Wangi Wangi Public School

PRINCIPALS REPORT:

One of the great things about being a teacher is being a close witness to a child learning a new skill. To see a child observe, practise and master an unfamiliar task and to feel the sense of self-worth gained by that child is truly a great experience.

Children learn in many ways but constantly I am reminded that their observation of others is how they most quickly learn their skills of interaction, communication and behaviour.

This is why strong links between home and school are vitally important and can make all the difference to children’s academic and social progress. It is important that children see that a school is valued as an important place by those at home. Of equal importance is that the values held at school are reflected and regarded well by those in a child’s life. Schoolwork and school activities should be openly well supported by all those in a school community and children encouraged to give their best in every facet of school life.

In a culture where “winners are grinners” it is important for all of us to remember that a winner is someone who recognizes their God-given talents, works their tail off to develop
them into skills and uses these skills to accomplish their goals.

Our achievements and successes come through diligence, patience and the humbling decision to seek help when help is required.

If we encourage children to apply themselves, persevere when it appears hard and seek assistance when in doubt, than their chances of success rapidly increase.

Starstruck
Our students and staff have been working tirelessly in preparation for the upcoming Starstruck performance. I would like to wish all our students the very best of luck and thank Mrs Lilliss for planning, organisation and commitment to preparing the students.

Red Cross Blood Donor drive
The Red Cross Blood Donor vehicle has been in town raising awareness and seeking patrons to provide much needed donations of blood. Students will bring home a Red Cross bag to assist in prompting us all to think about donating blood and the benefits to others of such a noteworthy and unselfish act.

Mr Barry Croft
Principal 

REMINDERS:
School Security – please make an anonymous call if you see anything that looks wrong going on in the school outside school hours.
Phone: 1300 880 021

Weekly Merit Awards
Congratulations to:
K/1: Phoebe P, Ella G
1/ 2:  Caitlin L, Kobe N,
Justin T
2/3: Vivienne J, Zachary W, Tristan M
4/5:  Jarred W, Abby H
5/6:  Anika D, Laura W

Kinder / Yr 1
K/ 1 have been learning about “Earthworms” and both classes have written FANTASTIC Information Reports about them!  Ask your child to tell you something they learnt about “Earthworms”.  Great dinner time topic!

Cold and flu season is upon us – our tissue supply is running low.  If you could pick up a box when you are doing the groceries it would be much appreciated.  Thank you to those families who have already helped out.

Year 1/ 2.
Year 1/ 2 have been doing some excellent writing of descriptions.  Please continue the great effort with Home Reading and homework.
We desperately need more boxes of tissues as lots of children are continually using them.  Please send a warm jacket now that the weather is colder.

Year 2/3
Year 2/ 3 have completed the unit of work on natural materials and some of their uses, and are now beginning work on a unit called ‘The Way We Were’ which explores the changes and continuities in the way families have done things over time.  Parents and caregivers can help by providing information on changes they have experienced, and past memories, on survey sheets that students will bring home.  Hopefully students will enjoy learning about “the good old days” as much as they enjoyed working with nature.
Year 2/ 3 will visit Wangi Wangi library on Wednesday 17/06/09

Year 4/ 5
Our Great Space units are on display in the classroom.  The Rain poem is on display in the classroom with some exceptional examples of fine writing.
We have begun our new unit  “Food for Thought”.  The students are in for a treat by making their museum of Australian Identity Timeline.
STAR STURCK
Rehearsal this Friday 5th June.  Be at Fassifern train station by 7:20am.  We will be back at Fassifern station at 3:30 pm

CONGRATULATIONS to these children who will represent Wangi School at the Zone level of Public Speaking
Early Stage 1 –    Phobe P
Stage 1 (Yrs 1 & 2) Nakita Y & Viv J
Stage 2 (Yrs 3 & 4) Gina L & Gabby M
Stage 3 (Yrs 5 & 6) Teagan C & Joel H
TALENT QUEST
Will be held the last week of school on Thursday 9th July at 7pm at Wangi Workers Club.
Auditions will be Tuesday next week the 9th June. Please bring props, music, instruments etc ready for the day.  Costumes are optional.
FOOTBALL GALA DAY.
Last week, boys in Years 5 and 6 went to the Football Gala Day at Kentish Oval.  We had great fun and showed good sportsmanship.  It was a great day and we had a red hot go.  A big thank you to Mr Johnson for all his hard work in getting us ready for the game.
DANCE   
I would encourage all parents to pay their Term 2 dance fees by the due date to ease the financial burden as there may be extra costs for making the costumes.
Hunter Dance Festival date for your diary:
Junior Girls – Tuesday 30th June 2009
Senior Girls – Thursday 2nd July 2009
LIBRARY 
Helpers wanted –
Do you have some  time that you could help cover some of our library books.  Please see Mrs Rayfield ASAP as we have a number of new books waiting to be loaned but they need covering first.
Overdue notices are currently being sent out, please return books as soon as possible, please disregard if you have already returned books. 

Kids Club Book Club
 Closes Friday 12th June

Premiers Reading Challenge
If you would like your child to take part please return orange permission notes to Mrs Rayfield.

BAND
   
If you would like your child to learn a musical instrument and become part of the School Band please see the Office ladies. 
REMINDER:
Band starts each Friday at 8:45am sharp –please be there at 8:40am to set up.

 

 CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
If you would like to volunteer for 1 day per month please contact Jodie Milligan on 0412603425 or if you are unable to attend on your rostered day please ring.

Sun Safety
“Be Safe” is our number 1 school rule so…
REMEMBER, NO HAT – NO PLAY, NO SPORT, NO P.E!!!
NO THONGS AT ANY TIME – this includes DISCOS

 

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Kids Club
Meets every second Tuesday
at Wangi Uniting Church.
Children K – 6 welcome.
4pm – 6pm
Includes music, craft and dinner.

Bev Hincks on 4975 5158
Or Nerida Rayfield on 4975 2312

 

MATHS TUTOR –
KINDER TO YEAR 12
Phone Ben: 4975 2388 or 0421235309

 
DRAMA CLASSES
Have fun!  Build confidence, improve speech and communication skills.  Use your imagination and explore acting, improvisation, mine, creative movement and public speaking.  All ages
Contact Susan McBurney A.S.D;L.T.C.L
On 4975 1822
0412 092205
HSC Drama help for Individual projects also available

 

FIONA’S STUDIO OF DANCE
Be inspired by our great range of Dance classes – Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary & Lyrical and Physical Culture.
Enrolments now being accepted 49733133.

 

M.A.D. DANCE
• Fun dance classes in Tap, Jazz and Modern/Contemporary
• Classes for both boys and girls from 3 years up
• No uniform, costumes, free showcase at end-of-year, all students receive a trophy
• All student get the opportunity to perform at local events
• NEW studio Term 2 at Bonnells Bay Public School
• Classes from $4 – $6 per week with discounts for unlimited classes and family discount
For more information contact Miss Meritta
Phone 0413 616 966
Webiste: www.myspace.com/mad_dance
Email:maddance@hotmail.com

 

WESTERN LAKE MACQUARIE CONCERT BAND
Stilling Street, Rathmines (near shops)
Learners Classes!
All Ages are accepted. All abilities from beginner to experienced.
To learn to play musical instrument all that is needed is for you to attend weekly classes every Tuesday from 5pm during school term.
Instruments may be hired for a small cost.
For more information Contact
Doug Treloar on 4959 1826

NUTRITION SNIPPETS”
EAT IT TO BEAT IT:  VEGIES FOR BREAKFAST?  YOU’RE KIDDING!

A good breakfast is especially important for kids because it can improve energy levels, alertness and concentration.  Many people would not think of breakfast as a time to squeeze in some extra vegies but the following ideas provide a solid meal for breakfast with 1-2 serves of vegies!  They will also help to warm the kids up on cold winter mornings! Top tip: protein helps to fill kids up and gives them sustained energy for concentration and alertness. In the following examples, baked beans and eggs are good sources of protein.
• Toast/muffin topped with cooked mushrooms, tomatoes, baked beans, capsicum or creamed corn
• Chop and add left over vegies to an omelette or savoury pancake
• Heat chopped leftover vegetables and serve as a topping for toast;  add an egg or reduced-fat cheese for a more substantial meal

PRINCIPALS REPORT:

Developing high standards… modelling our expectations.

If we truly want the best for our children then we all need to be effect leaders who model high standards, expectations and accountability.

The school has reviewed and modified our systems and structures, programs and policies to ensure that we provide consistent, systematic and explicit teaching and learning programs K-6. Our priorities will be heavily focussed on improving student achievements in: Spelling, Grammar/Punctuation, Reading/Comprehension, Writing and Mathematics (Number, Space and Measurement).

