Meri Kirimete me hararei hari. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the East Taieri Staff.

Kia ora koutou

It is hard to believe that Christmas is only two weeks away and this is the last newsletter of the year!

It has been a fantastic year at East Taieri, the highlight being our excellent ERO review, affirming that we are providing the best possible learning environment for your children.

It is with sadness that we farewell several staff members this week. Rae Parker retires after 22 years teaching at East Taieri. Fortunately for us, Rae is coming back to accompany the choir next year. Sarah Vink leaves to take up a new position as an RTLB in Dunedin, Bronwyn Holgate leaves her full-time teaching role to take up part-time work next year, Anna Devereux leaves to take up teaching in Dunedin. Our best wishes go with them as they embark on new ventures and our grateful thanks to them for their highly valued contributions to East Taieri.

Last week we held a thank you morning tea for the members of our community who have supported us throughout the year - our parent road patrollers, parent tutor readers, Bible in School teachers, Home & School committee members and the parents and grandparents who have helped with classroom activities, trips, and events. For those who were unable to make the morning tea, a big thank you from all of us. 

A special thank you to our Year 6 students who have been a fabulous group, giving so much to East Taieri and being such great role models. We look forward to your special evening on Thursday and wish you well as you take up the next challenge in your learning journey . We will follow your futures with interest.

A huge thank you to everyone who has helped in so many different ways this year. A special thank you to families who end a long association with East Taieri as their children move on to college and intermediate.

To our families - best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and safe, happy times with  whānau and friends.

Ngā mihi

Jennifer