PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

It was a pleasure to celebrate our first combined Years 11 and 12 Formal at its new location, Caulfield Racecourse, last night. It was a wonderful milestone event for our senior students. I thank Kellie Felmingham, Natalie Same, Kate Jobson, the Years 11 and 12 Student Managers, and all staff who were in attendance.

This fortnight has featured several key student programs, including the Courage to Care Program for Year 8, Tomorrow Man/Woman workshops for Year 12, and the Peer Support Program for Year 7. I encourage families to explore the full articles in School News.

PAT TESTING

Our Years 7, 8 and 9 students recently undertook Progressive Achievement Testing (PAT) testing, which provides important data to ensure we deliver targeted teaching for our students.

PARENT PAYMENTS - THANK YOU

Over many years, funds raised through Parent Payments have had an enormous impact on the school and allowed us to deliver our high-quality teaching and learning program that goes far beyond the standard Victorian Curriculum. In fact, many of our ongoing services and educational opportunities rely solely on the financial contributions of families, as do our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Unfortunately, without the support of families, many valued programs and resources won’t be sustainable.

Last year the School Council simplified and streamlined our Parent Payments to make the process more manageable for families. Information about school funding, including the key role of our community, can be found in this document:

Please note that some Years 9 - 12 electives, including Food Tech and Visual Arts subjects, require an additional cost as they have specialised materials and resources.  These are being administered through Compass Events.

In today's climate, I understand this can be difficult to navigate and I am grateful to the families who are able to provide this support.

PARENT/CARER INFORMATION EVENTS

Thank you to the parents and carers who attended our recent afternoon information sessions. These events provide insight into how you can best support your children throughout the year.

Your engagement and the ongoing connection the school enjoys with our parent/carer community is greatly valued and ensures consistency whilst supporting optimal learning.

SUN PROTECTION

Hats are a compulsory component of our uniform when students have PE/sport classes outdoors during Terms 1 and 4. Sunscreen is always available and our sports teachers will continue to encourage students to use it. Hats are encouraged when outside at recess and lunch. If students do not have a hat, they will not be able to participate in the activity and they will receive a detention. 

Thank you to our students who continue to maintain our sun-smart culture at McKinnon.

THERAPY DOGS

Our wonderful Therapy Dogs from Miracle Paws return again this year, delivering delight and comfort, but also social emotional support.

This initiative from our wellbeing team assists students and staff feel more comfortable and less anxious at school. Thank you to Luke from Miracle Paws for continuing to bring our furry friends in.