31 August 2023

Principal’s Message

2023 School Explicit Improvement Agenda (EIA):
Reading & Writing

Dear Miami State School Community,

Every day that I come to Miami State School I feel that we have brilliant things to celebrate, and the last fortnight was no different.  I am continually amazed by the learning of our students and the dedication of our staff.   Last week we were absolutely impressed by the amazing staff and student Book Week parade, as well as the creativity and innovation shown by students and their caregivers in the design and development of costumes. The P&C continue this week for their support of our students by running their annual Father’s Day Stall - there was a wonderful array of very well-priced gifts available for that special male adult in our students’ lives.

Staffing updates

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Julia Hoy to our Miami State School family.  Mrs Hoy will start at Miami SS in Term 4 as our Deputy Principal who will oversee Prep – Year 3.  Last week Mrs Hoy attended a transition day at Miami State School, and had the opportunity of meeting all our students and teachers.  We look forward to introducing Julia to our school community next term.

Message From Newly Appointed Deputy Principal

Hello to Miami SS Community,

I am very excited to be joining the team at Miami State School and look forward to meeting families next term. I had the pleasure of visiting all of your wonderful classrooms to meet children and teachers last week.  I live in northern NSW by the beach, with my husband (who is a teacher), two teenage children, border collie and a cat.  This year I have been a Deputy Principal at Palm Beach Currumbin State High School, following on from 9 years at Currumbin SS.  I have had the opportunity to work in many Gold Coast schools over the last 18 years as Deputy Principal, including Benowa SS, Arundell SS, Caningeraba SS and Nerang SS.  I have also enjoyed my teaching Principal role in a little town near Agnes Water and Bundaberg.  I will see you soon around the school and looking forward to meeting you and your families.

Student Absences – Every Day Counts!

School attendance is compulsory under the Education Act. If children are going to be absent from school for any reason, parents are requested to inform the school by phoning the Student Absence Line on 5595 4888, emailing or phoning the office. If your child is absent from school on any given day and we are unaware of the reason for the absence, an SMS will be generated asking you to contact the school regarding your child’s absence.

Why does school attendance matter?

Regular school attendance gives students a better chance at life. Students achieve better when they go to school all day, every school day because:

• they have increased access to learning opportunities
• they maintain friendships
• they stay connected to the curriculum progression
• they develop self-efficacy as a learner
• they have better long-term life outcomes.

Check out the Queensland Government’s ‘Every Day Counts’ website for some great books and animations with student, Jimmy, and his dog, Sam, regarding attending school!

I would also like to address the growing trend of families taking holidays during the school term. While we understand the allure of off-peak travel times and unique experiences, I encourage you to consider the potential impact on your child's education. Absences, especially during critical instructional periods, can disrupt their learning continuity and hinder their ability to grasp essential concepts. Teachers work diligently to create comprehensive lesson plans, and your child's presence ensures they benefit fully from these educational opportunities.  At Miami SS, we value partnership between home and school. We kindly request that you schedule family vacations during official school breaks whenever possible. This will help your child maintain their educational momentum and ensure that they can fully participate and thrive in their academic endeavours. Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and dedication to your child's education.

Attendance by year level – Year to Date

Our whole school attendance rate is now sitting at 92.1%YTD. We are aiming for over 95% attendance across the entire school year. Every day your child is well enough to attend school we want to see them here!

Enrolment for Prep 2024 Now Open!

For families interested in enrolling their child in Prep for the academic year 2024, I am delighted to inform you that the enrolment process has begun. This is a crucial time to secure your child's place at Miami State School and ensure they embark on a fulfilling educational journey with us.  We encourage all interested families to visit our school website or contact our administration office on 5595 4888 for enrolment information, forms, and key dates. Our dedicated staff will be more than happy to guide you through the enrolment process and address any queries or concerns you may have.

2024 ENROLMENTS – NOW OPEN FOR ALL YEAR LEVELS

Our school is now taking enrolments for the 2024 school year- please get your enrolment forms in as soon as possible. Should you know of friends or family looking to join our great school, please inform them that they are also most welcome to contact the school for further information and to obtain an enrolment package.

