Genesis Genesis
Tokomairiro High School Newsletter & Community Noticeboard
Wednesday 5th February 2025
238 Union Street MILTON T: 03 417 4483 E: genesis@tokohigh.school.nz
Leaving Big Shoes to Fill She is small in stature, but she has left an enormous pair of shoes to fill. Jean Potae is a Tokomairiro High School institution. Our records reflect that work she has worked for the school since 1989 and her roles have included Teacher's Aide / Librarian, School Secretary, Principal's Secretary, Administration Officer and most recently, Executive Officer. In 1992, Jean and husband Bill’s daughter Rachel was our School Dux. And Head Girl. Our school finances are the envy of the district. That is thanks in no small part to Jean’s attention to detail, meticulous nature, tenacity, resourcefulness and depth and breadth of knowledge. Staff past and present, when faced with a question - about almost anything - no one else can answer satisfactorily, will inevitably utter three words: “Let’s ask Jean”. And they won’t regret it. Jean just knows. And she makes everything she does look effortless. For many, Jean has been the first face they encounter when visiting the school for the first time. Her inquisitive nature, genuine curiosity and authentic sense of care cannot be concealed or faked. She has a way of talking to you that makes you feel safe and valued. Jean’s last day of employment at Tokomairiro High School was 31st January 2025. While she may have officially stepped away from her role as Executive Officer, Jean’s impact on Tokomairiro High School will be felt for years to come. Her wisdom, kindness, and unwavering dedication have left their mark on our school community. We join together to express immense gratitude for Jean’s decades of service, her tireless commitment, and the countless ways she has supported students, staff, and families alike. Tokomairiro High School is better because of her, and we will miss her dearly. Haere rā, Jean!
New School Lunches Rolled Out
New Executive Officer Appointed
We welcomed Mrs Lisa McElrea to her new role as Executive Officer on Monday. Lisa is no stranger to Tokomairiro High School, having worked as Sports Co-ordinator, Genesis editor and Office Manager in the past ten years.
English Department Book Amnesty
Please could all students who have attended recently ensure that all text books and reading books have been returned to school. In particular we are seeking copies of the following texts: The Land by Mildred D Taylor; Better the Blood by Michael Bennett; "Shooting Stars" by Brian Faulkner and "Maus" by Art Spiegelmann. Tokomairiro High School
HORT SHOP
OPEN WEDNESDAYS 1pm-4pm.
Vegetable Plants Ready for Planting Now!
School Contact Details School Office: 03 417 8620
School Cellphone: 027 268 3362 Office email: office@tokohigh.school.nz
Students have now had just over a week of the new school lunches provided by the School Lunch Collective. The meals which are produced in Palmerston North, shipped to Dunedin and then heated and trucked daily to schools, include a variety of menu items which have been received quite well by our students. In addition to Butter Chicken, Mac’n’cheese, Tex Mex Beans and Rice, pasta dishes and Beef Rissoles with potato, students have been given apples, brownie, bujha mix and pea crisps. The menu caters for various dietary requirements and will change each term.
Dates to Remember Thursday 6th February Waitangi Day -School Closed Wednesday 5th February Itinerant Music Teachers Concert (for all Y7-10 students) Monday 10th February School Photos Tuesday 18th February Athletics Day Monday 24th March Otago Anniversary Day –School Closed Friday 4th April Swimming Sports