Menindee Central School...and will ensure our students have a level of access in line with any other...

Menindee Central School News page 1

Term 4—Week 4

Menindee Central School

PO Box 88

Menindee NSW 2879

P: 08 80 914 409

F: 08 80 914 377

E: [email protected]

W: www.menindee-c.schools.nsw.edu.au

Executive Principal Daryl Irvine Instructional Leader, Literacy & Numeracy Fiona Kelly

Head Teacher Adam Bailey (Teaching & Learning ) Head Teacher Gavin Blows (Wilvandee Access) Head Teacher Michelle Hasking (Secondary Studies)

Assistant Principal Georgia Shephard

Term 4 Week 4 Thursday 30th October 2014

Menindee Central School

It is always around this time of year that I begin to wonder how we’re going to fit it all in the few short weeks left! The final touches are being put to the end of year excursions that celebrate and reward those students who have put in a fantastic effort all year. The Sydney School Spectacular and Big Day Out excursions have special requirements that students need to meet in order to receive that special letter of invitation. A student must receive, as a minimum, all three PBL wristbands, have good attendance and no suspensions this semes-ter. Don’t forget you can check on how well your student is going through the Vivo miles app. Simply login and you can quickly see how often they have been rewarded. Quite a few parents are even using the vivo tally as a way to reward their child at home. If you have not received your login details, please contact the school. Aside from the excursion planning, we continue to build our 3 year plan based on feedback we’ve received during our consultation sessions. I will soon be able to release the final wording of our 3 strategic directions for further comment, however one of the themes that came through loud and clear was that the school needs to be consistent and responsive to the needs of parents and community. I recognise that this is an area that we certainly need to lift our game in, for example not fully communicating any changes to the bus run, under-mines the confidence that we should be striving to reinforce with families and I apologise to those who have been affected by this. I will be setting up a pop-up feedback stand on Tues-day and Thursday near the supermarket so please stop by and take the opportunity to offer your thoughts on the future direction of the school. Our school reference group has been busy of late setting some directions for policy and discussing a number of exciting initiatives for 2015. One of these is the Campus Menindee project. This initiative recognises the importance of Information Technology to education and will ensure our students have a level of access in line with any other in the country. There are two parts to Campus Menindee, Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and Commu-nity Wireless Access (CWA). For BYOD, each student in years 5 to 10 will be granted a $200 refund for the purchase of an IT device e.g. laptop, tablet or even a phone. There will of course be minimum specifications and protocols to ensure the device is capable of ac-cessing our network and is used regularly for education, however there will be plenty of assistance available and suggested devices advertised later this year. Please NOTE purchases made before the release of the specifications and protocols may NOT be eligible for the refund. The CWA project aims to provide a ‘classroom anywhere’ environment by estab-lishing a wider footprint for the schools secured wireless. Student credentials will be re-quired to access this service and during the trial phase only limited hotspots will be estab-lished, however I’m sure many will see the potential for this level of access. On a final note can I thank those who assisted with the Young Women’s and Men’s expedi-tion, while the heat threatened to defeat them, our students accepted the challenges and showed they can achieve great things, all it takes is that you “Face the Task”!


Term 4—Week 4

IMPORTANT REMINDER. WE ARE A NUT FREE SCHOOL. NO PRODUCTS WITH NUTS ARE

ALLOWED TO BE PACKED IN CHILDRENS LUNCHES .

October 13th-Nov 6th HSC Exams

November 10th-13th Killara High School visit

November 21st Year 12 Formal Graduation Night

December 13th Carols by Candlelight

December 17th Term 4 2014 finishes Student Christmas Party

February 5th Term 1 2015 commences

October 27th - 29th ROSA Exams (Yrs. 10 & 12)

November 25th –Dec 1st School Spectacular Excursion

December 15th Year 6 Graduation

December 8th Presentation Night

There will be no bus run Monday 3rd of October am or pm due to Golf Excursion


Term 4—Week 4

During week 2 of this term Mackenzie Smith and Jasmine Meehan represented the Barrier athletics team in Sydney for the NSW selections. Both girls participated in different heats of the 9 year Girls 100m race on the first day of competition but unfortunately were not able to progress to the next stage of competition. It was a wonderful experience for both girls to participate in the carnival and get a glimpse into competition at such a high level. With time to spare while waiting to travel back the girls made the most of Sydney visiting many attractions such as, The Opera House, Harbour Bridge and many more. I look forward to seeing how this experience encourages the girls to aim higher next year. Well done girls, you represented yourselves, your families and your school well.