Kiss and Go & School Pick Up

The Kiss & Go Zone is to provide a safe place with an efficient process for parents and carers to drop off and pick up their children. It will only be successful in achieving that if everyone does their bit. Morning drop off usually works well but afternoons are trickier with a lot of students leaving in a shorter timeframe.  Here are some tips to help it run smoothly.

Pick Up Times

Remember to arrive at the Kiss & Go Zone to pick up your children in the afternoon from 3:00pm onwards as it takes children a little while to walk from their classrooms. All students should be picked up by 3:15pm.

Making the Zone Safe for Children

Remember to drive as far along the zone as possible so there is space behind your vehicle for others to pull in out of the traffic flow. This helps the zone to work efficiently and, even more importantly, improves safety by discouraging overtaking and reverse parking. These are both safety hazards when there are young children about. If you have driven as far forward a possible and the car in front of you moves, please move forward to close the gap if you are still waiting for your child to appear. If you approach the zone and see a gap further along the zone, please wait at the end of the queue rather than driving forward and reverse parking into the spot.

On a further safety note, drivers should remain in the car at all times while in the Kiss and Go zone.  Students will need to enter the car via the passenger side of the vehicle

Complying with Road Rules

There are two road rules on the use of Kiss & Go Zones:

• Drivers must stay with their vehicles;
• Vehicles are only allowed to stand in Kiss & Go Zones for a maximum of 2 minutes. Once the two minutes are up, drivers must drive around the block to allow additional time for their children to arrive at the Kiss & Go Zone.

Drivers are subject to fines and demerit points if they do not comply with these conditions.

Everyone needs to do their bit

This is about the safety of young children and making the afternoon pick up as hassle-free for everyone as possible. The school seeks your support in achieving both of these objectives for the benefit of all.

I look froward to another fantastic fortnight at Miami.

Warm regards,

Jemille Malouf
Principal

Deputy Principal’s Message

Welcome to Week 8

It is a very busy time of the term with students currently finishing off units of work and end of term assessments.  It is important that our students are at school learning at every opportunity.  Of course, if they are sick the best place is at home resting.  There are still germs hanging around as the seasons change and the weather slowly warms up.  Hopefully once the holidays arrive the weather is nice, the bulk of winter germs will move on as well.

Before and After School

I would like to reiterate what was shared via a letter to our parents and students in Years 4 – 6 recently.  In recent weeks, there has been an observable pattern of students gathering at the skate park and the nearby IGA before school hours.  During these times, students are purchasing sugary drinks and foods and eating and drinking these purchases before the school day starts. This dietary choice, when coupled with a lack of proper supervision and the potential exposure to older teenagers' behaviour, raises concerns about our students' overall well-being. Consuming excessive sugary foods and drinks can have negative impacts on their health, energy levels, and concentration in school.  Many students are arriving at school, not in the right frame of mind for learning after consuming far too much sugar in the early morning hours.  Additionally, we have observed instances where students, including older siblings, are accompanied by their younger siblings during these activities.  The safety aspect remains a paramount concern. Public spaces like the skate park and IGA lack the controlled environment that our school premises offer. Older teenagers who frequent these places might expose younger children to inappropriate language and behaviour, which can impact their sense of security and well-being.  Please discuss with your children the importance of daily school routine and the need to come to school ready for learning.

TSP / STEAM

A reminder that TSP/STEAM ticket purchasing will remain open for Term 4 purchases until Friday the 8^th of September.  Please refer to the SeeSaw messages that have been sent regarding prices, and the number of tickets available for each sport/activity.

PBL

Positive behaviour is incredibly important for successful learning in children and holds immense value for parents and carers. When kids exhibit positivity by being respectful, safe, and embracing the role of a learner, they create an environment that nurtures effective learning. This behaviour enables children to engage better with their studies, absorb information, and build meaningful relationships with teachers and peers. Research has shown that a positive atmosphere in classrooms enhances a child's cognitive development and emotional well-being. By showcasing positive behaviour, children develop resilience, a growth mindset, and a sense of responsibility for their learning journey. Through their actions, children not only elevate their own learning experiences but also contribute to a harmonious classroom where everyone can thrive.

