Welcome back to the new school year

SCHOOL WRAP

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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School friends reunited during the first week of the school year. Picture: St Augustine's Catholic School
Miallo students were happy to be reunited with school dog Coral. Picture: Miallo State School

After a well-deserved Summer break, it is time for our local students to sharpen their pencils and climb back in the school banks. Newsport sums up what’s been happening in the very first week of school 2023.

ST AUGUSTINE’S STARTS THE YEAR OPTIMISTIC

There was a buzz in the air in McAuley Place on Tuesday morning when students gathered to begin the 2023 school year.

Principal Kym Bennet told Newsport it was wonderful to watch reunions as school friends reconnected after the Christmas holiday break.

“Each little person had a story to tell about how their family travelled over the holiday period, or else had some precious Christmas memories to share with friends”, she said.

“This week we will continue animated conversations with students as they travel through the school, reconnecting with other students, parents and staff members.”

During a morning tea the school welcomed Prep and Year 1 families into the new school year.

“We have also welcomed Mrs Deborah Le Poidevin, teaching Year 1, and Mr Matthew Paolacci, teaching Year 5, to the team.”

Next Thursday the school will celebrate Mass to open the school year, and a Parent Information Evening is planned for Tuesday 7 February.

“The beginning of the year is certainly an exciting time. We imagine the days ahead are filled with all kinds of exciting possibilities.

“We begin the year with hope, optimism and anticipation as we imagine how the days and weeks ahead may unfold.”

EXCITING FIRST DAY AT MIALLO

At Miallo State School there was a super excited buzz in the air on the first day of school as students caught up with their friends, their teachers and staff.

Students were excited to welcome and look after the new students that have joined Miallo this year and also to play on the new Senior playground.

Resurfacing of a new undercover area was completed during the holidays. Picture: Wonga Beach State School

Principal Anette Ridley said that the Seniors had changed into their Senior shirts before 9am and that the Preppies were very impressive with how they adapted to big school on their first day.

“We are pumped for another wonderful year at Miallo. We are still taking enrolments in most year levels up until February 2nd.”

NEW PLAYGROUND FOR WONGA STUDENTS

Students at Wonga Beach State School started off their school year by testing out their brand new undercover area.

The new resurfacing of the play area was completed during the holidays and could be realised through funds from GEMCO along with the P&C committee.

In a bright and colourful learning environment, students are now able to enjoy snakes and ladders, Os and Xs and handball.

The 2022 student council also purchased outdoor beanbags as their departing legacy gift for the school.

The beanbags are part of a new chill out zone where students can hang out, read books, listen to storytelling and more.

SPECIAL GUEST AT MOSSMAN HIGH

On behalf of the Kuku Yalanji people, special guest Juan Walker gave Mossman High students and teachers a Welcome to Country on the first full school assembly.

It was a smooth start to 2023 for Mossman State High School with all students attending on the first day, unlike past years that have been delayed due to COVID.

The school is fortunate to have a full complement of staff, welcoming seven new teachers.

The school’s Year 7 students enjoyed their first full day at high school, following on from their orientation day at the end of 2022.

Principal Annie Murrie said the school is looking forward to a successful 2023.

At our Douglas Shire schools there is always something happening. Each week Newsport sums up the events, achievements and news from the schools that make our region great. If you would like to be included in the weekly wrap-ups please contact [email protected]. 

Students were welcomed by special guest Juan Walker. Picture: Mossman State High School

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