Term 2 Week 8 Thursday 2 June 2016 PRINCIPAL'S PAGE

Teacher Capability Teachers and teacher aides at Merrimac have been actively involved in improving their teaching of reading as this is an area of significant academic importance for every child. High reading achievement allows students to handle the literacy demands of all other subject areas. To complete problem solving in Mathematics, you need to be able to read and interpret the question. To understand concepts in subjects such as Science, History and Geography, children need to be able to read the articles and associated reports. Although Merrimac achieves at National Standard or above in Reading, ongoing improvement in this area has been identified by our teachers as having the most impact on student learning. Research about the best way to teach reading is constantly providing new insights. Regional Coaches have been in our school this week to model Shared Reading episodes by teaching in selected classes. All Prep, Year 4 and Year 6 teachers have observed these lessons. Next week the Regional Coaches will be back to model lessons in the remaining year levels. These sessions followed school based professional development on the 'Big Six' in Reading: Oral Language, Phonological Awareness, Phonics, Decoding, Vocabulary and Comprehension. Teachers have also been workshopping how to write text dependent questions on complex texts to support the development of higher order thinking in students and to support their skills in analysing written texts. The Regional Coaches have also been working with the leadership team, the Master Teacher and our Literacy Coach to improve our expertise in these areas so we can further support teachers. During the year, all teachers at Merrimac are involved in coaching cycles to improve teaching practices across the school. This involves observing effective teaching episodes, co-teaching with coaches, and then teaching for the coach over a series of lessons. The teacher is given feedback on their implementation and support to gain any identified skills. Leaders are also involved in observation and feedback cycles to improve teaching and gain information on trends for future planning. The Regional Coaches will be back next Term to provide further professional development and demonstrate the teaching of guided reading within classes. Every week, on Tuesday morning before school, teachers provide professional development for colleagues at 'Learning Lounges'. Some topics covered this Term include Writing Individual Curriculum Plans, Analysing Reading Records, Soundwaves Spelling Activities, Key Strategies for Teaching Writing and Effective use of Interactive Whiteboards for Learning. Teachers and teacher aides have an individual learning plan that has been negotiated with their supervisor that addresses their own personal capability development. Merrimac School remains committed to providing first class quality teaching and learning for our students.

Staff News The following staff have leave during the remainder of the school term:

Dates Staff on leave Replacement

13 – 23 June Mrs Tina Olsson-Pons Ms Tabatha Tones

20 – 24 June Mrs Riis TBA

20 – 24 June Mr Elliott TBA

Mrs Hall has Long Service Leave from 16 to 24 June. She will be visiting our past teacher Miss Coleman on Murray (Mer) Island in the Torres Straits and working with the students. Mr Boff will be acting Deputy Principal in her absence. Miss Kitching will be replacing Mr Boff as our Student Engagement Officer and Mrs Jan Beggs will be teaching 2B for this time. Mrs Boccaccini has Long Service Leave from 13 to 24 June. Mr Niotakis will be replacing her as acting HOSE for this period and Mr Greg Chin will replace Mr Niotakis.

P&C News On Monday night we held our Annual General Meeting. A big thank you to all of our executive and members for the terrific job they have done throughout the past year. We achieved a great deal in 2015 with the support of this dedicated team of people. Congratulations to the following Executive Members for 2016. We look forward to a successful relationship:

President: Chris Fort

Vice Presidents: Jon Galligan, Kristy Augustin

Treasurer: Kim Setiu

Secretary: Narelle Reed

A big thank you to all parents who have nominated to be on the various sub committees during 2016. The P&C are an integral part of our school community and are dedicated to providing excellent resources and programs for our students. The 2015-2016 year was especially momentous with many large projects coming to fruition. The P&C also subsidises and pay for many ongoing programs within the school to support the parent body with the costs of their child’s education. Some of these include subsidies for the online programs of Reading Eggs, Mathletics and Language Perfect. They subsidise our Dance Program, Footsteps, and sponsor our HRE Family Planning Program and the Pastoral Care Program provided by Chappy Steve. Some of the Projects achieved last year include:

