Jeremy Mackinnon
Assistant Principal
Dear Parents and Students,
And just like that, Term 1 has come to a close! It has been an action‑packed start to the year, filled with an impressive range of student‑led events and activities. In recent weeks alone, we have celebrated the Year 12 Formal, hosted Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences, run Intentional Habits sessions, enjoyed the String Soirée, and cheered on students across numerous sporting events. I am incredibly proud to be part of a school that genuinely “walks the talk.” At JMSS, we hold high expectations for academic excellence, but we place equal value on developing the whole person; socially, emotionally, and physically. The recent events of this term highlight the breadth of opportunities we want our students to embrace wholeheartedly.
Our Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences provided valuable feedback on each student’s progress. I encourage students to use the holiday break to reflect on their learning so far, consider the advice they received, and think carefully about the behaviours they may need to keep doing, stop doing, and start doing. I also want to highlight a fantastic school resource: JMSS Pro Tips. This website, developed by JMSS staff, is designed to support students in achieving their academic best. The Strategies for Success page is particularly useful, offering practical guidance on everything from sleep routines to effective study habits.
I would like to acknowledge the outstanding work of our School Captains - Max Anquetil, Isabelle Goode, Adhyan Kathpal, and Katheryn Xiang. Their leadership has been evident through MCing assemblies, preparing the weekly student bulletin, overseeing student events and proposals, and coordinating the school’s largest fundraising initiative: The World’s Greatest Shave. The WGS is a student‑led initiative that began in 2022 and has grown into a signature event for our community, raising approximately $20,000 annually. Each year, students (and staff) shave, cut, or colour their hair to support blood cancer research and patient services. It is a powerful demonstration of community spirit and collective purpose. Our goal is to raise $20,000 again this year, and we are currently sitting at around $2,000. The event will take place on 1 May, and I warmly encourage you to support the cause.
Donate: https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/st/2509/29036
Sign up: https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/join/johnmonashscienceschool2026
As we head into the break, I want to remind everyone of the importance of wellbeing and staying connected. If anyone experiences significant distress over the holiday period, please reach out to the support organisations listed below.
Regards,
Jeremy Mackinnon
Assistant Principal