Kia ora e te Whānau,

I am delighted to bring you the latest edition of our school newsletter, packed with exciting updates, highlights and accomplishments achieved by our wonderful Rāroa students. It has been a period of success and unwavering effort, and I couldn't be prouder of our school community.

Last Friday, we celebrated a heartwarming Pink Shirt Day, where our entire school community came together to support the important messages of kindness, empathy, and inclusivity. The sea of pink that flooded our hallways symbolized our collective commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all. It was a wonderful display of unity and compassion, reminding us of the positive impact we can make when we stand together.

In the realm of sports, during our Cross Country school event, students displayed exceptional determination and resilience and those that went on to the Wellington Intermediates Regional Competition represented our school with a huge degree of pride. Their perseverance and dedication resulted in several outstanding performances, showcasing the incredible talent within our midst. Similarly, our chess enthusiasts showcased their strategic prowess and mental agility in chess tournaments, achieving remarkable victories and further cementing our school's reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

The exhilarating atmosphere of our football tournaments echoed with the cheers and applause of enthusiastic supporters, as both our boys' and girls' teams exhibited teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship. Their relentless pursuit of excellence and strong sense of camaraderie led to well-deserved victories, leaving a lasting impression on opponents and spectators alike. Both tournament trophies sat on my desk for a week before heading to the trophy cabinet.

Furthermore, our students had the opportunity to embark on several successful team trips, expanding their horizons and fostering valuable connections beyond the classroom. These educational adventures not only provided memorable experiences but also offered unique learning opportunities, encouraging personal growth and a deeper appreciation for different cultures and environments. We extend our gratitude to the teachers and staff who organised these enriching journeys.

We look forward to sharing more inspiring stories and accomplishments in this edition of the newsletter. Once again, we extend our congratulations to all our students for their remarkable achievements, and we express our deepest appreciation to the dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and staff who have played a crucial role in nurturing our students' success.

Ngā mihi

Stephen Eames