DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

Respect is one of our school values but it is not just a value we talk about—it is the foundation upon which our school community is built. One of our five College Community Expectations is that “ We respect ourselves, each other and our learning environment".

Respect starts from within. Respecting ourselves means valuing our own abilities, talents, and potential. It’s about making positive choices for our wellbeing—whether that’s engaging in physical activity, seeking help when needed, or committing to doing our best in the classroom. It means doing our best even when others are not. It’s about always striving to act with integrity, to do what we know to be right. By respecting ourselves, we become better equipped to support and uplift others. Checking in with our own self respect might be asking:

• Am I setting goals and working towards them?
• Am I taking care of my health and mindset?
• Am I dong my best to learn and grow?
• Am I being myself or being lead by others?
• Am I proud of the person I am becoming?

Our school is a diverse and inclusive community. Respecting others means listening to different perspectives, celebrating what makes us unique, and treating everyone with kindness and dignity. This includes respecting personal boundaries, honouring differences, and ensuring our words and actions make people feel valued and safe. Ways that  we can show respect for others include:

• Greet people warmly and use polite language.
• Respond respectfully to staff. 
• Celebrate the successes of your peers.
• Be an active bystander—stand up for what’s right and support those in need.

Our school environment is where learning happens, friendships form and our dreams can begin. Respecting this environment means taking care of our classrooms, our school grounds, and our shared resources. It’s about using bins for rubbish, keeping desks tidy and clean, and respecting the property of others. A clean, well-maintained environment sets the tone for focused learning and pride in our school. Consider these small actions:

• Pick up rubbish in the yard and in classrooms - even if it’s not yours.
• Treat school equipment, resources and furniture with care.
• Use shared spaces such as classrooms, the LRC and the yard responsibly and leave them as you found them.

Let’s commit to making respect more than just a value on a list—let’s make it a way to be part of the St Mary MacKillop College community. 

Catherine Howison

Deputy Principal