Distance learning will kick into gear for any classrooms that have to go into self-isolation. Teachers will communicate directly with you in this instance.

Kia ora parents, caregivers, and extended whanau

That was a solid blast of wind over the weekend. As mentioned last week, my planned hike over Tongariro was officially called off. So I had the privilege of captaining our senior golf team who played Waiuku in the Auckland pennants championships on Sunday. Due to my planned hike unavailability, I had supporting duties. Offering pep talks and refreshments - all the while our men battled the extreme wind- I had a bizarre feeling that I was in a movie. My golf cart nearly went over in a rogue gust of wind. Our team battled to a 4 all draw with Waiuku's senior team. So that was definitely the highlight of my weekend.

I HAVE AN IDEA AND I NEED YOUR HELP!

I have been doing some research from education expert Dr. Steve Constantino in the hope of finding more ideas to help CONNECT and SHIFT. Dr. Constantino has a theory called 'invisible engagement' and it is all to do with parents getting on board with learning at home. I have worked with staff around finding a practical and simple way to get the ball rolling. So next week, you will receive a very simple and clever idea that you can use with your child that will help with the SHIFT. I do not want to tell you what it is in this newsletter, as the kids may figure it out. But it will be once a week, everyweek, and can be done in addition to your child's normal homework programme. Please try it. You will know what it is when you get it from your child's teacher. If you can afford the time please flick the teacher some feedback once you do it, or I may simply ask you about it at the gate. I am very interested to see how it goes.

Reading at home parent workshops have been taking place this week. Thank you firstly, to Abi Jamieson, Tanya Jarkiewicz, Sarah O'Flaherty, and Louise Tupai for running these for our Room's 1, 2 and 3 parents, and thank you to the parents who turned up. They will no doubt provide value when it comes to getting our little ones moving with their reading. For those that were unable to make it, presentation notes and tips will be sent home.

We have loved connecting with our tamariki at the gate in the mornings. A number of children who were understandably timid on the first few days, are happily strolling in and greeting Ms Phillips, Ms Tupai or myself. One particular 5 year old boy routinely refers to me as 'Boss'. One of the many reasons why I love my job.

Noho ora mai

Mr Tawhiti and the Patumahoe School team

Casual Vacancy for a Parent Representative

A casual vacancy has occurred on the school board for an elected parent respresentative.

The board has decided to fill the vacancy by selection.

If 10% or more of eligible voters on the school roll ask the board, within 28 days of this notice being published, to hold a by-election to fill the vacancy, then a by-election will be held.

Request for a by-election should be sent to:

Chairperson

Mike Greig

Patumahoe School Board

38 Patumahoe Road, RD 4,

Pukekohe 2679

or C/- admin@patumahoe.school.nz

By 16th March 2022

• 14th-18th March - Kotahitanga Meetings
• 22nd March - BOT Meeting - 5.30pm
• 28th March - Class, student leader, netball photos
• 12th April - BOT Meeting - 5.30pm
• 14th April - Last day Term 1
• 02nd May - First day Term 2