From the Principal’s Desk, 24 May 2021
Dear Parents
MORNING DROP OFF
I am very aware of the frustrations around morning drop off times. The gravel area is of concern, but is being attended to and you will see a difference soon. Next week’s newsletter will explain more.
Please may I ask that parents not get out of their cars at the “drop and go” in the main parking lot. This means we should have school bags placed strategically in the car so the young ones can easily access the bags when they get to school. If we limit each car’s stopping time, this will greatly assist the situation.
Thank you for your patience in this regard.
FEATURE PHOTO
Our main newsletter photograph features Mrs Mandy Goch. Five/Six facts that not everyone knows:
1. She is Portuguese.
2. She is a very enthusiastic reader and always has a book in her hand. Her favourite books include The Elephant Whisperer (Lawrence Anthony) and Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
3. She worked for many years in a model agency, managing the careers of models.
4. She can eat an entire large bag of NikNaks all by herself.
5. She is a bit of a perfectionist and as a child would change clothes regularly if she spotted one speck of dirt on her outfit.
6. Her school day starts with a laugh and ends with one.
IES CHIEF ACADEMIC DIRECTOR VISIT
Our IES Chief Academic Director, Mr Darryl Lottering, is currently in South Africa. He has been visiting Blouberg and engaging with students and teachers. He will be at school again on Monday, 24th May.
Darryll would also like to offer our parents an opportunity to speak with him. We are, therefore, having a parent meeting on Monday, 24th May at 5.30pm. This meeting will be limited to 50 people and there are still “spots” available. If you would like to attend this meeting, please email me at andre.swart@iesmail.com.
The meeting will take place in the Junior Hall.
WEEKLY THOUGHT: Your Attitude
“The only disability in life is a bad attitude.” – Scott Hamilton
This certainly makes us think about what we view as a disability, doesn’t it?
Maybe Hamilton is hitting the nail on the head.
Whenever I meet a person with a disability, it always amazes me how the individual usually (if not always) insists that they do not want to be treated as a disabled person. Their vigour for life truly is always inspiring…
Then, on the other hand, we sit with individuals who have everything going for them: youth, health, fitness, opportunities, etc., but who will find every imaginable excuse to disqualify themselves from doing certain things. In stark contrast to those who actually have disabilities, these able-bodied people display bad attitudes towards life, and it is these attitudes that will end up hampering any possibility of growth, development and ultimate success.
To grow, thrive, develop, and enjoy each of life’s precious possibilities, we need to ensure that we have the right attitude – always, and in all circumstances. Individuals who do so are the ones who will live meaningful lives and have a deep sense of purpose, regardless of their circumstances.
Do you have a disability? Before saying “No”, first make sure to check your attitude towards life.
Have a wonderful week, it is time to unpack those winter items…
Andre