In order to do this our morning sessions will be an uninterrupted learning time. Students who demonstrate learning needs will be catered for via:
- Differentiated teaching & learning programs K-6;
- School based Support Teacher Learning Assistance (STLA) program, which will target students K-3 in small group and/or one-to-one support;
- District STLA support targeting students 4-6;
- Integration Funding Support; and
- Support Teacher Behaviour (STB) which targets students with emotional, social and behavioural needs.

The school staff and community representative have reviewed the new School Discipline and Welfare Policy which will take effect as of today. Please find attached a copy of this and make a concerted effort to understand and talk with your child about the processes involved. This policy K-6 develops further the high standards and expectations of all members of the school and supports the statement ‘Quality Programs…Quality Assurance’. The implementation and application of this policy will be Firm, Fair and Consistent.

The school has been successful in its application for funding under the Commonwealths’ “Building the Education Revolution” (BER) and “National Schools Pride” (NSP) projects. As a result; we will see the removal of our two demountable buildings and in their place, the development of a new fixed Library building. We also have the installation of new covered walkways leading between buildings and to the hall. It is hoped that we may continue that along the path to the bus shelter.  We have yet to be given a specific time; however, I have been notified that it will take place this year.

I would like to warmly invite all members of our community; parents, grandparents, community members and businesses to join us next Wednesday 27th May at 1pm, in celebrating Public Education and the wonderful school of Wangi Wangi Public. Students will be putting on an assembly to showcase their hard work and efforts. It would be great to see as many of you here as possible.

Mr Barry Croft
Principal   

REMINDERS:
• School Security – please make an anonymous call if you see anything that looks wrong going on in the school during the holidays. Phone: 1300 880 021
• Public Speaking for early Stage 1 and Stage 1 will be at this weeks Assembly.  Friday 12:15
• Education week Assembly next Wednesday 27th May starting at 1pm.
• Starstruck Rehearsal next Tuesday 26th May. NOTES MUST be returned by Friday 22nd May.
Weekly Merit Awards
Congratulations to:
K/1: Kellie M, Jaden J, Georgir-Rose C & Reece W
1/ 2:  Erin B, Finn G, Zac H,
Grace V & Liam K
2/3:  Jye C, Joel B, Brooke T & Emily B
4/5:  Declan G, Kiarrah B, Chrissy N & Miranda L
5/6:  Anika D, Emily H, Michael H, Jake S & Tiara Y
 
  
  
A BIG THANK YOU to Jodie in the Canteen for organising our Naplan Breakfast for our Year 3 and year 5  students.

From the Office
Our School Voluntary Contribution fees (also known as school fees) are $10 per term -payable at the office.  This supplements all our learning resources for our students. 
Thank you all for your help in this area.

Kinder / Yr 1
K/1 will be walking to Wangi Library in week 6, weather permitting.  A note will be sent home with details closer to the time.
Thank you Year 1 parents for supporting your child’s learning through helping them learn their spelling words – a great result was achieved last week, keep up the great work!
Thank you Kinder parents for ensuring your child’s sound book is returned each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.  The book can remain at home until the following week so that your child can revise their sounds every day.
Year 1/ 2.
Well done to all those children who had a “red hot go” at Public Speaking!  Every child has had a try, so congratulations to everyone.  “Iggy” is currently meeting some interesting animals when he visits your home.  Keep up the great work.
Don’t forget to think about an item for the Talent Quest (last week of this term).
Almost everyone is completing their homework each week.  Keep up the great effort.
Year 2/3
Year 2/ 3 have been showing wonderful organisation and getting along, while working hard building knowledge about the sources of, and uses for natural materials.  Students have also been showing their evolving artistic talents in visual arts projects.
With winter approaching, parents are reminded that any donations of tissues will be gratefully received.

Year 5/ 6
I am constantly amazed by the individual brilliance and efforts of the students in 5/6.  We have had a very strong focus over the course of the last two weeks on writing, mathematics and public speaking. Last newsletter I wrote briefly about participation, practise and persistence being the kick starters for success. The children have demonstrated, and are developing, their understanding of the phrase EFFORT EARNS SUCCESS. Keep up the great work!

CROSS COUNTRY
It was wonderful to see all the children ‘Have a Go’ last week in the school cross country. What was even more inspiring was to see senior students encourage and run along side our younger children, encouraging them to persist and keep going. Wonderful work!

Tomorrow, 22nd May, we will have a number of students head off to Rathmines for the Zone Cross Country. We wish all of our competitors the best of luck and encourage them to do their best.

DANCE   
Dance commenced again this week.  All children were fitted with costumes last week.  I would encourage all parents to pay their Term 2 dance fees by the due date to ease the financial burden as there may be extra costs for making the costumes.
Hunter Dance Festival date for your diary:
Junior Girls – Tuesday 30th June 2009
Senior Girls – Thursday 2nd July 2009

BAND
   
Band has started up again this year.  If you would like your child to learn a musical instrument and become part of the School Band please see the Office ladies.  Instruments available:  Flutes, Clarinets, Trumpets and Tuba.
REMINDER:
Band starts each Friday at 8:45am sharp –please be there at 8:40am to set up.
P&C NEWS
What a wonderful attendance to our first P&C meeting this term. We would like to encourage many more people to join us when we meet again on Tuesday 16th June at 6.30pm, school staffroom. Agenda items discussed included:
- systematic whole school literacy and numeracy programs;
- support measures in place for students with learning needs;
- school welfare/discipline policy;
- new capital works to go ahead in the school; and
- community business partnerships with the school.

If you are interested in viewing a copy of the minutes of this meeting they are available in the front foyer of the office.

 CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
If you would like to volunteer for 1 day per month please contact Jodie Milligan on
0412603425 or if you are unable to attend on your rostered day please ring.
.

Sun Safety
“Be Safe” is our number 1 school rule so…
REMEMBER, NO HAT – NO PLAY, NO SPORT, NO P.E!!!
NO THONGS AT ANY TIME – this includes DISCOS

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COMMUNITY NOTICES

Kids Club
Meets every second Tuesday
at Wangi Uniting Church.
Children K – 6 welcome.
4pm – 6pm
Includes music, craft and dinner.
7th April
Bev Hincks on 4975 5158
Or Nerida Rayfield on 4975 2312

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MATHS TUTOR –
KINDER TO YEAR 12
Phone Ben: 4975 2388 or 0421235309

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DRAMA CLASSES
Have fun!  Build confidence, improve speech and communication skills.  Use your imagination and explore acting, improvisation, mine, creative movement and public speaking.  All ages
Contact Susan McBurney A.S.D;L.T.C.L
On 4975 1822
0412 092205
HSC Drama help for Individual projects also available

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

FIONA’S STUDIO OF DANCE
Be inspired by our great range of Dance classes – Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary & Lyrical and Physical Culture.
Enrolments now being accepted 49733133.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

M.A.D. DANCE
• Fun dance classes in Tap, Jazz and Modern/Contemporary
• Classes for both boys and girls from 3 years up
• No uniform, costumes, free showcase at end-of-year, all students receive a trophy
• All student get the opportunity to perform at local events
• NEW studio Term 2 at Bonnells Bay Public School
• Classes from $4 – $6 per week with discounts for unlimited classes and family discount
For more information contact Miss Meritta
Phone 0413 616 966
Webiste: www.myspace.com/mad_dance
Email:maddance@hotmail.com

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WESTERN LAKE MACQUARIE CONCERT BAND
Stilling Street, Rathmines (near shops)
Learners Classes!
All Ages are accepted. All abilities from beginner to experienced.
To learn to play musical instrument all that is needed is for you to attend weekly classes every Tuesday from 5pm during school term.
Instruments may be hired for a small cost.
For more information Contact
Doug Treloar on 4959 1826

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Asthma Foundation NSW launches new information
service-
ASTHMA ASSIST
At the Foundation we know that credible health
information is highly sought after but often difficult to
find. Asthma Foundation NSW aims to provide the
community with evidence based and user friendly
information to help people better understand and
manage their asthma to avoid unnecessary asthma
attacks, and to minimise asthma symptoms so people
with asthma can lead full and productive lives.
To this end, Asthma Foundation NSW has developed a free information service “Asthma Assist” for anyone
with asthma or an interest in asthma.
By registering you will receive:
onAIR – our free email newsletter
Sent up to 6 times a year onAIR features information
about topics such as asthma research, medications
and devices, and asthma triggers.
An Asthma Control Pack
This includes an Asthma Emergency Card and other
useful information to help you manage your child’s
asthma, or the asthma of someone you know and care for. You can request up to 3 packs per household.
A free asthma first aid magnet
Be sure you know what to do in an asthma emergency.
If your child….
- Ever wakes in the night coughing or wheezing
- Gets breathless or wheezy during the day
- Needs to take their blue reliever puffer more than 3
times a week
- Find their asthma limits physical activity & exercise
It is possible that their asthma is not as well controlled
as it could be. Many people with asthma put up with
these symptoms without realising it’s their asthma that
is letting them down.
Find out how you can better manage your child’s
asthma. Join our free information service – Asthma
Assist at www.asthmansw.org.au
Any questions please contact our free Asthma
Information Line 1800 645 130

 
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In June the Australian Red Cross Donor Mobile will be visiting Wangi Wangi Fire Station which is located not far from your school.
 
