Edition 38

Principal's Message

Everleigh State School P&C Association

On Monday night, the Annual General Meeting for Everleigh State School’s P&C Association was held and our 2024 Executive Team was elected.  I would like to extend a warm welcome or return to our 2024 P&C Executive:

President: Mr Ben Hawkins

Vice President: Mr Adam Welsh

Secretary: Mrs Amanda Weir

Treasurer: Mr Russell Watt

I would like to extend a HUGE thank to our outgoing President Mr Adam Welsh and Secretary Ms Natalie Collins for their tireless commitment to our school community in 2023.

In 2023, our P&C, with the support of our school community raised over $30,000! This a massive achievement!

Our beautiful Sports Houses gazebos used for the first time today at our Cross Country are proudly donated by our P&C. Thank you! Photos will be shared after today.

It was lovely to see returning faces and some new faces attend our meeting. I look forward to working with our P&C Executive and wider P&C members to continue making our school greater than it is.

Monitoring and assessing the learning in our classrooms

Over the last couple of weeks, I have had the pleasure of visiting all of our classroom to witness the fantastic teaching and learning happening, particularly in English.

At Everleigh State School, it is an expectation that all classrooms have Learning and Bump It Up Walls to make learning visible and assist students to understand what they are learning and evaluate how well they are going with their learning.

To assist in gauging whether our students know what they are learning, how well they are learning, and how they can improve, we ask Five (5) important questions.

1. What are you learning and why?
2. How are you going with your learning?
3. How do you know?
4. How can you improve?
5. Where can you go for help?

I encourage you to ask the child the Learning Questions below.

Parent/Carer afternoon waiting areas

On Thursday of last week, I stood outside of our Prep classrooms to remind parents/carers of the expectations of remaining in the waiting area until 2.30 pm.  This includes not collecting children’s bags before 2.30 pm. Part of starting school is developing accountability and responsibility for children to learn to unpack and pack their bags and take ownership of their belongings. 

While waiting outside of the classroom, I was met with two very rude individuals. One such individual spoke to me with complete disrespect. Such behaviour is not acceptable and in breach of our parent and carer Code of Conduct. Another parent ignored all instructions and refused to acknowledge me when I politely requested, she wait until 2.30 pm.  I would like to thank the many parents/carers who waited respectfully until the bell rang at 2.30 pm.

Sadly, and very unexpectedly, one these individuals spoke to me extremely rudely, in a demonstrative manner in front of his granddaughter and onlooking families and staff members.  Apparently, as a result of bags not being able to be collected by parents/carers before 2.30 pm, it was my fault that his granddaughter left her hat in her bag. Action will be taken should such behaviour occur again.

I will not tolerate such behaviour, especially in front of our students. I remind our parents and carers that we are important role models for our children and grandchildren.

Please be respectful of our school processes and procedures and refrain from standing directly outside of classrooms until the bell rings at 2.30 pm.

Platypus drop off pick up

As a result of our last newsletter, the traffic exiting Kangaroo Carpark is flowing faster.  Thank to those families who read our last edition about being able to exist the estate via Guroman Drive. 

Every day counts!

Our attendance rate from Monday 19 February until Friday 1 March is 90.6%. Our attendance is reducing each fortnight. Please, unless your child is unwell or has an appointment, ensure they attend school all day, every day.

Our year-to-date attendance is 92.2%

Statistics of attendance for period Monday 19 February until Friday 1 March

Congratulations to Year 4 families for the only increase in school attendance. It is of course noted that there are a number of illnesses within our school and wider community at present.

We will continue monitoring attendance and we will be contacting families where there is a pattern of absences, including late arrivals and early departures. 

Deputy Principals' Message

ANZAC Day

Everleigh State School will commemorate ANZAC Day on April 24^th at 9am. This will occur outside of the resource centre in front of the ANZAC Garden. Our school captains will be leading this ceremony and we will have Rod West speaking again for our service. All members of the community are welcome to attend.

Students are also invited to march with the school on ANZAC Day at the Greenbank RSL service. As with previous years, groups will be called to muster from 9:45am on April 25th with the march to commence from 10am. More information will is forthcoming as this date approaches.

NAPLAN

Students in Years 3 and 5 will be participating in NAPLAN throughout the dates of March 13^th and March 25^th. Students will be completing four tests throughout this time. YMCA will be supplying breakfast for students participating in NAPLAN on March 14^th.

Year 6 Leadership Camp

Students embarked on their school camp last week to the Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct. Students engaged in activities of raft-building, low ropes course, caving and team challenges to test and develop skills of teamwork and leadership. Students also participated in the Gian Swing and body boarding to test their skills and push their limits. The camp was well run by the Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct and students demonstrated Everleigh’s Expectations for Excellence throughout the camp and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Easter Hat Parade and Concert

On Thursday 28^th March our Prep, Year 1 and Year 2 students will participate in our Annual Easter Hat Parade and Concert. Parents and carers are invited to attend and watch their child parade and perform in the concert. Children will make and decorate bonnets or hats during school time and will show off their creations at the parade. We ask that all guest are seated by 8:55am.

