Dear Families,

Mothers’ Day has been and gone for another year. I hope that all our Calare mums were spoiled with cards, gifts and possibly brekky in bed as we celebrate the contribution our mothers and grandmothers make to our families and community.

K-2 Athletics Carnival

How blessed we were for the gorgeous weather that presided over our K-2 Athletics Carnival. It was a pleasure to see the joy on the children’s faces as they raced, jumped and participated in the plethora of activities that were on offer. It was a very welcome distraction for me to escape the computer, stretch my legs and catch up with some familiar faces. I am always so proud to witness our students cheering each other on. The Calare school spirit was most certainly buzzing at the carnival, and I would like to thank all the parent and grandparent volunteers that assisted on the day. The contribution from Orange High School students, who took time from their studies to assist us on the day is also much appreciated. Without our volunteers, the day wouldn’t be the success it as it was and is another example of how community and school partnerships enhance learning outcomes for our kids.

Principals’ Conference

Last week I was privileged to attend the Rural South and West Principals’ Conference in Sydney. This provided a valuable opportunity for senior leaders in schools to deepen their knowledge, share best practice and gain practical insights. I was particularly excited to learn how artificial intelligence is being used in schools to improve quality, boost productivity and reduce the burden of routine tasks, giving more time to focus more strategic activities. I’m sure you will be hearing more about this in the not-so- distant future.

It was also terrific to see HPGE (High Potential Gifted Education) in action with Australian Idol finalist, Iilysh Retallic from Billabong High School (Wiradjuri Country) showing how far opportunities in public education can take you, from featured artist at the Schools Spectacular through to our television screens.

CWA Public Speaking Competition

Each student in Years 3-6 wrote a speech about their preferred topic and presented it to their class. One winner was chosen to represent their class at the grade finals. Speaking in front of a large audience can be a daunting task but the students did a great job in trying to engage their audience. One student was chosen from each grade to represent Calare PS at the CWA Public Speaking Competition which will be held next week. We wish them all the best as they compete against other public school, catholic school and independent school students from around the region. Our representatives this year are Arlo Stewart (Year 3), Harry Thorne (Year 4), Riley Loud (Year 5) and Beck Draycott (Year 6). Congratulations to all our 3-6 students for their participation. Being able. To speak confidently. Is a skill that is needed throughout a lifetime. Thank you to parents and teachers for supporting students with the preparation of speeches.

Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June)

As National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week approach, we come together to recognise the experiences of Australia’s First Nations people. This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week is “Bridging Now to Next”, a reminder to reflect on the past as we continue moving forward together as a more united and respectful nation.

May 26^th is National Sorry Day which marks the start of Reconciliation Week. As it is also my birthday, I am mindful each year that this is a day that we acknowledge the Stolen Generations and how things have changed in the years since. If you have haven’t watched the movie “Rabbit Proof Fence”, I urge you to do so. Whilst I found it very confronting, it is one of the best, most informative movies I’ve ever seen.

Maxine Thompson                                                                                           

Proud Relieving Principal of Calare

PSSA Soccer Report

District Athletics

Last Friday, 67 of our talented athletes represented Calare at the District Athletics Carnival at Waratahs. We asked the students about their standout moments from the day, and here’s what they had to say about each other:

• Steven R smashing his personal best in high jump
• Rupert A's impressive run in the 800m
• Elina T hitting a new PB in shot put
• Cooper W clocking PBs in both the 800m and 1500m
• Connor M burning down the track in the 100m
• Mia O's incredible effort in the high jump and a PB in the 200m
• Harper C's grit in the 800m
• Lewis C giving it his all in the 100m
• Gus S and Ben R pushing themselves in the long jump
• Sophie H's determination in the 800m
• Riley L and Cooper W going head-to-head in a thrilling 800m finish, with Cooper just edging ahead
• Lara H leaping an impressive 4.54m in the long jump
• Rupert A's encouragement and support for his peers in the high jump, capturing the true spirit of sportsmanship

Congratulations to all our athletes for their effort, resilience, and support for each other. We’re so proud of the way you represented our school!

Special mention to the 20 students who have now qualified to represent Calare at Western in Term 3 – an official list will be coming out soon.

Wondering about our school athletics carnival.  There will be a wrap up at this week's assembly.  Stay turned for a write up in the next newsletter!

District X Country

The weather wasn’t so kind to us for the District X-Country which was held yesterday. Nevertheless, our representatives did us proud. Well done to our outstanding Year 2 to Year 6 students who represented our school at the District Cross Country! These students demonstrated incredible dedication, endurance, and sportsmanship as they competed against runners from other schools. It was a proud moment for our school community to see their hard work and training pay off. Well done to all participants for reaching this level and giving their best on the day!

Congratulations to the following students who have progressed to the next level:

Logan Wright, Ben Campbell (reserve), Fergus Quilty (reserve), Cooper Williamson, Hugo Wright, Vann Wyner, Harper Carr, Heather Galea (reserve), Marley Braid.

Year 1 Excursion

Year 1 students had a fantastic day out on their recent excursion to the lake and tenpin bowling! The day began with a peaceful walk and play at the lake, where students enjoyed exploring nature and spending time outdoors with friends. In the afternoon, the fun continued at the bowling alley, where students took turns, practiced their coordination skills, and celebrated each other's strikes and spares. It was a wonderful day full of laughter, teamwork, and memorable moments!

Year 2 Excursion

Year 2 students recently enjoyed a wild adventure at the zoo! The excursion was a fun and educational experience, giving students the opportunity to observe a variety of animals up close and learn about their habitats, diets, and behaviours. The visit supported our science unit on living things and helped bring classroom learning to life in an exciting and memorable way. It was a fantastic day filled with curiosity, discovery, and lots of animal fun!

Friendly reminders:

• Band fees are now overdue for Term 1.  Please contact the office if you are unsure about overdue fees.
• Any medicaton that children are required to have at school must be brought to the office by an adult. 
• If you have not signed up to the parent portal, please do so.  This is a vital tool we use to communicate with families.

The Junior Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (Jr AECG) is an initiative aimed at empowering Aboriginal students by providing them with a platform to voice their perspectives and strengthen their cultural identity within the school environment. Calare Public School is excited to participate in the Jr AECG as it aligns with our commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness. Through this initiative, our students will engage in meaningful discussions and activities that promote cultural respect and understanding, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage. By creating a supportive environment that values diversity and encourages open dialogue, we aim to enrich the educational experience for all students and celebrate the rich heritage of Aboriginal culture within our school community. Below, you will find a group picture of the three students who are part of the Jr AECG, and in the coming weeks, we will share individual introductions to highlight each member's contributions and experiences.

Our 2025 AECG members are Tate, Jamison and Lexie (pictured below).