An Focal Deireanach Vol 9, No 9 8th December 2022

End-of-Term Assemblies and Potlucks
We are looking forward to the assemblies and potlucks which will take place next week in the school hall. Families are invited to bring something for the shared meal, enough to feed 4-6 others. After discussion at the Parent-Teacher Association Meeting, we are asking that Junior Infants, 1st, 3rd and 5th bring either a dessert or fruit and Senior Infants, 2nd, 4th and 6th bring something savoury. We’d encourage anyone who is able to park their car at Cappagh Park and walk over to prevent traffic congestion. Here is a reminder of the times.
 Monday, 12th December, 13.15 – 5th & 6th Class
 Tuesday, 13th December, 12.45 – Junior & Senior Infants
 Thursday, 15th December, 13.15 – 1st & 2nd Class
 Friday, 16th December, 13.15 – 3rd & 4th Class

Parent-Teacher Association AGM
Thanks to the parents who attended the Parent-Teacher Association AGM last week. Claire was re-elected as Chair and Aga was elected as Vice-Chair. The PTA discussed the upcoming potlucks, plans for the Spring Fair and future parent engagement related to our forthcoming five-year school plan. The PTA is seeking assistance from parents for clean-up at the end of the potlucks. Also, the proposed date for the Spring Fair is Saturday, 13th May 2023. The PTA will meet again in January.

Open Evening
Many thanks to the School Ambassadors for their hard work in preparing for the Open Evening and for doing a fantastic job of meeting prospective families last night. Also, sincere thanks to the parents and staff members who attended. A reminder that the closing date for applications for the 2023-2024 school year is 6th January. While siblings of current pupils are prioritised, an application must be submitted before this date. If anyone has questions about admissions, please reply to this email.

Winter Break
The school will have an early dismissal on the last day of the term, Wednesday 21st December. Infants will finish at 11.50 and other classes will finish at 12.00. The school will re-open on Thursday, 5th January.

Circus, Science and PE
Many thanks to Amélie and Galway Community Circus for providing teacher training and fantastic equipment related to lesson plans for using circus skills to explore scientific concepts. 4th Class was the first group to use the equipment.