Principal’s Piece — Justin Harrison
Director General and Regional Director Visit
Last Tuesday, Toolooa SHS welcomed the Director General, Michael De’Arth and Kay Kirkman (Regional Director) to our school. It was a privilege to have both of them visit and have the opportunity to see all the great things we are doing here at Toolooa. Both Michael and Kay were very impressed with what they saw and heard at Toolooa. More specifically, they were very impressed with the ‘culture’ of the school, the specific wellbeing programs and support structures that the school heavily invests in (e.g. beginning teacher program, inclusion focus, indigenous support, etc.) and the STEM program which extends students in that particular field. It was very rewarding to hear all the positive affirmations regarding the outstanding work that we are doing here at Toolooa SHS. I would like to personally congratulate the staff and students involved in the visit who were tremendous ambassadors for the school and of the region. Finally, as I was away on the day, I would like to acknowledge the considerable time and effort expended by staff and students in the execution of the morning’s proceedings.
Toolooa’s Student Code of Conduct
Toolooa is committed to providing a safe, respectful and disciplined learning environment for students and staff, where students have opportunities to engage in quality learning experiences and acquire values supportive of their lifelong wellbeing. We value respect, achievement and responsibility.
Toolooa’s Code of Conduct is designed to facilitate high standards of behaviour so that teaching in our school can facilitate a learning culture of high performance whilst enabling our students to participate positively within our community. If you have not already done so, I encourage all parents/carers to refer to page 4 of the Student Success Journal which unpacks the specific behaviours that we expect to see in reference to our core values of respect, achievement and responsibility. In addition, it is also important that you are aware of the possible disciplinary consequences that could be issued for breaches of behaviour. These can be found on pages 13 – 18 of the Student Success Journal.
Finally, to help achieve our school’s mission; Education for Life, it is important that: “Every member of the school community, whether staff, student, parent or visitor, will act at all times with the safety and dignity of themselves and others in mind.”
I do thank you for your support of the school so we can work together and provide the best education possible in a safe and supportive learning environment.
Recognition For Outstanding Staff
We are fortunate to have a fantastic group of staff who work to support our students here at Toolooa. In particular, we have several high performing members of our teaching team who have received external recognition for their contribution to teaching and learning: Ella Halloran and Nikita Korableff. Ella, who is one of our English and Humanities teachers, has been nominated for an NEiTA Foundation National Excellence in Teaching Award as a result of her exemplary classroom practice and leadership skills amongst her peers. Nikita, who is one of our early career teachers, has been nominated for a TeachX Award for Excellence in Beginning to Teach. Nikita has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to promoting equity and engagement in her classrooms, and connecting with students to ensure they have a chance to succeed. Well done Ella and Nikita and all the best for the awards process. We already know you are assets to our school, and we are glad to be able to celebrate your contribution and efforts.
2023 Year 11 Subject Selections
This is an important reminder that the first Senior Schooling Information Evening is on tonight in the shelter, starting at 6pm. The Senior Schooling team will be discussing what senior education looks like (Queensland Certificate of Education, ATARs, pathways, etc.) and more specifically, what pathways Toolooa offers to support your child transitioning to further education, training or employment.
Our second parent/guardian information evening is on next week, 16 June in the shelter. This information evening is focussing on what each subject/program is comprised of. Subject Heads of Department, Guidance Officers, Heads of Senior Schooling and the Senior Schooling Deputy Principal will all be able to speak with about Year 11 subject choices and pathways, and answer any question you may have. Representatives from EQIP, CQU and the Gladstone Technical College will also be present for parents/guardians and students to talk with.
Final 2023 Year 11 subject choices will be made later this term.
Uniform Reminder
As it is now getting colder, this is a reminder that the only jumpers that are allowed to be worn are either the school jacket or a plain black jumper or jacket. If students are choosing to wear a black jacket or jumper, please remember that it is to have no logos on it of any shape of size.