PLHS Governing Council Community Voice (Oct)

In the blink of an eye, it’s all over – at least that is how many of our Year 12 students may be feeling as they rapidly approach the finish line of their secondary schooling. We wish these students well as exams approach and subject completion dates are reached, with graduation and formal to be enjoyed.

After two years of COVID restrictions, welcome back to your high school everyone. With over 600 parent/teacher interviews and numerous phone calls and SEQTA feedback notices, the school has been buzzing this week. Thank you to the many who attended interviews and/or contacted teachers. This has been a tremendous response and demonstrates the value and importance given by you to track your child’s progress and support the good work of the staff and the school. Pats on the back to the teachers who have been well prepared and available after school hours to meet, and to the invaluable support staff who have coordinated this massive effort.

Thought you’d like to know that the PLHS Centenary Committee is preparing 2023 celebrations to mark our 100 years of continuous service to youth, education and community. The school’s motto of “Non Nobis Solum (Not for Ourselves Alone)” is apt, as the committee welcomes you to join in with the fun. Just to whet your appetite, I hear a whisper that a special PLHS Centenary beer will be brewed… but I’m not allowed to let the cat out of bag just yet!

In light of the rising costs of living, your Governing Council has supported the school’s decision to maintain the current school fees (Materials and Services Charge) of $400 per full time student for next year. The SA Government will continue to assist through the School Card Scheme for families who are experiencing financial hardship and meet the eligibility criteria. For those applying and eligible, this will leave only $45/student to be paid to the school. Information on how to apply can be found by searching “School Card” on www.sa.gov.au; the school can also assist you through the process.

Calling all hands! We are recruiting for 2023. Governing Council meets twice a term. These meetings are great because we get to talk directly with the Principal Mr. Todd George, student leaders, teacher representatives and other parents. Sometimes we invite school and community people in to provide first-hand information about the life and learning of the school, and the many opportunities and ways for our children to connect their learning and aspirations.

Very importantly, at these meetings we listen, talk, giggle and have fun; and in partnership with the school, we can make things happen to further develop and improve PLHS for our students.

• Can I come to a Governing Council meeting?   Yes.

The meetings are open to current and future parents (including Year 6/7 parents); you are very welcome to come to a part or all of any meeting that has an interest for you.

• Do I have to become a Governing Council member?   No.

You are welcome to participate in meetings without being a member.

• Can I become a member of Governing Council?   Yes.

At any time, you can nominate for Governing Council by contacting Rachael Boyce at PLHS, by phone on 8683-6000 or via email to Rachael.Boyce774@schools.sa.edu.au. Rachael can also connect you with a current Governing Council member to discuss this further.

Please keep an eye on the school calendar. There are many great events and celebrations to look forward to before the end of year.

Kind regards,

Brian Gabb & the PLHS Governing Council Team