Many schools adopt a Positive Behaviour for Learning approach because it not only sets the stage for academic success but also prepares students for a fulfilling life beyond the classroom. This approach creates an environment where children feel safe, valued, and motivated to participate actively in their education. When schools prioritise positive behaviour, they encourage a culture of empathy, kindness, and cooperation. This, in turn, contributes to reduced instances of negative behaviours, allowing students to focus their energy on learning and personal growth. The skills children learn through positive behaviour—such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and self-regulation—are invaluable assets that will serve them well in future endeavours. By adopting this approach, schools invest in the holistic development of their students, nurturing individuals who not only excel academically but also thrive as responsible and compassionate members of society.

Until next fortnight

Ben Edmunds
Deputy Principal Yr 4 – Yr 6

Office News

How to record a Student Absence

• Option 1 - Text our SMS line on 0427 904 333 with student’s full name, class and the reason for absence
• Option 2 - Email absentee@miamiss.eq.edu.au, with student’s name, class and reason for absence
• Option 3 - Contact our office on 07 5595 4888 and press 1 to leave a voicemail informing students full name, class and the reason for absence

If you receive a text message for an unexplained absence, please reply to the text ASAP with a reason for absence to avoid us contacting you and interrupting your busy day.  Thank you.

Excursions/Incursions

Below table of upcoming excursions/incursion for Miami State School:

No late payments will be accepted, please note direct deposits can take up to 3 business days for funds to clear.

If you are experiencing any financial difficulties, please contact our office (office@miamiss.eq.edu.au) to request a payment arrangement.

Our preferred method of payment is BPoint – see attached flyer can you please include the attached flyer as a guide on how to pay.

Office Staff

After School Programs

Term 3 After School Programs

Please note these programs are facilitated by external providers and you are required to make any enquiries or bookings directly with the relevant provider. Please ensure you are on time to collect your student from the relevant location. Collection of students from the oval and multicourt is to be via Pizzey Road tennis courts (not through the school).

HPE News

Junior Sports Day – for newsletter

Clear skies and warm temperatures were just what we ordered last Wednesday for the 2023 Junior Sports Day. The day was a wonderful mix of excitement and success with children rotating through a variety of tabloid relays, sprints and ball games.

It was extremely competitive this year with only 4 points difference separating first and third place in the overall house result. The championship trophy this year went to Norman house with the spirit shield awarded to Fraser house for their consistent cheering and encouragement.

Congratulations must also go to all of the sprint age champions who performed so well over the course of the day.

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National Tennis Trials:

Ava played for South Coast in Caloundra last weekend at the QLD State Championships. She played really well and placed 2^nd in the individual tournament and winning the overall team's event for Southcoast! By doing this she has made the QLD team in the no.2 spot, representing Miami State School at National's Bruce Cup 2023. We wish Ava all the very best in her chosen sport as she competes at Nationals in Brisbane this year at the QLD Tennis Centre from October 20^th to 28th. 

Senior Swimming Carnival:

The warmer weather is just around the corner and with that comes the annual Miami State School House Swimming Carnival. The carnival has been scheduled for Friday 20^th October at the Miami Aquatic Centre. Mr Crilly has made his way around to classes gathering nominations from those students interested in participating in the championship events (50m Freestyle, Breaststroke, Backstroke, Butterfly and the 200m Individual Medley).

Championship events are not compulsory to participate in. On the day there are also the 25m events in each of the four strokes along with fun ‘participation’ events available for students to enter and enjoy. Please note that the championship events are for those children that are extremely confident in those particular strokes and have competition experience and wanting to make the Miami Swim Team for district trials in 2024. A small number of Year 3 students may have received an invitation as they have been identified as a competitive swimmer by Rackley’s staff at Miami Pool and eligible age to compete in 2024. Please note, this is an invite only and if you do wish your child to participate, please have these permission forms in ASAP.

