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MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL 28 January 2012

28 January 2012

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You can feel assured that the introduction of the new curriculum will not adversely affect your children’s education and that the progress and achievement of all students in Queensland state schools will continue to be our absolute priority.

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

Last Monday we had our Dedication Cermony that saw this special school memorial blessed by Keith Holland, the Salvation Army representative and our school Chaplain Antholny Pulford (Chappy) lead us in prayer. Thank you Kawana RSL!

G'day Parents and Caregivers,

Official Opening of the Mountain Creek Community Complex (MCCC)

On Wednesday 27th the MCCC (complex) was officially opened by Senator Claire Moore in front of our student body (all 1192 of them). We began the journey of planning the opening some months ago to ensure we had a strong student focus throughout the ceremony and this was delivered so confidently by our school leaders: Emily Baldry and Cameron Bateup (captains) and Eloise Pozzi and Callum Barnard (vice-captains). The theme of the opening celebration centred on the concept of a DREAM.

Mr McGowan had a Dream; he knew that if he dreamt enough, that he could have a complex that had never ever been seen in a Primary School setting. He had a Desire a Dream a Vision.

The opening centred around the song – “Over the Rainbow”, and students’ images were projected on our large automated screen, showing – our students’ DREAMS that had been captured in previous weeks across the school.

Then we began with a Photo Story of a Dream, conducted by Mrs Allen and her class. This really set the scene for our theme. Thanks to Quentin Bligh and Ben Tapau who presented the acknowledgement to country. Cassie Hiddle, a recent finalist in the search for the Milky Bar Kid and School Leader, Emily Baldry performed the National Anthem for us all so brilliantly.

Senator Moore, officially opened the “complex” and highlighted the significant efforts of the P&C committee and the Complex sub-committee, that had gone into making this complex such a wonderful success. She was most impressed with our inclusion of a Community Café (soon to be named). The Building the Education Revolution (BER) program is the single largest element of the Australian Government’s $42 billion Nation Building - Economic Stimulus Plan, with around 24 000 projects delivered in every community across Australia. The $16.2 billion BER program aims to modernise schools through the delivery of necessary infrastructure and by doing so, support local jobs and stimulate investment. She stated, “The BER is now in its most dynamic phase with construction underway in thousands of schools across the country. In many locations, students, teachers and their communities are already enjoying the benefits of recently completed projects delivering world-class, 21st century facilities.”

We showed our talents and gave the audience a sneak preview of our talented dancers (group A). Wow what a performance. I was most impressed and cannot wait to see the entire performance of “Kids in Space” on Friday and Saturday nights. (Some tickets still available on the night at the entrance!).

Mr Burow the foundation Principal entertained the students, staff and parents alike, will his memories of the school and how it has grown. I’d have to agree with him, “This is the BEST school in Qld.”

Then came the inspirational 7K and Prep S, who continued the dream theme. They gave a colourful presentation of ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’. Kermit the Frog’s rendition of Somewhere over the Rainbow inspired them. After all, “The poor person is not one who is without a cent, but one who is without a dream.”(Harry Kemp)

Mrs Brooker our P&C President, further acknowledged the fine work, that steering groups had undertaken to produce the MCCC. She also acknowledged the resource a wonderful platform to build on cultural and sporting abilities for our students and community.

“All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.” (Walt Disney)

Mr McGowan was then invited to the stage by Mr Baggs. Mr McGowan had worked 100’s of hours behind the scenes to get the BEST possible resource for this school. He even took holidays to work on this project so his dream became a REALITY.

We owe Mr McGowan a warm and heart felt, THANK YOU, for his passion and commitment. Students all stood, and gave him a rousing applause. Emily presented Mr McGowan with some balloons and he lead the VIP guests form the venue, followed by our early years students. We then let off the balloons as a symbol of a Dream accomplished! Go and reach others – Remember Dream on Dream on.

