Principal's News
End of Term and Thankyou
We have finally made it to the end of term, after a start to the 2019 school year which was quite different to previous years, however did eventuate as a successful transition to a new year and different learning spaces. Much has happened and it is now time to refresh, relax and recharge for the remainder of the year. One of our alumni Mums called in this morning and made the comment that her daughter’s first term at Star of the Sea was also a jam packed time and in awe of what occurs in schools today. St James is no different. I would like to acknowledge our teachers and staff who have committed enormous dedication in their educational support for your children.
Last week I had time to meet with other Principals at our biannual Conference and as it happens we tend to speak about our schools. I am indeed very fortunate.
As we head towards Easter we have much to be grateful for. The manner in which our staff support each other, their ability to be be flexible with the yet to be completed building works, plus the manner with which we have welcomed in our new and existing members, coupled with all the events that occur at St James:
Camps, sports, masses, sacramental times, social occasions, many internal and external opportunities, Professional Learning Team meetings, Program Support Group meetings, settling new Preps and others students, Parent Teacher meetings, the Retreat, planning, testing, assessments and the constant challenge of giving all of themselves constantly.
This coming Friday is appealing for us all; children, teachers and Mums and Dads.
Holy Week Liturgies
‘Belonging in a Catholic school community anchors the individual and collective identity in God through the story of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.’ Horizons of Hope Catholic Education Melbourne
Thanks to Mrs Herbert, all children and teachers who have led us through the stages of Holy Week this week. This season is the pinnacle of our belief as a Christian community. The children beautifully portrayed the events of Easter this week. The culmination of Jesus' mission was to set others free in the face of our vulnerabilities. This Easter may we reflect on the life giving potential that we all possess.
Easter Raffle
The Easter raffle is tomorrow afternoon and what a great way to send us off for the break. Thanks for all your donations and to Kate Korber, Kat Cheshire, Michelle Thomas, Belinda Chapman, Susan Conterno, Jo Shields and Monika Sowunmi who have wrapped and organised the eggs.
Reconciliation
Congratulations to all the Year 4 children who celebrated the sacrament of Reconciliation last night with Fr Martin at St Joan of Arc. Thanks to Mrs Herbert and Mrs Clingan who prepared the children to receive this sacrament. As the children beautifully sang last night we are reminded that in this Lenten period we are ready for a change of heart, we are looking for a brand new start, and to change our lives and turn back to God.
Amazing things
Mrs Busch was away for a few days this week and I happened to be in the Prep room for morning prayer. What amazing things have occurred for our little ones this term. Even with Cathy being away, Mrs Dodds asked them to recite their morning prayer. Off by heart they launched into their morning prayer.
Good morning Jesus, how are you today
It’s Foundation here and we’d just like to say
Thank you for our family and friends
The birds and the trees
The good times and the not so good
Thank you Lord for all of these. Amen
How good is that!!
Mothers Day interviews
As per last year, the Parents Association as part of their luncheon, have a snapshot of some children speaking about their mothers. Not all children are interviewed. If you do not wish to be included in a random selection can you please contact the office. Sarah Webb, Donette Simmons, Jo Picking and Belinda Chapman will be interviewing children early in term 2.
Building Update
At this week’s site meeting we received further information about the progression of works. It is anticipated that Learning Areas 11 and 12 (Year 1 classrooms) will be handed back to us on April 16, so hopefully we will have the Year 1’s in position in early Term 2. Learning Areas 1, 2 (Prep rooms downstairs) plus the staffroom will be handed back to school on May 30. The Bridgeworks to connect both buildings will be ready on June 27.
At the conclusion of the building project we will have beautiful space for our children and teachers in which to work. Our vision as a school was to create flexible learning spaces that would facilitate learners that are able to adequately demonstrate their cognitive, metacognitive and self regulatory strategies, increase their critical and reflective capabilities, build collaboration and learning partnerships, inspire creativity through imagining new futures and visionary thinking.
We are excited about the end product and one that all in the school community can be very proud of. Visitors to our school remark on the transition from our previous spaces and have experienced the ‘WOW’’ factor. We have required patience over the life of the project however it will be worth the wait.
Happy Easter
Brendan