Principal's news
Dear Parents
A new year is always a cause for optimism and it is clear that the past few years have taught us to expect the unexpected. It has been pleasing that as this year has begun, there is great hope for a more stable environment. COVID 19, whilst still circulating, does not appear to pose an acute risk to the health system or threaten to shut down large parts of the economy as it has in recent years.
I am grateful for all staff and parents who have joined us at recent information evenings over the past couple of weeks, as this has provided an opportunity for a shared understanding of expectations and opportunities for the 2023 school year.
I am pleased to announce the Parents’ Association Leadership structure for 2023:
Co-Presidents: Maree Popovic & John Dellis
Treasurer: Penny Tounoussidis
Secretary: Vasy Makris
I take this opportunity to thank former Co-President, Mr Rob Keoylian for his leadership, support and involvement in the Parents’ Association over the past seven years.
On Monday, invitations to the Gala Ball celebrating our School’s 40th Anniversary, coinciding with the 60th Anniversary of The Greek Orthodox Community of Oakleigh and District, will be extended to all parents. I commend the Parents’ Association on the pricing structure and believe this event will sell out very quickly due to the cap on numbers at Vogue Reception Centre. Please book early to avoid disappointment as this is an event not to be missed.
As you are aware, our nuance of colours to reflect our School’s Mission and Branding has been widely applauded. At the end of the day, our School shows our families how we are uniquely able to help you realise your aspirations for your child’s future. Our School’s Mission is ‘To create quality learning opportunities for every student to reach their full potential.’ Our branding reflects our differentiation value in terms of how we address the educational needs of our students and how we reflect our School’s commitment to achieve every family’s aspiration for their child.
Technology continues to challenge, excite and provide new opportunities and none more so than the development of Artificial Intelligence. ChatGPT has certainly provoked the educational arena with many States and systems banning its use. I am pleased to advise some of our staff have been significantly involved in researching and understanding the implications of this new technology. As a result, there may be modifications to our assessment structures and protocols as well as opportunities to engage in this sphere.
I wish to extend congratulations to Year 12 Student Georgianna Petridis on breaking a 21 Year School Record in the Open Girls Breaststroke 50m in the recent House Swimming sports.
I also wish to congratulate Toni Stathopoulos (2022 School Captain) who will perform her work in Top Class Dance 2023, part of the VCE Season of Excellence, on Tuesday 7 March in concert. The VCE Season of Excellence showcases work produced by outstanding VCE students.
I am pleased to advise that our new building, the N P Nikolakakis Centre for Academic Excellence is on schedule for use at the beginning of term two and that much excitement is being generated amongst our senior students. I am also very pleased to advise that our Beloved Sts. Anargiri Church refurbishment is anticipated also to be finalised for the commencement of term two.
Staff News
I wish to advise of the resignation of Mr Billy Joe Nayna from our Maintenance Department.
I wish to advise of the appointment of Ms Leanne Levy, HR Officer, and Ms Kristen Keating, Learning Assistant.
Mark Robertson
Principal
Exciting Community news from the Board of Management
Dear students, parents, staff, and parishioners,
We enter a milestone 2023 with the 60th anniversary of our Community and parish and the 40th anniversary of our educational institution. There are also a number of exciting projects communicated by our Principal, including: the Centre of Academic Excellence, the revamped canteen open to the parents to mingle, and other planned projects which will all collectively enrich our Community. Additionally, we wish to advise due to growing demand and in the best interests of our holistic Oakleigh family, the Board have decided to convert one of the residential properties into a Community house.
"The Oakleigh Greek Orthodox Community House" will be a staged process and will cater for several services including our Community offices, church operations, school operations, public groups, and storage. Most importantly, it will become a home for all of us to congregate and share many activities and memorable moments for the generations to come.
The Board warmly invite you all to forward your ideas for consideration with the best proposal deemed by the Board together with Father Stavros and our Principal, Mark Robertson and Sts Anargiri Greek Language Centre Principal, Kosta Pateridis to be the recipient of a family prize being a $200 restaurant voucher.
In addition, we invite all those within our Community with an artistic flair to devise a welcoming sign for our Community house, the entries will be considered by the panel and the winner will also be awarded a $200 voucher.
We eagerly await your much treasured and valued thoughts and designs.
Please forward your entries to our secretary: Mrs Xanthi Dellis at xdellis@oakleighgrammar.vic.edu.au by May 1, 2023, the winning entry will be announced at the Gala Ball on May 27, 2023.
Please make sure you get in quick to reserve your seats for the Gala Ball tickets release which will be happening very soon as only 400 tickets will be available and already there has been very strong indications that this event will sell out in a few days.
In relation to our church's restoration, we are most hopeful and confident with the intercession of Saints Anargiri that services will fully recommence by the middle of March if not sooner.
Together as one family let's make a positive impact.