Thank you to all staff that assisted to make this a most memorable day, I thank all of you so very much. Special thanks to Coordinators: Helen Denning and Di Hurst, Technology support: Deb O’Malley, Grounds staff: Greg Topping, Frank Catorall and Ross Helmore, and Catering lead by Judi Barrkman. Teachers and support staff, thank you for all your efforts that make our school a great school. And finally – students in the program and in the audience, you were superb!

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

My aim is to work together to improve the quality of

the educational experience for all students in a

“Caring and Sharing” learning environment.

My Belief: It’s our TEACHERS that make the

Difference!

G’day Parents and Caregivers

Parent Teacher Interviews: Our Partnership with you!

Interviews will be offered early this term, as an “OPTION for parents”. This is not a mandated process for parents, but a process that gives teachers and parents an opportunity, on a “needs basis” to meet and unpack the report card further, if required.

The July – Reporting to Parents is an opportunity for Teachers to clarify any issues with the current report card issued at the end of Term 2– “Unpacking the Report Card”

Parent Teacher Interviews

Reporting to parents/caregivers is designed to inform you of your child’s progress. Your child’s teacher gathers information via teacher observations, work samples, tests, check lists, anecdotal records, discussions, etc.

Parents/caregivers are informed of such progress with a formal report at the end of each semester.

The major Purpose of this phase of Parent Teacher Interviews is to:

Clarify “Report Card” results and comments and determine ways to improve

Celebrate the learners results

Set new directions for learning

Allow teachers and parents to discuss the achievements in a partnership

This will enable both Parents and Teachers to set new goals and design expectations for future growth in learning.

The Parent Reporting in March (Understanding the Learner)

had a much different Purpose

It was designed to:

Meet with parent/s/caregivers about concerns before A-E /VH-SR report cards

Encourages parent teacher cooperation and build confidence

Could allow for students to be actively involved

Gather important information about the child i.e. family background etc…

Opportunity to help students set positive goals

Parents and teachers will always have the opportunity to meet to discuss student progress, throughout the year, at Mountain Creek State School.

We value your partnership!

Welcome to our New York Student Teachers

With all of the NY students returning safe and well, last Friday, from their two week Tropical Coast/Outback Trip, and with your four student teachers now commencing duty at MCSS for the next nine weeks (Monday 11 July to Friday 9 September), I would like to welcome the following Student Teachers to Mountain Creek State.

Student Teacher: Heather Schowe Yr.2 ( SUNY Cortland)

Teacher: Leiza Henricks and Angela Baggley

Student Teacher: Melanie Kenny Yr.3 ( SUNY New Paltz)

Teacher: Kylie Walker and Louise Eaglesham

Student Teacher: Kelsey Butz Yr.3 (SUNY Potsdam)

Teacher: Dee Scott and Janis Staatz

Student Teacher: Katilyn Boehm Yr.5 (SUNY Cortland)

Teacher: Jenny Helmore

Welcome to our Taiwanese Students

As Host school for this exciting immersion program, we will be providing learning experiences for these students for 19 days.

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is - The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

G’day Parents and Caregivers,

Mountain Creek’s Community Complex – “The Hall”.

Last week the greatest resource ever in the history of the school, was handed over to Mountain Creek Primary Campus– with an approximate value of $4 million.

The visionary designed multipurpose complex will be capable of seating over 700 people for performances. We now have a performing arts focus complete with stage, dressing room and the highest of quality sound and lighting systems ever envisioned in a primary school. A sprung floor will also allow the complex to be used for a range of diverse sporting activities such as dance, karate, gymnastics, basketball etc. (A Physical Education teachers dream!!)

Building the Education Revolution program (BER)

Queensland state school's are building a brighter future for hundreds of students under the $16.2 billion Building the Education Revolution (BER) program, with multi-million dollar project facilities to enhance and develop the young minds of our future generations.

The effect of BER in our school has been enormous from teachers, staff, and community groups who are ecstatic with the results and long term opportunities for our students.

