From the Principal’s Desk….
This week has passed in a bit of a blur. I’m not sure if it has been a fast or slow week as I come to terms with the busyness of the role of Principal. Thanks to everyone for your kind words of support, they are much appreciated.
That you to the PA for their support in running the ‘Don’t be Mean behind your screen’ talks which the classes from rang 3-6 participated in. There was also the parent’s talk last night. It might be a good idea for you to have a chat as parents about your approach to technology and have that discussion with your child.
As a staff we also had a discussion about how children are using technology. The big point was how time online needs to be supervised and that children should be able to talk about things which make them feel uncomfortable without the fear that we are going to take it from them. If removal of the device is our only solution to difficulties online then the children will not talk to us about them and hide it making things worse. Leaving the children’s peers their only access to support. Supervision and restrictions were the tools she spoke to us about. We teach our children how to be safe in the real world by showing them how things are done and giving them more and more exposure gradually when we see they are able to manage. The same should be true in the online world. It is a sobering and in some ways scary talk but one worth having. For those of you who attended the talk you will know how informative Paula O’Connor is. If you didn’t it might be worth looking out for her yourself.
Meanwhile the classes continue to be busy places full of fun and learning. Rang 2 were busy building bridges for engineers week.
Cinema Night Tonight, I hope that you all have your tickets ready.
Gráinne & Lorraine
PA Co-Chairs