Harmony Week

Harmony Week is a time to celebrate Australian multiculturalism. The message of Harmony Week is everyone belongs. It is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background. Our school will celebrate by wearing orange on the 21st of March and students will participate in a range of activities throughout Harmony week.

Everleigh State School - ANZAC Service

Message From The Head Of Special Education Services (HoSES)

Assessment time is here! Whether your child feels excited or nervous, it's completely normal. Below are some proven strategies to help your child navigate this time:

1. Create a Calm Space:

After a busy day at school, your child needs a peaceful place to unwind at home. Make a quiet area free from distractions where they can relax. Encourage calming activities like reading or drawing.

Stay calm yourself. Kids pick up on our stress, so try to be relaxed. Talk to your child about their feelings and reassure them that it's okay to be nervous. Let them know you're there to support them.

1. Stick to a Routine:

A regular routine can make things feel more stable, especially during stressful times. Help your child set up a routine after school with time for studying, breaks, and fun activities.

Break studying into smaller parts to avoid overwhelm. Encourage breaks and enjoyable activities to keep them focused and energized.

1. Teach Healthy Coping:

Show your child how to handle stress in healthy ways. Teach them simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing or stretching. Being active can also reduce stress, so suggest outdoor play or a walk.

Encourage healthy habits like eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated. Avoid sugary or caffeinated snacks, as they can worsen anxiety. Remind them to do things they love, like spending time with friends or pursuing hobbies.

As primary caregivers, we play a crucial role in helping our children manage test anxiety. By creating a calm environment, sticking to routines, and teaching healthy coping skills, we can support them through this time.

Here are some great websites and resources that can help:

• Smiling Mind: https://www.smilingmind.com.au/ Smiling Mind is a nonprofit organisation that provides mindfulness programs and resources for children and adults. Their website offers a variety of age-appropriate mindfulness activities, meditation exercises, and relaxation techniques designed specifically for kids. With guided meditations, breathing exercises, and interactive activities, Smiling Mind helps children develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience. The platform also offers programs tailored for different age groups, from preschoolers to teenagers, making it a versatile resource for parents, educators, and children alike.
• GoNoodle: https://www.gonoodle.com/ This website offers fun and interactive videos that encourage movement, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. It's a great way for kids to release pent-up energy and learn to calm themselves down.
• Cosmic Kids Yoga: https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmicKidsYoga/videos This channel offers yoga and mindfulness videos designed specifically for children. With colorful animations and engaging storytelling, Cosmic Kids Yoga helps children relax, unwind, and practice mindfulness in a fun and interactive way.
• Peace Out - Bedtime Stories for Calm Kids: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8snGkhBF7njO0QvtE97AJFL3xZYQSGh5 Peace Out provides guided relaxation and visualization stories for children. These calming bedtime stories help children wind down and relax before sleep, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility.
  

PBL Focus Weeks 7 & 8 - Encouragement - From the PBL Team

Messages From Executive Services

Student Absence Procedure

If your student will be absent, parents/carers have a legal obligation to notify the school office, including advising the reason for the absence. We kindly request you let us know by 9am on the day of the absence. We have two preferred methods for advising absence:

1. Via the Q-Parents App – please see reception if you require information on this.
2. Via our dedicated Student Absence Line – (07) 2899 5160, where you can leave a message any time of the day or night. Please save this number in your phone.

Reminder: You will also need to advise YMCA if your child is booked in and will be absent.

YMCA absences should be advised before 2:15pm via email aev@ymcabrisbane.org or via text or phone call 0459 905 087.

Don’t forget to also cancel your canteen order if you have pre-ordered ahead: (07) 2899 5125

Change of contact details:

Please advise Executive Services if any of your details have changed. For example:

• Address
• Best contact phone number
• Work details
• Emergency contacts other than parents/carers

Please pop into the office to complete a change of details form, or email admin@everleighss.eq.edu.au to update your details.

Student Finance

A reminder to families that the Year 3 and Year 4 Australia Zoo invoice is due for payment by Friday 15 March. 

Statements were emailed on Monday 4 March.  Please note that Student Resource Scheme invoices and iPad hire invoices are now overdue.  Please contact Executive Services if you wish to organise a Payment Arrangement Schedule. 

Spare change of clothes reminder

Please ensure you have a spare change of clothes in your child’s bag in case of accidents. Please include underwear, black shorts/skort and socks.

Lost property

Name labels make all the difference in helping us to returned lost items to the correct students. We kindly remind parents to name hats, lunch boxes, water bottles, etc. We really appreciate your assistance with this.

Have you lost an Everleigh hat or jacket? We have some unnamed items at the office.

Any item that is labelled gets returned directly to the classroom. We only hold unnamed Everleigh uniform items at the office. Please let us know if you are missing a non-labelled item.

