19 September 2025

Principal’s Message

2025 School Explicit Improvement Agenda (EIA):
Curriculum – English
Multi-tiered Approach to support
Curriculum – Math V9

Dear Miami State School Community,

As we wrap up another successful term, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our students, staff, and families for their dedication and hard work. This term has been filled with growth, achievements, and memorable moments that reflect the strength and spirit of our community. I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together and excited for the opportunities the next term will bring.

🌺 Moana – The Musical is almost here! 🌺

If last year’s production is anything to go by, this year’s performance of Moana is set to be even bigger, brighter, and more colourful! Our talented students have worked tirelessly all year – giving up mornings, afternoons, and lunch breaks – to bring you a truly spectacular show.

🎟️ Tickets are available now via the Qkr! app – don’t miss out!

Let’s show our support and celebrate the incredible dedication and creativity of our students as they take the stage in this unforgettable performance.

Book Donation from the Finlayson Family: A Heartfelt Gift to Our School Library

We are thrilled to announce a generous donation to our school library, made possible by one of our wonderful students, Lola Finlayson, and her talented father, Dan Finlayson. Lola’s family has gifted us three copies of a beautifully illustrated book written and illustrated by Dan. The book carries a timely and important message about the importance of disconnecting from our mobile devices and spending quality, memorable moments with our loved ones.

The Finlayson family’s thoughtful contribution is more than just a gift of a book; it’s a reminder of the values that are essential to building strong, meaningful relationships. We are incredibly grateful to Lola and her family for sharing this special book with our school community, and we look forward to seeing it inspire both students and staff to make more time for family and connection.

Thank you, Lola and Dan, for your kindness and for helping to enrich our library with such a meaningful resource!

Important Changes to Blue Card Requirements - Effective 20 September, 2025

From 20 September 2025, the rules around which parent volunteers require a Blue Card are changing.

Parents volunteering in activities that their own child is participating in will generally not need a Blue Card. However, there are important exceptions. A Blue Card will be required if:

• The volunteering activity does not involve your own child.
• The volunteering is to attend overnight excursions or camps.
• The volunteering role includes close personal contact with another child.
• The parent is a restricted person.

This change may affect parents who assist with activities such as the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls, Colour Run, or other school events where their child is not directly participating.

If you are a parent and plan to volunteer for activities not covered by the new exemption rules, you must hold a Blue Card linked to Miami State School by 20 September 2025.

For details on how to apply for a volunteer Blue Card, please visit the Blue Card Services website:

We encourage all families who regularly volunteer to review these changes to ensure compliance before the deadline. If you require any assistance with this process, please contact the school office on 5595 4888.

2026 ENROLMENTS – NOW OPEN FOR ALL YEAR LEVELS 

Our school is now taking enrolments for the 2026 school year, please get your enrolment forms in early, if possible, to inform school planning. 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. 

Prospective 2026 Prep students and parents/caregivers may like to consider attending our Pre-Prep Transition sessions to support the transition and orientation process to school. Please book in to these sessions via our school website, using the SOBs booking system.

Is your Prep-Year 5 student transferring to another school in 2026?

We would appreciate early notice if your child, or children, will be transferring to another school in 2026. Please inform the office by phone on 5595 4888 OR email admin@maimiss.eq.edu.au at your earliest convenience.

Wishing everyone a restful break, and I look forward to seeing you all in the new term.

Warm regards,
Jemille Malouf
Principal

Deputy Principal’s Message

Welcome to Week 10

As we finish off the third term (in our traditional way with the Colour Run) I would like to say thank you to the parents and carers for your support throughout this term.  It has been great to see the students be actively engaged in their learning and consistently putting forth their best efforts.  The third term assessments that have recently been completed will help form the final overall marks for each Key Learning Area on the end of year Report Cards.

As we approach the break, I would like to take this opportunity to wish the entire school community a happy and restful break. I hope you enjoy this time with your loved ones and return refreshed for the new term ahead.

During the holiday break, we kindly ask all parents to keep an eye out for the safety and security of our school. If you happen to notice anything suspicious or concerning, please report it to School Watch on 13 17 88. Your vigilance and support in ensuring the well-being of our school community is greatly appreciated.

A reminder that a busy Term 4 starts Tuesday the 7^th of October with a public holiday on Monday the 6^th of October for the King’s Birthday.