The BER Project has allowed our school to establish a much stronger visual presence in the community, while providing the school's 1187 students with contemporary educational resources. It provides us with a venue for indoor sports and other school events, many which previously had to be held off site, such as the annual Graduation, School Musicals and Community Events.

We have a state of the art – Complex boasting:

·         Australian standard indoor basketball court, complete with sprung floor, for extra performance. Electric scoring and retractable goals for multi-purpose usage. Enough floor space for a Whole School Assembly – all 1187 of us from P-7.

·         Performance stage complex, complete with the highest quality sound and lighting. Green room to prepare performers for the extensive stage. A performers dream!

·         Two break-out rooms equipped with the latest technology for teacher Professional Development, Community Programs and student designed work areas.

·         Still to come: a major extension to back of the complex (oval side), comprising an extensive covered deck for outdoor performances and programs.

We have invited community groups to send in expressions of interest for the hiring of our facilities, outside of school hours, including weekends. Each contract with the school will be on a trial basis for 6 months, then, we will commit to long term partnerships.

Official Opening will be on 27th July 9:00 - 10:00 comprising a Whole School Assembly, to highlight the importance of this magnificent resource.

Thank you BER!

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Mountain Creek Standards

Staff Changes Term 3

Brendan Wessely, Deputy Principal has been successful in taking up a position as Principal in the Northern Territory from Term 3. Brendan has accepted a 3 year contract. He has been an outstanding administrator, and will be greatly missed by Mountain Creek Staff, Students and Community. I wish him as his family the very best and know that he will deliver excellent leadership to his new school community! We’ll miss you Brendan! Mr Trevor Durbidge will take up the position as acting Deputy Principal for Semester 2, 2011.

Nicole Sandman has been successful in taking up a position at an international school and will no longer be employed by Education Queensland. Nicole has contributed greatly to the Arts Programs at our school. Her final touch will be ensuring our school musical is a wonderful success, thank you Nicky for all your efforts.

Michelle Bradford Jones (Nicole Sandman)

Sue Watson (Bruce Taylor – first 4 weeks), Jill Lonergan (Sue Watson), Michelle Coventon (Jill Lonergan)

Louise Jaeger (Melinda Schulze)

Justine Ensor (Neil Harvey )

Tori Sanders (Robb Michaels)

Mandy Traves ( Theresa Fahey 0.2 Fridays only)

Craig Wockner (John Hood)

Linda Shackelford (Robyn Fredericks)

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

3 June 2011
G'day Parents and Caregivers,
Uniforms look fantastic - Great work mums and dads! All students should be in full school uniform each and every day. We take pride in our colours and our school, Please LIMIT all jewellery, to a watch, sleepers or studs (earrings) and a signet ring ONLY. No other jewellery should be worn to school. Please ensure items like necklaces, bracelets, other earrings, finger nail polish are removed before school. We value your support in ensuring we have high but reasonable standards. As the cold weather is fast approaching, please don’t be caught out – “out of school uniform”. Please note that our school – uniform pass, is issued to students that are not wearing the correct uniform. This is a one off pass, due to a mishap at home and is temporary.

Implementing Curriculum Differentiation: “Meeting the needs of all learners”.

After taking on the role of Principal, I have had the pleasure, to visit each and every classroom from Prep -7 (47 classes). I believe it is important for me, as lead learner of the school to be highly visible in classrooms, as are our Deputy Principals.

A great educationalist, Dr. William Glasser, states ‘Almost everyone in our society shows a huge misconception about teaching. By everyone I mean the general public, but also parents, politicians, reporters and even university lecturers. What almost all fail to understand is that being an effective teacher may be the most difficult job of all in our ‘society’.

He defines effective teaching as being able to convince not half or three quarters, but essentially all of the students to do quality work at their level in the classroom. To work at their capacity. Teachers who can consistently persuade almost all students to do ‘quality’ work are, without doubt, succeeding at the hardest job there is.