Term 4—Week 4

This term brings PBL to another milestone, the inclusion of parents in the VIVO experience. The inclu-sion of parents in VIVO is in the capacity of keeping track of how many VIVO’s their own children have and how often they are receiving positive feedback for following our three school values “Be Safe”, ”Be Smart” and “Show Respect”. Early this term the school also included the new element within Show Respect of Speak Politely. Speak Politely is encouraging the correct tone, volume and context within interactions of people at school. This new element has been the focus of explicit PBL lessons over the last two weeks and will remain a focus for the coming weeks. Term Four also brings about the excitement of School Spectacular and Big Day Out. The requirements for qualifying to attend either of these events is as follows;

On track to receive four wristbands for the year 85% attendance Limited negative entries in EBS4 (student discipline record) No suspensions in second semester

Although this may seem a daunting list of criteria to qualify for either event the data from PBL is point-ing in the direction of a large number of invitations needing to be issued, so keep earning your VIVO’s and good luck.

2015 School Captains will be inducted at this weeks assembly It would be great to see you all there to support our students


Term 4—Week 4

I should be used to being alone by Maddi Harris

I should be used to being alone by now. What once were busy streets are now just empty and cracked. The buildings have plants growing around and through them like the vines are racing to get to the top. Every car is abandoned, broken down and there is shattered glass mixed into the plants and cracks of the road. It's only been nine months since the vi-rus broke out but it spread so quickly and no one knew how to stop it. When an old man sprinted at me, pushed me down and bit my arm I thought it was all over and I was going to turn into one of them. But I didn't. Three days later I woke up in a hospital and a little girl was treating my arm. She was about 9 with blonde hair and green eyes "Are you awake?" She asked. I could only groan. “My name’s Neveah, it’s Heaven backwards.” She said proudly. “What’s yours?” I wasn’t in the mood for questions. My head was throbbing. Wait. Should I be able to feel my head throbbing? Should I even be able to feel anything? I thought I was supposed to be running around eating people by now. “Maya,” I said simply. I look down at my bandaged arm. There was no way she could have done this herself. “Does it hurt?” She asks. “No. Is there anyone else here?” I groan, trying to sit up. Whatever she gave me was pretty strong. I felt tired and my body was heavy. She went quiet. “Neveah,” She shivered when she heard her name. “Who else is here?” I demanded. When she still wouldn’t talk I decided that that was it. “I’m leaving.” “But your arm isn’t fully recovered yet!” she squeaked. “Don’t care.”

I turned to look at her and saw she was about to start crying. I sighed. Why did that have an effect on me? “How old is he?” I said in a low voice. “He’s 17” “Shit.” Of course he had to be older than me. “Hey don’t swear!” She crossed her arms and looked at me stubbornly. I had to stop myself from giggling. That’s a first.

Nev, are you okay?” A concerned voice asked through the door I didn’t even notice I was holding shut. “Yeah, she’s awake now.” My head began to feel worse. I needed to get out before I turn.

Continued next page.


Term 4—Week 4

After a moment I decided to move to the opposite corner of the room and the door slowly opened. ‘He was actually waiting there?’ I thought to myself. He moved into the room cautiously and I watched his every step until he stood next to his sister. I was surprised he didn’t break eye contact with me. I could tell they were related. They looked so alike; short blonde hair, tall and green eyes. He was paler though. A girl as young as her in this situation needs to grow up quicker.” He looked at me wide eyed. “Tell her.” I demanded before turning and leaving the room. I walked into the room across the hall and closed the door before pull-ing off my bandage. Whatever they gave me had worn off and for some reason my arm was completely healed… like nothing had ever happened. I started mumbling to myself “What he f-“I was cut off by multiple screams. Was that Neveah? I ran back in and saw Chris on top of her, bleeding. I threw him off Neveah and pulled her behind me. “Neveah, what happened?” I asked not taking my eyes off of Chris. He looked at me, but it wasn’t him anymore. His green eyes had faded to grey. He jumped at me from across the room and I pushed him right back, stabbing him in the forehead with my dagger. How did he turn? The one person I don’t search for bite marks. Besides… “Neveah, come here.” I said. She was in shock over what had just happened but I wasn’t worried about that at the moment. She moved towards me slowly and I checked her all over; her arms, her legs, her neck, everywhere else. Nothing. After I’d finished I saw her looking at the monster that used to be her brother. I took her hand, pulled her out of the room and hugged her as she started crying. “You aren’t going to leave me here, are you?” She sobbed as she looked me right in the eyes. I didn’t even think about what I said next. “Of course I won’t. You can come with me.” I said and kissed her forehead. ‘This is a bad idea.’ I thought. ‘Really bad.’ The last person that came with me was…


