I hope that you are all safe and warm during this crazy weather that we are experiencing and you are enjoying spending time with your young person. I am sure that our students and staff are keen to return to school on Monday ready for another great term.

With the high number of Covid-19 cases and winter illnesses on the increase, there is a chance that with the return of students and staff to school environments, illnesses can spread. This could put more pressure on our school and wider community if we do not re-introduce precautions. The Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health are strongly recommending that all schools bring back in the wearing of masks in all indoor settings for the start of Term 3, for at least the first 4 weeks.

We will start the term operating at our Titahi Bay Intermediate School Covid Response Stage One - Green. In order to keep our students, staff and community safe we would like to have our students and staff wear masks while indoors, where it will not have a significant impact on teaching and learning. Ventilation of indoor spaces will also be a key contributor to making our learning spaces safer.

There may be situations where mask wearing may not be practicable:

• while eating and drinking
  
• playing certain musical instruments
• playing indoor sport
• singing, drama, Kapa Haka, Siva and performances on stage
• PE
• those who are exempt from wearing masks (our TBI team are aware of these students and staff)

I would like to thank you all for your continued support and understanding with keeping our students, staff and community safe. With everyone keeping healthy whānau can continue on with life as 'normal' and not have to take time off work.

We are all looking forward to everyone returning on Monday equipped with their masks. We will have a limited supply of masks for students who are unable to bring one from home.

Once again, thank you for your understanding and support.

Regards

Dairne Kaimoana

PRINCIPAL