Week 9, Term 3
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Wow! It has been an exciting week with all the learning taking place under the concept of Whanaungatanga and celebrating Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori. Māori Language Week has been celebrated each year from 1975 on September 14 and commemorates the presentation of the 1972 Māori language petition to parliament.
The chosen theme for 2020 is 'Kia Kaha te Reo Māori’. ‘Kia Kaha’ is well understood in New Zealand English with its meaning of ‘be strong’. We often talk about languages as if they are people – talking about language health, strength, and revitalisation. So when we say ‘Kia Kaha te Reo Māori’ we’re saying - ‘Let’s make the Māori language strong'.
Te reo Maori is a taonga of Māori, guaranteed under the Treaty of Waitangi. But the Māori Language Act 2016 also makes clear it is for every New Zealander and a valued part of our national identity.
We are looking forward to celebrating diversity today by dressing up in something that represents our culture!
Other Developments
I think many of our Titirangi learners have been inspired over the last few weeks or so with all the amazing machinery that has been on site to enhance our school environment. It has generated much excitement. A very popular window spot in the office has become a place of intense observation as the construction workers install the fire escape piece by piece. The astroturf on the school field is on schedule for the school holidays, and all the drainage is now in place. The field will need some time to recover but we are all looking forward to using the astroturf in Term 4. The junior school playground just looks fabulous, it fits perfectly with our school environment and the children just love it. We have rostered the whole school through the playground this week so everyone has had an opportunity to have a turn. Over the school holidays refurbishment will start in the office area. The reception area should be fully functional at the start of Term 4 but Brigette Helwes, Jacqui Stenson, and I will be based in Room 12...pictures to come!
School Values and Learner Profile
In consultation with the Board, teaching staff and students we have been reviewing the school values and learner profile. In term 4 I would like to share the progress that has been made and seek feedback from the community through a survey and focus groups as we would love to hear your thoughts too. I was hoping to have this underway this term but plans are constantly changing and adapting...so watch this space!
Teacher Only Day 2020
Term 3 ends on Friday 25 September. School holidays are from Saturday 26 September to Sunday 11 October. Titirangi Primary School will be closed on:
Friday 23 October – Teacher Only Day – School Closed
I would like to say a huge thank you to our school community, this term has been challenging for everyone, the positivity and support you have shown has been deeply appreciated by all the staff. The resilience, engagement I see around the school from our children is a testament to you all.
Kia pai tō wiki mutunga | Have a nice weekend
Ngā mihi
Julie