How refreshing the change of weather has been this week. Autumn is moving in as we also prepare through Lent for Easter. Of course in the Northern Hemisphere Lent and Easter are in spring, therefore the association of eggs and springtime bunnies, however being witness to the preparation of Jesus' death and resurrection through the season of autumn we see the changing shades of the landscape and the falling of leaves, knowing that the trees and land will come to life again.

Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) survey

I would like to thank the parents who have had a go at completing the Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) survey. This survey was sent to all families through Operoo. The current completion rate is:

Completed Started Required

Students 248 133 217

Staff 53 14 67

Parents/Guardians 28 29 57

If the parents who have started the surveys could finish them off, that would be great. I also encourage any parents who have not started the survey to give it a go. This is valuable data about our school community. You do not need to be Catholic or Christian to complete the survey. We would like a whole school response to ensure we are meeting the needs of everyone.

School Advisory Council

The School Advisory Council (SAC) welcomes interest from parents/guardians to join the committee. The SAC meets every second Tuesday during school terms, from 7:00pm. The meetings usually run between 60 - 90 minutes. This is a very relaxed group that enjoys discussion around policy and developments of the school. If you are interested in joining the SAC please make contact with Ms Emma Webb (50329771, ewebb@mackillopsh.vic.edu.au) at the school, or speak with one of our current parent members, Hollie Conlan, David Alderuccio, Scott Anderson or Alastair Mitton.

Future meeting dates are: 26th March, 23rd April, 28th May, 25th June, 23rd July, 27th August, 22nd October and 26th November.

Looking Forward to Camp

Finally, we will have two year levels heading off on Camp and Retreat in the coming weeks. Year 9 students will depart for Canberra on Tuesday 19th March and Year 12 students will venture to Halls Gap on Monday 25th March. We keep the communities around Halls Gap affected by the recent fires in our prayers. Around 100 individuals and families have had to find alternate accommodation for the long term.

A reminder that parents need to let the camp/retreat coordinator and the relevant House Leader know if their child will not be attending the camp/retreat. Refunds are not automatic, and parents must obtain a doctor’s certificate or letter and speak with me before any refunds will be applied.

St Pat’s Race Club Races

I hope that many of you will be able to attend the St Pat’s Race Club races on Sunday 17th March - St Patrick’s Day. The weather will be beautiful and all profits from the gate and raffle will be shared between St Mary’s Primary School and St Mary MacKillop College. Funds received in 2024 will be dispersed to Wellbeing resources and the Year 11 Vocational Major/Victorian Pathways Certificate camp (as these students have organised and catered for the BBQ available on the day).

Tickets can be purchased using the QR code in this newsletter, or purchased on entry.

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