Principal Report

The term is rapidly underway and it has been a blessing to see such consistency, commitment and gratitude for our return to the school year. We recognise that covid still remains a burden to our existence and we thank our community for the constant communication and diligence around positive cases in your homes. I would also like to thank families for their compassion and understanding in regard to our staff being in isolation also. St Mary’s continues to plan for possible teacher shortages, ongoing absences while all the time placing your children at the centre of our decisions. 

As a school we are striving to modify school events and sporting experiences rather than cancel these wonderful learning opportunities for the students. Mrs Hay is doing an incredible job at modifying sport events and adhering to current covid safe practices. I recognise that as parents it is frustrating not to be able to attend these typical school events however we are governed by strict guidelines, separate to external events where we gather to ensure the educational setting is the least likely setting for the spread of covid. 

Thank you to all of our families for making alternate arrangements for your children on Monday. The number of families that attended these conversations was impressive and displayed a partnered commitment to the success of every child at St Mary's. This school closure day enables all staff and parents the opportunity to have learning conversations. These conversations are invaluable in the partnership of your child’s education. Please communicate regularly with your child(rens) teachers around any concerns or information that may be pivotal to their success. Parents are welcome to do drop off and pick ups at classroom doors and use this as an opportunity to connect with teachers if necessary. Our teachers are definitely missing the opportunity to connect regularly with our families so please feel welcome to come into the school yards. 

PAM is a continual source of information for our school and community. I ask that families make the time to use this platform regularly as it changes often. School forms, information and communication from classes and whole school levels is shared here. Our school newsletter will be shared fortnightly and PAM, and parent email at this current time will be how we keep our community informed along the way. 

Unfortunately we are still unable to have a beginning of year BBQ and Parent Information session. Regardless of these restrictions, St Mary’s will share with our community important information to start our year. On Friday 25th February a link will be shared with all families that will allow staff to share with you what the year ahead entails and how as a community we can work together for the children's happiness and success.  We will continue to live in hope that we can come together as one before the end of the term. 

Stay well and stay healthy.

God Bless, 

Jasmine Ryan 

Principal