2018 Term 4 Week 5 SSPS Newsletter

Dear Parents, Teachers and Students

Technology Update

Last term I notified parents that we were looking into changes to our Technology Plan for 2019.  I am pleased to share with you that in 2019, after much consultation and sourcing the best product to accommodate the educational needs of our students, we will be transitioning from BYO iPad to BYO Surface Go (Microsoft tablet) for all students in Year 4 at the start of the program progressing into Year 5 & 6 by 2021.

Harvey Norman, Toowoomba, will be supporting the school and parents with Microsoft and Apple.

For 2019, Year 4 students will be required to purchase the following:

• Microsoft Surface Go
• Microsoft extended warranty with Accidental Damage Protection (3 years)
• Microsoft Surface Pen
• Microsoft Keyboard Cover
• Designated STM Case

Any students in Year 1, 2 and 3, if they require a new iPad will be required to purchase

• Apple iPad
• Designated STM Case
• AppleCare+ cannot be purchased from Harvey Norman as set down by Apple, though if leasing, the program takes care of this and AppleCare+ is not necessary. If parents choose not to lease, they can purchase AppleCare+ from Apple's website.

The school will issue the appropriate letter to Year 4 parents and caregivers with instructions to take the letter to Harvey Norman Toowoomba to purchase the right bundle for St Saviour's Primary School. Parents and caregivers will have the choice of how to pay for the device, dependent on Harvey Norman's payment and finance options. At this point in time, it is Harvey Norman's recommendation that the school does not proceed with an online purchase portal, given that the store is local and easily accessible for families. Harvey Norman wishes to give the families the best personal customer service without 'up-selling' anything during the purchase exercise.

Basic support of the Microsoft Surface Go will be the responsibility of our designated TCSO IS technician (Brad Rhode), with support limited to the basic functionality of the device and required software (Windows OS, Microsoft Office, supported Internet browsers (Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome) and any other software stipulated by curriculum needs. It will be the family's responsibility to engage Harvey Norman for any hardware faults (as deemed by the school's technician) and breakages.

Basic support of the Apple iPad will be the responsibility of the designated TCSO IS technician (Brad Rohde), with support limited to the basic functionality of the device and required software including any other software stipulated by curriculum needs. It will be the family's responsibility to engage Harvey Norman Toowoomba or e-Storm Service Centre Toowoomba for any hardware faults (as deemed by the school's technician) and breakages.

From 2019, all devices will be managed by Microsoft Intune, part of TCSO Information Services' ongoing deployment of Office 365 and Azure Active Directory. iPads will no longer be managed by the existing MDM platform, Casper, but will instead also be managed from within Intune. Management of the devices will allow TCSO IS to ensure that all settings on the devices are kept up to date and also allow the devices to function correctly both on and off the TCS wide area network and local network at the school.

Here is a list of software that will be included on the Microsoft Surface Go devices:

• Microsoft Windows 10
• Microsoft Office 365 Professional Plus
• Company Portal (download portal for applications from TCS)
• Adobe Reader (PDF reader)
• Audacity (audio editor)
• Photos (photo and video editor)
• Paint .net (graphics and photo editor)
• Java (application extensions for certain applications and websites)
• Microsoft Silverlight (application extensions for certain applications and websites)
• Microsoft OneDrive (cloud file storage)
• Google Chrome (Internet browser)
• FlashForge FlashPrint (3D manipulation and printing software)
• Microsoft's Defender AntiVirus will be teamed with Advanced Threat Protection as part of TCSO's Intune deployment to help protect the device and school network from malicious threats. No extra antivirus software will be required; Harvey Norman has been instructed not to 'up-sell' anything when families are purchasing their designated package.

This aligns strongly with our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Lighthouse Project as well as the demands of the curriculum and workplace that our students will enter in the near future.  Each student having a device means they can access information at any point in time, as well as use the tools of learning/software 24/7.  Through our Canvas Learning Management System (LMS) which will roll out in 2019, our students will have access to key information and resources at any time they have a connection to the internet.  Resources from the class that day can be uploaded so students can engage in revision to master their learning.  It also enables students to submit their assessment items on line.

We have scrupulously selected the best, and most reliable device, Surface Go tablet, that can perform to a high standard for all software needs of the school.  We have ensured that there are excellent standards of service, warranty and accident insurance that come with the device. 

The Surface Go program will come at a cost for each student as they enter Year 4.  For those creating their budget for next year, the total cost is $1228.84 or a payment plan over 2 or 3 years is available.

Some FAQs regarding the program

• Can I bring another device? No.  All devices will be the same, this is largely due to software licensing agreements, management of devices, security and online safety of students.
• Can I take the device home on weekdays, weekends and holidays? Of course – that’s the whole idea!
• What if I don’t have good internet at home?  The device can still be useful as a stand-alone tool, though is most effective when connected.  Documents can simply be saved to the device storage so they can be accessed offline.
• What happens if my device fails?  We will have spares on site and will be working with the students regarding how and where they store their information so that in case of failure they can still access everything they need. All devices will have the same software required for school.
• Can I put whatever I like on my device?  They are owned by parents and managed as such, so it is wise to ensure that there is no content that is against the values and expectations of the school.
• Does this mean I don’t need books? No. Text books will still be needed, although our new versions will include online resources to support your learning as well. You will also need to write notes and work on paper, but also have the option of doing this digitally if that is what works for you.