• Merrimac Fete: what a great day, what a success! • Tennis Court Rebuild • Basketball Court resurface • New bike racks and enclosure • Re-fencing at the front of the school • Solar installation project • Shade sails and seating • Ipads and joint venture with school • Classroom Interactive Whiteboard replacement scheme • Acquisition of Japanese building from Education QLD • Planning refurbishment of Old School Building • Planning in place to increase care placements at MOSHC • Mothers’ and Fathers’ Day stalls • Senior student Japan visit • Chaplaincy Program • Special events such as ANZAC Day, Year 6 Graduation,

Christmas Carols, Fireworks and Discos These wonderful projects were achieved through the running of the Outside School Hours Care, Bookshop and Tuckshop, fundraising events and written submissions for projects and a lot of hard work. A big thank you to the executive, subcommittees, volunteers and P&C employees- we couldn’t do it without you. All

Merrimac State School

Newsletter

of these projects contribute to providing a greater education for your children. The next meeting is Monday 18 July in the staffroom. With the commitment to the preparation of our 2017 Centenary Celebrations, we need as many of our school community members as possible to be involved. Please note the next meeting date on your calendar.

Indigenous Performance - Embracing our rich culture At Merrimac state school we celebrate the Gold Coast's rich local Aboriginal culture. This year our school has organised a number of cultural experiences for our school community and would like to extend an invitation to parents to attend the following events: Thursday 23rd June Jellurgal Cultural Centre School Visit 11:30 - 12:30 in the PAC (Performing Arts Centre)l Cultural Talk: Year 3 Students will learn about life in the bush, traditional bush foods, fishing, hunting and the important ecological practices and connection to the land displayed by the Yugambeh people for thousands of decades. 1:45- 2:55pm Science Lab ( Next to PAC) Cultural Painting experience for all indigenous students Monday 11th July NAIDOC Celebration Time: 1:45-2:45 Place: PAC This year NAIDOC week will be celebrated from 3rd - 10th July, which falls during our school holidays. In recognition of this important celebration our school will welcome an outstanding performer to visit our school on the 11th July. Sean Choolburra's performance promises to be very captivating, vibrant and exciting. All students from Prep to Year 6 will be involved in this exciting presentation and parents are more than welcome to join in the fun. If you require any further information please contact Marion Prentis on 55691555. Broadbeach State School Japanese Poetry Competition Today Mrs Marshall has taken 16 students to compete in the Japanese Speaking Poetry Competition at Broadbeach State School. Students have been learning their poem and have been involved in coaching sessions for the correct pronunciation and delivery. This will be excellent preparation for the students to compete later in the year in the Regional Japanese Speaking Competition. We are also excited about the visit from our Sister School Katsuragi, when Merrimac students will have many opportunities to practice their Japanese with natural speakers. Children Leaving School at the end of Term Two If your child/children will not be returning to Merrimac for Term Three please notify the school office as soon as possible. We have a number of new enrolments for the start of next term and early notification of students leaving our school will assist with class placement of new students.