Gala Sports Day:

On Monday our Year 5 & 6 students finally had great weather to hold their Sports Gala Day. With the great weather Miami students participated in a variety of selected sports against our neighbouring primary schools in a fun round robin format. Throughout the day Miami students played against Varsity, Mudgee Creek, Broadbeach and William Duncan. Our staff were extremely pleased with our student’s behaviour on the day being respectful, safe learners. We had many staff from other school’s compliment Miami on their sportsmanship and manners. We are aiming to have our third Gala on Monday 4^th September with Miami, Mudgee Creek and Varsity taking part. Please note the change of venue, Oztag will be moving back to Firth Park with Netball while all other sports will remain at the same venues.

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Gold Coast Dance and Cheerleading Eisteddfod 

Congratulations to all our wonderful JEP and TSP dance and cheerleading students, who bravely stepped onto the big stage at A.B Patterson College over the weekend to compete at the Gold Coast Eisteddfod. Our 75 students showed respect and sportsmanship, clapping on other schools and wishing them good luck. It was wonderful to see the support in the dressing room where our TSP performers were helping the JEP teams get ready and offering them words of wisdom before they hit the stage!

Our groups performed with immense confidence and professionalism and secured our school a Highly Commended, Very Highly Commended, 3^rd and 2^nd place!

Thank you to Miss Jazz, Miss Jada, Mr Matt, Miss Megan, Miss MB and Miss Indy for all their dance and cheerleading expertise. Thank you to Ms Malouf and Mrs Benfer for making sure our students were safe and looked like superstars when they took the stage!

Finally, of course thank you to all our wonderful parents for helping the performers look amazing and have such a successful day - we can't wait until our next performance. 

HPE Team

Chaplaincy News

Hello parents and carers. There are some great opportunities on offer for you as parents/carers, or for your children, to participate in some parenting or child workshops and programs.

Wesley Kids School Holiday Workshops and Term 4 Group Programs

Resilient Kids School Holiday Workshop
Tuesday 19^th September - $25

Bring it Together (Social Skill and Confidence Building) School Holiday Workshop
Thursday 28^th September - $25

6-week Grief and Loss Group Program
Mondays, 16^th October – 20^th November - $120

6-week Mindful Kids Group Program
Wednesdays, 18^th October – 22^nd November - $100

4-week Empowering Parenting Group Program
Wednesdays, 25^th October – 15^th November – no cost

Places for groups are limited so please register as soon as possible to avoid missing out. Registrations can be made by calling our friendly team on 07 5625 1901 or emailing us at wesleykidsgc@wmq.org.au. (Wesley Kids, 88 Allied Drive, Arundel).

Kind regards
Shane Scott (Chaplain)

Guidance Officer News

Hello Community,

Growth mindset is something we, as parents/carers, endeavour to teach our children so they are able to flourish in life.  Trying to get our children to develop a growth mindset is more difficult than just telling them to look at things in a more positive light, or to try and do things that sit outside their comfort zone.  There is a technique and specific language that we need to adopt to help children understand how to use a growth mindset.  Helping your child develop the right mindset early on is the key to a successful and happy life, and a growth mindset is an important piece.  When children put forth an effort and use the right strategies to help them excel at things, they gradually become more empowered and want to improve. As a result, they become more confident, resilient, and they’re not afraid of failure.

HOW TO DEVELOP A GROWTH MINDSET IN CHILDREN

• Teach them about the brain and how it works
• Model a growth mindset by pursuing your own goals and dreams
• Embrace failures and missteps as opportunities to learn and grow
• Value the effort over the result and compliment students on their process and progress
• Allow kids to fail and solve their problems by themselves
• Use the magic word “yet” often and establish routines
• Let them pursue their passion and take on new challenges
• Adopt a growth mindset language and acknowledge and embrace imperfections
• Follow the research on neuroplasticity and talk about careers differently
• Make and track progress

Please see the attached article for more information on Growth Mindset.

