School Readathon

I trust this newsletter finds you well.

We are in the midst of our School Readathon. It has been wonderful to see the way this challenge has been taken on by our students. We know reading is vital to the growth and development of our students. Reading helps children think critically and communicate more effectively. It stimulates creativity and strengthens the ability to focus and concentrate - skills which very much need developing in our modern world.

This Readathon encourages students to build the habit of reading as well as discovering stories from around the world. Money raised from the Readathon will go towards the development of our Bike Track and a range of other activities around the school. We would like to thank you for the support you have been giving this initiative, it really is something worthwhile.

Relationships are a core part of our HEART values here at Maungaraki School. This week I was lucky enough to have a visit from Claire Benge. Claire's relationship with Maungaraki and the school is a long one, her children attended Maungaraki School many years ago and she continues to live in the community. Claire is an author, she reached out to share her book 'Jasper The Cat Burglar' with our school. Together we shared her story with a group of students, it was truly wonderful to see the connection/relationship between the author and audience in real time. The children really enjoyed the tale of a mischievous cat and it was a privilege to watch this interaction take place. If you would like to support a local author details of how to purchase your own copy of 'Jasper The Cat Burglar' are in this newsletter. 

This week we launched HEART FM, our very own radio station. This station is broadcasting at lunchtime across the school courts and will also be available to download on our school facebook page. We have a very committed group of leaders who have been busy learning all things radio. It isn't easy, however they are making it look that way. A huge thanks must go to Mr Young for his incredible efforts making this initiative a reality. From creating a studio to house the project, gathering and setting up equipment, training our budding DJ's and so much more, his efforts have been massive. Thanks Mr Young.

I hope you all have a happy and restful long weekend.

Nga Mihi

Shane Robinson