Dear mums, dads, carers and colleagues

I am amazed at how successful our children and school has been across the past fortnight.  A scan through the Sensations Students section of this issue will show you how well many kids are impressing their teachers and how many of them are already looking at being an future elite sportsman or woman. 

We competed at the Kokoda Challenge last Saturday evening and the results were incredible.  One of our teams was the first primary school to finish the 18km challenge and their time was mightily impressive as well.  Congratulations to all of the runners and I extend my sincere thanks to the staff who assisted at the event or at the training sessions.

Thank you to all of the staff who set up or led the parent-teacher interviews this week.  It is always a huge logistic challenge and this year was very smooth once again.

Congratulations to the school's sustainability team on winning a grant to assist them with paper recycling.  The $500 from Michael Crandon - Member for Coomera, was very graciously received by our environmental warriors this week.

COVID

Our COVID and Influenza cases are continuing to rise at school with staff and students affected.  I hope that everyone is doing all they can to remain well and healthy during this time.

The Department contacted me this week to discuss the wearing of masks at school. The Premier has encouraged all people, including school staff and students, to wear a face mask indoors, except where they can physically distance.  This is the choice of the individual though.  And at school we will support anyone who wishes to do so.  

Those who wish to wear a mask need to provide their own - but we have a small supply that can be used in emergency if necessary.  Please also remember that requirements remain in place for wearing a face mask for seven days:

• after having COVID-19, or
• when considered a close contact.

Additionally, there are ongoing public health requirements to wear a face mask when travelling on public transport.         

RATs

If students or staff become unwell at school and show symptoms of COVID, we will offer to provide them a free RAT to take home.  

COVID-safe practices

As we have been doing throughout the pandemic, key safety measures remain in place across all schools. These include staying 1.5 m away from other people whenever possible, practising good hygiene such as always washing hands with soap and water (including before and after eating and going to the toilet), and reminding everyone to stay home when sick.

Dental News

The dental van has left Coomera Rivers and is now located at Picnic Creek school. If your child missed having a check up for free while we were at the school you can still attend at the new location. The service is available for full check ups and treatment or emergency appointments anytime through the year including during the school holidays. Phone 1300 300 850 for bookings.  All children from 4 years of age through to their last day of Year 10 are eligible.  All consultations are free, even if you don't get the Child Dental Benefits Scheme money. So keep brushing twice daily and limit sugar frequency to keep your beautiful smile.

Kind regards

Vic