1. Principals Notice - Week 10, Term 2 2023

Dear Parents and Whanau

Rebuild

When I arrived last term, it was with great promise and expectation that we would be a hive of building activity and optimism.

• We had funding of 3.7 million dollars approved from the Policy & Property Group
• Tender Documents had been finalised
• Tender partners had been approved.
• All classes had packed up materials and resources and in one case had physically moved blocks from the two-story block.

As far as the parish, school community, staff and pupils were concerned, we were waiting for development to start.  During the course of the term, I become more despondent and anxious as conversations from different courts suggested a halting of proceedings but nothing official or in writing from Bishop Michael.

JUMP FORWARD TO LAST TUESDAY 27TH JUNE

Late on Tuesday, our Board of Trustees received a letter from Bishop Michael.  His letter stated:

• We would not be getting a rebuild in the foreseeable future

• Minor work would be completed in the Steam Room (room opposite the hall) and Library to bring the rooms up to a fit-for-purpose standard.

• The corridor between the hall and the library to receive a refresh

• The original two-storied block is to remain

• The Boards of St Joseph's and St Kevin's have pledged to work together to create a joint vision for Catholic Education in North Otago.

This was not the news we wanted to hear, however, it gives us a definite answer in order for us to move forward.

Principal Appointment

Given the letter we received from the Bishop, the Board has progressed in their planning to appoint a new principal.  We have engaged a consultant to prepare material in order for us to advertise for a permanent principal.  I have committed to the end of the year or earlier if we can appoint a principal prior to this.

Talent Quest

We were entertained by a wide variety of acts last Thursday.  The children showed great courage and confidence.  Thank you to the audience who supported all of our performances.

Oral Presentations

On Tuesday of this week, we had another opportunity to showcase our children and their work.  Four children from each class presented their speeches based around migration.  We had topics spreading from individual Mihis to Maori urbanisation.  All of the children did particularly well.  They overcame their fears to present particularly well.

Holidays

Today is the eve of the term two holiday break.  We have another busy term of learning planned for term three.  We re-start on Monday 17th July at 9.00 am.  I trust that you can arrange to have some quality time with your children over the break.

Take Care

Allan Mitchell

Acting Principal