Message from the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,

Fr. Curran to Retire After Christmas

It is with mixed emotions that we share the news announced by Fr. Curran: he will be retiring and moving from Manilla after Christmas.

For many years, Fr. Curran has been a cherished and inspirational figure within our community. He has offered incredible support and guidance to St. Michael's School and his presence will be deeply missed by our students, staff and families.

Fr. Curran will be moving closer to St. Patrick's at West Tamworth, where he plans to continue his ministry through supply work across the Diocese. We wish him all the very best for this next chapter.

We are planning a special gathering to ensure Fr. Curran receives a suitable send-off. We will notify you of the date and time in the near future and we encourage all members of our community to join us in thanking and farewelling this remarkable gentleman and friend.

✍️ Semester 2 Report Update✍️

Class teachers are currently busy writing Semester 2 Reports, which will be distributed to families via COMPASS on Friday, December 12.

During each Semester, class teachers gather data across all Key Learning Areas to write accurate and insightful reports for all students. The Semester 2 Report provides a snapshot of how your child has progressed and grown in their learning throughout Terms3 and 4.

If you have any concerns regarding your child's progress, please make contact with their teacher, who will be happy to discuss your concerns with you.

🗓️ Director's Visit: Ms. Regina Menz🗓️

We are pleased to announce that we will host Ms. Regina Menz, Director of ArmidaleCatholic Schools, this Wednesday.

Regina will be onsite to visit classrooms, speak with students and meet with staff as we begin to wrap up the 2025 school year.

The visit will focus on looking forward, not back. Regina is keen to discuss our AnnualImprovement Plan for 2026 and how it aligns with System goals.  As mentioned in our last newsletter, our main focus areas will be writing and community engagement. This focus helps to ensure every child realises their hope-filled future.

🍎 2026 Staffing and Class Update🍎

The process of finalising staffing for the 2026 school year is currently underway. While this is often a slow process, we are working diligently to settle all positions.

Classes for 2026 will be finalised once our staffing is confirmed. To assist in the accurate formation of classes for the 2026 school year, we kindly request that parents notify the school office immediately if your child/ren will NOT be enrolled at St Michael's in 2026.

If you have any questions regarding staffing or future classes, please take the time to ask. I am happy to share the information I have at hand at the time, to address your questions.

Enjoy a wonderful week ahead.

Bronwyn