Until next fortnight.
Ben Edmunds
Deputy Principal Year 4 - 6

Deputy Principal’s Message

Navigating the Juggle — Supporting Children Through the September Holidays

As we roll toward the September school holidays, many parents of primary school children in Australia are finding this time both a relief and a source of new challenges. The break in the school term gives children a chance to recharge—but the disruptions to routines, combined with rising pressures at home, academic expectations, and wellbeing concerns, mean that for many households, it’s not all smooth sailing.

Ideas & Practical Tips for the September Holidays

Here are some suggestions that might help smooth the holiday period for you and your children, balancing rest, connection, and learning.

• Create a Flexible, Shared Plan
  Sit down as a family and plan out the fortnight together. Children love having a voice, so let them help decide which days are for outings, which are “stay-at-home” days, and which are quieter mornings. A visual calendar on the fridge gives everyone a sense of security, while still leaving space for spontaneous fun.
• Set Reasonable Screen Boundaries
  Holidays often mean more screen time. Rather than banning it altogether, set simple rhythms: e.g. “screens after outdoor play” or “two episodes, then reading or Lego.” This makes it easier to balance relaxation with activity without daily battles.
• Incorporate Learning — But Keep It Light
  Sneak in learning through fun: cook together (measuring, fractions), plan a picnic (budgeting, writing a list), go on a nature scavenger hunt (science and creativity). Encourage reading for pleasure by starting a family reading challenge, visiting the library, or listening to audiobooks during car trips.
• Plan for Wellbeing
  Children benefit from downtime just as much as adults. Keep some mornings slow, encourage pyjama days, and allow space for rest. Incorporate mindfulness activities like quiet colouring, kids’ yoga, or short walks in nature. If your child struggles without routine, build a loose daily rhythm: breakfast, activity, quiet time, play, dinner.
• Make Memories as a Family
  Holidays don’t need to be expensive to be memorable. Family movie nights with homemade popcorn, camping in the backyard, baking a favourite recipe, or visiting a local park can become the highlights children remember. Taking photos and letting your child create a simple “holiday scrapbook” (drawings, tickets, leaves collected) helps them treasure the experience.
• Get Support Where Possible
  Look into local holiday programs, library events, or sports clinics to break up the fortnight. Swapping playdates with other families can give children company and parents some breathing space.
• Prioritise Your Own Rest
  Your wellbeing matters too. Take turns with your partner (if possible) for downtime, or schedule a quiet activity for the kids so you can recharge with a coffee or a short walk. Children often mirror our moods—when parents are calmer, holidays run smoother.

Looking Ahead: September and Beyond

As holidays wind down, ease back into school routines with earlier bedtimes, homework rhythms, and packing bags the night before Term 4 begins. Remember, holidays aren’t about doing everything—they’re about building balance, connection, and positive memories that help children feel secure and ready for the term ahead.

We wish you and your family a restful, joyful September holiday season.

Julia Hoy
Deputy Principal Prep – Year 3

Office/Finance News

Communication: It is important that all communication relating to change of personal details and payments are directed to our office@miamiss.eq.edu.au email address.

DEBTOR STATEMENTS (Please see example below)

Debtor statements will be issued at the beginning of each month.  A statement will show all of your enrolled students at Miami State School on the one statement.

If you don’t receive a statement, it means that you have nothing owing on your student’s account. 

If you receive a statement and it shows a (-) negative sign in front of the $ amount, it means you are in credit on your account.  PLEASE DO NOT PAY.  When future invoices are issued, please advise the school and we can apply the credit to your invoice.  If you would like the credit on your account applied to a current invoice that is showing on your statement, you will need to notify the school for us to apply this credit.  If you have any queries, please email the office on office@miamiss.eq.edu.au or call on 5595 4888. 

Please ensure when you are making a payment, that you pay it against the original invoice NOT against a statement.

Excursions / Incursions :

Payments

Please ensure when making a deposit into the school bank account you put your students name and invoice number as a reference.  This ensures we can apply it to your invoice promptly.

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.

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 (This is our preferred method). As the SMS text automatically goes into our school system.
• 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 😊

Office Staff

Student Resource Scheme

As part of our implementation of QParents, consent for SRS will now transition from the paper participation agreement to digital consent. Over the next 5 weeks you will receive correspondence granting your digital consent on Qparents based on prior participation agreement.