Cartooning Lessons The after school cartooning lessons of a Monday afternoon will finish on Monday 20 June (last Monday of Term Two). Medical Notifications There is currently a suspected case of Whooping Cough in our middle school. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date as this can be life threatening to vulnerable members of our community. Any prolonged or hacking cough should be investigated. Parents need to be aware that we have recently had three confirmed cases of chicken pox in the lower school. Please be on the lookout for any signs and symptoms of chicken pox (mild fever, headache, rash, small blisters, etc). If children are showing any of these signs, parents should consult with their doctor for advice and treatment. Information flyers with further details are available from the school office. Years 4 to 6 Athletics Days Our annual Year 4 to 6 athletics carnivals will be held over two days: Monday 13 June (Field events) and Tuesday 14 June (Track events). Students are asked to wear their coloured house shirt, a hat, running shoes and apply plenty of sunscreen. Parents are most welcome to come along and cheer on the students. Children will be trying out for the various field events over the next few weeks. Please note that our lower school athletics fun day (Prep to Year 3) will be held on Wednesday 15 June. Programmes are attached to this edition for your attention. Please note times are approximate and may vary slightly so allow extra time if you are coming along to watch. Term Two Reporting To Parents This term Report Cards will go home on Wednesday 22 June for all year levels. As parent/teacher interviews for Prep to Year 6 were held at the end of Term One, it is expected that there will be few parent requests for interviews. If needed, interviews can be arranged during the last week of the term or in early Term Three. National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEITA) Nominations are now open for the National Excellence in Teaching Awards. The NEITA Foundation seeks your support in recognising the efforts of the teachers in our schools. The teachers at Merrimac do a fantastic job and parents may like to nominate them for an award. The closing date for nominations is 31 July 2016. All nominations are to be done online at: www.asg.com.au/nominate Centenary Meeting News In 2017, Merrimac State School will celebrate its Centenary Year. There will be many activities planned to celebrate this milestone in our school’s history. Some of the activities which may comprise the celebrations include: fete, fireworks, bush dance, special sports activities, heritage day, time capsule, centenary mural, special centenary pavers, centenary trivia night, memorabilia room, centenary shirts and memorabilia and school song. Such activities will only be possible with the support of parents, community and staff. We need your ideas and help to make our centenary a huge success. The next Centenary meeting is planned for Tuesday 14 June commencing at 3.30pm in the school’s staffroom. All are welcome.

Chappy News Chappy Steve will again be taking part in the Chappy Walk on 18 June. Please see Chappy Steve if you are interested in joining the walk from Southport to Coolangatta on 18 June as part of the ks4kids for MSS. Please consider sponsoring Chappy Steve or one of the teachers walking on the day. You can find all the details on how to donate or to register at www.ks4kids.org.au The Chappy Walk raises valuable funds for our Chaplaincy Program here at Merrimac. Dental Van at Merrimac SS The Dental Van will be at our school from Monday 20 June. Gold Coast Oral Health Services are offering free dental check-ups to children in Prep to Year 6. This service will be provided on-site by Mobile Dental Van 61. Hours of operation for this clinic are Mondays to Thursdays from 8.00am to 4.30pm. To arrange an appointment for your child telephone the Oral Health Client Service Centre on 1300 300 850, Monday – Friday between 8.00am and 4.30pm, excluding Public Holidays. Child Dental Benefit Schedule Vouchers are accepted. When your child’s $1000 cap is reached, there will be no out-of-pocket expenses provided your child meets *eligibility criteria. * Eligibility – All Queensland resident children aged four years or older who have not completed year 10 of secondary school. Further information on public funded oral health services can be accessed via URL: http://www.health.qld.gov.au/goldcoasthealth/html/services/oralhealth.asp 2016 QCT Excellence in Teaching Awards. Nominate a teacher for the 2016 QCT Excellence in Teaching Awards. Registered teachers from state, Catholic and independent schools and early childhood services are eligible for nomination in four award categories. Nominations close 20 July 2016. Download a nomination form at www.qct.edu.au/awards. Premier’s Reading Challenge The Premier's Reading Challenge is continuing until 26th August. Prep to Year 2 is to read and/or engage with 20 books, Years 3/4 are to read 20 books and Years 5-6 to read 15 books. Please let teachers know if your child/ren would like to participate. Children receive a certificate at the end of the program. Enquiries to Mrs Boff in P3 or visit www.education.qld.gov.au/schools/readingchallenge Silver Rose School Photographs Information Extra curricular photos (sports) are available for ordering online. Follow these simple instructions to place your order: � type in your address bar www.silverrose.com.au � select schools � select Co-Curricular ordering � select Merrimac State School, then NEXT � select the year, Category, group and quantity � add to cart � proceed with payment process – check with your child what

the name of their sporting team is to ensure you purchase correctly

The photos will be available in the school foyer next week, if you would like to view before you buy. Prep Enrolments for 2017 We currently have 120 Prep students. Prep is an extremely important part of our school. In October each year our school offers both a morning and evening orientation session for new families. In November we also hold Prep experience days for our future Prep students. Parents of Prep students for next year are encouraged to enrol their children now. Early enrolment allows the school to be better prepared for the 2017 school year.

