Jacana School for Autism Newsletter

Principal's News Flash 

Corinne Pupillo

 

Welcome back to Term 4 and an exciting term for us all. The Leadership Team are in full swing planning for the 2024 school year and our school goals are at the forefront of everything we do.  At the heart of our organisational practices are our students and we are not only planning for our current students, but also our 2024 Prep students.  Prep orientation sessions commencing in November and a dedication week for transitions commencing Tuesday 12 December 2023.  

Secondary Camp 

Each year our Year 12 graduating students and students in the ADVANCE Program have the opportunity to attend a three day camp and have the opportunity to 

  • enhance independent living skills
  • enhance self awareness and self esteem
  • participate in adventure activities
  • show an appreciation of the environment
  • enhance social skills with peers, staff and the local community
  • have an enjoyable time with peers and staff
  • work as a team member to achieve positive outcomes

On Wednesday 11 - Friday 13 October,  20 students and 8 staff attended Forest Edge Christian Youth Camp in Neerim East where ther was a range of adventure activities for all students. 

 

 

World Teachers Day - 5 October 

On behalf of the whole school community, I would like to sincerely thank all of our amazing teachers. Their contributions across all areas of the school are highly valued.  In appreciation of all the work, a special lunch Hot Potato lunch is organised for Wednesday 18 October for staff to celebrate the event. 

 

SCHOOL COUNCIL

The next School Council Meeting will be held on Thursday 26 October 

 

School Council Meeting - Thursday 5 October 

Policies endorsed:

  • Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Framework Policy
  • Emergency Management Plan
  • Enrolment Policy
  • Holocaust Policy 
  • Parent Payment Policy
  • Safe Workplace 

If you would like a copy of any of our policies, please contact the office on 9309 6258 

 

Conflict in the Middle East 

Many in our school community are affected by the devastating events in the Middle East.

 

All of us are upset and disturbed by the awful events depicted in media footage and images.

 

This time is particularly distressing for staff, students, families and carers who have family and friends in Israel and Gaza. 

 

We are also aware that students of diverse backgrounds, including Jewish and Muslim students, may be significantly affected by public events, mainstream media coverage and social media at this time.

 

Please be assured that all staff are aware of the extreme emotional toll on many in our community at this time. Please feel free to get in contact with any of the staff at our school if you would like to ensure we are aware of what your child is going through at this time.

 

Our support staff will continue to do all they can to support all our students, and support is also available for our staff.

 

I also want to assure you that the department is monitoring the situation from a school security perspective, and have advised there is no further action we need to take at this stage.

 

It is possible that extremely distressing scenes from the conflict may be posted online in coming days. Please ensure your children are aware of where they can find support in the event they come across such images.  At our school, this includes Assistant Principal, Stephanie Di Salvo.

 

You may find some aspects of this resource helpful: 

  1. Helping my children after trauma: A guide for parents.

Support is also available through external services including:

  1. headspace: 1800 650 890
  2. Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
  3. Lifeline: 13 11 14
  4. Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636.

My door is always open and I am sure we will all look to support one another in this very difficult time.

 

Virtual School Tour 

Our virtual school tour is now live on our school website.   Please check it out and refer any members of the community to our page. 

 

https://www.jacanaschoolforautism.vic.edu.au/

 

Term 4  PUPIL FREE Days:

  • Monday 6 November 
  • Monday 11 December 

School Council Sub-Committee Representatives

  • Finance Sub Committee Representative - Mark Mansfield 
  • Building and Grounds Sub Committee Representative – Denise Clarke
  • Fundraising Sub Committee Representative – Lisa Sette
  • School Council Representative on Student Representative Council (SRC)  

Reminder: Our newsletter is published each fortnight and will provide you with important information about the school and events that may be of interest to you. I encourage you to read the newsletter that will be sent home via your home email, on the school's Facebook Page or on the school's website. 

 

JSA also has a Facebook and Instagram Page. Please like and follow our pages.

https://www.facebook.com/JacanaSchoolforAutism

https://www.instagram.com/jacana.school/

 

REMINDERS

Unwell Students 

Each morning when students are getting ready for school, I ask that you be mindful of how your child is presenting.  If they/he/she is feeling/looking/acting unusual or is complaining of being unwell please take them to the doctor. Minimising the cross-infection will assist in reducing the risk of spreading bugs and viruses.

 

All student absences can be made through the dedicated student absence notification number. Text the student's name, room number and reason for absence.

      

Make sure you have the student absence notification number saved in your contacts: 

Student absence line: 0439 114 197