Dear Families,

As we round out the first weeks of Term 2, it has been a joy to reflect on the rich learning experiences and community moments that have already taken place at Rochedale South State School.

Our ANZAC Day Ceremony was a heartfelt occasion, with students showing great respect and understanding of its significance. We were especially proud of our school's presence at the Springwood Tri-Services ANZAC ceremony, where our Vivo Voices choir beautifully led the National Anthem. Their performance was a powerful tribute and a reminder of the values we share as a school and community.

A special highlight has been the participation of 25 of our senior students in the Rochedale State High School Science Extension Program—a wonderful opportunity that ignited curiosity and critical thinking through real-world scientific exploration.

We’ve also celebrated fantastic results at the District Cross Country, with our students showing resilience, team spirit, and determination on the course. Thank you to our staff and families for your support of these events.

Our Mother’s Day Stalls brought joy to many of our young shoppers and heartfelt smiles to families. Likewise, the energy and fun of our Democracy Sausage Sizzle not only celebrated civic responsibility but also supported the incredible work of our musical production team.

We continue to stretch our learners to be ‘Empowered to Excel’—our school motto in action. This term, students across Prep to Year 6 have been actively engaging in mathematical learning routines through our partnership with The Learner First and under the guidance of global education expert Rob Proffitt-White. These routines are helping to strengthen our learners' reasoning, estimation, generalising, and real-world problem-solving skills. Rich routines such as Open Ups, Move & Prove, and Recall & Reason are now a regular part of our classrooms, challenging students to think deeply and articulate their mathematical understanding. We’re already seeing the benefits in student confidence and conversation around Maths—see some snapshots of this learning below!

We also acknowledge and thank Mrs Jennifer Bampton, who will be stepping into the role of Deputy Principal for Years 3–6 while I commence parental leave as we await the arrival of our fourth child. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Rochedale South community for your ongoing support. Over the next seven weeks, I look forward to seeing many of you on school grounds in a new capacity—as a parent! I have full confidence in our leadership team as they continue our deep systems work to support the growth and learning of every student.

Finally, the excitement continues to build around our upcoming musical production of Matilda Jr. Led by the talented Mr Jeff Hogan and our Performing Arts team, this production has drawn strong community support and energy. Funds raised through our Democracy Sausage initiative have been directly invested into stage sets and high-quality audio-visual equipment to amplify the experience for cast and audience alike. With professional instruction in music, dance, and design, our students are gaining a level of performance experience that few schools can offer. The dedication of staff and students promises that Matilda Jr. will be one of our crowning achievements this year.

Thank you again for being a part of this rich and supportive school community. I look forward to the rest of the term with joy, pride, and gratitude for all we are achieving together.

A thank you from my family to yours.

Engagement in Focus: Teaching Students to Know What it Feels Like to Learn

This year, our Rochedale South team has embraced a bold and meaningful challenge to deepen student engagement and strengthen agency across every classroom. More than just a buzzword, engagement is at the heart of learning. But what does it look like? What does it feel like? And how can we help students recognise it in themselves?

We’ve turned to the powerful work of Dr. Doug Fisher and Nancy Frey, leading researchers in education and authors of Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity and All Learning is Social and Emotional. Last year we partnered with Swtich4Schools to systematise the explicit teaching and check-ins for students and their emotions. Dr Fisher's research has helped frame engagement as more than simple compliance—it is a complex mix of emotional, behavioural, and cognitive involvement in learning. When students are truly engaged, they’re invested, empowered, and willing to take risks as learners.  

To support this, we’re using Amy Berry’s Student Engagement Scale from Prep to Year 6. This tool helps students reflect on their learning behaviours—whether they’re focused, curious, or pushing themselves to grow. It’s helping us build student awareness and ownership of learning.

When students understand how they learn best, they gain agency—the ability to make decisions and drive their progress. And when students feel they belong, they’re more likely to be motivated and successful.

As parents and caregivers, you can support this work by asking your child not just what they learned today, but how they learned it. Did they feel challenged? Focused? Proud of what they accomplished? These reflective conversations extend our classroom focus into your homes and continue to build students who are empowered to excel.

'The Rochedale South Community

A Gratitude Letter to Mr S from Rachael H (past parent)
Celebrating Marcus Stilianos – Our Unsung Hero

At Rochedale South State School, you’re lucky to have many dedicated educators, but today I want to take a moment to shine a light on one of the brightest – Mr Marcus Stilianos, affectionately known to most as Mr S.

Mr S is far more than just a Physical Education teacher or sports coach. He’s the friendly face walking the school grounds, offering a smile, a high-five, or a few words of encouragement to every student he passes. For many, he’s also a mentor, a motivator, and the heartbeat behind one of your school’s most memorable programs – Interschool Sport.

This program, built from the ground up with inclusion and community in mind, has become a cornerstone of the school’s spirit. Mr S has spent countless days – and many nights – coordinating fields, managing teams, and ensuring that every student who wants to participate has a place to play. Come rain or shine (and yes, even rain days!), Mr S is there, turning disappointment into joy with a quick pivot to binball or another creative game so the kids still get their Friday fun.