Now that our school has an official enrolment boundary, all families, especially those residing outside our catchment area, are encouraged to get their Prep enrolments in as early as possible. All enrolments must include the enrolling students Birth Certificate, so apply now if you do not have one as this process can take many weeks and we cannot accept any enrolment without this document. Breakfast Fitness Program The Breakfast/Fitness program this term is for interested Years 1 to 3 students each Wednesday morning. The fitness component starts at 8.00am and goes through till 8.25am when the children then line up for a well-earned breakfast. Thanks to those staff and parents who are assisting with the program. Usually the program is held on the oval but on wet days will take place in the PAC. Thanks to the sports captains who are assisting with the various activities and a big thank you to Carrara Woolworths and Merrimac McDonalds who both support this program at our school. Parent Fitness (Boot Camp) Program – free for Merrimac Parents Thanks to Tina Nenadic, from Ray White Robina Real Estate, we are continuing this term with the free fitness program for our parents. Simone Doyle, who works for Ray White Robina Real Estate, is the fitness instructor who runs the sessions weekly in the MPC/Tennis Court area each Thursday from 1.45pm to 2.45pm. It is completely free. Any parents who wish to be involved in the fitness program can contact Tina directly on 0402984898. Simone can only cater up to 20 in the session so please register your interest with Tina as soon as possible. School Website and QSchools Smartphone App The QSchools app is available to the school community as a free download via the Apple iTunes store and Google Play. Update regularly to access the latest features. From the desk of Ralph and Rosie Merrimac State School Focus of The week Over this past week, the children at Merrimac State School have been examining the personal quality of Developing Resilience. Resilience is the ability to ‘bounce back’ from life’s challenges and maintain a positive outlook. In their classes and on parade, the boys and girls at Merrimac have been asked to engage in discussions and role plays on phrases that we can say to build resilience in others. Congratulations to 3/4M and 2D for receiving the Ralph and Rosie Awards this week. 3/4M received their award for keeping their outside area litter free and their classroom neat and tidy. 2D received their award for walking quietly in two lines between specialist lessons. Well done to all the boys and girls for being Safe, Respectful Learners. Parents you may be interested to know that FABIC has a workshop coming up. • Understanding Autism Spectrum and Behavioural Disorders -

Tuesday 7th June 2016 1 Day | Cost $125 | 9am-3pm |

Available at the Fabic Centre, Gold Coast and Worldwide via Webinar and delayed telecast for up to 5 days after the event. Please contact FABIC on 55 305 099 for further information.

from Ralph and Rosie Koala Joeys The Koala Joeys Family Program – a Transition to School program - has been specifically created to deliver in all primary schools for families with children under school age. It focuses on empowering parents and carers to use nursery rhymes, songs, dance, movement and stories as a tool to form secure attachments.

Early literacy and numeracy information is shared during the program in a fun, interactive and supportive environment. Koala Joeys is held Fridays in the MPC Conference Room from 9.00am – 10.00am. See you there!

FINANCE NEWS

Invoicing Invoices for events are emailed to all parents/caregivers of participating/invited students who have an active email on our database. If your child is participating you can make payment online but be sure to complete the permission form and return to the finance window for verification. Look on the top right hand side of the invoice for the event description. When using Bpoint follow the directions carefully as incorrectly deposited money remains unallocated. When using Bpoint ensure you allow 3-4 days to process. When the payment date for the event closes and we cancel unpaid invoices if you did not pay for this event you will receive an adjustment notice email, this is not a credit. We are currently collecting money for:

Participants Event Cost Payment due date

Year 6 Graduation Shirt $33 10 June

Whole School Footsteps $5 24 June

Selected Year 5 and 6 students

Canberra $250 1 June

Canberra $250 20 July

Canberra $250 10 Aug

MUSIC NEWS

BIG NEWS!!!! Following our successful gold award winning Senior Strings performance at the 2016 South East Regional Fanfare Heats, the Senior Strings ensemble have been selected to compete in the Regional Fanfare Finals at Upper Coomera State School on 9 June. This is a wonderful achievement for our talented and dedicated students and we wish them all the best!

