‘If you only carry one thing throughout your entire life let it be hope. Let it be hope that better things are always ahead. Let it be hope that you are stronger than any challenge that comes your way. Let it be hope that you are exactly where you want to be right now, and that you are on the path to where you are meant to be…Because during these times, hope will be the very thing that carries you through.’ Nikki Banas
Who would have thought that the next time I sat down at my desk to write my message for the newsletter – things would be so different?
Staff at CBPS have been working hard to maintain a sense of normality at school for the children who continue to attend each day. Our focus remains on continuing the teaching and learning cycle at school, while following the measures put in place to ensure our school is a safe place for learning.
Over the last week many families have also chosen for their children to remain at home during this time. It is really important for our school community to know that we acknowledge and respect the right all parents have to make the best decision for their child/children. There is no right or wrong. Judgement suspended.
For families with children at home during this time, please have realistic expectations around what you will be able to achieve. You will not be able to mirror what happens at school, in a home learning environment. What you can do is establish clear routines. To think that you will be running 5 hours of academic lesson delivery will place enormous pressure on you and your family! Be kind to yourselves and your children. Structure the day so the routines involve opportunities to do chores, engage in physical activity, help to prepare meals, read, read, read, write journals, investigate, question, create. Teachers send out informative weekly Connect notices which highlight literacy and numeracy focus areas together with topics covered in other learning areas.
Staff are preparing for the face of education to change with the abstract concept of distance learning fast becoming a reality over the coming weeks. This has never happened before in our life time – so while things won’t be perfect – know that we are all doing the best that we can in our current reality.
We appreciate our school communities continued support – let there be hope… Because during these times, hope will be the very thing that carries you through.’ Nikki Banas