Newsletter - Issue 02 - February 27

Tēnā koutou katoa nga mihi ki te whānau o Te Kura Takawaenga o Ōtātara

"We got to take the power back!" - Rage Against the Machine.

Quote of the fortnight?

Well, you're probably thinking that I am trying to revisit a youth that passed so darn long ago with a quote from a band I quite like, however the truth is that this particular quote relates in its own way to the influence of social media.

Fact - Australia recently legislated to remove social media platforms from those under the age of 16.
Fact - it is illegal for a child to be on many social media platforms under the age of 13 in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Fact - your tamariki are so adept with technology and it is a major part of their lives.
Fact - a high percentage of bullying at our age group occurs on-line. It is established and continues!
Fact - we have to deal with the results and outcomes of that bullying way too often on a Monday or a Tuesday. That's like a weekend hang-over for us!

So, why is it that our youngsters are on these sites? And is there a connection between  whānau and family coming to us and saying that they don't know what to do? That they are concerned with the amount of time spent on-line at home and how they are concerned with what they are doing on-line? A definite connection indeed.

Okay, so it is likely that your kids see you as "one eyed hillbillies" with no idea about the modern world yet I would contend that those parents who actively control what, when and where their kids are on-line are exercising their right as parents to protect because at this stage of their lives we are fairly and squarely in charge. 

Now I see the value in these social media platforms as important social connectors but we have a critical role in knowing who our kids are connecting with, what they are communicating about and and when. If your child is not prepared to share this information with you then you have to 'take the power back'. Switch the devices off! Turn off the wifi! We don't throw car keys to kids without teaching them how to drive. The minefield that is social media should require a license as well. Teach them about their roles as digital citizens and the legal implications if things go wrong. And, yes, this actually happens. 

The horror stories of systematic bullying, unreported disclosures of suicidal thoughts and adult predators setting up alias accounts posing as young kids...the list goes on and the list is real. In addition, I often see whole families at cafes connected to their devices but without a single word being said. Connecting with each other through discussion about sport, school, life - even the food you are eating is critical to build rangatahi who communicate, empathise, and think critically when a problem needs to be solved. 

As parents we must model this behaviour ourselves  and that is not done face down in a screen. Remember that parenting is not always easy but that we are there to support you should this, at times, be difficult. So, think about what the digital landscape looks like at your place and about what you are doing at home to model social media behaviour that clearly demonstrates its place but not its foothold in your house. Lastly, you will find some links on this page that you can tap into to help you out - whether you need that help now...or later!

Ngā mihi nui,

Marty Hantz
Tumuaki / Principal 
Te Kura Takawaenga o Ōtātara Taradale Intermediate

Chahat has made an excellent start to her time at Taradale Intermediate as a Year 7 student. She has settled confidently into classroom routines and expectations, demonstrating strong capability across her learning. In mathematics, Chahat shows real confidence and understanding. She contributes thoughtful ideas during group discussions and is willing to explain her thinking, which benefits both her own learning and that of her peers. Chahat demonstrates very good self-management skills; she remains focused during learning time, uses her time wisely, and ensures that tasks are completed to a high standard. She takes pride in her work and shows a positive attitude towards challenges. It has been wonderful to see her approach her learning with such maturity and enthusiasm so early in the year. "Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tūohu koe, me he maunga teitei" Seek the treasure you value most dearly; if you must bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain.

I am so proud to award the Kaweka Whanaukura certificate to Harrison. We have only been at kura a few weeks, but Harrison has stood out for his kind nature, engagement in his learning, and consistently having a positive attitude. He is a quiet achiever who shows capability through his diligence, and he strives to demonstrate our 3R’s in everything he does. Harrison is able to find humour and is able to laugh with others and at himself. He communicates with clarity and precision and listens to others’ points of view respectfully. Harrison shows patience and is willing to help others. He is a joy to teach in room 6 and deserves to be recognised for his efforts and great character. I cannot wait to see what he achieves this year as a Year 8.

Kāore te kumara e kōrero mō tōna ake reka

The kumara (sweet potato) does not say how sweet he is.

I’m excited to recognise Isaac for the Takitimu whanaukura award, the first given out this year.  Isaac has had a fabulous start as a Year 8. He has shown a noticeable improvement in his focus towards his learning and is approaching tasks with a more settled and positive attitude. Isaac is beginning to demonstrate greater respect in his interactions with others and is making thoughtful choices in the learning environment. In his role as class PE monitor, Isaac has taken on this responsibility with enthusiasm and reliability. Other kaiako have also commented on his calmer, more settled nature! Issac has also proven himself to be a very helpful and capable ākonga in the Food Tech room.

"Whaia te pae tawhiti kia tata, whaia te pae tata, whakamaua kia tina" (Seek out the distant horizons, cherish those you attain.) Isaac, we are proud of your growth so keep up the great mahi!

Liam, you have settled into Year 7 with maturity and quiet confidence. You approach your learning with real determination, consistently working hard and holding yourself to a high standard. What stands out most is the way you take the time to explain your thinking clearly to others - you don’t just complete your own work, you help lift the understanding of those around you. You show a strong moral compass, always choosing to do what is right, even when no one is watching. In fact, I often have to remind you to head to break because you are so deeply engaged in your learning! You are a thoughtful, principled, and hardworking member of our akomanga, and this award is a reflection of the steady, positive example you set every day. Whaia te iti kahurangi, ki te tūohu koe me he maunga teitei - Seek the treasure you value most dearly; if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain.