptly.  Each class needs at least 4 parents to accompany them.  We can not take the children out if we have less than the required adult/child ratios and we are in need of a couple more willing volunteers, please.  At this late stage, Room 16 only has 2 helpers and will have to miss out.  Children can bring a few pieces of rubbish to recycle while we are there - please rinse cans, bottles etc first.

Singing
The whole school meets on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for singing/prayer.  We begin at 8:45 and try to be finished by 9:00.  There is a scary number of children who are drifting in after the first song.  Please, try to be on time as this is really distracting.  Our first bell goes at 8:30.  Children are allowed inside to prepare for the day - chairs down, pencils sharpened, book bags put away etc.     Our school day begins at 8:45. All children arriving after this are marked on the roll as late.

Talent Quest
Kids can perform alone or with friends.  Tell jokes, sing a song, show a magic trick, play an instrument.  Don't get stressed out - this is just for fun.

Art Materials
We are planning some exciting art using recycled materials. We are going to need some clean tin cans, glass baby food jars and eggs cartons.  Put aside a few bits so you don't get caught out and we'll be in touch as soon as we are ready to begin (sorry, we really don't have the space to store it here).

Thanks everyone and have a great week.

Term 2

Holiday Over - we are back to business.
Our concept this term is SUSTAINABILITY. "Am I a caretaker of God's creation?"
We are focussing on reduce, reuse, recycle and have trips to the recycling centre and the Gardens at Hannahs Bay.  Keep checking the blog for more details.

We are really keen to get some more parent help.  Parent helpers will generally be asked to take small groups to play learning games. We teach maths before morning tea, writing before lunch and reading in the afternoons. If you are interested in sharing your time and helping us out, or if you have some questions, please let us know.  Even 1-2 hours a week can make a huge difference.

Check out the last posting and add your talents to the wall.  Sam just made it through the first round of boot camp - it's so exciting to see one of our St Marys family sharing their talents. Go Sam!!!

X Factor video - Here is a video of our very own little Sam Yeoward (all grown up) at his audition for X Factor.  There are bound to be a few super stars in the Year 2 crew this year - maybe we should have a talent quest for Golden Time?

Created with Padlet

Have a fantastic holiday Year 2 Crew.  Don't forget to read, read, read.  30 minutes a day is the aim.  Write the books you have read on your holiday reading chart and bring it back to school to go in the draw for some fantastic prizes.  

The Rotorua Library always has great holiday reading and activities.  Mrs T has put some awesome online libraries on our Room 17 blog - there is something for everyone, so have a look.

 Don't overlook Reading Eggs this holiday - there are some lovely digital reading books on Reading Eggs.  If that doesn't float your boat try writing your own.  The Story Factory gives kids a book format, a subject and pictures.  The kids order these, however they like, and write the text.  This story can be entered in a competition on Reading Eggs and will then be kept in the library for kids from all over NZ to read.  Come on Year 2 crew - lets see if we can win.

WOW!!! Week 12.

A nice and easy week this week.  

Thursday: Cake Stall (room 14/15 are raising funds)
                 Kapa Haka  The whole school is going this week!!

We will be spending a bit more time in our Home Rooms this week while we wind up our regular programmes and finish our end of term testing.  Please check under couches, beds and in dresser drawers for school resources. We need to return all readers etc to the resource room for holiday stocktake. 

Have a great week everyone.

Week 10
A very short week this week. 
Yes, we have swimming.  It is the last week for swimming - the pool is due to be drained for winter fix ups.  We also have the Go-For-It programme with Mr Trask.  We had loads of fun working on balance today.  We had our Resurrection Liturgy and our gorgeous juniors did a fabulous job.  Well done team.  Some of our Year 2 crew also helped me with photos today so we'll put them up on the blog as soon as possible. 

Golden Time: Free Choosing (you may bring a toy - children will take responsibility for these - so choose wisely).

There is a great new photo video on the photo gallery page. 

Week 9:
Wednesday: Stations of the Cross liturgy 10am
Thursday: Holy Thursday - remember to talk about the Last Supper
Friday: Good Friday - remember to talk about the crucifixion. School is closed on Friday.

We will be focusing our learning on Holy Week.  Take the opportunity to share your favourite bible stories and discuss the significance of Easter.  Click the links below for more information.
Easter
Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday)
Good Friday
Easter Sunday
Easter Craft - if you haven't discovered pinterest yet, you are in for a treat.
Printable resurrection set - print, colour and glue to cardboard tubes.
The Easter Story

Easter is getting very close.  Here is an amazing video that will help you to talk about the Easter story with your children.  The artist is a very clever man who uses sand and a light box.  Sooooo talented!

The Easter Story

Please be aware - this is a Youtube clip and we can not guarantee what ad might pop up at the beginning.  Stay close.

Athletics Day on PhotoPeach

Good Grief - It's Week 8!
Swimming this week
There are a few timetable clashes with swimming this week - but we will swim as often as possible.
 
Monday: Life Education (last visit)
We love Life Education - we have been learning so much about friendship and what our brain needs to help us to be the best we can be.
 
Wednesday: Reading Night for Parents/Caregivers
Please let us know if you would like to join us for this fun and educational evening.  We have lots of ideas to share to help you support your young readers.
 
