As your Principal, I am reaching out to you with two important matters that require your assistance in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. We value the role our school plays as an important meeting place in our community.
Firstly, I would like your help to address the issue regarding the use of the Kijini Playground after school. The playground is part of Camp Australia's contract and essential for the large number of young children who are in care each afternoon.
These children have spent their day in class, and after school care is meant to be a time for them to engage in play and fun activities. However, this becomes challenging when other families are still utilising the playground beyond 3:15 pm. It becomes difficult for staff to supervise and ensure the safety of all children enrolled in OSHC, and legally if other children are present. This week I have been speaking with parents individually, to explain the need to head home or to a local park. Therefore, I kindly request that families vacate the Kijini Oval and Playground by 3:15 pm or earlier each day, to allow these children the space they need to play freely. School finishes at 2:55pm and we have staff at our major waiting points until 3:15pm to help parents dealing with traffic issues. Any students that have not been collected by this time are taken to the office. Parents that are late are required to come to the office to collect their children.
Secondly, I must address a more pressing concern regarding road safety. It has been brought to our attention that many parents are illegally crossing Cavendish and Old Cleveland Roads, putting themselves and our students at risk of accidents. Despite repeated complaints from local residents, council, and Coorparoo Police, this dangerous behaviour persists. As a school community, we must prioritise the safety of our children above all else. I urge all parents to adhere to road rules and utilise designated crossings or traffic lights when crossing these roads. Together, we can prevent any further near misses and ensure the safety of our students on their journey to and from school. I have met with the local Police Sergeant and he has advised that they will be increasing patrols and booking offenders.
Your cooperation and support in these matters are greatly appreciated. By working together as a community, we can create a safer and more conducive environment for our children to learn and thrive.
Finally, we are excited to be coming together this Saturday night for the P&C Welcome Movie Night and BBQ. This is a family event and a great opportunity to relax and spend time with this great community. I look forward to seeing you there.