At Mountain Creek State School we pride ourselves on succeeding at the hardest job there is, and this is largely due to our quality teaching staff. They are special people, who share and care with your child every day and therefore – learn together.

Reading (The Key to Learning Success)

The importance of reading to children cannot be over emphasized. It is also a great way to focus on the family.  Every family out there, wants the very best for their child, WELL, the importance of reading to children and its role in child development, is the key to future success. Every child deserves to have a good book read to them.  Every child deserves to have good books he or she can call their very own, stored on their very own book shelf where they can pull them out and "read" them any time they want. The importance of reading to children is significant in child development, and reading books to little ones at an early age is essential.   In fact, reading children’s stories aloud is one of the most important activities we, as parents, grandparents, teachers, and care-givers, can do for our kids.   The importance of reading to children plays out in a myraid of developmental, emotional, and learning issues from bonding and security . . . to learning to read . . . for future success. If you already read to your baby, toddler, Prep child, or school-aged child daily . . . BRAVO to you!   You understand the importance of reading to children.

Early Reading Tips for Parents

Before reading with your child:

Talk about the book with your child before they read it.

1.      Look for clues and predict – Look at the pictures on the cover and the title. Ask: “What do you think this book will be about?” “Who do you think the characters will be?”

2.      Picture Flick – Go through the book page by page. Talk about the pictures and the words or ideas that might be in the book.

a.      Point out a couple of words that may be difficult. Ask: “How will you remember these?”

b.      Practice a couple of phrases that may not be something they have heard before. For example, “Where, or where is teddy bear?” Usually these tricky phrases are written in book language and not how people speak in general conversation.

Now your child is ready to read the book.

READING WITH YOUR CHILD

Remember: reading is all about getting the meaning from the print.

Praise: all efforts in lone reading, especially if confidence is low.

Remind: them “reading should sound like talking”. The correct term is fluent reading. Model this by reading them a sentence and having them copy you.

When your child gets to an unknown word, give your child time to work it out. Five to ten seconds is reasonable. Then encourage your child to use one of the strategies listed below: They are promoted and taught in our classrooms at Kelso.

Please remember- “sounding out” is not a strategy to be encouraged, as many words cannot be sounded out.

1.      Say it slowly and think what will make sense, sound right and match the letter it starts with.

2.      Look at the first letter and try to make a guess that matches.

3.      Look at the picture clues.

4.      Look for parts of the word you know.

5.      Re-read and get your mouth ready to say that sound.

After Reading

After Reading talk about the book. Ask the following questions:

1.      Did you enjoy the book? Why?/Why not?

2.      Who were he characters? Which one was your favourite? Why?

Describe this character.

3.      Re-read your favourite page for me.

4.      Could you think of a different ending?

5.      Did you come across any tricky words? Can you find them again?

6.      Are there any words you did know the meaning of?

7.      Can you retell what happened in the story?

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

My aim is to work together to improve the quality of the educational experience for all students in a “Caring and Sharing’ learning environment. Extensive foyer with purpose build cafe. Cafe manager to be appointed this week. Cafe will  be open to the Public from Term 3.

My Belief: It’s our TEACHERS that make the difference.

G’day Parents and Caregivers

Students in Yrs 3, 5 and 7 sat NAPLAN tests last week on Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday, with catch ups for those whose were absent on Friday. Our teachers have prepared our students to ensure that they could perform, to the best of their ability. The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is an annual national assessment for all students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9. All students in these year levels are expected to participate in tests in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy. All government and non-government education authorities have contributed to the development of NAPLAN materials.

NAPLAN is the measure through which governments, education authorities, schools, teachers and parents can determine whether or not young Australians are meeting important educational outcomes in literacy and numeracy. The tests provide parents and schools with an understanding of how individual students are performing at the time of the tests. They also provide schools, states and territories with information about how education programs are working and which areas need to be prioritised for improvement.

