Principal's News

Here we are at the end of Week Six and this time has simply flown by. We congratulate our amazing Foundation students for completing their first full week of school this week. What a great effort!

Pupil Free Day:

A reminder that this coming Tuesday 12th March is a Pupil Free Day (please make sure you read/check the Dates for your Diaries page in the newsletter). This day will be centred around staff completing Mandatory Reporting modules and revisiting policies and procedures in preparation for our VRQA (school registration) review/audit next term. 

Good News Stories:

Congratulations to Jenna, Ryan, Eddie and Charlie on the safe arrival of Winnie Louise Smyth. Eddie has not been able to wipe the smile off his face since Winnie arrived - he is already proving to be the best big brother to his little sister.

A massive thank you to Ryan Lambert for helping out with mowing and whipper snipping of the front of the school and our garden while Steve (my wonderful volunteer husband) has been out of action. At this time of the year everything is growing so quickly so it's great to be able to stay on top of things.

Congratulations to Hunter Roberts who last week represented St Joseph's at the Division Swimming sports at Wangaratta in the 50 metre backstroke event in the 9/10 age group. Although competing against older students, Hunter went in to the event with a positive approach and competed really well. What a great experience for him.

Naplan:

Next Wednesday to Friday our Year 3 and 5 students will participate in Naplan testing in the areas of Reading Comprehension, Writing, Numeracy and Language Conventions (Spelling and Grammar). This can be a stressful time for students who put pressure on themselves which is why we keep it quite low key. As educators we understand that students all learn differently and this is just one aspect that they contend with. If you have a child in these year levels and you any questions or concerns about Naplan please come and see myself or their teacher.

Learning Conversations/PSG's:

Learning Conversations for all students (other than those who have PSG's) are taking place on Tuesday 26th March from 8.30-4.30. These are a great opportunity to meet with the teachers and talk about how your child/ren have settled into the year, their strengths and challenges and the goals for the next term/year. If you haven't already booked a time through SimonEverywhere app please do so asap.

PSG's (for those students who require them) are on Thursday 14th March. Parents would have been sent an email or phone call  with your time. If you are unable to make your time please contact either Miss Maddy or the office to arrange another time.

Welcome Night at the Splash Park:

What a wonderful, relaxed evening was shared at the Splash Park last Thursday with families and staff. The weather was very kind to us and even though some of the water features weren't working our kids just had a great time - being very creative in their thinking of how to get water down the slide.

Easter Raffle:

Tickets went home last week for our annual Easter Egg Raffle. These need to be returned by Wednesday 27th March as they will be drawn that afternoon. Thank you to the families who have donated eggs, books, activities etc for the prizes - the more the merrier. These can be left at the office.

10 cent Can Collection:

We have a bin at school (near the staff room door) where 10 cent cans and bottles can be left. This is a simple ongoing fundraiser that requires very little work while being great for our environment. If you are not already doing this yourself we would love any spare cans/bottles that you/neighbours/extended family might have.

Have a wonderful extra long weekend everyone.

Take care and stay safe

Maree :)