17/03/2019
Tēnā koutou katoa We are all stunned at the events that unfolded in Christchurch last Friday afternoon. Qariah Omar, one of our teachers has lost a family member and there will no doubt be others in our community who have also been affected. Our hearts go out to our Muslim community, and to all those who have some personal connection with these events. The teaching staff have met this morning to decide on our support plan. A school gathering will be held this morning, followed by classes being spoken to by their teachers (Jan Otene will be working with Kowhai class, in Qariah’s absence). The key messages that will be covered will be: • To reassure children that they are safe • Its ok to feel sad • We will not go into a lot of detail as this could add anxiety • Older children may want to ask questions – some of these may be directed home for families to answer • If someone is seen to be struggling, we will let their parents know • Individual classes may choose to undertake a positive action that supports the message of unity and caring for each other We will remind students of our lockdown procedures and will hold a drill later in the week – with warning for the students so that they feel supported through this. In the meantime, please let us know if you have any concerns about your family members. The national helpline contact is 1737 and anyone can access this 24/7. Please also see the attached Tips for Parents & Educators. At this time, we are reminded that our R.I.D.E. school values are so important both within the school and in our wider world and we will be reinforcing them with the students: Respect for others; Integrity – acting with good intention; Diversity – celebrating our uniqueness; Empathy – showing kindness and understanding to others. Waiho i te toipoto kaua i te toiroa "Let us be close together, not far apart" Nga mihi Jan Otene Mark Williams Principal Board Chair