Principal's Report
Message from the Principal
Welcome back to all of our school families and a special welcome to those who are reading the school newsletter for the first time. It is wonderful to have you in our school community.
The buzz around St John's today was one of excitement and anticipation. It is always such a joy to see the students and teachers in their new classes, refreshed and energised after the summer break.
It was lovely to see so many families gathered together at school for our Welcome Morning Tea today. Thank-you to the parents in our Community Association for preparing the tea, coffee and treats for everyone. We appreciate the time and energy that you all contribute.
It is wonderful to be back at St John's for the beginning of the 2021 School Year, after such a challenging year. I know that together we will embrace this new school year and take on all of the opportunities that are offered.
I would like to thank everyone for their gifts, support, prayers and messages which helped to get me through the most difficult part of my treatment. I have been overwhelmed by your generosity. I will continue to remain strong and positive as I journey through this next phase of my medical care.
Welcome to our new families
A special welcome to all of our new Prep students and their families. They have all settled in beautifully on their first day.
We would also like to welcome our new students across the school.
Year 1/2: Sadie, Boston, Craig and Evie
Year 3/4: James, Harmony, Felix and Carla
Year 5/6: Bethany, Chanel, Archer
Whole School Mass
Please join us this Sunday at 11.15am as we celebrate our Beginning of School Year Mass in connection with the Founders Day Mass. This is an important community event and we hope to see all school families there.
St John's Building Project
The fences are up and the builders have commenced work on our new playground and building project. This will cause minor disruptions to the running of the school but we have planned and prepared for how we will work around this. We will be having fortnightly site meetings with the builders and architects to ensure the smooth running of the project.
Drop off and Pick up
Just a reminder that students need to arrive after 8.30am to avoid congregating in the foyer.
Parents are still able to drop off and pick up from the basketball court but students will need to walk into school via the front entrance. Please supervise your children as they use the footpath on Elizabeth St.
We have requested that trucks and deliveries for the building project avoid school pick up and drop off times however please be mindful of traffic.
We also ask that you avoid parking on the opposite side of the service lane at the front of the school. It is very dangerous for students to cross this busy service road.
COVID Safety
We are delighted to be able to welcome parents back onto the school grounds. If you are staying for longer than 15 minutes please sign in at the school office.
Teachers will continue to use hand sanitizer in the classrooms.
Unfortunately we are unable to have parents stay for assemblies that are held indoors at this stage.
School Uniform
It is lovely to see all of the students in their summer uniforms. Please contact RHS for additional items.
RHSport, Ringwood PH: 9870 1377
Second Hand Uniform
Thank you to Janine Coates for looking after the second hand uniform this year. While the renovations are taking place we ask that you contact Janine via email to arrange second hand uniform items and Janine will leave your order at the school office for collection on Fridays.
Email Janine Coates
Condolences
We were saddened to hear the news of the passing of Salesi Tauali’i, Cain (1/2CB) and Charlise's(1/2KR) grandfather.
Carmen, great nonna to Monica (5/6EP) and Ester sister of Connie (Learning Support Officer) who also passed recently. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families at this time.
Baby News
Welcome Sonny, a baby brother for Nate (1/2CB) and Elsie, a baby sister for Biddy (5/6AB) who both arrived in the school holidays. We wish both families every happiness at this special time.
Thought for the Week
"One small positive thought in the morning, can change your whole day!"
May the year ahead be an inspiring and positive one for us all!
Verona Gridley
Principal
vgridley@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au