Term 4—Week 4

It is ok to kill in self-defence or war?

In my opinion it is ok to kill in self-defence or war because other people are

trying to kill you. Also you could be saving other people. War is countries

fighting against each other.

Firstly, if someone is trying to kill you, you either do something or you die.

Secondly, the person could kill hundreds or thousands of people so you could

not only save you but save thousands.

Finally, going to war is necessary because if we don’t Australia will be

invaded and taken over. If Australia is taken over many people will die or be

turned into slaves.

Year 7 and 8 were exploring the concept of ‘SURVIVAL’ in both English and HSIE. They

watched and read sections of the novel, ‘Tomorrow, when the war began’ before

developing some arguments on whether or not they thought ‘killing’ during times of war or

to save yourself was the ‘right’ thing to do. There were many arguments for and against and

the students sometimes surprised me with how thoroughly they thought through their

verbal arguments.

This is one small sample of their persuasive writing.

MENINDEE CENTRAL SCHOOL Next P&C Meeting: Wednesday 19th November

Time: 3.15pmLocation: Connected Class Room

All Welcome


Term 4—Week 4


Term 4—Week 4

Playgroup reminder that the CWA Hall is not available for Playgroup Friday 24th & 31st due to the HSC Exams being held there.

Menindee Central School Students’ Art on Show

“Art in Menindee, a small remote town” is a large exhibition of paintings, carvings in cardboard, sculptures and drawings from Menindee Central School.

Three years ago the Director of Maitland Regional Gallery, Joe Eisenberg saw some of the Menindee Kids’ works at Cooee Gallery in Sydney, and was very impressed. And so, now it is happening…. an exhibition of about 80 selected pieces on display for over two months in one of Australia’s most prestigious art galleries.

If you know anyone who may be interested, the show officially opens on 29th November, and can be seen until mid January 2015.

Rick Ball


Term 4—Week 4

All works at the preschool are moving along nicely. Due to the age of our building it previously had no insulation or energy efficient features. This refurbishment will improve this with the installation of 5 kw solar panels as well as insulation and a new roof. This investment in insulation products and solar panels will reduce the escalating operational cost of electricity etc. which will ensure our operational funding can be used on more effective and value for money measures such as professional development for staff, pur-chasing improved learning resources and new technology. New rain water storage tanks will reduce our water usage, as well as teaching children about the importance of sustainability. Last week we celebrated National Children’s Week! This week recognises amongst other rights, the child’s right to play and the importance of learning through play. On Wednesday we had an excursion to Broken Hill for children and families to participate in the Children’s Day in the Park activities. Children, family members and educators enjoyed travelling into Sturt park to join the learning and play experiences provided by the various children and family services in Broken Hill. Thank you to the School for allowing us to use the school bus for the day and to Daniel for not only driving the bus but helping us throughout the day, without your help the excursion would not have been possible. A couple of our preschoolers were lucky enough to have their photos in the Barrier Daily Truth, this was great to see! Another very important event happened last week; the children who will start kindergarten in 2015 start-ed their orientation into kindergarten. This program will run across seven weeks with the children attend-ing kinder for three smaller sessions leading up to four full days in kindergarten. This comprehensive ori-entation, as well as our ongoing transition program every Thursday at MCS has ensured that the change from preschool to school will be as smooth as possible for all children. There is a strong focus placed on this important process of change in the children’s lives, as a positive start to school has multiple benefits, including- • Children who experience a positive start to school tend to feel comfortable, valued, successful and a sense of belonging. • A positive start to school is linked to positive outcomes for the child, both academically and socially. • Children who already have relationships formed within the school settle quicker and are ready to learn. While this orientation is extremely important, it is from birth that children are learning and preparing for life and starting school! The early years are when children are developing and learning about themselves, exploring their feeling and emotions, building their confidence and learning how to deal effectively with others in the world around them. These early years are the most dramatic time of growth and change for a child. Please remember to talk, sing, read and play with the young children in your family- The Early Years count! Little Kids and Books continues to run fortnightly, with sessions dates for term 4 being • Thursday 30th October • Thursday 13th November • Thursday 27th November.