 
Your blood donation will go far – you don’t have to!
 
The Australian Red Cross Blood Service needs over 500 blood donations every single week on the Central Coast to meet the need for blood in local hospitals. 2009 has been declared Year of the Blood Donor by the Federal Government and many new donors are needed to ensure there is an adequate supply of blood. By giving blood this June you can help save three lives.
 
With this in mind The Australian Red Cross Blood Service is asking you to do something special and give blood when the donor mobile visits
 
Wangi Wangi Fire Station:
 
Thursday 4th June – 1:30pm to 6:30pm
 
Please call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au to make an appointment and save 3 lives!
**********************************************************************************************************
 

“NUTRITION SNIPPETS”

7) GO FOR 2 & 5®: HELP!!  MY KIDS WON’T EAT FRUIT & VEGETABLES!
So you’re one of the thousands of parents in Australia who has had difficulty getting your kids to eat fruit and vegetables.  Let’s have a look at a few tips that might turn things around!
• Remember the saying “the apple never falls far from the tree”? It’s important for parents and carers to eat and enjoy a wide variety of fruit and vegetables every day.  Kids are more likely to copy what they see!
• Get the kids involved in choosing and washing the fruit and vegetables they want to take for school.  Allow them to peel/cut/grate if they are old enough to do this.  They might even eat some as they work! 
• Never assume your child dislikes a specific fruit or vegetable based on past experience or because you don’t like it yourself. Kids learn to like things that are familiar to them, so keep offering them in a variety of ways.
• Keep a bowl of fruit or vegetables in the fridge for kids to grab as an easy snack before/after school or to include in their school lunchbox (raw peas, carrot/celery/zucchini sticks, cherry tomatoes, grapes, green beans, mushrooms, chunks of capsicum).  These can be eaten plain as a snack at school or dipped in yoghurt/hommous.

Log onto www.cancercouncil.com.au/eatittobeatit for a fact sheet on “Strategies to Get Children to Eat Fruit and Vegetables”

1) EAT IT TO BEAT IT: TRY THESE TASTY PIZZA MUFFINS IN YOUR CHILD’S LUNCH BOX

Whoever said fruit or vegetables had to go into the lunchbox in the form of a sandwich and piece of fruit?  Not a bad idea, but how’s this for a bit of a change? A mum from Eleebana shared this healthy recipe that her daughters love. She says “These pizza muffins make a great snack and are easy and fun to make”.  Why not make them for dinner one night and use the left-overs in the kids’ lunchbox the next day? 

Pizza Muffins:
Ingredients
Multigrain English Muffins
Lean ham, diced
Tomato Paste/pizza paste
Diced capsicum
Diced mushrooms
Diced tomato
Pineapple pieces
Low fat grated cheese
(or use any other vegies you like)
Method:
Spread tomato paste on muffin
Place diced vegies, ham and pineapple pieces on top
Sprinkle with cheese
Bake in oven or under griller till cheese melts

PRINCIPALS REPORT:

 

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit. Effort earns success…

 

Participation, practise and persistence are the kick starters for success. If we do not attempt what might seem too hard, if we do not practise new skills and strategies and if we do not persist when things seem too tough, then we will never truly feel what it means to succeed.

 

I have the wonderful and unique role of teaching and administrative management within the school and at times this can be likened to a juggling act. However, both roles allow me to develop a strong rapport with students, staff and community and gain a ‘finger on the pulse’ analysis of day-to-day issues. Due to this complex role I would ask that should parents or community members need to arrange a meeting with me, please do so for before/after school or Wednesdays which are my executive days. This way I am able to provide you with the quality time you require, whilst not compromising the quality of the education provided to my students.

 

I would like to warmly welcome everyone back to a very busy term and thank our wonderful mothers and grandmothers for their presence at our Mother’s Day morning tea. This was a wonderful opportunity to meet some of the community and thank them for their efforts in assisting children both at school and at home.

 

A huge thank you is extended to our P&C members for their efforts in arranging a Mother’s Day stall and then frantically wrapping gifts.

 

I hope that this weekend we take time to reflect and celebrate the wonderful people in our lives who make numerous sacrifices in order to raise us with love and guidance. I would like to wish all of our Mothers and Grandmothers a wonderful day and hope that you are treated like royalty, even if only for the day.

 

Enjoy the week ahead,

 

Mr Barry Croft

Principal    

 

REMINDERS:

School Security – please make an anonymous call if you see anything that looks wrong going on in the school.
Phone: 1300 880021   

Principal’s Awards

Well done to:

Paris S in Year 3 for “Getting along” and

   Connor P in Year 1 for “Persistence”.

 

Kinder / Yr 1

Welcome back!! We are all refreshed and ready for another full-on term!

“Star of the Week” will begin next week.  Each Monday a child’s name will be drawn out of a box and he/ she will be the classroom helper of the week.  Watch for his/ her picture and compliments on the classroom door. 
“Me” boxes are slowly coming along.

Year 1 – don’t forget to learn your spelling words for a test each Tuesday.

It’s sniffle season again, any donation of tissues would be appreciated.  Thank you.

 

Year 1/ 2

Iggy certainly enjoyed his holidays (as you will see when he comes to visit this term). And has come back to school refreshed and ready to work hard!  When he visits this time he needs to meet an animal and children need to write an information report about that animal.  I’m looking forward to reading them.

Public Speaking will start next week (Monday 11^th May) in our normal “News” sessions.  Please listen to your child’s speech before next week.  Every child is expected to “have a go” at this task.

We will be walking to Wangi Library next Thursday 14^th May, leaving school at 2:30pm.  Please remember your bag and card for borrowing.

Year 2/3

Homework began again this week.  Please encourage your child to write out their spelling words every night as well as to read.  Home readers can be changed as often as needed – not just Friday.

The project on National Parks is due on Monday 18^th May – use the sheet handed out as a guide to help research relevant facts.

We have welcomed Mr Norm McCurry into our classroom as an intern teacher.  He has many interesting activities and lessons planned for the class.  Already the children have examined parts of plants under the microscope and planted sunflower seeds as part of our “Back to Nature” unit.

 

Year 4/5

NAPLAN is a big focus next week and students will need to come to school bright, awake and ready for the test.  A NAPLAN Breakfast will be held on the Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9am and 9:20am, before class.

So year 5 need to start getting plenty of rest and goodnight sleeps over the coming days.

Homework has gone home so please keep an eye out for their sheets in their bags.

A great response to assignments on the solar system.  They will be on display until week 4 when students will be asked to take them home.

 

Year 5/ 6

NAPLAN BREAKFAST

A “Naplan breakfast” has been organised for students in Year 3 and Year 5 who will be doing the Naplan test next week.  Breakfast will be available free of charge at the canteen between 9am and 9:20am on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.  Come early so you don’t miss out!

 

CROSS COUNTRY

The school Cross Country will be held on Friday 8^th May 2009 commencing at 12.15pm. Parents are invited to come along and encourage competitors.  Anyone who is willing to help by being stationed around the course please see Mrs Murphy – it would be greatly appreciated.

This is a whole school event but only children 8 years and up are eligible to go to zone.

 

DANCE   

Dance commenced again this week.  All children were fitted with costumes last week.  I would encourage all parents to pay their Term 2 dance fees by the due date to ease the financial burden as there may be extra costs for making the costumes.

Hunter Dance Festival date for your diary:

Junior Girls – Tuesday 30^th June 2009

Senior Girls – Thursday 2^nd July 2009

 

BAND                         

Band has started up again this year.  If you would like your child to learn a musical instrument and become part of the School Band please see the Office ladies.  Instruments available:  Flutes, Clarinets, Trumpets and Tuba.

REMINDER:

Band starts each Friday at 8:45am sharp –please be there at 8:40am to set up.

 

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS – For those students in years 3-6 who are entering these competitions there is a website that offers you a range of practice questions. 

Go to www.eaa.unsw.edu.au and follow the link to prepare.

 

P&C NEWS

We desperately need someone to nominate themselves, or another willing parent, to take on the role of P&C President – if you can help please ring the school.

