PARENTS and invited guests turned out in force for Karuah Public School’s first Parent Forum held last week.

The forum provided an opportunity to welcome the community into the school to meet with teachers and other parents to openly discuss future directions for the growing school.

The day included a presentation from Heaton Public School Principal Brett Meek who spoke about the challenges staff and students face and the importance of creating a generation of critical thinkers and inventors.

Karuah Public School Assistant Principal Mrs Megan Saffioti also presented during the day discussing the benefits of the Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) program.

“The PBL system has had a positive effect in the school by minimising behaviour interruptions and maximising learning time,” she said.

“Our PBL motto is ‘Respect, Responsibility, and Pride’ which is supported by our Aussie Five Rules.”

The school mascot PeBbLes the Dolphin and the PebBLes badge were introduced and new signage at the front of the school was also unveiled.

Mrs Saffioti said the forum allowed parents the opportunity to provide productive feedback on programs running in the school.

“Our parents said they had a wonderful day in a relaxed environment, meeting many new parents they had not yet had the chance to meet,” Mrs Soffioti said.

Other presenters during the day included Mr Mark McLennan and Mrs Christine Carroll from Hunter River High School who introduced some of their successful programs.

They also spoke about the connection between Hunter River High and Karuah Public School.

School Speech Therapist Tessa Haines discussed the free speech pathology service for Kindergarten students.

Mrs Saffioti said P&C President Lea Leonard highlighted the importance of the P&C within the school.

“There would be no canteen, uniform shop or Brekky Club without the dedication of our wonderful parents,” Mrs Saffioti said.