News from Presiding Member, Susan Hasselman

Kia Ora Everyone,

It has been a very busy start to the new school year, a Mihi Whakatau to welcome new students and whanau, new
classes settling in, a start to our swimming program and a very successful School Athletics Day.

The Board extends a warm welcome to new staff member Kasey Owen-Wilson who has joined our Senior School
Teaching team.

Our first School Board meeting was held last week.
Two important issues that relate to our Parent Community were revisited.

School Attendance remains a high attention priority for the Ministry Of Education and for our Principal. The Ministry
maintains an increased scrutiny on this issue. It is a legal requirement that children attend school.

Absence falls under the following categories-
Justified Absence
Illness
Medical/ Dental Appointments/Treatment
Stand Down Period.
Principal Approved- Bereavement, Specific Cultural or Sporting Event
Unjustified Absence
Holidays in Term Time
Unexplained Absence
Explained but Unapproved Absence
Truancy

Please consider all of the above if your child is absent. Communication with our Principal is key here if you are
encountering difficulties getting your child to school. The Ministry has implemented a precise procedure for Schools to
follow up on Unjustified Absence.

As part of our Board obligation to both our School and Community work is currently being done to review School
Policies and Procedures. This Term the topics to be reviewed are : Digital Technology & Online Safety, Sun Protection,
and Alcohol, Drugs and Harmful Substances.
A serious line up.

We welcome Parent & Community involvement in this very important process. You can participate via -
www.westgore.schooldocs.co.nz
User Name- westgore
Password - wiggie
Select Current Review

It is important you cast your eye over these topics. You will see a Review Button on each topic’s page where you can
participate if you wish to make a comment or simply agree to the Policy as it stands.

Our West Gore Staff and Board look forward to a positive and successful year.

Nga Mihi,
​
Susan Hasselman
Presiding Member