Winners of the Easter Raffle:

1^st – Madison H

2^nd – Luke G

3^rd  -  The Roderick Family

Consolation:  Kerry Mc, Angus N, Clair D, Connor P, Destoni M and Keigan M.

CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

If you would like to volunteer for 1 day per month please contact Jodie Milligan on

0412603425 or if you are unable to attend on your rostered day please ring.

 

Talking & Listening

This is an important part of helping your child with literacy. Some ideas in this area include:

 

 

 

 

 

“NUTRITION SNIPPETS”

6) YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND AN EXCLUSIVE ONE-OFF NUTRITION SESSION

 

Help Cancer Council and your family, all at no cost! Cancer Council NSW invites parents and carers of primary school children in the Hunter region to participate in a groundbreaking new trial aimed at increasing consumption of fruit and vegetables.

 

Free ‘Fruit ‘n’ Veg $ense’ sessions will run from April to July 2009, in local schools across the Hunter region addressing issues such as fussy eaters, stretching your food dollar further, menu modification and planning. Sessions are free to attend and you will receive handy resources and new recipe ideas to use at home. The trial requires you to complete two short questionnaires and attend one session.

 

To enrol and participate, please contact the Cancer Council (Hunter) Research Hotline on: 4923 0710 and leave your name & best contact phone number, alternatively send an email to: eatittobeatit@nswcc.org.au .We will call you back to confirm your place in the session.

 

These sessions are part of the Cancer Council’s Eat It To Beat It program, providing Hunter families with budget friendly ways of eating essential fruit and vegetables every day! To find out more about Eat It To Beat It check out our website: www.cancercouncil.com.au/eatittobeatit

 

• Talk to your child about events and ideas in books they are reading or as you are reading together.
• Listen when your child tells you about things that have happened to them. This can help them put their ideas together before they start writing stories.
• Sometimes ask your child a question that can have many answers rather than just yes or no. This helps them to think about different ways to look at things including solving problems.
• Ask your child about why they made certain choices when making a decision. Ask for their opinion on topics and discuss this.
• Allow your child to talk to a number of other children including those of various ages. Also allow them to listen to and share their ideas with others. This helps children to develop their talking and listening skills.
• Show by your behaviour that you are listening. Interact with your children, ask questions, add information and make links with other things you share in common. Talk to your child about how others know they are listening such as not walking away when others are talking.
• Talk at a normal pace and volume, and use adult words.

Sun Safety

“Be Safe” is our number 1 school rule so…

REMEMBER, NO HAT – NO PLAY, NO SPORT, NO P.E!!!

NO THONGS AT ANY TIME – this includes DISCOS

 

Weekly Merit Awards

Congratulations to:

K/1: Harrison F, Jacob K

1/ 2:  Erin B, Destiny H

2/3:  Maggie G, Enola N

4/5:  Bailey V,  Brodie H

5/6:  Anika D, Toby G

 

Wednesday 6th May.

P and C members will be meeting in the staff room to make up and wrap gifts for the mother’s day stall that will be held on the following day: Thursday 7th May.

This will be a great opportunity for anybody who wants to lend a hand to come and meet the new members of the P and C and help with this fundraising activity. Coffee and good company will be provided.

Meeting opened: 7.07pm
Note: As President position vacant meeting chaired by Dean Plows (Vice President)
Attendance/Apologies: As  per  Attendance Book

Minutes of Previous meetings:
Motion: That the Secretary’s Notes of the previous meeting held Tuesday 17th February 2009 be accepted as minutes
Moved to be accepted:  Dean Plows  Seconded:  Laurie Wiles

Business Arising from Previous Meeting:
New aluminium seating arrived and fitted
$102 for 2009 InterRelate

President’s Report:  No report as new officers elected at AGM on same evening and previous President farewelled & thanked at AGM

Principal’s Report: As attached plus:
10 applications from W.W.P.S for capital works through BER
$1300 tied grant spent on sporting kits
StarStruck 2009 – June. Choir
Taking leave from Term 2 leading to retirement
Brochures printed to promote W.W.P.S
Treasurer’s Report:  As attached

Canteen Report: No Report

Correspondence: fundraising materials as tabled
Motion: That all reports and correspondence be accepted
Moved to accept: Candy Connors               Seconded: Laurie Wiles

General Business:
EASTER EGG RAFFLE
Motion: The Easter Egg raffle needs to be organised by a nominated co-ordinator
Moved to accept: Lee-Anne Wrobel          Seconded: Francis Fraser
Lee-Anne offered to be co-ordinator. Francis happy to assist. Dean thanked them.

PUBLICITY FOR W.W.P.S
Promotional Brochures to:
Peter Pan PreSchool (Candy)
Long Day Care Arcadia Vale (Laurie)
Morisset Multi Purpose Centre (Dean)
Wangi Public Library (Lee-Ann)
Toronto Library (Candy)
Westlakes Medical Centre (Candy)

Promotional Ideas: How can we better promote our school?
Candy to speak to staff at Peter Pan PreSchool for their ides and to also ask if they are still interested in bringing some children to our special days (e.g. Easter Hat Parade/Raffle)
Laurie to speak to staff at Arcadia Vale Long Day Care & Rathmines PreSchool for their suggestions

FUNDRAISING IDEAS
Recipe book/ handy hints/ easy lunch ideas for kids
Trivia night
Mothers/Fathers Day stalls
Cake stalls
Disco
Car Boot Sale
Car Rally
Val noted that fundraising support would be appreciated for team uniforms, literacy programs. We need to look at ways of obtaining bigger funds
For now focus on Easter Egg Raffle  9/4/09  – Lee-Anne & Francis to organise and Mother’s Day Stall 7/5/09
Francis will approach Sonya Mitchell at Needful Things re providing items for Mother’s day stall
Request for donations from parents through newsletter. Suggest ideas for donations to help support & encourage parents
SIGNATURIES FOR CHEQUES etc.
Need for 2 to 3 signaturies. Minimum of 2 at all times
Lara Borrow, Chris Ward, Dean Plows

UNIFORMS
Bernie needs to source a cheaper supplier for shirts and jumpers.
Order needed now for more shirts and jumpers.
Motion: Bernie orders shirts and jumpers to the price of $1500.
Moved to accept: Lara Borrow                Seconded: Laurie Wiles

Meeting Closed: 8.06pm

Next Meeting: Tuesday, 19th May 2009
6.30pm

Meeting opened: 6.42pm
Attendance/Apologies: As  per  Attendance Book
Minutes of Previous meetings:
Motion: That the Secretary’s Notes of the previous AGM held Tuesday 18th March 2008 be accepted as minutes
Moved to be accepted:  Chris Ward  Seconded:  Lara Borrow
Business Arising from Previous Meeting: Nil
President’s Report:  Liz O’Brien -As attached

Treasurer’s Report: Christine Ward – As attached plus:
$3,726.71
audit financials available

Principal’s Report:  Val Scotchmer -As attached  plus:
Thankyou to the executive on Committee. We are all helping for our kids & parents help all adds up.
This is Liz’s last year, her children all now in High School. We appreciate the work she has done for  Wangi Wangi  P.S.
Gift presented to Liz

Canteen Report: No report available
Election of Officers: All positions declared open
President: vacant. Position open
Vice President 1:  Dean Plows         Nominated by: Lee-Anne Wrobel    
          Seconded: Liz O’Brien
Vice President 2: Francis Fraser      Nominated by: Candy Connors
                                                            Seconded by: Chris Ward
Secretary: Cathy Hurst                      Nominated by:  Liz O’Brien
Ass. Secretary:  Candy Connors      Nominated by:  Christine  Ward
           Seconded: Bernadette Dilly
                                                            Seconded: Christine Ward 
Treasurer/ +
Canteen Treasurer: Lara Borrow      Nominated: Bernadette Dilly
      Seconded: Liz O’Brien
Ass Treasurer: Chris Ward               Nominated: Liz O’Brien
           Seconded:  Candy Connors
Uniform Officer: Bernadette Dilly (continuing)      
                                                                                                   
All were elected unopposed.
Notes: President position vacant.
           Canteen Committee vacant.
 Advertise in newsletter to fill these positions.
 Canteen managed by Jody Milligan 2 days per week.

General Business: Nil

AGM Closed: 7.06pm

Week 7

Mon 9^th March BER-9.30 meeting

Week 8

Tues 17^th March        P&C AGM – please come along!

Wed 18^th March        School Photos

Week 9

Wed 25^th March        Interrelate (Stage 3)

Fri 27^th March Newcastle Show Holiday Day – no school

Week 10

TBA              Parent /Teacher Interviews

Week 11

Wed 8^th April  Interrelate (Stage 3)

Thurs 9^th April Easter Hat Parade

5^th March 2009                                

PRINCIPALS REPORT:

Congratulations to our student leaders who attended the Young Leaders Day in Sydney last week. Every year I am more and more impressed with Wangi students and the way they present themselves outside our school – wonderful ambassadors for Wangi PS!

