29 November 2024

Kia ora e te whānau; What a week it’s been, filled with both highs and challenges. I want to start by sharing how proud I am of the students in our ESOL class, who have created an incredible Google site to support new students arriving in New Zealand. This is such a thoughtful and practical way for our students to use their experiences to help others.

This week, we also hosted three days of transition visits for Year 8 students from our local feeder intermediate schools. These visits are a great opportunity for them to get familiar with Green Bay High School, learn their way around, and gather lots of useful information ahead of next year. A big shoutout to our Year 10 transition mentors, who did a fantastic job welcoming the Year 8s and really living up to our GBHS values.

On a tougher note, we were devastated to discover significant damage to our school grounds overnight. Thirty classrooms had their windows smashed, and the windows of all three school vans were also broken. Sadly, we learned that multiple secondary schools have been targeted in similar ways over the past few nights. I want to acknowledge the incredible efforts of Phil Mackie and our property crew, who worked swiftly to start the clean-up, and Jon Bacarella, who reorganised affected classes so learning could carry on without disruption. We’re working closely with the Police and our local secondary school network.

Tonight is a moment to celebrate as we hold our Year 13 Graduation. I am so proud of everything our Year 13 students have accomplished, and I know they will go on to make a meaningful impact in our community and beyond.

Thank you all for your ongoing support. Wishing you a relaxing and enjoyable weekend.

Ngā mihi nui, Fiona Barker PRINCIPAL