Kia ora koutou, Mālō e lelei, Talofa lava, Taloha ni, Kia Orana, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Namaste, Ni sa Bula, Ni Hao, Salaam Alaikum, and Warm Pacific greetings to you all.

Firstly, welcome back to our students and staff for Term 3. We hope everyone is well.
There has been a bit of unsettled weather during the school holidays. In previous years, we have found an increase in winter illnesses in school at the start of the term. This year cases of COVID-19 are increasing in most parts of the country, and we are also seeing high numbers of other winter illnesses.

The Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health strongly recommend that all schools require mask wearing for the first four weeks in all indoor settings from Year 9 to Year 13.

All staff will continue to wear masks, and all students are encouraged to wear masks inside the classrooms to protect themselves, which is appreciated.
Wearing masks can significantly reduce new cases of COVID-19 alongside other measures: 

• Vaccination
• Good ventilation
• Staying at home when feeling sick
• Washing your hands
  
  We know that some students cannot wear masks due to medical reasons. The school will support them, providing they have an exemption card like this:
  
  If they have an exemption card or a letter from their health provider, we will support them in not wearing a mask. If you wish to apply for a face mask exemption pass. Click here: Face Mask Exemption.

Otherwise, please ensure that your tamariki comes to school wearing a mask. The school has a limited supply of masks if needed.

A reminder Board Elections are coming up on the 7th of September, and nominations close on the 3rd of August.
Every parent and caregiver should have received information at the end of last term’s newsletter. Please contact the office if you have not received a notification.

Thank you for your support in protecting our school community.

Noho ora mai

Christine Pili  

Acting Principal