Tēnā koutou katoa St Michael’s Catholic School Community,
Tālofa lava,
This week, we joyfully celebrated Samoan Language Week. The festivities began on Tuesday with our meditation session led by Mrs Cordtz, Ms Totua, and Antonio Elika. They guided us in prayer and a beautiful song, setting a reflective and uplifting tone for the week.
Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Samoan culture. During lunch times, they could join in and learn action songs in Samoan, which was a fantastic way to engage with the language and traditions. We were also treated to vibrant performances by our Secondary Catholic high school students, who showcased their talents at Polyfest. Their energy and enthusiasm were truly inspiring.
In addition to these activities, the teachers incorporated Samoan language and cultural lessons into their curriculum, enriching the students' understanding and appreciation of Samoa's heritage.
It was wonderful to see our students leading these activities, embracing the culture, and having so much fun.
During our Tuesday morning meditation, Fr Tony blessed new children and their families to our school: the Liew Family (Darius), Stanger Family (Emilia), McDonald Family (Llywelyn) and Gomez Iglesias Family (Isabella). We hope your time here is filled with joy, growth, and wonderful experiences. Welcome to our school family!
Catholic Schools Day
On Wednesday, 28 May, St Michaels celebrated Catholic Schools Day with a series of engaging activities. The morning block began with students exploring the essence of Catholic education, discussing what they love about being at a Catholic school, and reflecting on what makes SMCS the best little Catholic school.
Students then participated in a mascot competition, where they were tasked with creating a mascot that represents why SMCS is the best little Catholic school. The creativity and interpretations were fascinating, and the teachers will judge these entries during our staff meeting on Monday.
Although the middle and last blocks were disrupted by rain, we adapted by having the house leaders lead a Jump Jam session for 15 minutes, which turned out to be a lot of fun.
I would like to thank Rebekah Capon for organising such a memorable event and the staff for being so adaptable on the day.
Matariki Breakfast and Māori and Pacifica Hui
We are excited to invite you to our Matariki Breakfast on Thursday, 19 June from 7:30am to 8:30am. This special event is a time for us to come together as a community to:
- Remember and honour those we have lost since the last rising of Matariki.
- Celebrate the present by gathering together and giving thanks for what we have.
- Look to the future with hope and anticipation for the promise of a new year.
Following the breakfast, we will host a Māori and Pacifica Hui in the staff room from 8:30am to 9:30am. All are welcome to attend this gathering.
Further details about both events will be emailed to you over the next week. Please mark your calendars and join us in celebrating Matariki.
School Docs Policies to Review - Health, Safety, and Welfare Policy
In term 2 we are reviewing policies in the Health, Safety, and Welfare Policy section.
- Go to https://smcs.schooldocs.co.nz/
- Click Search for your school.
- Start typing the school name and then select from the dropdown list.
- Enter the community username and password: Username: smcs, Password: mackillop
Please click on the current review and then click on and read the policies. Next you click on under review and complete the survey. Your feedback would be appreciated.
Help Needed
With the winter weather upon us we want to create more opportunities for students to participate in activities during lunch times in the classrooms. Do you have a skill or craft which you can teach the children during Term 3? Please email me directly if you can help.
Upcoming Teacher Only Day
A reminder that our next TOD is on Monday 23 June there is no school on this day to allow the teachers to participate in professional development of the refreshed Maths curriculum.
Wishing you all a lovely weekend.
Manaaki ki te Atua,
Vincenza Golding
Principal Tumuaki