The P & C have endorsed keeping the SRS fee at $125. If you wish to opt out of SRS participation, please email office@miamiss.eq.edu.au by Friday, 17^th October 2025.

Invoices for 2026 SRS will be issued in Week 4 of term 4 and due 20.2.26.

HPE News

Miami Mavericks vs The Miami Mystery Staff Team

What a fantastic afternoon of sport and school spirit we had as our Miami Maverick students took on the Miami Mystery Staff Team in a friendly game of Flag Football! The event was filled with plenty of laughter, excitement, and even a few tumbles, as both teams gave it their all on the field. It was wonderful to see the entire school community come together, cheering loudly from the sidelines and creating such an energetic atmosphere.

For our students, the game was not only about fun — it also provided some extra training and valuable match experience in the lead-up to Nationals. And what a performance it was! The Miami Mavericks came away with the win, scoring 4 touchdowns to 1.

A huge thank you to our amazing staff who stepped up to be part of the Mystery Team, showing great spirit (and bravery!) against our students. And special thanks to Mr Watts for capturing the action with some brilliant photos.

Most importantly, the game highlighted what makes Miami Sport so special — teamwork, enjoyment, and community spirit both on and off the field.

Well done, Mavericks, and well played Mystery Staff!

Maimi Athletic State Trials:

After a long three days of competition, we want to say a huge congratulations to the following students who have qualified to represent their Region at QLD State Trials in Townsville. Well done to Florence R, Lucas P and Sierra P, this is a huge achievement from a very strong region of athletes. We wish you all the very best.

Nationals Cross-Country

Representing this level once is a dream, however Lucas P again represented his state at Nationals this time for U/12 Cross Country at Runaway Bay. Lucas finished being the 13^th fastest 3km distance runner for his age in Australia. His QLD Age Group placed 2^nd overall, and on top of that his team won gold in the 6x1500m. Well done on this outstanding achievement.

Ben Crilly-Hargrave - HPE

Rising Star Gala Day

Miami State School recently participated in the Rising Star Gala Day, fielding both boys’ and girls’ teams. Our boys’ team achieved an excellent result, winning three of their four games against Elanora, South Rock State School and Marymount. While our girls’ team performed fantastically with two wins from three matches defeating Lindisfarne and South Rock State School. Both teams demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, determination and a strong sense of school spirit throughout the day. We extend our thanks to the students for their commitment and effort and to the parents for their ongoing support, which is greatly valued and appreciated.

PBL Focus Week 9

Office Notice Board Week 9 – 3M

Office Notice Board Week 10 – 4S

Grab your Moana Tickets

Tuckshop

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

email:  miamisstuckshop@gmail.com

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 multi-courts to be via Pizzey Road tennis courts (not through the school).

TERM 4 – 2025 AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITES

Sports X (Soccer) – Nate Kast Ph: 0488 756 751 Monday’s Wk 2 to Wk 9 (8wks) from 3.00pm – 4.00pm

Sports X (Flag Football) – Nate Kast Ph: 0488 756 751 Friday’s Wk 2 to Wk 9 (8wks) from 3.00pm – 4.00pm

     Location: Oval

THURSDAYS

Tae Kwon Do

• Gavin Salter - Ph: 0423 249 742 (Runs all year from 5.45pm – 7.45pm)

         Location: Miami State School Hall

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER BASKETBALL CAMPS & FUN DAYS

• MONDAY 22^nd SEPTEMBER MINI BALL STAR FUN SKILLS BASKETBALL CAMP
  This is a great opportunity for children 7 to 10 years of age to attend a basketball camp to help develop their skills and to start learning the game of basketball. There will plenty of skills and drills, fun games and game play as well. There will be some fun competitions and a chance to improve your overall game. Plenty of prizes and giveaways for the day. C’mon get your friends and get along to this camp, you don’t have to be a star, it is for all levels.