Term 4—Week 4


Term 4—Week 4

COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

Classified Ads

All submissions for the school news are to be in by Monday 3pm. A written copy can be left at the school/Post Of-fice addressed to ‘SCHOOL NEWS’. Your advert must have your name, address, phone number and signature—this same limit applies to teachers. Every endeavor will be made to print all submitted articles; however, due to a ‘space limit’ some articles may have to be held over or reduced to suit our requirements. Advertising costs are: $4.40 (basic advert), $11.00 (quarter page), $22.00 (half page) and $44.00 (full page) per week.

Payment is required when placing advert.

PLEASE REMEMBER: IF SELLING A CAR OR MOTORBIKE YOU MUST INCLUDE THE REGISTRATION NUM-BER OR ENGINE NUMBER. Adverts without this information will NOT be included, phone 8091 4409.

Lucky ball numbers: Drawn 27/10/14 : No’s 2-8-10-11-12-16: Winners Nil . Jackpot: $1,242.00 Numbers:1-16

PLEASE NOTE THE SCHOOL NEWS PLEASE NOTE THE SCHOOL NEWS DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS IS DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS IS

MONDAY 3:00 PM.MONDAY 3:00 PM.

ALPACAS FOR SALE from $250.00 each. Ewes with lambs at foot. Phone Ron Page on 0428 288 777 for prices.

BODY BLISS Beauty Therapy Summer is just around the corner….

…...time to relax & PAMPER YOUR FEET WITH A PEDICURE

Bookings essential

Phone Kris 0429 029 906 Nora St Menindee

FIRE DANGER PERIOD 1ST OCTOBER TO

31ST MARCH

A permit must be obtained from the Permit Officer before light-ing or using a fire in the open during Fire Danger Period.

Permit Officers: G. Rolton K Lombardo

DATE AND TIME TO BE ADVISED


Term 4—Week 4

Expressions of Interest

CASUAL LIFEGUARD / POOL ATTENDANT 2014 /15 SEASON MENINDEE

An information session for those people interested in gaining their lifesaving credentials i.e. Bronze medallion/First Aid/Pool attendant, will be held at the pool Wednesday 29th of October 4-6pm.

Those wishing to assist in the running of the pool are encouraged to attend the information session to register as a volunteer.

For further information and an application pack please contact the School in the first instance. 80914 409.

Menindee Pensioners’ Association Over 60s Christmas Dinner

9th December 12:00 at Pensioners’ Hall

Names to be in by 1st December

Please contact:

Blossom 80914308 Moya 80914475

or Margot 80914392


Term 4—Week 4

HALLOWEEN NIGHT DISCO Friday 31st October 7pm-9pm AT THE RESERVE - (FOLLOW THE STREAMERS)

COME DRESSED UP - LOLLIES AND DRINKS - Small donation appreciated

EVERYONE WELCOME. Adult supervision

HOST: Darlene Newman for further details phone 0458 663 107


Term 4—Week 4


Term 4—Week 4

Standard Sunday Menu

Bacon & Egg Roll-$5.00

Ham-cheese toasted sandwich-$3.50 Ham-Cheese-tomato

toasted sandwich-$4.00 Chicken-cheese-mayo

toasted sandwich-$4.00 Assorted homemade

cakes-slices & cheesecakes

Priced from-$3.00

Coffee-$4.00

milkshakes-$4.50

thickshakes-$5.00

ice coffee–ice chocolate-$4.50

assorted soft drink-$2.50

juice-$4.00

water-$1.50

Ice tea -$4.00

Opened next 9th November

2014 11-2pm

New Scoop Ice-cream

Single $3.50 Double $4.50

Come check out our yummy

flavours

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