PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE: Mountain Creek State School

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PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE: Mountain Creek State School
Caring - Sharing - Learning Together

                                                                                   5 November 2020

PRINCIPAL’S
MESSAGE:
Student Code of Conduct: All schools in Queensland are updating their current Responsible Behaviour Plan to be-
come a Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct will clearly set out expectations about staff respon-
sibilities to support students to understand and meet discipline expectations of the school, and guidance on the
application, where required, of disciplinary consequences. This local document will be available on all school web-
sites next year.

A draft of our 2021 Student Code of Conduct has been uploaded to the website to enable community feedback.
Click here to view for 2021 draft Student Code of Conduct. The majority of the document draws from our past
Responsible Behaviour Plan, but also adds further details about restrictive practices, critical incidents, considera-
tion of individual circumstances and our agreed intention to introduce ‘Be a Learner’ as part of our school rules.
You are welcome to provide feedback by emailing admin@mtncreekss.eq.edu.au. Please list ‘Student Code of
Conduct Feedback’ in the subject area so that it can be reviewed before we finalise our document for next year.
You are welcome to contact administration to discuss the purpose of the Student Code of Conduct.

Year 6 Graduation Update: As advised previously, the school intends to run an open air graduation during the
school day on Wednesday, 2 December 2020. It will commence at 9.00am so that regular drop offs will mostly be
complete. Parents attending the event may like to consider parking across the road. Off street parking is available
in local streets with many paths criss-crossing the area to provide quick access to school. We intend to maintain
the event’s quality features, but the program will be modified to ensure that it is succinct and honours our gradu-
ating students. Long speeches and items focusing on adult presentations will be minimised for everyone’s com-
fort. We are still monitoring COVID updates from the government to see if there may be an easing of restrictions.

COVID regulations still exist and there is a clear expectation that large crowds are managed with contact tracing
procedures and supervision. The graduation is occurring during school time to maximise contact tracing, supervi-
sion and clear protocols. During the school day, large events can be controlled and run safely. The entire school’s
resources are available at these times to address any support needs. This is why we will be able to have all Year 6
and their parents celebrate together while some other locations will have separate class events or no graduation
at all. We do realise this may require changes in personal arrangements so we have informed families well in ad-
vance.

Pacing Ourselves: As we reach the midpoint of Term 4, we all know it has been a huge year with many changes
thrust upon us. At times this can make us all feel overwhelmed. Assessments are soon to commence and this will
add an extra load for our students. We appreciate your ongoing support, telephone calls and emails as it’s im-
portant that everyone works together to help each other through a very different year.
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE: Mountain Creek State School
ADMINISTRATION

 I often remind staff and students that every day is great at the Creek. Caring, sharing and learning together is always
 about being part of a team and helping each other achieve success. Even on our busiest days on the Sunshine Coast,
 we need to acknowledge how fortunate we are in comparison to those dealing with renewed COVID outbreaks and
 many natural disasters in other countries.

 Best wishes and many thanks for you ongoing support.

 Rob Van den Heuvel
 Principal

2021 ENROLMENT PACKAGES
 MCSS is considering a small number of vacancies for Prep from outside our zone. Local families have completed
 enrolments so we can consider some further requests from outside our zone. Prep Enrolment packages are availa-
 ble directly from our Office between 8.00am and 3.30pm.

2021 SCHOOL START INFORMATION
  Over the coming weeks we will be sending out an Alert to all families regarding 2021 school start information. This
  will information will include:

  •     New school uniform information
  •     Book packs
  •     Summer Tuckshop menu
  •     Online ordering instructions for all of the above

  This information will be available too by visiting our school website. https://mtncreekss.eq.edu.au/ We’re all look-
  ing forward to a positive and healthy 2021.

PARENT CONTACT DETAILS
  This term school reports are being emailed to parents. If you have changed your email address or
  other contact details please remember to contact our administration office to have your records
  updated. You can email us at admin@mtncreekss.eq.edu.au to provide details. Please type
  ‘Contact Details Change’ in the subject line.

ARE YOU A LEAVING STUDENT?
  At times students and families do not return to Mountain Creek State School for personal or work needs. If you
  are a family who will NOT be returning to our school in 2021 please email the office as soon as possible at
  admin@mtncreekss.eq.edu.au . We require this information to help prepare our classes for 2021.

