Principal News

Death Of Pope Francis

I have often written in here about Pope Francis. He was a true hero to me, a model of service and humility. He put people first, whoever you were. He never placed himself above people. Simple acts such as doing his own cooking, cleaning, living in simple residences and travelling on public transport. Some will say, "well that's what we all do", and they are right! 

Pope Francis sat himself among the people, an ordinary person. He took people as they were. He spoke out against people who made judgement of others. He advocated for the poor. He supported one common home, through his advocacy for the environment but also for refugees and migrants. He was passionate about supporting the marginalised and an advocate for interfaith dialogue. 

This was Jesus way. He ate with people who had done wrong. He went to the outcasts or people of different faiths. He rallied against the powerful. He invited children towards him! Pope Francis didn't just speak of Jesus, he lived Jesus' way. 

I personally am hopeful that the church appoints  someone who follows Pope Francis' fine example. 

I have been fortunate to have been selected to attend a Pilgrimage this year with 15 Principals within MACS. We will be led by our Bishop Tony Ireland. It will be in early October, visiting Rome and Assisi. 

Reminder About Tomorrow: Closure Day

We have a closure day tomorrow. Staff will be involved in our second of four Berry Street Training days. As we will be at St Johns, the office will be closed. For any urgent issues, please email principal@hfdoveton.catholic.edu.au. I sincerely apologise for the disruption for you, but Professional Learning is an important part of our staff's work. 

Traffic: Child Safety

We have had two near misses with Prep students this week. 

Children are impulsive and their height makes them difficult to see behind vehicles.

I am strongly advocating that people consider other parking options than Pittosporum Grove. We have the Gate at Bottlebrush Drive or our Drive through which is the entry off Power Road. 

This most important thing is to HOLD KIDS HANDS when crossing roads. This can not be a staff responsibility. We need our parents to hold their child's hands. Picking students, particularly Prep to Year Two would be the best option. 

We have purchased a big sign that says hold my hand for the school. I will speak to our staff about ensuring that we release students from the classroom location, so that it is predictable for you as well. 

Sporting Opportunities

We have a number of sporting opportunities competing against other schools for our seniors in coming weeks. It starts with Paul Wade Cup Monday, Gala Day Sports Tuesday, and Cross Country the following week. 

Mother's Day

We look forward to welcoming all mothers and special people for our Mother's Day celebration next Thursday. It is so important we celebrate you for the work you do to develop the kids who we are so fortunate to work with.  

Academy Learning

This term we have professional soccer coaches leading our sports academy with soccer being a major passion. We will also have Dance with Marnie, Art with Simone, Social Justice with Pauline, Kitchen Garden with Glenis and Connie and Chess with Serena. It was great to see feedback from our students that thee sessions were a highlight of this innovative approach to empower student voice, foster student strengths and create greater engagement. 

Football and Rugby Goals

Our students now have AFL and Rugby Goals to enjoy. It has been wonderful to see so many students use these in the first week!