Dear Parents,

REMINDER: NO HAT NO PLAY

PLEASE CHECK LOST PROPERTY BOX AS IT IS OVER FLOWING WITH ALL SORTS OF ITEMS.

This week we have a very short newsletter and I apologise that there is no classroom news as staff have been flat out preparing for our Concert on Friday night.

On Monday night we welcomed our Prep 2019 families to the St Mary's community. My thanks to Emilie Owen, Hayley Honan, Fr Shabin, Amanda Gill and Jarrod Mullavey who gave a great insight of life at St Mary’s. One of things I want to emphasis which is relevant to every parent; is the fact that when children start school, they are embarking on a 13 year journey. We don’t know where that journey will lead them to in adult life. However, one thing we can be assured of is that if children no matter of their background, get a great start then they are set for life- long learning. During the 13 year of schooling skills, talents and challenges will continue to develop and be consolidated. Learning is not bound by the schooling, but is life long and as such we are responsible in setting good strong foundations which enables children to be strong and courageous individuals who are well prepared for the future. Most of our 2019 Prep children will be doing work in jobs which have not been invented yet and in a society that is very different from today. This does not deter us from giving each and every child the best start possible. A special thank you must go to Megan O’Donnell, who spoke about the Parents and Friends involvement at St Mary’s. One of the things Megan spoke about is how she is involved in her children’s education and how much she gets out of being involved. As you know, that children whose parents are involved do better at school. This is my main message to you all.

As you are aware, it is a very busy time of the school year. At present teachers are completing reports, planning for next year and allocating children to classes. What can add to the stress levels is parents approaching individual teachers about staffing and class allocation. We take great care and consideration when allocating staff and children to a class. Once everything is finalised , we will communicate this information with you. Thank you for your understanding.

On Friday night our production of Peter Pan Jr will be held at Ivanhoe Girls Grammar School. Children must be at the venue between 6.30 and 6.45pm NO LATER. Parking is available behind Ivanhoe Town Hall. I can not emphasis how important it is that children are at the venue on time. We want them relaxed, not stressed about being late.

Next Friday we will hold our Twighlight House Sports at Collingwood Athletics track (Heidelberg Rd Clifton Hill) commencing at 5pm. You will receive a letter on Tuesday about this so please check children's bags.

Reminder, you are welcome to collect your children at 1.30pm this Friday. I think it is a good idea for the leads and the younger children. School will finish at the normal time, however after care will close at 5.30pm sharp.

See you Friday night, regards

Dino

Dates to remember

December