QUEENSLAND MENTAL HEALTH WEEK is coming!!!!

Miami State School students will participate in a school art project that centres on the theme ‘Awareness, Belonging, Connection’.

We would like to invite our Yrs 3-6 parents along to help contribute to our art project alongside your child.  A timetable is being developed and more details will be in the coming newsletters and seesaw messages, so keep your eye out for this information.  

Kind regards,
Rachel Irvine
Guidance Officer

P&C News

Hello Families and Friends

The P&C is a small group of dedicated parents who volunteer their time to support the school with fundraising events. All money raised from these events go back in to the school.

We are coming up to that time of the year when we will be sending out information on our famous Rainbow run keep your eyes open for the online enrolment forms.

Our rainbow run will be the next big thing on our events list this is always a fun packed day for all involved, this year we will be supporting the eco marines with the projects they have going on, please keep your eyes peeled for me details.

We will be advertising volunteers closer to the day so if you like everything fun including slime and colour then this is your day to jump in and get involved.

We have a few save the dates for you all.

Friday 15^th September: Rainbow Run (Help will be needed)

October/November: Decorate a Plate fundraiser

Tuesday 5^th December: Carols on The Green (Help will be needed)

P&C Committee

Tuckshop

Our lovely tuckshop is always looking for an extra pair of hands to help them out, if you have a little spare time, they would love for you to pop in and give them a hand.  Please contact them via

email:  miamisstuckshop@gmail.com

Uniform Shop

You can now order all uniforms by emailing Kimmy at miamisstuckshop@gmail.com
She will contact you for payment and deliver your order to your child’s classroom. 

Thank you to everyone for your patience with us and the online uniform shop.
It seems to be working great and keeping Kimmy busy.
Uniform can now be purchased through FlexiSchools.

Thank you,
Uniform Shop

Spelling Bee

Sponsorship Opportunities

Are you wanting to support Miami State School?  Opportunities to sponsor Academic, Sporting, Cultural, Community & STEM programs are now available. 

For further information regarding sponsoring a program please contact Katrina on 5595 4888 or email marketing@miamiss.eq.edu.au and we can send out a copy of our sponsorship information package. to you.

WELCOME ABOARD - New Sponsor

Miami State School would like to welcome aboard Glass Outlet, our new Silver Sponsor for our 2023 Evening of Excellence.  We look forward to working with you to enhance the learning opportunities for our students and to create a culture that embraces inclusion and diversity.

JAPANESE NEWS – Speech Contest Results

On Sunday, August 20, students from our Miami community participated in the 42nd Annual MLTAQ Speech Contest held at Griffith University.  Miami students across Year 4 to Year 6 proudly represented our school amongst strong competition.  The Japanese Primary section is always the largest across all the participating languages.  It was a wonderful day celebrating cultural diversity and a love of languages.  Congratulations and thank you to all involve for your hard work and commitment, you made Miami very proud.  A special thank you parents and families for supporting your child in being able to share in this experience. 

Well done to:

Year 6
Paige R (Highly Commended)
Marley T (Highly Commended) 
Josh M                 

Year 5
Skyla R (Highly Commended)
Yasmin W
Chelsea F
Mila B

Year 4
Winnie B
Ivy M
*Background Speakers-Japanese
Issen I (Highly Commended)
Ivy R
Sensei

Queensland Child Oral Health Study (QCOHS)

The University of Queensland and Queensland Health are pleased to partner with Miami State School to conduct the Queensland Child Oral Health Study (QCOHS) 2021-24. The study will provide important information about Queensland children’s oral health and dental care that will underpin future strategies to improve child dental health.

Children will be randomly selected from all the students at your school to participate in QCOHS. Participation will include completing a parental questionnaire and a free dental check-up for your child at school.  

If you receive an invitation via email, we encourage you to participate in this important research project. Participants will receive a toothbrush pack and parents will be notified by email of the outcomes of the dental check-up.

From QCOHS team