Now that we are completely satisfied with this plan, a Parent Information Session has been scheduled for Monday, November 19^th, 5:15p.m. to 6:00p.m. in the computer room (beside the library) to explain to parents the process of the transition to a tablet device.

At this meeting TCSO personnel will be present along with a representative from Harvey Norman to help parents with any questions.  

We understand Harvey Norman is having a BYOD expo on November 16 and 17.  Whilst you are obviously welcome to attend this event, the parent information night at SSPS will be specifically designed around the Surface Pro, with a Microsoft representative on hand to answer all of your questions. The correct bundle will also only be available for purchase with the letter from the school and will not be available at the expo.

Early in the school year of 2019, students in Year 4, will attend a 1 day ‘boot camp’ that will cover how the device will be used to support learning; review of being cybersafe; being a responsible digital citizen and rules associated with the use of the device at school.

In summary, the following software devices are required for students:

• Prep 2019 students are not required to have their own iPad. A bank of iPads (purchased by the school) will be used in Prep classes.
• Years 1, 2, 3, 5 & 6 will continue to BYO iPad for 2019.
• Year 4 students will be asked to purchase a Surface Go for 2019 to take them through to Year 6 and beyond.
• Classroom teachers will receive professional development over the course of this term and early next year to ensure best use of the device.

The Surface Go is only one aspect of a complex process of moving to digitisation which supports learning.  The other aspects include: teacher and student training, software and licensing, classroom technology (projectors/interactive screens etc), infrastructure, technical support, Canvas LMS, and most importantly the pedagogy of teachers and engagement of students.  All of this is not able to simply be flicked on like a switch and we know that it will take time to make this as effective as it can be.  We look forward to starting this adventure and further developing our students to be ready for the workplace into which they will enter, and allow them access to support and resources whenever they need it most.

St Saviour’s Primary School has always been at the forefront of the use of technologies to support student learning and we look forward to continuing this in the years to come. 

Regards,

Ms Madonna Sleba | Principal

The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day

On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month of the year 1918, an armistice was signed, ending the "war to end all wars" - World War I. November 11 has therefore been set aside as Armistice Day, a day to pray for those who have died serving their country.

This year is 100 years since the first Armistice Day. As it falls on Sunday, teachers will be spending time this week reflecting on the sacrifice and love shown by those past and present who have served and are currently, serving our country.

At Assembly on Monday, there will be a short reflection time as well.

Louis’ Baptism

What a lovely celebration we had when the 1L Class gathered with Louis’ family for his baptism. The students were very much involved with the prayers, blessing the water, singing a welcoming song at the end and then presenting Louis with a book of handwritten messages and drawings.

Thank you to Shauna, Jules and Pascal for involving us with your special family event.

Happy Birthday Celebrations

Last week we were delighted to have Fr Peter join us for a combined birthday morning tea. He and Annie Ward share the same birthdate and as Fr Peter was celebrating a “significant 70^th” birthday it was a time of much celebration.

Fr Peter is enjoying good health, is living at the moment at Lourdes Home (in a unit, not as a resident) and is getting around to do what “he chooses” to do.

We hope to have him “pop in” for a coffee a bit more frequently, now that he is back from his overseas travels.

Champion Mathletes

At assembly last week, 3 students were presented with certificates identifying them as the Mathletics Champions of SSPS. Congratulations to Ellie 2C, Jasper 2G & Everlyn 4D.

Class Masses

In the last couple of weeks Years 4 and 5 have had their class mass, with both focusing on Mary. It was lovely to join with Fr Michael and some family members in what is a less formal celebration of Eucharist.

For your diary:

• Sunday 18 November @ 9am Mass: final Mass choir for 2018
• Wednesday 28 November @ 11:30 am: Farewell Mass + Leadership Presentation to be held in the Cathedral Centre  (Bingo Hall NOT the Cathedral)
• Thursday 6 December @ 8:30am: Final Assembly (Mercy Centre)
• Friday 7 December @ 9am: Year 6 Graduation in the Mercy Centre

Judy Smith | APRE

Sporting Schools – QLD Cricket

Sporting Schools is Australia’s largest school-based sports participation program to help children foster a lifelong interest in sport.  St Saviour’s Primary has been lucky enough to secure funding for Term 4.

It has been fantastic to see all of the boys and girls participating in this program and hopefully it might encourage some students to join their local cricket club.

Friday Night Basketball – Term 4

Please see below the draw for the next three weeks of Friday Night Basketball:

MyGolf Program

An introduction to golf is being held at City Golf Club during term four on Mondays, Wednesdays or Sundays from the 15^th October to 9 December.  The cost is $100.  To register please go to mygolf.org.au

Basketball Supercamp – January 5-9 2019

The annual Basketball Supercamp with Pop Dickerson takes place from January 5-9 2019.  If you would like your son or daughter to attend, please visit www.supercamp.com.au for more information and registration forms. 