NAPLAN tests are one aspect of the school’s assessment and reporting process, and do not replace the extensive, ongoing assessments made by teachers about each student’s performance.

NAPLAN tests the sorts of skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life, such as reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy. The content of each test is informed by the National Statements of Learning for English and mathematics which underpin state and territory learning frameworks. Questions are multiple-choice or require a short written response. The Writing task requires students to write a persuasive text.

NAPLAN is not a pass or fail type test. Individual student performance is shown on a national achievement scale for each test. Each test scale has ten bands and all year levels are reported on the same scale. Six bands are reported for each year level for each test. One of these bands will represent the national minimum standard for students at each year level. A result at the national minimum standard indicates that the student demonstrated the basic literacy and numeracy skills needed to participate fully in that year level. The performance of individual students can be compared to the average performance of all students in Australia.

We look forward to individual student and overall school results next semester.

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

This year ANZAC Day fell during the School holidays, (the 2nd last day of the School holidays.) Our school provides a significant role and presence in the Community ANZAC Day service. We really would like to acknowledge the Student Council for the ANZAC Day Assembly (held at school prior to the holidays), largely supported by Mrs McCann – thank you!

It was moving to see our Creekers turn up for the Maroochydore RSL march at Cotton Tree, to really show our Caring attitude towards the men and women that made a significant difference to the lives of all Australians.

Australians recognise 25 April as an occasion of national remembrance, which takes two forms. Commemorative services are held at dawn – the time of the original landing – across the nation. Later in the day, ex-servicemen and women meet to take part in marches through the major cities and in many smaller centres. Commemorative ceremonies are more formal and are held at war memorials around the country. In these ways, ANZAC Day is a time when Australians reflect on the many different meanings of war.

Although the Gallipoli campaign failed in its military objectives, the Australian and New Zealand actions during the campaign left us all a powerful legacy. The creation of what became known as the “ANZAC legend” became an important part of the identity of both nations.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

Our school leaders participated in a special school wreath laying ceremony conducted at Cotton Tree. Thanks for the pride and the commitment kids.

Thank you to all the “Creekers” – students, teachers, parents and friends!

A Poem to Ponder over...

After The Service

Jeff Cook has written this poem as a tribute to the fallen and the returned. For many years Jeff has recited at least one of his poems at the ANZAC Day Commemoration Service at his home town of Minlaton in South Australia

I saw a man parade today, in uniform complete,
His hat cocked neatly on his head, clean boots upon his feet,
His buttons highly polished, and his belt was shiny too,
His head held high, his shoulders back, like I once used to do.

The pride in him was evident in every move he made,
The smile and twinkle in his eye, that time would never fade,
So young and fit and confident, with his gun upon his shoulder,
And I prayed that he would never see his mates with him grow older.

For if I could alter history the wars would not have been,
No-one should ever have to face the horrors I have seen,
In the stinking, sweaty jungles, with the bullets and the bombs,
And the fever and the insects, in a world so full of wrongs.

I saw fighting in the deserts too, in blinding, searing heat,
Saw men go mad with thirst, or fear, or not a thing to eat,
I saw injuries and damages that no-one could believe,
And saw months of non-stop "action" without a day of leave...

(Next 3 stanzas left out)

Then no-one would be hurt next time, no mates or cobbers fall,
And everyone would understand the futility of it all,
Now I pray that that young man I saw will be just a sentinel,
And I pray that I’m a dying group, - for I am the R.S.L.

Jeff Cook

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel Baggs

Message from The Principal

My aim is to work together to improve the quality of the educational experience for all students in a “Caring and Sharing’ learning environment.

Thank you for a Great Term 1

All schools are engaging in the School Improvement Agenda!

