Star Board Term Three Week Eight

Principal's Message

Kia Ora Koutou

I want to address a topic that is as essential as it is simple: we are one community, and that means treating each other with kindness and respect. Let’s get real about what really matters here.

Community

I am not going to lie that there are times when I ask AI a question about things I am pondering. Recently I asked what research says about entirely different people from entirely different backgrounds, experiences, and cultures creating connections. I used AI response to preface my message. It literally said “it is possible despite differences in experiences and backgrounds for positive and meaningful connections to be built. The key factors for such a relationship include mutual respect, understanding, and shared values. If the individuals are committed to building a strong connection, addressing challenges together, and valuing each other’s qualities then only good come of that.” I was not born with a silver spoon in my mouth. Like some of you I had to make do with bog-standard stainless-steel ones. But guess what? Whether eating off fine china or paper plates, the rule is the same, none of us get to act like we own the place!

I entered this community, because we believe that whether it is the sparkling new shoes or the sneakers that have seen better days, we remember that respect is not something you can buy. Respect is earned. And it is also free, which is a good thing, considering how much we are paying for tuition these days.

I came into this community because we believe that there is something that is more important than how much money we have: treating each other like human beings. It does not matter if you have a mansion on the hill or a cozy apartment in the city. Every student, teacher, and parent deserves to be treated with dignity. Because at the end of the day, we are all in this together dealing with homework, gym class, and that one teacher who seems to have a personal vendetta against sleeping in class.

I came into this community because we do not forget that entitlement starts at home. We know that if we are not careful, our kids might grow up thinking they are royalty because their parents have an amazing Wi-Fi plan. We are raising them to value character over cash, empathy over exclusivity, and kindness over cliques.

I came into this profession, and became a parent, because we want our children to learn that who they associate with should be based on shared values and interests, not on who has the fanciest car or whose families have the best social groups. After all, some of the best friendships start over shared interests—like loving T Swift or bonding over the latest viral dance craze.

It is my belief that we are a community where we build each other up rather than tear each other down. Where we see beyond the labels and appreciate the person. Where respect is the norm, and entitlement is as outdated as dial-up internet.

It is my belief that we are the kind of community where everyone—rich or poor, new kid or old-timer—feels like they belong. Because when it comes down to it, we are all just people trying to make it through the day without losing our minds. And would it not be nicer if we did that together, with a smile and a helping hand?

Let’s make this community the best it can be—one respectful interaction at a time!

Resilience

Building resilience is crucial for both parents and students in New Zealand, as it helps them navigate challenges and setbacks effectively. Both parents and students should remember that resilience is a skill that develops over time. I have not been unwilling to share the passing of my kids’ dad, the at times debilitating grief which will continue for the rest of my and their lives has required incredible resilience. We discovered that we have had to go on and with a supportive environment and focusing on growth, we can build the strength needed to navigate life’s ups and downs.

As a parent there have been (and probably will be in the future) times I have just wanted to rescue or do it for them. But I have found that modelling resilience has allowed my children to learn a lot. How both Tony and I handle stress and setbacks, which has generally been calmly and constructively, has seemed to have demonstrated resilience. Like you as parents we have expected them to find solutions themselves. The confidence and problem-solving skills that can from this is phenomenal. We, and now I, never tell them ‘To get over it’ or ‘toughen up’; rather acknowledging their feelings is vital to help them understand and manage them. As a parent and in our school- stability and routine are gold. A stable environment with consistent routines can help young ones feel secure and better equipped to handle stress.

For you students of SMCS you need to understand that challenges and failures are a normal part of growth. They provide valuable lessons and opportunities to develop resilience. Learn to approach problems systematically and view them as opportunities to develop new skills and strategies. Cultivate strong relationships with friends, family, and mentors. These relationships can provide encouragement and different perspectives during tough times. Take care of you- your physical and mental health through exercise, a good diet, and rest. Self-care is essential for maintaining resilience.

AND always know that it is okay to ask for help.

The Purple Shoe Conspiracy

Here's a light-hearted poem about a moment in our staffroom and how working together can lead to a bit of mimicry which I have called ‘The Purple Shoe Conspiracy’

That is all folks. Enjoy the Hockey tonight and wish your seniors well for the Dinner Dance tomorrow night. Make the most of Te Wiki o te reo Māori and have a safe weekend.

Ngā Mihi

Kiri

Around School

Boarding Note

With minimal winter sport running at the moment, it has been a great opportunity to organise a few extra activities for boarders this week. There have been trips to the park and the town pools, and each year level has had a pizza night during the week.

Many thanks to our Year 13 boarders (Anneliese and helpers) for hosting our Year 10’s, and to our Year 12 boarders for hosting our Year 11’s. It is good for our younger boarders to see what an amazing facility Hampton House really is, and all that it offers.

With House Music scheduled for Thursday 26th September, we will be having our “Boarders End of Term 3 Dinner” on Wednesday 25th September. It would be nice if all boarders could attend this evening.

Photos below of the Year 13/10 pizza night and of boarders enjoying a trip to the park earlier in the week.