STUDENTS’ MEDICAL RECORDS
 It is imperative that your student’s medical record is up to date on our school system. Please ensure that we are
 notified of any changes to existing information as soon as possible. You can email us at
  admin@mtncreekss.eq.edu.au to provide details.
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE: Mountain Creek State School
AROUND
                                                                                     THE SCHOOL

CAR PARK SAFETY
We have spoken to a number of students and families recently about the dangers of riding bikes or walking through
car parks. These areas have always been out of bounds for students and parents for safety reasons. Depicted are
two students we chose at random to illustrate just how hard it is to see pedestrians out the back of a car, especially
a 4WD, which a number of people drive. As you can see, the students are not visible to the driver therefore this is a
recipe for disaster.

We do not want a tragedy occurring at school when it could be so easily avoided by using the correct gates and
footpaths. Signs have been attached to the chain on the edge of the carpark adjacent to the sandpit reminding par-
ents and students to not enter the car park. Please talk to your children and ensure they are using the correct gate
and pathways. If the children are being accompanied by an adult, we ask that they act responsibly by setting an ex-
ample and using the correct gates and footpaths. For parents who cycle with their children, we ask that they walk
their bike out the pedestrian gates and only mount up when it is safe to do so without putting pedestrians at risk.

Please be reminded that carparks are for STAFF PARKING ONLY and not for student pickup.

STUDENT TEAM SITE
The Student Team Site is the “go to” location for teachers and students to access videos of activities and events
held around the school, ie. Mountain Creeks Got Talent (Virtual), Sports Day and 2020 Book Week. Parents and
caregivers are welcome to access their child’s team site so they too can enjoy some of the events.

To do this your child will need to logon to the Student
Team site using their student login and password (just
like they did during home schooling). Once in the site
you can click on the images which will take you into the
video libraries.

Check out the 2020 Book Week link where can find the
Book Week photos along with videos of the shortlisted
books read by Miss Louise. We hope you enjoy some of
the school activities recorded and uploaded for your
enjoyment.
PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE: Mountain Creek State School
ADMINISTRATION

SCHOOL POLICY ON MOBILE PHONES
AND KIDS SMART WATCHES
 MOBILE PHONES
 General use of mobile phones causes major disruptions to school environments and are
 therefore prohibited. Any student found using a mobile phone will have the phone confiscat-
 ed. Parents/caregivers will then be asked to collect the phone from Administration. (It will not
 be returned to the student). Students are discouraged from bringing mobiles to school, how-
 ever if they do, they are to be handed in to the administration before school and collected
 after school. The school takes no responsibility for mobile phones.

 The general use of Mobile phones are prohibited for three (3) main reasons:

    1. Mobile phones during class time are disruptive to learning. The sending and receiving
       of text messages and the ringing of mobile phones is detrimental to student learning.
    2. The use of mobile technology to photograph or video other students or teachers with
       the intention to harass, intimidate or embarrass, is not only contrary to school policy
       but is also unlawful in many cases.
    3. Mobile phones can transport visual media and movies which may contain materials
       that should not be viewed at school.

 CHILDREN’S SMART WATCHES

 Watches that incorporate mobile phone technology and are capable of sending/ receiving messages, taking photos,
 recording or playing audio/ video recordings or are capable of accessing electronic media of any kind come under
 the same category as a mobile phone.

 Therefore, smart watches with any of these capabilities should be kept for non-school hour usage, or handed in to
 the office in the morning and collected after school as per mobile phone policy. Wearing a Smart Watch with the
 selection of “school mode” MODE may not be a solution as the children are able to disable the function easily.
ADMINISTRATION

SCHOLASTIC BOOK CLUB REMINDER
 Your child should have received the final Scholastic Book Club Issue 8 cat-
 alogue. This is the last issue of 2020 so a great opportunity to buy some
 fantastic Christmas presents. Inside you’ll find award-winning books, as
 well as old and new favourites. All books ordered will be delivered to your
 child’s classroom before the end of term. If your order is a gift for your
 child you MUST TICK THE BOX on the online order form stating this is a
 gift order. Your order will NOT be delivered to your child, instead you will
 collect it from the Administration Office and you will be contacted by ad-
 ministration.
PLEASE TICK HERE IF YOUR ORDER IS A GIFT FOR YOUR CHILD

Orders must be in by Thursday 12 November 2020
for delivery to be received before the end of term.

MUSIC—PERFORMANCE CHOIR
 The beautiful sound of singing coming from the Hall on Tuesday morning was due
 to the Performance Choir having its last rehearsal for the year.

 All choir members received a note which Mrs. Giesen and Mrs. Emerson would like
 returned as soon as possible to let us know if your child will be continuing in the
 Performance Choir for 2021.

 As it was also Melbourne Cup day, the choir celebrated with a hat competition
 with winners chosen by Mrs. Denning.

