DEPUTY PRINCIPAL - COMMUNITY & CULTURE

As we move through the school year, I am continually reminded of the incredible strength that comes from a united community. Our school is more than just a place of learning; it is a home where values, traditions, and culture shape the experiences of our students. At the heart of this is our Catholic Identity. 

Culture is not just about diversity; it is about connection. Whether through shared celebrations, open conversations, or supporting one another through challenges, we create a community where every child feels seen, heard, and valued. This sense of belonging plays a vital role in student well-being and success, as they learn best when they feel safe and supported.

This week I was reflecting on the letters of St Paul, an Apostle of the Church. St Paul's letters are often described as being ‘Eccelesio Centric.’ This word means “Church-centred.” An ecclesio-centric view of mission puts more emphasis on the idea that mission belongs to the Church. The newly formed Christian community readily shared their faith with others because of the hope that they had in Jesus.  Their faith and commitment to God’s mission drew them together, Paul encourages the Christians to be strongly committed to each other like a family.

I encourage all parents to engage with our school in meaningful ways—whether by attending events, volunteering, reading the school newsletter, considering the posts of the various social media platforms or simply taking the time to connect with teachers and fellow parents. This may be in parent teacher interviews, connecting with your child’s homeroom teacher, emailing, even being on time for signing permission forms. 

The early Christians in Paul’s day were involved in the local Church family, which demonstrated another way of living, that created hope.  Your presence, participation and support will strengthen the fabric of our school community here in SMMC.  Trusted adults (like yourselves), demonstrating acts of dignity, respect, generosity, reverence, compassion and forgiveness in various ways, become powerful examples for our children, just as the early Christians did in their local communities. In a sense parents and teachers alike, have all been called by God to be positive role models to our teenagers.

“Great is the strength we possess in our unity”

 Thank you for being an integral part of our school’s journey.

Kath Jones

Deputy Principal Community & Culture