His quiet achievements may go unnoticed by some, but for those who know, Mr S has been integral to Rochedale South’s success – on and off the field. Whether it's the excitement of Sports Day or the energy of Cross Country, he creates events that bring joy, pride, and lasting memories to students and families alike.

The recent announcement that Interschool Sports will now be played on your own fields is a huge milestone – not just for Mr S, but for the entire community. These Friday games are more than just games. They are the result of hours of training, tireless organisation, and pure passion. Mr S sees the bigger picture – the confidence, teamwork, and growth these moments bring to every child who participates.

I’d also like to send a big shoutout to Mr Hill, the amazing groundsman, for his work in making sure the fields and courts are always ready for game day!

To all families: if your child is part of this program, I encourage you to come down on Fridays, cheer from the sidelines, and witness the magic for yourself. Let’s show our appreciation by supporting not just our kids, but the incredible effort behind it all.

And next time you see Mr S around the school – in one of his signature bright soccer jerseys, moving fast with a grin on his face – give him a wave, a thank you, or even better, a high five. He deserves it.

Congratulations, Marcus, on your continued success. With heartfelt gratitude.

We welcome Jo St as Acting Head of Inclusive education on Thursday and Fridays starting from the 19^{th of} May to the beginning of Term 3. Brigette Cannons will be Acting Deputy Principal Thursday and Friday during this time.

Inclusion Matters Partnering with Parents Workshops

MONDAY 19^th May

RSVP NOW. supportservices@rchedaless.eq.edu.au

Wellbeing Hubs P-2 & 3-6

Family Connection, Supports and Network Services

Sometimes, we may need to reach out, chat to a friend or find a service who can help. Here at Rochedale South State School, we pride ourselves at stepping in and helping each other out. There are a number of services available to support students and families who are experiencing difficulties at home or school. Please reach out to a service, contact the school or your child’s class teacher. We understand it takes a team and are available to assist in supporting students and families.

Here are some services that can be accessed.

Local Family and Child Connect service, call 13 FAMILY (13 32 64) to be referred to the closest office. A free, unlimited confidential service that helps families during tough times. Call 13 FAMILY (13 32 64). 

Triple P — Positive Parenting Program — A free parenting program for Queensland parents and carers to raise happy, healthy children and teenagers.

Parentline — A confidential telephone counselling service which supports parents and carers of children. Call 1300-30-1300.

Talking Families — A website full of useful tips to help start a conversation – either so you can ask for help for you and your family or offer support to a family you know.

oneplace — A free, online community services directory for Queensland parents, young people and families who are having tough times, to find help in your local area. 

Raising Children Network — A comprehensive website offering resources and information on parenting for children of all ages.

In 2025 my goal is to expand our schools Esports program by fundraising to purchase a Nintendo Switch, controllers and G rated games.

As Esports continue to grow in popularity and educational value, we are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to develop teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital literacy in a competitive yet constructive environment.

To further enhance our program, we are seeking donations to help us purchase a Nintendo Switch console, controllers and G rated games. This addition would allow our students to participate in a wider range of competitive games that they may have the opportunity to encounter in local High Schools and foster an inclusive gaming community within our school.

With the help of our wonderful student council, we will kick off our fundraising by holding a gold coin free dress day on Friday 23^rd May. We greatly appreciate your support in empowering our students through esports!

Our Minecraft Free Play Even was extremely popular in term 1 with an average of 90 students participating each lunch time. Students learnt how to host multiplayer games boosting interpersonal communication and teamwork skills. It was wonderful to see students create, explore and survive together. Due to its overwhelming popularity Minecraft Free Play will continue on Tuesdays throughout Term 2.

At the end of term 1 students in grades 3 to 6 had the opportunity to nominate teams of 5 players for our first ever Minecraft Capture the Flag Competition. So far 8 teams have taken up the challenge. In Term 2 students in grade 6 will mentor teams in the lower grades, focusing on game play and tactics. This event will be a fantastic opportunity for the students involved to further develop their self-confidence and sportsmanship. Minecraft Capture the Flag will run on Mondays throughout Term 2.

Jingeri RSSS Families

Term 2 is packed with juicy Chaplaincy goodness! There's lots happening so keep an eye on updates on FB and sZapp but here's all you need to know:

 Triple P Positive Parenting Program

We have a fabulous group of parents meeting every Tuesday to learn how to keep calm, stay in control and feel confident parenting. Joining a Triple P course is a really great way brush up on your parenting skills, be aware of common pit falls and how to avoid them, and to feel confident at handling even the most daunting parenting moments (tantrums in the shops, melt downs at a restaurant, endless drama if you say 'no', and more). I can't recommend this course enough so if you are interested in joining the next cohort please email me to be put on the wait list.

triple p’s tips for reframing daily challenges

Let’s face it – parenting can feel like a juggling act, can’t it? Toddlers fighting bedtime, school-aged children wanting more screen time, teens rolling their eyes at chores – it’s enough to make you wonder, “Why can’t they just help out a little?”

