29th September 2021,

Kia ora, Talofa, Kia orana,

Greetings Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers,

Hard to believe that we are again at the end of yet another school term. This has been a long and hard one for many, including staff, students and families. I hope you all have a well deserved break.

Please keep an eye out over the next few days for a School Board of Trustees newsletter.

It’s with a deal of sadness and excitement that I announce three staff resignations. The first is that of Alisa Schilder who has this year been on maternity leave and was due to return for the 2022 school year. Alisa and her husband have decided that they would like to be able to devote more time to their little girl over the coming one to two years, therefore will not be returning as planned. Alisa will be missed by her colleagues, and, the many students and families that she worked with during her years at West Park School. Alisa during her time here became involved in a range of activities and initiatives, always giving her best, and touching many lives. We wish her and her family the very best for the coming years.

For the past three years, staff and I have had the privilege of working with Jasmaine Martin and Jennifer Carey. They arrived together as part of a fresh breath of air to the school, and sadly the end of this year will see them both also leaving together.

This has been a really hard decision for Jen, as this school and many of its’ staff have become not only respected professional colleagues, but also family to her. Some of you may already know that last year’s lockdown stopped Jen from venturing out of education into other areas of interest. Through this year’s lockdown Jen reached a greater level of clarity regarding her career and the coming years. Her aspirations and plan in brief, have her studying full-time to be a child and adolescent counsellor in 2023, but first plans to spend a year working in an Intermediate school to better understand the possible needs of adolescents. Her positivity, enthusiasm and professionalism will be missed by everyone in our school community.

As it was for Jen, this was also a very difficult decision for Jasmaine Martin. After three years of showing staff and the community many of the wonderful things that a teacher can do for students when they give unconditionally, she also has reached a turning point in her career, now looking to become involved in the special needs sector. Her can do attitude, sense of fun, and amazing levels of energy are also going to be missed by many students, staff and the community. Jasmaine during her time at West Park School has taken every opportunity possible to lead, try new things and develop as a teacher. Her nature and determination will serve her extremely well in whatever position, and in whatever sector she ends up working in.

I wish Jen and Jasmaine (The dynamic-duo) the very best in wherever life takes them. It has been nothing less than an absolute honour working beside them and seeing them both grow and give so much of themselves to the school and your children.

Next year we will be welcoming Kate Collins who has been appointed permanently to one of the current vacancies. Kate Collins has four years’ experience, having taught in New Zealand and Australia. Kate’s references and achievements to date were exceptional. She has taught primarily years 1-3 and held roles such as Junior School coordinator, School Professional Learning Communities Leader, School Improvement Team Leader, and many more. Very much data and evidence based driven in practice, her referees spoke of a lovely natured person with a huge heart for kids and the teaching profession.

I will announce further appointments to the above 2022 vacancies as appointments are made.

A reminder that sunhats are compulsory during term 4. Children are expected to have a wide brimmed hat or a hat that provides cover to the ears and neck. Please note that visors and caps are not acceptable forms of sun protection. We would also like to encourage parents to consider providing their child with SPF30+ sunscreen and long sleeve items as additional protection for their skin.

Have a great weekend and upcoming school break.

Luis Echegaray

Principal

Check out Hannah from Room 9's amazing persuasive writing about why zoos are good places for animals to be. Very persuasive and well thought out!

West Park Athletics Days

Seniors (Years 4-6) - Friday 22nd October (postponement date will be Friday 29th October)

(The Northern Zone Competition (years 4-6) will be on Monday the 15th November (postponement date will be 22 November) for those who qualify.

Junior (Years 1-3) - Friday 19th November (postponement date will be Friday 26 November)

The school photos are due to arrive at school in the first week of Term 4. We will get these dispatched to families as soon as we can.

Friday, 1 October - Last day of Term 3

Monday, 18 October - First day of Term 4

Friday, 22 October - Years 4-6 Athletics Day

Monday, 25 October - Labour Day (School closed)

Friday, 29 October - PP date: Years 4-6 Athletics Day

Monday, 15 November - BoT meeting @ 6.15pm in ooms 14/15

Wednesday, 1 December - Year 5/6 Camp

Monday, 13 December - BoT meeting @ 6.15pm in Rooms 14/15

Friday, 17 December - Last Day of term 4 – finish 12.45pm