Nau mai haere mai.

With so much focus on Covid 19 it was great to head to Waikouaiti School today with two senior students, Germaine Wi and Patrick Reid, and watch them teach the students some of their knowledge and skills in Kapahaka. To see the joy in the Primary students and the pride our students showed in their culture reminded me why we do this job.

On Monday I was lucky enough to attend the 'Network Waitaki Sports Awards'. Two former students were nominated for awards, Renae Church and Courtney Duncan. Courtney took out the female sportsperson of the year award as well as supreme winner. Well done to both ladies we are proud of your success.

It has certainly been an interesting couple of weeks across the world. As I write this article we have 20 confirmed cases of Covid 19 in New Zealand. A school in Dunedin has closed for at least 48 hours while the authorities complete their contact tracing. Our thoughts go out to all the students and families going through this uncertain experience. 

It is important that we follow the direction given to us by the government and keep ourselves informed of what is fact through the ministry of health. 

There are plenty of articles online, plenty of conspiracy theories that are leading to an environment of fear and scaremongering. 

East Otago High School will be making a number of decisions based on fact and combined with our own geographical context. Please feel assured that we have you and your loved ones' health at the centre of all decisions.

Reminder – schools remain open
At this stage, we are not expecting widespread school closures. The World Health Organisation has confirmed, the risk to children remains low and parents should continue to send their kids to schools and early learning centres.

Consequently any decisions about school closures will be made on a case by case basis. In the meantime, unless students are unwell themselves, then parents should keep sending them to school and early learning centres as these environments continue to be safe and the best place for them to continue their learning.

Talking to children and young people about COVID-19

Given the rise in the number of reported cases, there may be children or young people in your life who experience distress. As a trusted adult, you can help reassure and educate them about COVID-19 – it can be good to talk to them now, so they can understand the illness and be reassured.

A useful resource for parents, caregivers, whānau and teachers talking about the virus with children and young people can be found here

This can also be downloaded as an information sheet.

Up-to-date information and advice
is available here

While the website is being regularly updated with education-related content, the Ministry of Health is the Government agency leading the response to COVID-19

The Secretary for Education joined the Director-General of Health for the Ministry of Health’s COVID 19 update today. You can view that, and all Ministry of Health updates here.

Nga mihi nui.