OKAIAWA SCHOOL’S YEAR

Taranaki Daily News, 3 May 1933, Page 13

OKAIAWA SCHOOL’S YEAR

SUCCESS IN WORK AND SPORT. COMMITTEE’S ANNUAL REVIEW. The Okaiawa school committee at the householders’ meeting on Monday night reported that the average attendance for the year was 139.2 of an average roll number of 151.3, giving a percentage of 91,9. Miss Jackson completed her term as probationary assistant in May, being followed by Miss W. Webster, whose appointment lasted till December, and Miss Abraham from February to May. The committee took advantage of the No. 5 relief scheme for hedge-cutting and general improvements, and the surroundings of the school were in first-class order. As the school had won the Cuthbert Shield last year it was ineligible to compete this year, but the efficiency of agricultural training and the high standard of the state of the surroundings, combined with the forestry and experimental plots placed the school on the merit list. For the 16th time in succession the school won the James and Gillman Shield for most points scored at the Hawera winter show. Twelve pupils presented for the proficiency examination all gained proficiency certificates. The school had suffered a great loss in the death of Mr. Andrew Lees. Besides being the local representative on the Education Board, he had for many years taken an active interest in the welfare of the school, and his regular attendance at committee meetings was much appreciated and the committee benefited by his experience and sound judgment. Sympathy was extended to the relatives. Interest in the school library was well maintained, and the supply of fresh books by the children was much appreciated. In sport the school had again done well by winning the cricket cup in the local schools competition, while in swimming 25 certificates were gained for distances from 50yds. to half -a-mile, and the thanks of the children and committee were due to the parents who provided.

The work of the dental clinic had been carried on well and since the re-opening at the beginning of this year 68 children had been treated. Parents have been very good in providing transport. As it would be 50 years next October since the school was opened the committee considered the occasion should be suitably observed by a re-union. It solicited the assistance of all concerned to make the function .worthy of the occasion.

The committee placed on record its appreciation of the very efficient work carried out by the teachers, and extended to them the committee’s congratulations on the success of their efforts.