INSTRUMENTAL/CHOIR REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Junior Choir – Monday mornings 8.00am – 8.30am Senior Choir –Friday mornings 8.00am – 8.45am

Senior Band – Tuesday 3.00pm – 4.00pm Junior Band – Wednesday 3.00pm - 4.00pm Senior Strings – Thursday 3.00pm – 3.45pm

Intermediate Strings – Thursday 8.00am – 8.45am (Inst Room) Beginner Strings - Thursday 8.00am – 8.45am (Music Room)

STUDENTS OF THE WEEK

Congratulations to our Students of the Week: Mathew H P1, Hana M P1, Molly B P2, Jack G P2, Charlotte R P3, Amretha-Thahiya N P3, Ruby H P4, Kobi M P4, Anja B P5, Jacob D P5, Ryan V 1A, Jonathan N 1A, Annabelle K 1B, Lachlan K 1B, Talia S 1C, Leana-Maeva M 1C, Oliver T 1D, Caelan B 1D, Logan T 1E, Taylar J 1E, Star B 2A, Emilia S 2A, Capri C 2B, Deacon B 2B, Michaela W 2C, Taj C 2C, Fett L 2D, Charli M 2D, Nevaeh R 2E, Gabrielle S 2E, Jaylah W 3/4M, Izabella A 3A, Carson G 3B, Charlotte W 3C, Nate J 3D, Darcy B 4A, Arik E 4B, Yasmin B 4C, Keira F 4D, Alicia T 5A, Cameron K 5B, Naomi V 5C, Emma F 5D, Leon S 6A, Jordan G 6B, Zac T 6C, Leilani B 6D.

INTERSCHOOL SPORTS DRAW FRIDAY 3 JUNE

Girls Oztag at Marymount College, Burleigh Waters 5A v Marymount on Field 1 @ 1.35pm 6A v Varsity 1 on Field 10 @ 1.35pm 6B v Marymount on Field 10 @ 12.45pm Rugby League at Pizzey Park Pirates Rugby Union 6B v St Augustines on Field 4 @ 12.45pm

Netball at Firth Park, Mudgeeraba 5B v Hillcrest on Court 6 @ 1.20pm 6A v Mudgeeraba on Court 2 @ 12.50pm 6B v Mudgeeraba on Court 2 @ 1.20pm Soccer at St Vincent’s, Clear Island Waters 6A Boys v Robina on Field 1 @ 1.35pm 5A Girls v BYE (will travel to St Vincent’s with 6A Boys) Soccer at Broadbeach State School, Broadbeach 5A Boys v Broadbeach on Field 2 @ 12.40pm 5B Boys v Broadbeach on Field 2 @ 1.35pm

JAPANESE NEWS

Congratulations to all students in years 3-6 who participated in the Language Perfect Championships. This year Merrimac State School has again received amazing results!!! In total, we earned 65 certificates, (1 Elite, 10 Gold, 8 Silver, 25 Bronze, 21 Credit Awards) scored 133,511 points, answered 397957 questions and as a school spent 2,603 hours learning languages during this

10 day period. This is by far the best achievement, congratulations! Omedetou gozaimasu. The Inter-class competition was a huge success! Congratulations to 6B and Epiha Sensei for their effort and achievement and for winning the class pizza party! Also congratulations to 6A for their efforts in chasing 6B! It was a close race! Once again, well done to all our students and thank you to all staff and parents for your encouragement and support during the championships. School Achievements:

• 153rd overall globally (out of 1121 schools)

• 7th for Japanese in QLD (out of 130 schools) Special congratulations to Runa Oshika for achieving the highest student score at Merrimac! We look forward to presenting certificates to students at senior parade later this term. Congratulations! Omedetou Gozaimasu!

Marshall Sensei

P&C NEWS

Entertainment Books The P&C is running an Entertainment Book fundraiser. These entertainment books are always very popular and we encourage parents to support this P&C fundraising activity. Type into your address bar www.entbook.com.au/144d320

BOOKSHOP and UNIFORM SHOP HOURS

During the school term the bookshop opens Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8am – 9am.