All schools in Queensland have undergone a Curriculum Audit and are given explicit ratings across 8 Key Indicators. At Mountain Creek State School we ranked “High” on all 8 indicators. However, the process now allows us to reflect and to strive for continued improvement. Even though we scored “highly”, we will now extend and refine our efforts to – “continue to improve” even further, as there is no end point. We as a school will place a high priority on school-wide student achievement data, that is: NAPLAN

In 2008, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) commenced in Australian schools. Every year, all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are assessed on the same days using national tests in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation) and Numeracy.

The NAPLAN tests for 2011 will be held on Tuesday 10, Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12 May

NAPLAN results are reported using five scales, one for each of the following: Reading, Writing, Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation, and Numeracy. These reporting scales apply to each of Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 and are accompanied by descriptions of the skills and understandings typical of students at various proficiency levels along each scale.

Each of the five NAPLAN reporting scales measures student achievement from Year 3 through to Year 9.

The use of a common scale that spans Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 allows both the status of, and growth in, student achievement to be monitored and reported across the years of schooling from Year 3 to Year 9. The reporting scales are divided into ten bands to cover the full range of student achievement observed in the tests, mapping the increasing complexity of the skills assessed by NAPLAN.

Six of these bands are utilised for reporting student performance at each year level:

· Year 3 reports show Bands 1 to 6;

· Year 5 reports show Bands 3 to 8;

· Year 7 reports show Bands 4 to 9;

· Year 9 reports show Bands 5 to 10.

For each year level and for each domain in literacy and numeracy the National Minimum Standard is defined and located on the common underlying scale. For Year 3, Band 2 is the National Minimum Standard, for Year 5, Band 4 is the National Minimum Standard, for Year 7, Band 5 is the National Minimum Standard and for Year 9, Band 6 is the National Minimum Standard. Students with results in the band representing the National Minimum Standard have typically demonstrated the basic elements of reading, language conventions, writing and numeracy for that year level.

In addition to National Testing, next year we will begin the National Curriculum – now named the Australian Curriculum beginning with English, mathematics and science from Prep (Foundation)- Year 10, in 2012. It makes sense to have one curriculum across Australia. This means that all young Australians will be taught the same concepts at the same time as they progress through schooling. Our teachers will continue to be exposed to the Australian Curriculum next term as be build a thorough understanding of content for the 2012 new Australian Curriculum.

Teaching is one of those occupations which is referred to as a “caring profession.” I couldn’t help but be reminded of this as I walk into our 47 classrooms and see our teachers in action, - connecting with kids and stimulating quality learning. It’s our staff, that really care, for kids and get on with the unforseen complexities of the teaching profession.

Again I thank all staff at Mountain Creek State School for their commitment and dedication to the kids in their care. Have a safe holiday!

And remember the single, “most important factor” in developing a child’s passion for learning is -The Teacher!

Yours in Education

Noel

28 March 2011

I would like to take this opportunity to briefly introduce myself to the community and to tell you how excited I am, to be Principal at Mountain Creek State School. As Deputy Principal, since 2000, I have seen our school develop into a first class learning organisation.

I believe that the primary years of schooling are essential in the development of life long learning skills and we are committed to providing quality education by ensuring that all students are engaged in learning through contemporary, challenging and relevant programs.

We boast committed teachers (thank-you), innovative programs, quality facilities and strong community partnerships. As educators we need to provide modern education with traditional values.

As caring partners, (We) the Mountain Creek staff, students, and parents work together to create a loving, challenging and stimulating environment which nurtures the joy of learning. Children only learn in a positive and safe environment where we feel supported, respected and valued.

I believe ALL students are capable of learning. We learn when expectations are clear, challenging and attainable. Honest and sincere feedback is used to set learning goals and measure success. We learn from positive role models who are supportive, enthusiastic and passionate about living and learning.

I look forward to the challenges that lay ahead as we, together, continue to work towards making this a great place for learning and a place for friendships to grow.

Vision

As Principal, my role will be to develop “cultural leadership”, as I create and sustain a culture of excellence. ‘Sergiovanni’s’ concept of “leadership density” is an apt descriptor of my style, as the leadership triangle is exchanged for the circle; a top-down style is exchanged for a moral community built upon shared purposes and beliefs.

