Principal's Page
Dear Families,
Welcome back to Term Four. I hope that you have all had a relaxing holiday whether it was at home or away. Term Four always passes quickly with lots of learning and community events planned. Please check the calendar for dates.
The days in Term Four become warmer and longer. Students are expected to wear their school hats and summer school uniform.
A new term is always a fresh start. I was made aware at the end of last term of poor behaviour on the school bus. Safety for all people on the bus is our highest priority. We have very clear behaviour expectations (remain seated at all times, speak quietly and respectfully and no eating or drinking) and consequences when these expectations are not met. Please speak to your children of these expectations, the importance of being safe and remind them of what a privilege it is to have a school bus. Please read the School Bus Policy below.
Grassed Area
We are extremely grateful to Fr Angelo who has allowed students to utilise the grassed hill area between the presbytery and school. I know students will enjoy this.
Moonah Street Stall
Congratulations to Jane Byrne and our Sustainability Student Leaders on their successful street stall on Friday 19th September. Students sold Moonah Tree seedlings and distributed an information pamphlet on Moonahs. Cr Max Patton visited the school to launch the brochure. Both these initiatives are a part of the Moonah Woodlands Restoration Project. You may have seen the article in the most recent Southern Peninsula News.
Termly Overviews
You will receive a Termly Overview from your child's teaching staff this week to inform you of the content being taught this term and any other information pertinent to the specific year level.
Building Project
I am pleased to inform you that the building project is progressing with builders hopefully secured before the end of this year and construction hopefully commencing early in 2026.
Lunch Orders & Fun Food Fridays
Wednesday lunch orders will not continue this term. The Fun Food Friday dates will take place this term with the dates and food listed in the image below.
Instrumental Lessons
It was a joy to be entertained by some of our students who participate in instrumentalclasses with Helen or Paula. if you are interested in your child learning piano, keyboard or guitar, please contact the school office.
Before and After School Care
If you have booked your child into either Before or After School Care Program at Tootgarook Primary, could you please email Megan Barber on mbarber@sjsorrento.catholic.edu.au or myself so that we can ensure a St Joseph's staff member is present to collect for the morning school bus or sign them in to the afternoon program.
School Fees
Increases in general expenses has meant that we will be increasing our school fees in 2026 to ensure we can still continue to provide a personalised, high-quality education that meets the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of our students. An Operoo will be sent home in November explaining the changes. We recognise the financial challenges many families experience. If you are finding paying the fees challenging, please come and speak to me. Concession/Health Care card holders are eligible for discounted fees.
Pilgrimage
I left at the end of last week to commence my pilgrimage to Rome, Loreto and Assisi. I step into this opportunity, trusting that God will work in and through this experience in ways I cannot yet imagine. It is a true blessing to walk in the footsteps of those who have gone before us in faith, and I carry with me not only my own intentions, but also the prayers and hopes of our school and parish community. Please know that you and your families will be remembered in prayer. I look forward to sharing my experience with you on my return.
The next fortnight @ St Joseph's:
Mon 7 Term Four commences
Mon 13 Assembly
Wed 15 Year 5/6 Swimming Prog @Yawa
Fri 17 Year 6 run canteen
Please contact Mrs Megan Barber if you have any concerns while I am away.
Many thanks,
Monica