$50 per child $45 per child family of 2 10.30 am to 2.30pm 7 to 10 year olds at Tallebudgeera Rec Centre

• WEDNESDAY 24^TH SEPTEMBER BASKETBALL SHOOTING CAMP
  This is a one day only shooting camp at Tallebudgera Rec Centre for Boys & Girls ages 10 to 14. It will focus on your shooting skills & technique with plenty of shooting drills as well as other aspects of your game. There is also game play as well as competitions, shooting challenges and games. Plenty of prizes and giveaways. This is a great opportunity to improve your shooting skills and game. Don’t miss this one

$60 per child $55 per child family of 2, 9am to 3.00pm: 10 to 14 year olds at Tallebudgeera Rec Centre

• THURSDAY 25^th SEPTEMBER: BUDDY BASKETBALL FUN DAY at ST KEVIN’S BENOWA: Your chance to come by yourself or grab a friend and bring them along to my Buddy Ball Fun Days. These days are full of games, competitions, some skills and lots of fun. Plenty of giveaways, prizes to be won, ice blocks, lolly bags and a whole lot more. These days are for 5 to 12 year olds.

$45 per child or $40 per child for family of 2 or more 9am to 2pm 5 to 12 year olds at ST KEVIN’S

• WEDNESDAY 1^st OCTOBER: BUDDY BASKETBALL FUN DAY at ST KEVIN’S BENOWA: Your chance to come by yourself or grab a friend and bring them along to my Buddy Ball Fun Days. These days are full of games, competitions, some skills and lots of fun. Plenty of giveaways, prizes to be won, ice blocks, lolly bags and a whole lot more. These days are for 5 to 12 year olds.

$45 per child or $40 per child for family of 2 or more 9am to 2pm 5 to 12 year olds at ST KEVIN’S

For all these activities you will need to bring a basketball (if you have one) morning tea, lunch, water bottle a smiling face and a willingness to learn and have fun.

Payment for all Camps and Fun Days are by cash on the day.

For more information contact Rodney on 0412180790 or email perccoxsedge21@gmail.com

To register email Rodney child’s name DOB Parents’ contact number and email address and any medical or allergies and write which activity or activities they will be attending.

Miami Beach Surf Club Sign On 2025 – 2026 Season

School Crossing Supervisor Position

Would you like to earn money AND help your local community?

Transport and Main Roads is looking for a school crossing supervisor at Miami State School to help get our kids safely to and from school.

• Generous casual pay-rate starting at $37.10 per hour
• Morning and afternoon shifts
• Long-service leave entitlements
• The Queensland Government superannuation scheme.
• If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, call 0419 792 030 to speak with your Local Road Safety Officer or email your interest to southportroadsafety@tmr.qld.gov.au 
• To be deemed suitable for the role, some criteria does apply, which include requirements to:
• Pass a health assessment
• Hold a current blue card (TMR funded)
• Disclose any serious disciplinary action taken against you in public sector employment.

Mornington Island – Donation Drive

Dear Miami State School Community,

Hi, my name is Jada Tourish and I am one of the teachers at Miami SS. In 2023 I was fortunate to participate in a program in Japan with another teacher from a very small school called Mornington Island State School, at the very top of Australia. We have remained in contact, and I have really enjoyed learning about her small school and community.  I am reaching out to enlist your support in a crucial initiative to assist the students and families of Mornington Island State School. As many may know, head lice can be a persistent issue, and we want to help ensure that every individual has access to effective products to combat this challenge. 

Recently, we had a conversation with community members from Mornington Island who expressed a strong need for head lice products. What started as a request for a few items for one class has grown into an exciting opportunity to set up a stall at their upcoming festival, allowing families to access these products as they need them. This initiative can significantly impact the community, and we invite our school and community to contribute to this worthy cause.

What We Need:

We are seeking donations of head lice products, including shampoos, sprays, and treatments. Every small contribution makes a difference. We encourage you to gather any items you can spare, knowing that your kindness will have a lasting effect.

Additionally, the local salon on Mornington Island mentioned they could use some updated magazines from the last year or two for the community to read while waiting for services, if you have any recent ones you have read, we would love for you to donate too.

How to Donate:

There will be a donation box set up in the administration office at where you can drop off your contributions. Donations will be collected and delivered to Mornington Island State School.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to support the Mornington Island community. Your generosity can empower families and make a real difference in the lives of students facing this challenge. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this initiative further, please feel free to reach out.

Please see a link to a YouTube video about this small but beautiful community.

Thank you for your support, 

Jada Tourish

Year 1 Pizzey Park Excursion

On Wednesday, Year 1 visited Pizzey Park for their HASS studies. 

The students identified natural, managed and constructed environments. 

Year 1 had a great time exploring the local area, learning about the maintenance of these environments and how it is so important for our local community and wildlife.

E-Bikes/Scooter Rules