 

 

Well done to all the students who received Swimming ribbons for the School & Zone carnivals. Congratulations to our Swimming Champions for 2009…

Senior Boy: Jai J

Senior Girl: Anika D

Junior Boy:  Luke G

Junior Girl:  Abby H

How great does our school look after the clean up day last Friday! A BIG thank you to the number of parents who came to school to help – especially weeding the gardens and removing the spiky branches fallen from the palm trees.

Most of you would be aware of the serious incident reported by the media related to a child at another school in Lake Macquarie. At Wangi School we have conducted some Stranger Danger scenarios with our students and are being extra vigilant with supervision. We are encouraging all students to use the toilets at break times (lunch & recess) and students must have a ‘buddy’ if going to the toilet in class time. The gates at the bus stop (Beach Rd) and near the Kinder room (Dobell Drive) are being closed during lesson times. We urge all parents and carers to talk with their children about Stranger Danger and ask you to also reinforce with your child/children using the school toilets at break times.

To celebrate Week 5 of school each class teacher presented 5 BONUS “You Can Do It” wrist bands to students in their class displaying these skills. Bravo to those students who received one of these wonderful awards to recognise your skill… keep trying everyone else, because that is how you get to win one of these! Try to collect the whole 5!

Further in this newsletter I have added information for new families regarding our “You Can Do It” program and some “Handy Hints” (again).

A separate information letter will be coming home soon for you with information relating to the Commonwealth Government’s Building the Education Revolution (BER) initiative.

 

REMINDERS:

• Stage 3 Interrelate money needed please.
• Parents /Carers are asked not to drive into the school grounds – please help us keep all our kids safe.

Principal’s Awards

Well done to:   

Ella in Year 1 for “Persistence”;

Enola in Year 2 for “Confidence”;

Eaydn in Year 4 for “Getting Along”

and

Jake in Year 6 for “Confidence”.

 

Weekly Merit Awards

Congratulations to:

K/1: Carl, Sandhya, Samuel, Kiri & Georgie-Rose

1/2:  Stuart, Josie, Grace & Jaden

2/3:  Enola, Jacob, Amber, & Keigan

4/5:  Amy, Joel, Eaydn & Destiny

5/6:  Jake, Emily, Aden & Tiara

 

CLASS OF THE WEEK

Listening and Good Manners: 5/6           

 

Extra effort for hats: 2/3       

 

Tidy Bags: 1/2 (WOW! 2^nd time in a row!!)           

WOW Awards

Writer of the Week

Great work to these students for weeks 4 & 5.

K/1: Conor & Alicia

1/2:  Grace & Justin

2/3:   Gina & Nic

4/5:   Brodie & Declan

5/6:   Emily & Teagan

 

You Can Do It

BONUS 5 Awards

Skills: Organisation, Getting Along, Persistence, Confidence, Resilience.

Great efforts to:

K/1: Alicia for Persistence; Jonny for Getting Along, Kiri for Organisation, Sandhya for Confidence & Kellie for Resilience.

1/2:  Grace for Organisation, Kobe for Persistence, Josie for Resilience, Liam for Confidence & Thomas for Getting Along.

 

 2/3:   Samantha for Organisation, Bridie for Getting Along, Vivienne for Resilience, Angus for Persistence & Luke for Confidence.

 

4/5:   Amy for Getting Along, Jai for Organisation, Jacob for Confidence, Keeley for Persistence & Joel for Resilience.

 

5/6:   Bree for Confidence, Emily for Organisation, Jake for Resilience, Toby for Getting Along & Teagan for Persistence.

 

I PLAYED CRICKET AT THE SCG! 

On the 4^th day of the Australia vs South Africa cricket test match at the SCG I played Milo cricket with my friend Aidan.  We played in the lunchbreak of the cricket.  There were over 300 kids playing in games around the ground!   We played diamond cricket, with 4 sets of stumps in a diamond on the field.  We had turns in batting and fielding.  I hit 3 sixes over the fence into the crowd and the crowd cheered!   I had lots and lots of fun! 

by Joel Borrow (Class 2/3)

 

 

Kinder/ Yr 1

Kinder are now in reading groups and steaming ahead!

Year 1 are doing fantastic reading and writing.  We are proud of both groups.

Kindergarten are slowly learning that “Body Contact” is not on.

Please reinforce this at home.

 

Year 1/ 2

I am so proud of the great stories year 1/ 2 have written about Iggy.  They have enjoyed reading them to our class and some have read them at Assembly and well. 

A super effort with Homework and home Reading from most children, please keep it up.

Year 2 have started bringing home a Maths book this week.  They are to do ONE page only.

Year 1 will also start doing a page very soon.

 

 

Year 2/3

Homework reminder – spelling words need to be written out every night.

Thank you to Blake’s Grandmother for the wonderful donation of home readers. Much appreciated.

Thank you.

 

Year 4/5

Please ensure all notes for Year 5interrelate are signed and returned to school  as soon as possible with correct money. This is a most important program.

Interrelate starts in (week 9) Wednesday 25^th March and Wednesday 8^th April (week 11).

 

Year 5/ 6

A quick reminder to all students that your projects are due on Monday.

This week is our last week of Cultural Identities in HSIE, next week we start our Science and Technology unit on Electricity.

 

Library

Borrowing has improved in most classes but no class had had 100% borrowing yet.  The challenge in on!!

Premier’s Reading Challenge information is available and some children have received notes and reading logs.  The orange permission note needs to be returned to Mrs Rayfield.

 

MENTORING PROGRAM is continuing this year with 6 students involved.  Each student is allocated a mentor who spends 1 hour each week with them for 1 year assisting them with school work and other activities. 
Thanks to the mentors for volunteering their time each week, this has been a very successful program for our school.

 

BAND

                                   

Band has started up again this year.  If you would like your child to learn a musical instrument and become part of the School Band please see the Office ladies.  Instruments available:  Flutes, Clarinets, Trumpets and Tuba.

REMINDER:

Band starts each Friday at 8:45am sharp –please be there at 8:40am to set up.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS – For those students in years 3-6 who are entering these competitions there is a website that offers you a range of practice questions. 

Go to www.eaa.unsw.edu.au and follow the link to prepare.

 

CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

If you would like to volunteer for 1 day per month please contact Jodie Milligan on

0408866370 or if you are unable to attend on your rostered day please ring.

 

Helpful Hints

Reading

Be confident your child will learn to read and show them that you enjoy reading by having lots of different types of reading material around the home. Children value watching family members read and write each day. To encourage your child to read, you can share such activities as:

• Reading signs and posters
• Checking television guides
• Using a recipe
• Reading the newspaper aloud
• Playing word games including crosswords
• Reading magazines, comics, poems
• Reading labels on groceries when you go shopping

Listening to your child read each night is a good idea, but remember, reading is for fun. You can read a book, look at the cover and talk about what the book is about, ask questions about what has happened so far in the story and take turns when reading a harder book. Remember the three “P’s” for new words: pause, prompt and praise. Allow children to work out the word (pause), use clues from the context (prompt) and praise your child for trying. If necessary it is alright just to tell your child the word.

 Next Newsletter hints will be on “Writing & Spelling”.

 

  What is “You Can Do It”?

Each year we explain to parents our social skills program called “You Can Do It” so new families can gain an understanding of it. Here is a reprint of the information we sent out last year.

There are 5 Foundations we focus on called Getting Along, Organization, Persistence, Confidence & Resilience. This year we have introduce the coloured wrist bands as exciting keep sakes – their colours match the initial letter of each skill e.g. green for Getting Along, orange for Organization, purple for Persistence, red for Resilience &  Confidence is ‘custard’ colour!

This week’s explanation is about “Getting Along”.

Getting Along means working well with teachers and classmates, resolving disagreements peacefully, following the rules of the classroom and making positive contributions to school, home and the community including protecting the rights of others and looking after the environment. Examples of Getting Along behaviour are being helpful when working in a group, listening and not interrupting when someone else is speaking, talking rather than fighting when someone acts unfairly, not breaking classroom rules, helping others in need, volunteering for  worthy causes and cleaning up the environment.

Positive habits of the mind that help develop Getting Along behaviour in a young person include:

• Being Tolerant of Others: accepting that everyone acts unfairly towards others some of the time and not making overall judgements of people’s character (“good person”, “bad person”) based on their differences or behaviour.
• Thinking First: thinking that when someone treats me badly I need to think about different ways I can react, the consequences of each, and the impact of my actions on the person’s feelings.
• Playing by the Rules: thinking that by following important school and home rules, I will live in a better world where everyone’s rights are protected.
• Social Responsibility: thinking that its important to be caring, to try hard to do my best, to be fair to others, to make sure everyone has the freedom to say what they think and  feel without fear, to be honest and tell the truth, to have integrity by making sure that I do what I say I am going to do, respect others and have nice manners, to act responsibly by making good choices, sorting out problems without fighting, caring about nature and other living things, and to be understanding and including others who are different.