MUSIC—INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
 Unfortunately, we have not been able to practice Choir this year because of COVID. Hopefully we will be able to
 start again in 2021. In 2021 Choir practice will be held every 2nd Tuesday before school. Year 3 and 4 students will
 alternate with Year 5 and 6 students for practice.

 If your child was in choir this year and would like to participate again next year they DO NOT need to audition.
 If your child would like to try out for a place in the Choir, auditions are in the Music room on Wednesdays at
 lunchtime. Your child will have to sing a short song by themselves.

 Any further enquiries please contact the Music teachers-Terri Giesen tgies1@eq.edu.au and Cherie Emerson-
 cemer5@eq.edu.au
AROUND
                                                                                        THE SCHOOL

TUCKSHOP DAY
 Thank you so much to our Tuckshop convenor, Anita Lindley and staff, Louise Donaldson,
 Leanne Ingall and Tanya Hanlin. These lovely ladies continue to prepare and provide
 fresh and tasty meals daily which the students love and the parents love more when it
 gives them a day off from making lunches! We are grateful for all you do for our school
 and hope you enjoy celebrating 'Tuckshop Day 2020.'

 Please drop by this Friday 6 November 2020 to say 'thank you' to the Tuckshop staff in
 recognition of this day. If your kids would like to make them a card, we're sure the ladies
 would love to receive them.

DAY FOR DANIEL
 Our 2020 Day for Daniel was once again a huge success. Our school has a strong connection with the Morcombe
 family as Daniel, twin brother Bradley and older brother Dean were foundation students of our school. It was fan-
 tastic to see so many students and staff wearing red to support the Daniel Morcombe Foundation which was estab-
 lished in May 2005, as a lasting legacy to Daniel. The Foundation has two main aims, to educate children and young
 people stay safe in a physical and online environment and to support young victims of crime.

 Wearing red gave a very clear message that crimes against children have no place in Australia and that we want to
 empower the children in our community to Recognise, React and Report if something is not right. It was also en-
 couraging to see that our school community raised $1036.55, which will be donated to the Daniel Morcombe Foun-
 dation to support the important work they do in the community. Well done Creekers!

 We would also like to congratulate Denise and Bruce on the birth of their granddaughter, Elsie May, who was born
 on Friday, Day for Daniel. Congratulations!

2020 TERM 4 DATE CLAIMER
                              Event                                                       Date
 P and C Meeting                                                  Thursday 19 November 2020
 MCSHS Make Up Transition Day                                     Thursday 26 November 2020
 Year 6 Graduation (9.00 am)                                      Wednesday 2 December 2020
 LAST DAY TERM 4                                                  WEDNESDAY 9 DECEMBER 2020
AROUND
                                                                                      THE SCHOOL

THE ‘QUEST’ AT MOUNTAIN CREEK
On Thursday and Friday of last week, 3 teams of students from Year 5 participated in
the ‘QUEST’ inter-school challenge, hosted by Mountain Creek State School. Many oth-
er schools attended representing both private and state schools from the region.
 The ‘Quest’ is run by ‘BRAINways’ Education, an organisation which provides pro-
grams for gifted and talented students. This competition is offered in Australia and
Internationally and incorporates Mathematics, Science and Humanities. The first day of
the Preliminary Quest prepares the teams for the challenge, rotating through the three
learning areas, as the students are introduced to their focus topics. On the second day,
in a similar rotation system, the challenge is provided.

Our 3 teams included Chloe 5T, Sophie 5T, Yenuli 5T, Jamil 5T, Cooper 5F, Peter 5T,
Kevin 5W, Sunny 5F and Josiah 5B. All our students were admirable representatives of
the school and congratulations go to Sophie, Chloe and Yenuli who have qualified for
the state finals in November. Well done everyone!

STORY DOGS
Meet the newest addition to our Mountain Creek State School community- Katy and
Barney. They are part of the ‘Story Dogs’ program that resumed after the COVID break
this term. Katy and Barney volunteer their time to read with 4 of our lucky students
each week. Hunter 2B, Callen 2C, Maeve 2C and Lily 2L had a wonderful time reading
to Barney. Annabelle is helping to orientate Barney and Kay in their new school.
 Barney is a special dog who has been through a rigorous process to assess his suitabil-
ity for working with children. He is 2 years old and loves pats from the students. We
especially liked his ‘Story Dogs’ jacket that allows him his special status. We thank Kay
and Barney , as well as Katy and Benny and all our other wonderful volunteers, who
give their time to read with students at Mountain Creek.