2019 Sport Dates 

The following dates have now been finalised for St Saviour’s Primary Sport in 2019:

• Swimming Carnival (9-12 year old students) – Tuesday 5 February at Glennie Aquatic Centre
• Swimming Lessons (P-6 students) – Monday 18 – Friday 22 February at Glennie
• School Cross Country (P-6 students) – Friday 29 March starting on the school oval
• School Athletics Carnival (9-12 year olds) - Thursday 9 May at O’Quinn St Oval
• School Athletics Carnival (All students) – Friday 10 May at O’Quinn St Oval.  This is a lot earlier than usual due to the national athletics carnival being in Darwin in 2019.

Mr Sam Hannant | APA

During November we consider how stories help us celebrate. Read more from Morris Gleitzman here..

http://www.childrenslaureate.org.au/now-and-forever-november-stories-make-us-celebrate/

We will celebrate with the opportunity to borrow library titles for the Summer holidays during Week 7. To enable this, all current loans need to be returned next week (Week 6). Thank you for attending to this by checking in with your students. Lists of unreturned loans are being sent home regularly as a reminder.

STEM Club

Great learning, problem solving and collaboration are taking place each session. Take a look at the students in action! We conclude next week with a demonstration and activity with the 3D printers.

Mrs Anne Anderson | Teacher Librarian

The Mini Vinnies group has started work on the Christmas gift bags for residents at St Vincent's Aged Care by decorating small angels.

We are also helping with the St Vincent de Paul (SVDP) Christmas appeal. Please support the Christmas Appeal by donating a food item that you would like to see on your own Christmas table. Non-perishable Christmas foods are the items most valued by the SVDP workers at this time of the year as they help to brighten Christmas for the local families they visit. Donations can be left in the boxes outside the library.

Mrs Anne Anderson | Teacher Librarian

Please make sure you have returned all Fun Day raffle tickets (sold or unsold) by next Thursday 15th November. Extra books are still available to sell. Please contact the office if you require any.

Thank you to the P&F

Many thanks to the P&F for the awesome new oven, air-con and cabinetry work that has happened in the Tuckshop over the past few weeks. It makes working on these hot days so much more pleasant and the oven is amazing!!!!!

Fun Day Tuckshop

Tuckshop will be open on Fun Day selling the usual ice blocks, slushies and drinks. Also, there will be cupcakes available to enjoy with a coffee from the coffee van.  These items will all be available until sold out.

Volunteers needed for 2019

Please consider donating some of your time next year to help out in the tuckshop.  It simply cannot operate without the help of Mums, Dads or extended family members. Any amount of time is greatly appreciated.

Tuckshop Email - ssptuckshop@twb.catholic.edu.au

Natasha Biggar | Tuckshop Convenor

Clothing Pool

• The Clothing Pool is now operating on a FRIDAY AFTERNOON from 2.30pm - 4.00pm.
• Located in the Parent Community Room (next to the Library)
• Any enquiries please contact our Convenor, Cathy Condon 0438 647 082

Skool Dayz (New Uniform Supplier)

• Skool Dayz will be open in the Parent/Community room on Fridays from 2.30pm till 4.00pm.
• If you would like to organise another time to try on uniforms or have any queries regarding the school uniforms please contact Skool Dayz directly on 0481 318 398.
• New orders can now be placed online via the website or follow Skool Dayz on Facebook.
  Skooldayz http://www.skooldayz.com.au 

If you are able to volunteer for the Fun Day please click on the link to register your availability:

http://signup.com/login/entry/256989860360300081

We appreciate all of your help as without volunteers our Fun Day doesn't happen.

Thank you from the SSPS P&F

Prep Driveway and Carpark

Parents please remember to STOP at the sign in the Prep driveway. The Prep car park is strictly for the use of families with children in Prep.

Parking near the Mercy Centre

Parents just a reminder that parking down the driveway beside the Mercy Centre is strictly for deliveries and for those families needing to access the Disabled Park. It is not to be used in the morning for drop off or in the afternoon for pick up. Thank you for your understanding.

Before and After School Care

If you are unable to collect your child before 3.30pm please contact Hall-Thorpe Sports directly (Phone: 4638 7965 or Mobile 0438764752). Bookings Essential. Email admin@hallthorpesports.com.au

Bus Zones

Strictly no parking in the Bus Zones. Police do regularly monitor these areas in the morning and afternoons.

Available to purchase from the Office

• School Badges $5
• School Back Packs $60
• Swimming Caps $5
• Library Bags $10
• School Water Bottles (Large $8 Small $5)

Early Departures

Parents needing to collect students early throughout the day must come to the office to sign your child out. Please inform your child’s teacher via email or note if you are wanting to take your child early.

Absentees

If your child is absent from school please ensure you contact either the school office (messages can be left on the school answering machine) or on Skoolbag App. Please ensure this is done before 9am. If no contact has been made the office will contact you. If your child will be absent for a long period at a time, it is important you discuss this with your child’s teacher and make relevant plans to ensure work can be provided.

School Contacts

Before/After Schoolcare

Hall Thorpe Sports
Phone: 4638 7965

Fun Day Flyer.pdf