Q Parents

We remind all parents and carers to set up their Q Parents app. This app is our preferred option and is a one-stop location to check on your account or pay invoices, as well as to report absences. It is quick and easy to use. The app will follow your child to any state school all the way through, including to high school. If you require any assistance to set this up, please contact executive services.

Everleigh State School - Junior & Senior Cross Country

Music Notes With Mrs Chivers

We are well and truly into the swing of Term One. Students will be participating in their responding assessment task in the next couple of weeks.

In years One and Two, Students will be identifying where and why people dance.

Students in years Three and Four will be explaining how elements of dance and choreographic devices link to dances of celebration.

In years Five and Six, students will be describing how dances use production elements and / or choreographic devices to link to cultures from Asia and Australia.

 Our choir began rehearsals 3 weeks ago. We have a keen group of students learning our ANZAC song in preparation for the ANZAC assembly in April. They are also learning a song from the Caribbean to develop in tune and part singing skills. Look out for an announcement on an assembly performance early next term. Choir rehearsals are on Wednesdays at second play in the music room. Students from years 3 to 6 are invited to join.

Our year Four instrumental students have settled in to their lessons and I am already hearing some musical sounds coming into my room. Keep up the practise. The senior students are working on some interesting band pieces.

“Words make you think. Music makes you feel. A song makes you feel a thought.”  Y. Harburg

Music is a great way to connect with and process your emotions. When we are sad we like to listen to sad music, when we are happy we listen to more energized music. It is not only a reflection of the emotions we are feeling but also an avenue for coping with what we feel.

https://kidsmusiceducation.com/educational-music-quotes-for-kids/

Keep on singing!

STEAM News From Ms Jenkins

Year 5 and 6 have been learning some coding using Tynker and have demonstrated some amazing understanding of the coding features we are using, such as the gravity, velocity and x and y directions.  Some pics of their games are below or they can show you on their iPads.

Our year 1 and 2’s are seeing which class’s potato will grow the best potato plant and have had fun designing and making their potato man.

The little farmers in prep have enjoyed collecting the veggies with their bluebots and using Indi robot to drive to the farmer.  They also made some great fences to keep all the farm animals in, with a gate. 

3 and 4’s have learnt a lot from their trip with CleanAway to the Landfill facility.  We saw the recycles market, the big shredder, huuuuuge piles of landfill, lots of mattresses that were getting ready to go through the shredder and plenty of more interesting items. 

LOTE News From Mrs Yoshi

Japanese News from 4B

Konnichiwa!

This term, 4B has been working hard and learning new language skills in the areas of colours, numbers and animals. Students were asked to draw their ideal ‘doubutsuen’ (zoo) with some of the animals they have learnt in Japanese. Here is some of the work from 4B this term.

Preston, 4B   プレストン

Isabella, 4B    イザベラ

Why learn Japanese? 1) Japan is one of Australia’s neighbours  2) Learning a language helps to strengthen brain pathways and aids cognitive development.  3) Prepares students for new ideas and concepts to aid emotional development in becoming flexible thinkers. 4) It is a culture built on respect and so fits in well with the Everleigh way.

Everleigh SS - Breakfast Club

Everleigh State School - P & C Association

Dear Everleigh State School Community,

As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with pride at the accomplishments and the spirited involvement of our P&C Association, volunteers, and the entire school community. Our collective efforts have not only enriched our children’s educational experiences but have also strengthened the fabric of our community. Here’s a summary of our key events and their impacts:

Mother’s Day Stall: This event was a beautiful celebration of the important women in our lives, raising $5041 for school resources. Our heartfelt thanks go to the volunteers for their dedication.

Disco: A night of fun and dancing raised $4200 for new library books, thanks to our fabulous DJ and organisers.

 Homestyle Bake Fundraiser: This initiative brought in $1390.14, directly benefiting our library’s collection. Our gratitude extends to everyone who placed an order.

Community BBQ: More than just a fundraiser, this event brought our families closer, contributing to our library book fund. Special thanks to the volunteers who made this day possible.

Father’s Day Celebration: Matching the success of our Mother’s Day event, it raised $5000, adding to our efforts to reach our annual goals.

Community Fairy Floss Giveaway: A sweet gesture that was made possible by generous donations, highlighting the spirit of giving within our community.

Colour Run Fundraiser: A vibrant and joyful event that raised an impressive $26,000 for School House Gazebos, showcasing the power of community support.

Additional initiatives included the Donation for the Canberra Trip and the Community Drinks Stall, each contributing significantly to our objectives and fostering a sense of community.

We close this year with immense gratitude for everyone’s involvement and contributions. Your support is the cornerstone of our success. Here’s to another year of making meaningful impacts in our children’s lives and educational journey.

Warmest regards,

Adam Welsh

President, Everleigh State School P&C Association

Everleigh SS - Canteen Messages

UMS Uniform Shop News

YMCA Everleigh - Vacation Care 2024

UPDATED Term 1 2024 Calendar of Events

GREENBANK GIANTS AFC

SHARKS VOLLEYBALL - Sharks Camp

GREENBANK SCOUT GROUP - Information Session