Miss Jaclyn is always busy keeping abreast of our socials and sharing the terrific things happening at our school.

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VALE POPE FRANCIS

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, leaving behind a legacy of faith and service. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis reminded us of the power of kindness, the importance of caring for the poor and marginalised, and the need to approach all people with a humble heart. As we mourn his loss, we also give thanks for his remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment to the Gospel values of love, mercy, and hope.

Pope Francis was a great Pope who did his best to show the world he was a person of Jesus. His humility was evident in the decisions he made following his election — choosing simple modes of transport, opting to live not in the elaborate Papal apartments but among guests at the Vatican, and washing the feet of both men and women, including prisoners.

These are little examples, but a huge acknowledgement that he didn’t want to be seen as an enclosed Church person. For his funeral, he chose a simple coffin and asked not to be raised on high, as is the tradition. He has requested to be buried outside the Vatican, inside Mary the Major, one of four Papal Cathedrals in Rome. Mary the Major is the Church he visited and prayed at when he visited Rome as a Cardinal.

Pope Francis was a vocal advocate for environmental stewardship, emphasising the moral responsibility to care for the Earth. Through his landmark encyclical Laudato Si', he called for urgent action to combat climate change, protect biodiversity, and address the exploitation of natural resources. He frames sustainability not just as a scientific or political issue, but as a profound spiritual and ethical duty. By championing the idea that the Earth is "our common home," Pope Francis has positioned himself as a true environmentalist and a steward of creation, inspiring people of all faiths and backgrounds to take better care of the planet.

In one simple sentence, all can be summed up by saying he was a Pastoral Pope, a champion for the human person and a tireless advocate for environmental causes.

His life of faith, service, and compassion touched millions around the world. We pray for his eternal peace and give thanks for his enduring legacy of hope and love.

May his memory continue to inspire faith, humility, and compassion across the world.

ANZAC Day

Last week, our SRC led us in an ANZAC Day service. It was a solemn and reflective occasion, where students and staff came together to honour the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand soldiers. The service included readings, a moment of silence, and the laying of a wreath. The ceremony was both meaningful and respectful. It was a great reminder of the importance of remembering and appreciating the freedoms we have today.

We are also incredibly proud of Leo, who had the honour of reading a beautiful children's poem at the Dawn Service held at All Nations Park. It was a wonderful opportunity for him to contribute to such a meaningful community event. Well done, Leo!

School Closure Day

This term our school closure day will be held on Monday May 12. On this day the staff will be working onsite and will be updating our First Aid Qualifications.

Please mark the day on the calendar!

James St Traffic Conditions

Over the holidays, the council installed a speed hump in front of the school gates on James Street. Our School Advisory Council has been actively lobbying the council for improved safety measures along James Street, and we are pleased to see this important step taken. The new speed hump aims to slow traffic and enhance the safety of our students, families, and staff during busy drop-off and pick-up times.

We have noticed, however, that the 'Kiss and Go' parking limitations have been removed. We are currently in discussions with the council regarding this change, as the 'Kiss and Go' area is a valuable part of managing traffic flow safely and efficiently during peak times.

We continue to encourage all drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to the new speed limits to ensure the continued safety of our school community.

Head Lice

There have been recent cases of head lice reported within our school community. Head lice are a common childhood occurrence and are not a sign of poor hygiene. However, they do require prompt attention to prevent spreading.

I ask all families to please check their child’s hair regularly over the coming weeks. If lice or eggs (nits) are detected, I encourage you to begin treatment immediately and continue to check and treat as necessary. Children can return to school once appropriate treatment has commenced.

For more information go to https://www.health.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases/head-lice

Thank you for your cooperation and support in helping us manage this common issue.

A Reminder About Morning Classroom Access

To support the best start to each school day, we kindly ask that parents do not enter classrooms before school. This is valuable preparation time for teachers as they set up for the day ahead.

If you need to pass on information or speak with a teacher, they are available after school each day in the yard. This is a much better time to connect without disrupting morning preparations.

Thank you for your understanding and for respecting this important time for our teachers.

Mother's Day Celebrations

MASS

This Sunday, May 4, our Middles students will be hosting our annual Mother's Day Mass at 11:00am in St. Joseph's Church. Please come along to help us celebrate Mothers, Grandmothers and Special Elders in our community.

BREAKFAST

On Thursday, May 8 we will be hosting our annual Mother's Day Breakfast from 7:45am in the multi-purpose room. Please invite your mothers, sisters, grandmothers and other role models to join us.

Children will be supervised and given toast and milo downstairs, while Mums and other special quests enjoy a relaxing breakfast in the Multi Purpose room.

Please RSVP by Wednesday 6th May on the AUDIRI eform that was sent out yesterday.

MOTHER'S DAY STALL

The Mother's Day Stall will be held on the same day - Thursday May 8. Please send your child with some spending money, as there will be a wonderful selection of gifts available for Mother's Day.

Winter Uniform

Please note that all students are expected to be in full winter uniform by Monday, May 12.Thank you for your cooperation in ensuring a smooth transition as the weather gets cooler.

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