Recently, we had a parent meeting at South Oaks to discuss the possibility of including grade 5 classes in our school next year. This has been discussed with Manitoba Education and Hanover School Division, and it was time to gather feedback from parents. A few parents showed up to the meeting. The superintendent, Joe Thiessen, led the meeting and several members of the HSD School Board were there also. Mr. Thiessen also received emails from parents who couldn’t make it to the meeting. The overall response from parents was that they support the idea of making South Oaks a K-5 school next year. The final decision will be made soon.
For me, the fact that we have had limited responses suggests that parents trust us with this decision. They trust that this decision is best for our students and they trust that South Oaks can navigate the change with the kids. One parent said that when he told his daughter about what the adults were meeting about, she was concerned that she would miss out on the traditional Grade 4 Farewell celebrations. That is a very fair concern and, once we know the final decision, we will begin to address these concerns with the students and prepare them for what is to come.
As part of my own professional growth, I am talking with principals of K-6 or K-8 schools, to determine what sorts of things we need to consider if this happens. How could we introduce leadership opportunities for grade 5 students? When will students receive French instruction? Will we see an increase in what is offered for sports? What will work best for recess times? There is a lot to consider, so I am leaning on those who have experience, to prepare me for the possible change.
Whatever happens, I am thankful that we have such a supportive parent community to join us on the journey. I appreciate the trust you place in us each and every day. If South Oaks becomes a K-5 school, we will be ready and will do our best to continue providing the care and education, as we do now.
Thanks,
Dale Martens – Principal
in: General