Yours in Education

Noel

10 th March 2011

Dear Staff, Parents and Caregivers,

I have six days to go before taking some leave and starting my new adventure as a Teaching and Learning Auditor with the Office of School Improvement. Walking around the school and receiving hugs from kids and well wishes from parents and staff makes me acutely aware of what I will be missing until my return to Mountain Creek next year.

I was hoping to be able to tell you who is taking my place while I am away in this newsletter, but a delay with the selection process means that I will need to send you a note next week. Please look after our wonderful school while I am gone. I hope to be back for a few special events during the year like the opening of our new Community Centre and the year 7 Graduation.

Please find below some more information and some links to questions about our new Kindergarten, which is to be constructed this year and be open in time for its first enrolments in 2012.

New C&K kindy coming soon

In partnership with the Queensland Government, a new C&K kindergarten has been announced for Mountain Creek State School to open in Term 1, 2012. The new service is part of the Queensland Government’s plan to provide all children with access to a kindergarten program by 2014. C&K are pleased to be the preferred kindergarten provider for services co-located with state schools.

C&K is one of Australia’s strongest and most established providers of community based early childhood education and care services. The kindergarten’s co-location with Mountain Creek State School will help children with a smoother transition to prep as they will be familiar with the school environment. The location also offers added convenience for families with older children attending the school.

For more information and to place your child on the waiting list, contact C&K on email , phone 1800 177 092 or visit www.candk.asn.au This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

For the answers to frequently asked questions about kindy programs visit the following link (click here).

Take care everyone.

Glenn.

INVESTITURE OF SCHOOL LEADERS

10 MARCH 2011

24 th February 2011

Dear Staff, Parents and Caregivers,

Last week I had the pleasure of spending two days with our year seven teachers and students at the Tallebudgera School Camp. It was inspiring and motivating to see two things. Firstly the dedication, commitment and compassion of our teachers who gave up a week of family time to make our leadership camp an everlasting positive memory for our school leaders, the year sevens. It was the same professionalism that permeates every classroom in our school and allows us as one of the biggest primary schools in the state to have such a smooth start to the year. Thank you so much to all our teachers for your efforts, they are greatly appreciated.

The second thing I noticed is the quality of our students, your children. One of the things most parents want for their children is to have great friends and role models around them. Some parents attempt to buy this through expensive private school fees but I can honestly say the behaviour of our students was second to none. It certainly made the selection of our school leaders a very hard task. I would like to thank Noel Baggs our year 6 and 7 sector leader for running such a fair and robust process to select our leaders.

Our School Captains for 2011 are:

Emily and Cameron School Captains and

Eloise and Callum School Vice Captains.

Congratulations to the following students:

Emily, Callum, Cameron, Matthew, Indiah, Bryn, Eloise, Lily and Jade on your success in being short-listed and doing such a great job in presenting themselves to staff and students as part of the selection process.

On another note we were thrilled to hear the Ministerial announcement that Mountain Creek State School is to receive a Kindergarten. Officers from Facilities Branch in Brisbane have already been out to view potential sites. The building will be completed by the end of November in readiness for its first two groups in 2012.

The program will be run through a joint partnership with C & K and our department. It will provide a single unit centre with a dedicated play area and car parking. At this stage one of the potential sites for our kindergarten is on the edge of our forest adjacent to the Kanjini Centre. If this was to occur we would need a full feasibility study through the Environmental Protection Authority and the building would need to be placed in such a way to ensure that the integrity of the rest of the forest was not compromised. There will be a discussion of this issue at our next P&C meeting.

Thank you for your ongoing interest and support in our school.

Warm Regards,

Glenn

More Articles...

10 February 2011

Mountain Creek State School

Caring, Sharing and Learning Together

Official Opening of the Mountain Creek Community Complex (MCCC)

My Belief: It’s our TEACHERS that make the difference.