YEAR 3 YOUNG ACHIEVERS HARNESS
THE SUN!
This term , the Year 3 Young Achievers are learning
about the benefits of solar energy. Extending their
science unit, they are exploring materials; consider-
ing their properties and suitability. They are examin-
ing the benefits and limitations of the solar oven. In
the coming weeks expect to see some well construct-
ed ovens in the sun cooking up some celebration
food!
AROUND
                                                                                        THE SCHOOL

YEAR 5 LEADERSHIP DAY
 At MCSS we pride ourselves on the significant leadership role our Year 6 students play in their final year of primary
 school. Students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills through a wide variety of opportunities and
 through a range of learning experiences, both in their everyday school life and in targeted leadership programs.

 To support our Year 5 students to become leaders in Year 6, they enjoyed a Creeker Leadership Development Day
 conducted by outdoor education students studying at Sunshine Coast Tafe. Students participated in a variety of
 activities designed to develop their leadership skills. This day is also a part of our selection process for our 2021
 leaders, including captain, vice-captain and prefect positions.

YEAR 5 MOTIV8 SPORTS LEADERSHIP DAY
 Last Friday 30 October 2020 our Year 5 cohort ventured out on to the oval to take part in the Motiv8 Sports Lead-
 ership Day. The day was a huge success for all and I am sure the students will have many great memories. I was so
 happy that we could make this to happen due the cancellation of our Year 5 Camp. All students should be proud of
 themselves with they participated in the leadership activities. I am looking forward to continue their leadership
 into 2021.
PREP 2021

TERM 4—PREP PLAY DATES
Term 4 is up and running and it is a really big term for us at Mountain Creek State School. The countdown is definitely on for
our new Preps starting at our school. It is very exciting. Our playdates will continue on the Monday mornings (all except Week
10). Please come along if you can and let other Prep families know as well. See the calendar for dates and times.

Parent / teacher Interview registrations are now open as well. They will begin week 5 and go through to week 9.
Please register for both tour and interviews through our administration office either in person or by phone (54523444)
Keep those enrolment forms coming in as well please as we have begun our planning process for class groupings.

Thankyou for choosing Mountain Creek for your child's education. We strive on our motto of Caring, Sharing, Learning Together
and look forward to our 2021.

Many Thanks
Gayle Wells, Prep Transition Officer

                WEEK                     PLAY DATE                             IMPORTANT NOTES
                                                                     Playdate 9-11am
           6               Monday 9 November 2020
                                                                     Parent/ Teacher Interviews
                                                                     Playdate 9-11am
           7               Monday 16 November 2020
                                                                     Parent/ Teacher Interviews
           8                                                         Playdate 9-11am
                           Monday 23 November 2020
                                                                     Parent/ Teacher Interviews
           9                                                         Playdate 9-11am
                           Monday 30 November 2020
                                                                     Parent/ Teacher Interviews
           10              Monday 7 December 2020                    NO PLAYDATE

 If you wish to contact us regarding any questions please email me at 2021PrepEnrolments@mtncreekss.eq.edu.au
 Parent / Teacher Interviews are available for booking at the Administration Office. Their number is 54523444.
 These meetings will take place between weeks 5-10. They are strictly 15 minutes. They are a perfect time to come
 along and discuss any issues that you have regarding your child’s entry to Prep 2021. This may include:
     •   Social / Emotional wellbeing
     •   Peer Relations and Friendships.
     •   Medical Issues- please bring along medical plans if applicable.
     •   Speech issues – please bring along any recent reports you may have.
     •   Any Family circumstances that you wish to share confidentially.
     •   Discussions about your child’s interests / strengths / weaknesses etc.
 You can add information to the questionnaire sheet for your child’s file for a later discussion / meeting. Note that
 these interviews are not compulsory. If you don’t feel that there are any pressing issues regarding your child and
 their enrolment at our school, there isn’t a need to have an interview. You will however be asked to still complete
 the questionnaire as this information is passed onto our classroom teacher to give a snapshot of your child prior to
 starting their Prep year.
 **PLEASE BE SURE TO CONFIRM A TIME WITH THE OFFICE STAFF.
COMMUNITY
                                                                             NEWS

                                                                    Weekly specials:
  Please support our café as it is operated by our    Check the blackboard for our weekly specials
                P and C Association
If you are looking for a healthy ‘take-away’ at the
    end of a busy day Café Connect can offer you       Family Frittata      $25.00

     Café Connect now has more Gluten Free             Family Lasagne       $40.00
           options available—ask today
                                                       Quiche               $25.00
  Come in and quench your thirst with a delicious
                                                       Whole cakes          $30.00
             iced latte or iced coffee
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