From the Principal
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is an annual assessment for students in Years 3, 5, (7 and 9) commencing from Wednesday 12th March 2025. NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through the school curriculum and allows parents/carers to see how their child is progressing against national standards. Students sit assessments in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. Schools will work with parents/carers to identify on a case-by-case basis of reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities to access NAPLAN. Dalby SS will be completing the NAPLAN Assessments from Wednesday to Friday, with makeup testing being completed on Thursday, Friday and Monday (where possible) if a student has been absent. NAPLAN testing is completed online, except for Year 3 Writing which is completed by pencil and paper. If you prefer for your child to not participate in NAPLAN, please make contact with your child’s teacher or contact the office and will assist with your request.
Emu Readers
For our budding readers you are able to join Emu Readers on Wednesday mornings from 8.30am in the Library. Emu Readers is open to all, even to parents and carers where you are able to come along and share in joy of reading.
P&C News
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and General Meeting will be held next Tuesday 11th March from 6.00pm in the Staffroom. You are most welcome to come along to our meeting and join our P&C. The P&C is a great opportunity where you can support the school and the school community.
Running Club
Running Club has commenced for Term 1. All budding runners and walkers no matter your ability, are welcome to come along and participate in Running Club. Running Club takes place on Thursday and Friday mornings from 8.30am on the school oval.
Futsal
On Tuesday Miss King, Miss Little and Mr Flo took 4 teams - 40 students to participate in Futsal in Toowoomba. From all accounts, students had a successful and fun day.
Words Out West
Thank you again to Dalby Libraries for another successful Words Out West. On Tuesday, students from across the school were able to participate in Words Out West, enjoying a variety of presenters as they showcased their work to the audiences.
Reporting and Assessment
As we make our way through Term 1, classrooms are beginning to commence assessment in the lead up to the Term 1 Interim Report Card. I would like to share an email one of our teachers has shared with their families - In my classroom, I don't use the word assessment - I call it 'You Do'. This language is part of our whole school pedagogy (the way in which we teach) called Explicit Instruction. Our school has been using this pedagogy for several years now. Now students will begin the ‘You Do’ phase. Students will be working more independently but will continue to be supported by me as the need arises. This can be achieved through regular check ins, using the learning wall in our classroom and breaking 'You Do' tasks down into workable chunks. I wanted to share this with our families to have discussions at home about upcoming assessments in a positive manner.
Student Code of Conduct
I am seeking feedback from our school community about our updated Student Code of Conduct. Our Student Code of Conduct has been reviewed and revised for the 2025 School Year. The Student Code of Conduct sets out the responsibilities and processes we use in our school to promote a productive, effective whole school approach to discipline. Its purpose is to facilitate high standards of behaviour from all in the school community, ensuring learning and teaching in our school is prioritised, where all students are able to experience success and staff enjoy a safe workspace. If you have any feedback or comments, please forward them to admin@dalbyss.eq.edu.au
Warm Regards,
Scott Bach