One approach that works wonders: routines. Kids thrive on consistency – it gives them a sense of security and makes cooperation come more naturally. A predictable bedtime routine, for instance, can take some of the stress out of the nightly ritual.

Finding balance also helps – try thinking of it as a mindset rather than an even split. It’s not about doing everything perfectly, but making choices that feel right for you and your family. Give yourself permission to embrace imperfection – and the resulting boost to your wellbeing!

Oh, and screens? They’re part of our world now. While setting boundaries is wise, screens can be tools for learning, connecting, and even having fun. With some practical tips, you can learn how to manage kids’ screen time to support mental health, promote safety, and encourage positive digital habits in today’s tech-driven world.

The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program can help you handle the ups and downs of parenting more calmly and confidently.

Chappy Week

My favourite week of the year is just around the corner...Chappy Week! Here are the events you need to know about:

Monday 26/5 Sorry Day: wear a ribbon, hair tie or socks in colours of the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander flags in support of Sorry Day. We commemorate the Stolen Generations with a memorial chalk wall and lunch time activities. 

Tuesday 27/5 Earth Day: we turn off the power from 9-10am to reduce our carbon footprint and remember we CAN learn without technology.

Wednesday 28/5 Waste Free Wednesday: bring a packed lunch with zero disposable waste - the class with the most waste free lunch boxes wins a box of delicious fruit!

Thursday 29/5 Staff V Students Soccer: Year 6 take on the staff in this epic annual sporting battle!

Thursday 29/5 Reconciliation Week First Nations Family BBQ: by invitation, a gathering of First Nations Families to chat, eat and plan our NAIDOC Week display.

Friday 30/5 Lego and Eco Build Competition: Students, staff and parents (exciting new category!!) are all invited to participate. This year's theme is HABITATS! Build a creation to reflect the theme using either Lego OR recyclables from home. The base of the build must be no larger than A4. All builds are to be delivered to the PAC from 8:15am on Friday 30/5. There is an entry fee of $2 per build (one build per person only please). Prizes will be awarded to students only - with staff and parents living with the glory of winning ? All student entries will be awarded a certificate. The PAC will be open at breaks for students to view the gallery. All builds must be collected before 3pm. While we take every care to protect the builds during the day, unfortunately we cannot be responsible for builds left after 3pm.

Throughout Chappy Week there will be a variety of fun lunch time activities including craft and games in the undercover area. Keep an eye out for more information closer to the date.

First Nations Mentoring Program

This week a special mentoring program kicked off for our Year 5 and Year 6 ATSI students. Thank you to parents Kristie, Matt and Josh for joining us as mentors! Here are some pics of our first session together exploring the Life Island resource.

Fundraising

You might be wondering what happens with the money raised for Chaplaincy through Subway lunches and container recycling, free dress days and Lego competitions! Chaplaincy supports our school in a variety of ways:

• providing one-to-one pastoral conversations to students, parents and staff
• facilitating Triple P Positive Parenting Program
• student groups fostering social and emotional growth and regulation
• championing the work of reconciliation and giving voice to our First Nations families and community
• grocery hampers and home cooked meals to families in need
• connecting families with support services including domestic violence support, financial support, grief and loss support
• free family events including CONNECT, and sponsorship of many school activities including garden club and Triple P.

I'm employed in the school 2 days a week with government funding covering the costs of 1.2 days of service. The shortfall in expenditure relies on generous donations from our community to keep our service operating. Fundraising and donations ensure the presence of our service for 2 days a week to cover the funding gap. Please give generously to support the ongoing work of chaplaincy at Rochedale South State School. This term I'm inviting you to consider becoming a monthly donor to our service. Any amount makes a difference - $5 a month, $20 a month, more or less - all is gratefully received and helps keep the service in action. Thank you for considering becoming a monthly donor ?

Donations can be made here  https://su.org.au/donate/rochedale-south-ss-chaplaincy-non-tax-deductible/

Many thanks for partnering with us to make Rochedale South SS such a welcoming and friendly community!

Well done to all of our 10–12-year Rochedale South students who competed in the Logan District Cross Country Carnival at Redeemer's DG Stolz Sports Fields on Tuesday 6th May. We had 12 students representing our school across 3 age groups and all students ran with remarkable endurance and persistence in what was an extremely muddy course on the day. 

A big congratulations to Lily in Year 4 who came 4th in the 10 year girls 2km race. Lily qualified and will now represent Logan District at the Met East Regional Cross Country Carnival later this term. Lily ran a great race of pace and determination and should be extremely proud of her achievement. 

To all of our runners, Amela, Van, Joshua, Landon, Layla, Lana, Max and Archie we are so proud of your effort and how you represented Rochedale South on the day, with very muddy legs to show for by the end of the morning. 

A big thank you to Mrs Podmore who was our Team Manager on the day and marshalled students to their races, and to all of our wonderful parents who came along and helped pin race numbers to our runners and stayed on to cheer on our students in their races. It was a fun morning out with great school community spirit.