Welcome to the first report for the school newsletter where we would like to give you, our community, an insight into some of the things we do as your Board of Trustees.

In December 2020 we worked together using the results of the community consultation to put in place our strategic plan for 2021. It was very gratifying that the WGHS Annual Plan for 2021 encompassing our strategic goals: Goal 1 Excellence in Teaching and Learning; Goal 2 Nurturing and Wellbeing and Goal 3 Positive School Culture was approved at the meeting.

There was a lot of discussion around the positive effect of the new cell phone policy i.e. hearing students communicating in the school grounds and better engagement in the classroom. As with all new rules/changes there have also been some questions asked which were also discussed and have been dealt with and resolved.

We are very close to commencing an upgrade of our school hall. Being the main meeting area for the school we want this to be a place that reflects our history, future and pride of Waitaki Girls' High School.

Lastly, thank you to the Board for voting me back in as Chairperson for 2021. I feel very proud and privileged to continue to be part of the school and this motivated team of people.

Susan de Geest