Sun Safety

“Be Safe” is our number 1 school rule so…

REMEMBER, NO HAT – NO PLAY, NO SPORT, NO P.E!!!

NO THONGS AT ANY TIME – this includes DISCOS

COMMUNITY NOTICES

 

Kids Club

Meets every second Tuesday

at Wangi Uniting Church.

Children K – 6 welcome.

4pm – 6pm

Includes music, craft and dinner.

10^th March, 23^rd March and 7^th April

Bev Hincks on 4975 5158

Or Nerida Rayfield on 4975 2312

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YMCA 49594444

Before School Care is 7am to 9am.  Breakfast included then children taken to school.

After School Care 3pm to 6pm – Collect from school, afternoon tea provided

Gymnastics most afternoons.

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DRAMA CLASSES

Have fun!  Build confidence, improve speech and communication skills.  Use your imagination and explore acting, improvisation, mine, creative movement and public speaking.  All ages

Contact Susan McBurney A.S.D;L.T.C.L

On 4975 1822

0412 092205

HSC Drama help for Individual projects also available

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Guides Australia

Toronto Girl guides are currently accepting enrolments for this year.

6yrs to 10 yrs Juniors meet on Tuesdays

10Yrs to 15yrs meet on Mondays

Both from 6pm to 7:30pm

More information please phone 49593151

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“NUTRITION SNIPPETS”

3) GO FOR 2 & 5^®: HOW MUCH IS A “SERVE”?

Targets for fruit and vegetable consumption are referred to as “serves”. We need to know how much a serve is so we can work out how much we are already eating and if we need to eat more.

 

A “serve” of fruit or vegetables is as follows:

One serve of FRUIT is 150 grams of fresh fruit or:

 

One serve of VEGETABLES is 75 grams of vegetables or:

 

You will notice that a serve of vegetables is half the amount of a serve of fruit (75 grams instead of 150grams). In fact, 2 and a half cups of cooked vegetables every day will give an adult their recommended daily intake (5 serves of vegetables)! Knowing the correct serving size helps people to put the target of 2 serves of fruit and 5 serves of vegetables into perspective.

 

FAMILY INSIGHT PROGRAMME – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED.

Family InSight is currently recruiting new volunteers in the Westlakes area.  The volunteers attend a 7 week one day per week training course to prepare them for their role as home visitors, visiting families with at least one child under 5 years of age who are experiencing stress in their parenting role. Family Insight is not a crisis service, but offers low key support.   There are many families waiting to receive a service and be introduced to a home visitor in the Westlakes, however InSight does not have the volunteers to provide this at the moment.

The next Westlakes Volunteer Training Course commences on:

Thursday 19^th March 2009 10am – 2.30pm for 7 weeks (except in school holidays)Nar-un-bah Fennell Bay Schools as Community Centre Bay Road Fennell Bay.

Dates for your diary

2009

Term 1

Week 5

Mon 23^rd Feb  Young Leaders Day (School Captains  & Councillors)

Week 8

Tues 17^th March        P&C AGM – please come along!

Wed 18^th March        School Photos

Week 9

Wed 25^th March        Interrelate (Stage 3)

Fri 27^th March Newcastle Show Holiday Day – no school

Week 10

TBA              Parent /Teacher Interviews

Week 11

Wed 8^th April  Interrelate (Stage 3)

Thurs 9^th April Easter Hat Parade

 

PRINCIPALS REPORT:

Our annual swimming carnival was a great success last week! Although we only took a small group of ‘competitors’ to the Carnival this year, I must congratulate every single one of them for outstanding behaviour, fantastic participation and all round true sportsmanship!

 

Wangi parents help even in the rain!

 

A number of these students went on to represent our school at the Zone carnival held at Speers Point pool on Tuesday and again did us all proud. Well done! Thank you to the parents & grandparents were helped with transport or went along to cheer them on.

Congratulations to Bethany in Year 6 who is the new Sports House Captain for Red Waugh House.

Our student leaders conducted an emergency fund raiser after the dreadful bushfires that have affected so many in Victoria by holding a Green and Gold out of Uniform Day last Friday. We had a brilliant response from our students and they raised $344.15 for the Red Cross Bushfire Appeal. Thank you to all.

I will have the great pleasure of taking our School Captains and Counsellors to Sydney on Monday for Young Leaders Day 2009. This is an exciting opportunity to join with around 8,000 other student leaders from NSW to develop leadership skills.

Our AGM for the P&C will be held next month. We will be farewelling our outgoing President Liz O’Brien, and need new people to put up their hands to take over – you can even share jobs with a friend, so why not get together….you can do it! All efforts go to improving the education and well being of our students.

At the end of next week each class teacher will be presenting 5 BONUS class awards to those students displaying “You Can Do It” skills!! These will be presented at Assembly in the hall at 12:15pm. Parents always welcome!

REMINDERS:

• Asthma – February is the time of year hospitals notice a ‘spike’ in admissions due to asthma-related illnesses. Please let us know if your child needs an asthma health plan.
• Parents /Carers are asked not to drive into the school grounds – please help us keep all our kids safe.
• Absence notes – these are required to the class teacher if your child is away. If you have phoned, a written note is still needed as a follow up – this is a legal requirement. Please find our handy form to pop on your fridge on the back of this newsletter.

Principal’s Awards

Well done to:   

Reece W.  in Year 1 for “Confidence & Resilience”;

Zachery H. in Year 2 for “Persistence & Developing Confidence”;

Jasmin M in Year 4 for “Getting Along”

and

 Anika D in Year 6 for “Confident Leadership & Initiative”.

 

Weekly Merit Awards

Congratulations to:

K/1: Sam M, Logan B, Conor P & Sandhya K.

1/2 : Justin T, Zandra G, Grace V & Liam K.

2/3: Zachary W, Luke G, Samantha D & Bridie G.

4/5: Jacob M, Liam C, Georgia A & Brody G.

5/6: Tahi N, Michael H, Georgia T &

Adam M.

 

CLASS OF THE WEEK

Listening and Good Manners         Year 4/5

 

Extra effort for hats                 Kinder/Year 1

 

Tidy Bags                              Year 2/3

 

WOW Awards

Writer of the Week

Great work to these students for weeks 2 & 3.

K/1: Kiri G. & Cory N.

1/2:  Kaitlyn M. & Sascha M.

2/3:  Maggie G. & Blake E.

4/5:  Chrissy N. & Jai J.

5/6:  Bethany E. & Darcy W.

 

Kinder/ Yr 1

Thank you to those parents who attended the information session last week.  If you were unable to come, an information pack was sent home with your child.  Please do not hesitate to make an appointment with either teacher if you have any problems.

Kindergarten is settling in beautifully to new routines and learning to work in small groups.

Year 1 have adapted wonderfully to new learning experiences and are learning patience and demonstrating “Getting Along” every day.

Home Reading has begun for Year 1.  Kindergarten can bring home readers as soon as they bring a plastic folder in which to carry their books.

Library day is Monday; your child needs a fabric bag for their books which is to be placed in the yellow box in the classroom on Monday mornings.

 

 

Year 1/ 2

Year 1/ 2 are certainly spoiling Iggy (Beanie Kid) when he visits them.  He is having some wonderful adventures.

We will be walking to Wangi Library next Thursday 26/2.  Please ensure children bring their Library card and bag so they can borrow.

What a wonderful start with Home reading and Homework.  Nearly all children are completing it, but let’s try for 100%.

 

Year 2/3

Our smart-board has had its first trial run.  The children are all very excited about using it and finding out the wonderful things it is capable of doing.

Home reading started this week.

Year 2/3 will be walking to Wangi Public Library after recess on Wednesday 25^th.  Children are encouraged to bring their library cards (if they have one) and a bag for borrowed books.

 

Year 4/5

Thank you to those parents who were able to make it and to those parents whom have seen me outside of the meeting. An information sheet for our classroom will be sent home today covering some of the issues raised at the information meeting. If you still need to see me about anything please call the school to arrange a meeting or drop a note to me. Home work is already going home so keep an eye open for that.

Thank you Mr O’Bie.

 

 

Year 5/ 6

Year 5/ 6 have been learning all about other cultures as part of their cultural identities unit.  This has been a lot of fun.  A quick reminder though that the project for this unit is due Monday  9^th March  and that students will have an opportunity next Tuesday 24^th Feb and Tuesday 3^rd March to go to the local library to support student research at home.