Friday: Palm Sunday Procession at 10am
This is always great fun.  The children usually wear 'Jesus clothes' for this procession.  A dressing gown or Dad's old t-shirt tied with a belt is fine.  You don't have to get out your sewing machine.

Golden Time
We are making the most of the long summer for Golden Time this week.  We are going to have water play with the slippery slide.  Don't forget your togs.

Athletics 11-12:30 Friday 15th March
PLEASE wear your normal uniform to school and bring your PE gear in a bag.  We will get changed after the St Josephs Day Mass.  Bring your school hat and a bottle of water - it's going to be warm out there.  Parents are welcome to join us at any time.

Reminders:
School closes early at 12:30 on Thursday. 

Athletics Day 11-12:30 on Friday.

Week 7  11-15 March
No swimming this week

Responsibility
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Our concept this term is 'community'.  There are responsibilities that come with belonging to any community.  Our school community has certain responsibilities too.  We are responsible for working hard and listening in class. We are also responsible for looking after each other and our belongings. We have been a very disappointed at the state of our classroom resources, bag areas and bathrooms recently. Please encourage your child to put clothes and activities away tidily and put their rubbish in the bin.  It would also be appreciated if you spoke to your children about bathroom hygiene.  We would rather not go into details but, needless to say, our poor cleaning team are quite upset and are surprised at the lack of respect shown by some children. Thank you for your support.

Tuesday:  
Life Education
We are learning about friendship.  You can help by talking to your child about what makes a good friend.  Walt 1: Understand that we are all special  Walt 2: Keeping ourselves and others safe when we are playing  Walt 3: Understand that other people have the same needs as we do  Walt 4: Explore the links between human and animal needs

Life Education Kids Page
Life Education Parents Page

Thursday
Union meeting
School closes at 12:30 today so allow staff to attend a union meeting.  Buses will be running as usual.  If you are likely to have trouble collecting your child by 12:30 a written note, or email, will be required please. 
 
Friday: 
St Josephs Day Mass
St Joseph is a very special Saint - especially to us here at Saint Marys.  It was the Sisters of Saint Joseph that started our school a long, long, long, long time ago.  Sister Carina, our very own living Saint, is a Sister of Saint Joseph, too (no, she wasn't one of the sisters that started our school).  Saint Josephs Day is a very special day for Sister Carina.  Come and help her celebrate at our school Mass.

Junior Athletics Day
11-12:30 on the school field.  We will run, jump and throw and have a heap of fun.  You are most welcome to come and cheer on our athletes (beware - you may be given a job).  Children will need their PE gear and a named bottle of water.

Golden Time
It's going to be a loooong day, so this week the Year 2 crew are having movies for Golden Time.

Golden Time this week:

Wheels Day!!!

You can bring scooters, roller skates/blades, bikes...

Remember your helmet and PLEASE name everything.

Hello Everyone!
 Sorry this is a bit late. Mrs T had to be away from her laptop for 4 days - and had withdrawls.

All Week
We are swimming this week.  Bring togs, towel, a plastic bag for wet things and school jersey to warm up afterwards. 

Tuesday
Religious Education: We have an information night for parents at 6:30pm in the school hall.  Please come along and support this beautiful learning programme.

Week 5  25th February - 1st March 

Thursday = GALA DAY!!!!  Raffle tickets are on sale at the school office.  There are some incredible prizes - don't miss out.
Friday = Golden Time.  This week we are having a house Tug-of-War competition.  Bring your PE Gear (and, if you want to, a little decoration in your house colour = a bit of ribbon, a badge, a wig...).

Week 4 Reminders/Notices

Swimming this week
- please bring a swimming bag/plastic bag.

Parent Interviews
- Thank You to the many parents who came to interviews last week.  It was really nice to meet you and to learn a little more about your gorgeous kids.  If you have not seen us yet PLEASE email/phone/talk to us about booking some time.

Golden Time
- This week we are planting seeds.  Can you please bring a small pot (about the size of a big yogurt pot).  We will supply everything else.

Gala Day
- our big fundraiser is fast approaching.  We have already had lots of donations Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.  The proceeds of this Gala will help us to build a much bigger and more exciting playground for our junior children. There are some amazing prizes (cameras, water skis, samsung tablet...) so come along and try your luck.

Independence
- we work very hard to promote independence.  You can help by: clearly naming anything that comes to school and ensuring your child knows that they are responsible for their own belongings at home and at school.  We give good advice and guidelines for looking after property BUT we can not keep track of 25 jerseys, togs, towels...

Toys
- on very rare occasions we allow children to bring toys to school for Golden Time.  Toys at school tend to cause disruption and disputes.  Unless you hear from us, please, leave the toys at home. 

Health
- children need plenty of water to stay healthy and ready to learn.  Juice/milk drinks are fine but water is by far the best option.  Hint: freeze 1/3 bottle of water overnight and fill the rest of the bottle in the morning.  It keeps the water nice and cool but they don't have to wait for it to defrost before they have a drink.
- nits are a common issue in hot summer months.  Please check your child's hair regularly.  If nits are found, treatment is essential before your child comes back to school.  Click here for info