Welcome back to school for Term Two.

I hope you all had a great break away from school and enjoyed the extra time with family and friends over the holiday period.

During the holiday period our Head Students: Hannah Paton, Lauren Keen and Cultural Prefect, Fuataifaaulu Wells represented the school at the Anzac services at Palmerston, Waikouaiti and Dunback. I was extremely proud of the way they presented themselves through their speeches, songs and flag raising ceremonies. They were an example of the quality of students that East Otago High School develops in this supportive community.

Term Two brings in the winter sports season for a number of our students. Already we have seen a number of students participating in netball, hockey, and rugby. Sport can play a major part in the development of young people. Students develop the soft skills of how to be a positive, valued member of a team, improve their interpersonal skills, and experience success, and failure which produces resilient young people. This is not possible without the support of parents, teachers, coaches and managers. It can be a big commitment given the difficulties associated with travel and working parents. If you get the time please come along and support our students as they represent us with pride.

Another major focus for this term is in the cultural arena. Many of our students, parents and community members are currently performing in the East Otago Musical Theatre production of the musical "Addams family". 

Wow, is all  I can say about this production.  All the cast and crew involved in this production have done an outstanding job. The talent and professionalism on display was of the highest order. Well done to all those involved.

This all bodes well for the school production of "Beauty and the Beast" that we are currently holding auditions for at break times. I am sure that both Mr Ford and Mr Cummings will be excited by the talent and interest of the students, (currently 49 students) and I am sure we will see a finished product of a high standard.

It is important with all that is going on that we do not lose focus on the primary function of school and that is students academic progress. Please ensure that you go on the parental portal and check your students progress through fortnightly indicators and NCEA results.

Nga Mihi Nui

Marcus Cooper