Library

Welcome to the New Library 2009. It’s almost ready, just waiting on some new shelving. Library days – Mon – 5/6, 2/3, K/1.

Tues – 3/4, 1/2.

Library Bronze, Silver & Gold awards will be awarded again this year for consistent borrowing.

Premiers Reading Challenge will be happening again. More information following. Mrs R.

 

BAND                                 

Band has started up again this year.  If you would like your child to learn a musical instrument and become part of the School Band please see the Office ladies.  Instruments available:  Flutes, Clarinets, Trumpets and Tuba.

REMINDER:

Band starts each Friday at 8:45am sharp –please be there at 8:40am to set up.

 

DANCE GROUPS

Dance fees are due on Monday 23^rd February.  Thank you to those people who have made early payments.

There are still vacancies in all dance groups.

Contact the office if you would like your child to join.

The dance routines look good this year – keep up the excellent work dancers!

 

ZONE SWIMMING

Well done to all zone swimmers.  Your exemplary behaviour and sportsmanship was a credit to Wangi School.  Jai J, Declan G, Adam M, Bridie G and Abby H were all successful in getting a place in their events.

Thank you to Des and Julie for helping with organisation at the carnival and to all the other parents for transporting and supporting our competitors with encouragement and LOUD cheering.

 

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIONS – For those students in years 3-6 who are interested in entering these competitions please find entry form attached.

 There is a website that offers you a range of practice questions. 

Go to www.eaa.unsw.edu.au and follow the link to prepare.

 

 

 CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

If you would like to volunteer for 1 day per month please contact Jodie Milligan on

0408866370 or if you are unable to attend on your rostered day please ring.

 

 

THANK YOU! WANGI HEROES!

These wonderful groups & individuals worked hard or donated generously, or BOTH, for Variety “Splash” & for our school!

Thanks go to:

Wangi IGA

Wangi Bakery

Milko (Michael & Kerrie)

Rathmines Butchery (Steve)

Westlakes Medical Centre

Wangi Sailing Club

Wangi RSL

Variety, the children’s charity

PLUS Candy & her terrific team of hard helpers which won’t be named in case someone is accidently left out!! THANK YOU ALL!

 

Sun Safety

“Be Safe” is our number 1 school rule so…

REMEMBER, NO HAT – NO PLAY, NO SPORT, NO P.E!!!

NO THONGS AT ANY TIME – this includes DISCOS

 

Back to School- Don’t forget about your child’s asthma!

Early February, just after school goes back, is the time of year when children are most likely to have a flare-up of their asthma, so it is important that parents keep an eye on their children’s asthma,

ensure they take their prescribed preventer medication regularly, and that they always carry their reliever medication with them. It is vital that

asthma in children is properly managed in order to avoid asthma emergencies.

Symptoms in young children may include wheezing, persistent coughing or shortness of breath. If these symptoms do not respond to the child’s reliever

medication, or if reliever medication is needed every day, we are encouraging parents to take their children immediately to a doctor.

Parents also need to ensure that the school their child attends is fully aware he or she has asthma so the school can support the child’s health needs.

Although asthma is mild in most children, it can be serious and even life-threatening if it is not properly managed, so it is important that anyone with asthma sees their doctor regularly and develops an asthma action plan so they know what to do when their symptoms worsen.

There is so much to think about when returning to school. It’s often difficult to remember everything. Make sure it’s not managing your child’s asthma

appropriately that you forget! Ensure that you see your GP for an update on your child’s asthma and be sure to supply your school with an updated

Asthma Action Plan.

If parents have any questions, they should call the Asthma Information Line on 1800 645 130 or speak -with their doctor.

T: 1800 645 130

E: ask@asthmansw.org.au

 

COMMUNITY NOTICES

 

YMCA 49594444

Before School Care is 7am to 9am.  Breakfast included then children taken to school.

After School Care 3pm to 6pm – Collect from school, afternoon tea provided

Gymnastics most afternoons.

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PULSE HAIR & BEAUTY

 49 75 31 00

236 Watkins Road Wangi Wangi

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DRAMA CLASSES

Have fun!  Build confidence, improve speech and communication skills.  Use your imagination and explore acting, improvisation, mine, creative movement and public speaking.  All ages

Contact Susan McBurney A.S.D;L.T.C.L

On 4975 1822

0412 092205

HSC Drama help for Individual projects also available

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Guides Australia

Toronto Girl guides are currently accepting enrolments for this year.

6yrs to 10 yrs Juniors meet on Tuesdays

10Yrs to 15yrs meet on Mondays

Both from 6pm to 7:30pm

More information please phone 49593151

 

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Wangi Junior Rugby League Football Club

 

Registrations for boys and girls from under 7’s to 17’s.

 

Call 0408977232

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Westlakes Wildcats

2009 Basketball competition

 

Call Michelle on 0420528838

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Wangi Arcadia Netball Club

Registration Days

Saturday 21^st February

10am to 12noon

At Netball Courts

 

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Westlakes Junior Soccer Club

Late registrations can be made on

Monday 23^rd February

at Rathmines Oval

from 4:30 onwards.

Players from Under 6 to Under 18 are welcome to register.

New players need to provide proof of age.

 

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South Lakes Junior Rugby League Football Club and Dora Creek Workers Club

BUSHFIRE RAFFLE

Helping Bushfire Victims

Sunday 1^st March 2009 Buy tickets in foyer from 1:30pm

Claim prizes, on display, when numbers are called

Prizes donated by the community

“NUTRITION SNIPPETS”

 

2. FRUIT AND VEG: HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH?

 

Before we launch into practical ways to increase fruit and vegetables it is important for us to know what the target is.

 

Go for 2 fruit and 5 vegetables is a good rule of thumb for the family in general. Take a moment to look at the table below to find out how many serves each member of your family needs to eat. We will look at how much a “serve” is next week.

 

AGE (years)	VEGETABLES (serves)	FRUIT (serves)
4 – 7	2 – 4	1 – 2
8 – 11	3 – 5	1 – 2
Adults	5	2

 

You will notice that the amount that children need to eat changes based on their age, appetite and levels of activity. Pregnant and breastfeeding women and adolescents need to eat more again – if this applies to your family, log onto www.gofor2and5.com.au for more information.

 

Unfortunately most families in NSW do not eat enough fruit and veg. In the Hunter, 81% of adults do not eat enough veg and 47% do not eat enough fruit. For children in NSW, 85% do not eat enough vegetables and 30% do not eat enough fruit.

 

So there is a lot of room for improvement in the Hunter. Get more vegetables in your day and Eat It To Beat It!

 

 

Watch this space for more great ideas and Eat It To Beat It!

 

Pertussis affects people of all ages, but can be very serious in babies. It can be prevented by immunisation at two, four

and six months of age. Booster shots are needed for four-year-olds and teenagers, and adults living or working

with small children.

Pertussis (Whooping

Cough)

Last updated: 30 January 2008

What is pertussis?

Pertussis (or whooping cough) is a disease caused by infection of the throat with the bacteria Bordetella

pertussis.

What are the symptoms?

_ Pertussis usually begins just like a cold, with a runny nose, tiredness and sometimes a mild fever.

_ Coughing then develops, usually in bouts, followed by a deep gasp (or “whoop”). Sometimes people

vomit after coughing.

_ Pertussis can be very serious in small children. They might go blue or stop breathing during coughing

attacks and may need to go to the hospital.

_ Older children and adults may have a less serious illness, with bouts of coughing that continue for

many weeks regardless of treatment.

How is it spread?

Pertussis is spread to other people by droplets from coughing or sneezing. Untreated, a person with

pertussis can spread it to other people for up to three weeks after onset of cough.

The time between exposure and getting sick is usually seven to ten days, but can be up to three weeks.

Who is at risk?

_ Anyone can get pertussis.

_ People living in the same household as someone with pertussis are more likely to catch it.

_ Immunisation greatly reduces your risk of infection, but reinfection can occur.

How is it prevented?

Immunise your child on time

_ The vaccine does not give lifelong protection against pertussis, and protection is sometimes

incomplete.

_ Children need to be immunised at two, four and six months.

_ Boosters are needed at four years of age and again at 15 years of age.

_ Immunisation is available through general practitioners and some local councils.

Keep your baby away from people who cough

_ Babies need two or three vaccinations before they are protected. For this reason, it is very important

to keep people with coughing illnesses away from your baby so they don’t pass on pertussis or other

germs.

Get immunised if you are an adult in close contact with small children

A vaccine for adults is available. It is recommended:

_ For both parents when planning a pregnancy, or as soon as the baby is born

_ For adults working with young children, especially health care and child care workers.

