Principal's News

MARK ROBERTSON

Principal

Term One has seen the return of a ‘normal’ on-campus student routine, with the exception of a short lockdown. This term, our students have thrived, embracing the many and varied co-curricular activities they missed out on last year.

This month has seen a significant milestone in Hellenic culture with the celebration and commemoration of 200 years of Greek independence. I extend gratitude, to Mrs Natasha Spanos who has overseen many of these celebrations within our School. Our Community was thrilled to host the Evzones photography exhibition in our Conference Centre, which is open to the public each day from 2.00pm to 7.00pm, over the next two weeks.

Last weekend, our Church was lit up in Greek national colours with a huge evening turnout in good weather, with many young people enjoying a favourite Greek dessert loukamades (donuts).

In the last edition of Grammar News, I referenced recent media reports focussing on consent. As a community, we cannot downplay the importance of education regarding consent, sexual assault and harassment, and healthy and respectful relationships between students. Our School’s duty of care is clearest when a student’s behaviour breaches Oakleigh Grammar’s behavioural expectations. Many problems that schools encounter concerning these issues can be attributed to communication failures. Hence, effective and regular communication and support from the School and home is critical. Please do not hesitate to contact our School if you as parents require support or guidance with your children.

I wish to remind all parents about prioritising the safety of all children at pick up and drop off times where there is much congestion on the roads surrounding our School. It is apparent that Monash City Council is regularly patrolling our School during these times and are actively issuing infringement notices.

Staff News

I wish to advise that Mrs Anna Lewis has been promoted from Finance Manager to Business Manager, commencing Term Two.

I am pleased to advise Mrs Fariba Zamanian has been appointed as ELC Co-educator / OSHC and School Holiday Program Coordinator commencing next term. Fariba is an experienced ELC staff member in many settings both locally and internationally.

Condolences are extended to Mrs Toula Bletas on the recent passing of her mother, to Mrs Vin Bua on the recent passing of her father, and Mrs Jane Tepper on the recent passing of her stepfather. Our thoughts and prayers are with these staff members and their families.

I wish to acknowledge the following staff who will be leaving us at the end of this term:

Mrs Joanne Zacharopoulos – Learning Enhancement, after 23 years of exemplary service;
Mr Rick Price – Art and Design Teacher;
Mr Daniel Meares – Mathematics Teacher; and
Mrs Margot Ruth – PA to the Deputy Principal – Operations.

I wish you all a safe and happy Easter break. I look forward to greeting all students at the start of Term Two on Tuesday 20 April. It is expected that we will be hosting His Eminence, Archbishop Makarios on Tuesday 20 April, which will be a special and exciting start to Term Two.

Stay Safe

Stay Well

God Bless