TUCKSHOP NEWS

Volunteer roster for week commencing 6 June:

Date Volunteers Thank you

MEAL DEAL FOR THURSDAY 9 JUNE $5*

• Spaghetti Bolognese w cheese

• Garlic bread roll • Frozen juice cup • Bottled Water

6/6 Mayumi, Kim

7/6 Kim, Yoko

8/6 Fed, Mel

9/6 Maria S, Mayumi

10/6 Mayumi, Help Please

* add extra 50c to upgrade to Flavoured Milk or Springwater

Many thanks to our wonderful volunteers this week. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. A reminder to parents/carers to ensure your children have enough food packed or extra money to purchase items at the tuckshop. Winter is now approaching and it tends to make the tummies rumble for a little extra

something. We have plenty of warm food items available for purchase and will have $1.00 hot chocolate drinks for sale again in the next few weeks. Have a great week everyone. ~ Denise ~

FROM THE MASTER TEACHER

Every Friday Mrs Lamburd treats the children of P5 to 'Fruity Friday'. The children are given a choice of fruity treats to celebrate all their hard work through the week. Not only is Fruity Friday lots of fun, but it is also teaching the children about how delicious healthy eating can be. The children are allowed to use a cutter to make interesting shapes with their fruit and so far they have enjoyed Fruit kebabs, fruit cups, fruit cones and even fruity icy poles. No wonder there are so many smiles in P5.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Does your family need a wonderful pair of helping hands? Sounds like you need a Demi Pair or an Au Pair! CHARLTON BROWN in partnership with Brown’s English has many international students who are looking to live with an Australian family whilst studying and improving their English as either an Au Pair or Demi Pair for 10-12 weeks. An Au Pair under this arrangement will work as a part-time, live-in nanny supporting children and young family members for up to 12 hours per week. A Demi Pair will work as a part-time, live-in house-keeping assistant, maintaining the home for up to 20 hours per week. We are seeking families based in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast for placements. Registration as an Au Pair/Demi Pair family is free and there is no charge to the family. They will however need to supply a private bedroom for the Au Pair/Demi Pair and 3 meals per day. Students will be from a variety of countries, male or female and are screened as well as holding Blue Cards. If your family would like to host an Au Pair/Demi Pair contact agency@charltonbrown.com.au or phone 3216 0288 Kind Regards, Petrina Fraccaro General Manager Tel +61 7 3216 0288 or 1300 NANNIES Mob +61 412 134 820 Web www.charltonbrown.com.au Fax 07 3252 8061

Thurs 9 June 5.00pm to 8.30pm Katsuragi/Merrimac Video Teleconference (families have set times)

Mon 13 June Senior Athletics – Field Events

Tues 14 June Senior Athletics – Track Events

Tues 14 June 3.30pm Centenary meeting in staffroom in Admin Block

Wed 15 June Junior Athletics

15 to 17 June Year 5 Camp

Fri 17 June Last day of Interschool sport

From 20 June Dental Van at Merrimac SS

20 to 23 June Regional Music Camp (selected students)

Wed 22 June Report Cards to be sent home

Thurs 23 June Student Leadership Day at Tallebudgera Beach School

Fri 24 June Last school day for term

24 to 26 June Mudgeeraba Show

Mon 11 July School Resumes for Term Three

UNDER 8s DAY CELEBRATIONS

Robina State High

School

Sports

Academy

Experience

Day

We invite all intending

Sport Academy

enrolments to

experience a day with

our specialist staff.

Trials for Round 2

Offers will also occur on

this day.

• Golf Academy

• Baseball

Academy

• Football/Futsal

Academy

• General Sport

Academy (incl.

Netball and

Triathlon

specialisations)

Friday, 24 June

2016 The day will commence at

9.10am at the Bus Bay

Undercover Area.

www.robinashs.eq.edu.

au

For more information and to

RSVP contact our Sport

Director Mr Daniel Norton-

Smith dnort4@eq.edu.au ROBINA STATE HIGH SCHOOL

1 Investigator Drive

ROBINA Q 4226

(07) 5562 3444

info@robinashs.eq.edu.au