If you are a close contact of someone with pertussis:

_ Watch out for the symptoms. If symptoms develop, see your doctor, take this factsheet with you and

mention your contact with pertussis.

_ Some close contacts at high risk (e.g., children under one year, children not fully vaccinated, and

women at the end of their pregnancy) and others who live or work with high-risk people may need to

take antibiotics to prevent infection.

 

If you have pertussis:

_ Get treated early while infectious, avoid other people and stay away from young children, e.g., at child

care centres, pre-school and school.

How is it diagnosed?

If a doctor thinks someone has pertussis, a swab from the back of the nose, or a blood test may be done

to help confirm the diagnosis.

How is it treated?

A special antibiotic – usually either azithromycin, erythromycin or clarithromycin is used to treat pertussis.

These antibiotics can prevent the spread of the germ to other people.

Coughing often continues for many weeks despite treatment.

What is the public health response?

Doctors and laboratories must confidentially notify cases of pertussis to the local Public Health Unit. Public

Health Unit staff can advise on the best way to stop further spread.

Infectious children are restricted from going to pre-school and school. Unimmunised contacts may be

excluded from child care unless they take the special antibiotics.

Further information – Public Health Units in NSW

For more information please contact your doctor, local public health unit or community health centre -

look under NSW Government at the front of the White Pages

Metropolitan Areas Location Number Rural Areas Location Number

Northern Sydney/Central Coast Hornsby 02 9477 9400 Greater Southern Goulburn 02 4824 1837

Gosford 02 4349 4845 Albury 02 6080 8900

South Eastern Sydney/Illawarra Randwick 02 9382 8333 Greater Western Broken Hill 08 8080 1499

Wollongong 02 4221 6700 Dubbo 02 6841 5569

Sydney South West Camperdown 02 9515 9420 Bathurst 02 6339 5601

Sydney West Penrith 02 4734 2022 Hunter/New England Newcastle 02 4924 6477

Parramatta 02 9840 3603 Tamworth 02 6767 8630

Justice Health Service Matraville 02 9311 2707 North Coast Port Macquarie 02 6588 2750

Lismore 02 6620 7500

 

2009 International Competitions and Assessments

 

Students in Year 3 – 6 are invited to enter external competitions in the following areas:  Computer Skills, Science, Spelling, Writing, English and Mathematics.

 

These competitions are run by the University of NSW and have been running in schools for over 20 years.

 

For a nominal entry fee every student entering these competitions receives a certificate acknowledging participation.  If you are interested in your child participating in any of the above competitions please complete the attached form and return it and the money to the office before Monday 16^th March

 

          %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

 

 

 

Students Name: ………………………………………….

 

 

Class:…………………………………

0        Computer Skills                  $6.60            Wednesday 27^th May

 

0        Science                            $6.60            Wednesday 10^th June

 

0        Spelling                            $8.80            Tuesday 23^rd June

 

0        Writing                    $12.10          Tuesday 23^rd June

 

0        English                    $6.60            Tuesday 4^th August

 

0        Maths                               $6.60            Wednesday 19^th August

 

Please return to office with payment.  Thank you.

 

 

Dates for your diary

2009

Term 1

Week 2

Thurs 5^th Feb         Parent Information 3:30pm in 1/2 classroom

Sat 7^th Feb             Variety ‘Splash’ brekky 7:30am Wangi RSL

Week 3

Mon 9^th Feb          Parent Information 3:30pm in 5/6 classroom

Tues 10^th Feb        Swimming Carnival 2009 (8yrs up)

Wed 11^th Feb        Parent Information 9:00am in K/1 classroom

                                Parent Information 3:30pm in 4/5 classroom

Thurs 12^th Feb      Parent Information 3:30pm in 2/3 classroom

Week 4

Tues 17^th Feb        P&C Meeting 6:30pm in the staffroom – PLEASE come along!

Week 5

Mon 23^rd Feb        Young Leaders Day (School Captains  & Counsellors) in Sydney

Week 8

Tues 17^th March   P&C AGM

Wed 18^th March   School Photos

Week 9

Wed 25^th March   Interrelate (Year 6)

Fri 27^th March       Newcastle Show Holiday Day – no school

Week 11

Thurs 9^th April       Easter Hat Parade

PRINCIPALS REPORT:

Welcome to our first Newsletter for 2009! A very warm welcome back to all and especially to our new Kinders and new students! Kindergarten is extra spoilt this year with their Year 6 Buddies and their Year 1 class Buddies helping them settle happily into school life. Congratulations to our student leaders on a great effort.

 

Have you seen our colourful giant “Keys to Success”? They are on the wall near the flagpole, just outside the 5/6 classroom & Computer Lab. These remind us of the skills we need to ensure ‘we can do it’.

 

As you can see from the Diary Dates above Parent Information sessions have been planned and class teachers are sending home details. So look out for these please and try your best to attend. Parents wishing to see class teachers are welcomed but need to make an appointment with the teacher for a mutually suitable time. Please don’t hesitate to see us about any issue – we are here to support you and do our best for your child.

 

During the holidays our wonderful GA, Ross, painted a large section of the 5/6 classroom – it looks great and this room gives the seniors easy access to the computer lab.

 

Mrs Rayfield is continuing to revamp our library and it’s looking bigger and better than ever! Some new shelving is ordered to complete this facility, so stick your head in and have a look!

 

Classes always start the year revisiting school rules and this year is no different. Please remind your child “Be Safe” is our Number 1 Rule. Sticks & stones stay on the ground; we don’t run in classrooms or on the hard playground, especially with anything pointy in our hands or mouths etc. There will be consequences for unacceptable behaviour – this may be ‘time out’ on the seat, or it may be a referral to the ‘SAT’ room. ‘SAT’ stands for “Sort And Talk” and replaces DEN. Parents will receive a communications note if their child has had 3 referrals to the ‘SAT’ room.

 

Thank you to the families who have already paid for the “Go Maths” books we will be using in class programs this year. These cost $15.95 for Kinders and $25:90 for all other grades as they have an extra book. Please send in the correct money in a labelled envelope to the office as soon as you can.

 

This year we are introducing Sport as a K-6 session each Friday. This will give all our students opportunities to learn a variety of skills and be active & fit. It will also allow for adequate staff supervision. The K-2 students will be in a separate group from the 3-6 students.

Our weekly Assembly will continue each Friday at 12:15pm –parents & carers are welcome to attend. This year we will have a “Writer of the Week” from each class reading their piece of writing at assembly and we will publish their names in the newsletter under “WOW”.

 

The media has made a fuss about the NSW Teacher Federation Meeting this Friday, causing undue worry to many parents. This meeting will NOT affect our school in any way, as like most primary schools, we are sending one staff member to represent us. School as normal tomorrow! J

Students in Year 6 may be interested in information concerning Auditions to the Hunter School of Performing Arts for Year 7 2010. There are application forms available from the office if needed. – ask Mrs Scotchmer if in doubt.

 

Thanks to Candy Connors who is co-ordinating the brekky for the Variety Club’s ‘Splash’ this Saturday morning. Candy desperately needs some helpers, even for just a short while. Last year we helped with this fun event and our school was given 2 silver bench seats which are used every day, as well as a huge donation of toys so our P&C could raffle.

 

REMINDERS:

•  ‘Splash’ brekky fund raiser for more bench seats in the playground – to help please contact Candy Connors on 0418 419 583.
• School Captains for 2009  are Emily & James with  Counsellors Sienna, Anika, Laura & Bree!
• Parents /Carers are asked not to drive into the school grounds – please help us keep all our kids safe.

 

1. AN INTRODUCTION TO “NUTRITION SNIPPETS”

 

Our school supports healthy eating and active lifestyles for children and families in our community. Each week we will be dedicating a section of our newsletter to information on fruit and vegetables. This information is supplied by Cancer Council NSW as part of the Eat It To Beat It campaign, and Good For Kids, Good For Life. 

 

Why are Cancer Council and NSW Health providing this information?  The answer simply is to give parents/carers practical and useful ways to increase fruit and vegetables in their family’s diet. Why? Because people who eat more fruit and vegetables are less likely to be overweight and obese and they also significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer and other lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, high cholesterol and blood pressure.

 

As a parent/carer you probably want what is best for your children. You are also likely to be busy and may feel that there are not enough hours in the day to do everything the way you’d like!  Stay tuned…and we’ll provide you with easy, practical tips on recipes, lunch box ideas and strategies to deal with fussy eating over the coming weeks.

 

We want to make this as useful for you as possible so if you have any suggestions on what you’d like to see included, or interesting fruit and veg questions you’d like answered, please let us know by sending an email to eatittobeatit@nswcc.org.au

 

Watch this space for more great ideas and Eat It To Beat It!