Principal's Report

It was heartening to see so many families and parishioners attend the Ash Wednesday service in the Undercroft last Wednesday. The Catholic Church is founded on the Body of Christ and WE are that Body - “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20. And it was a big roll-up too, of over 50 parents, grandparents, Glen Innes business owners, and regular parishioners. On behalf of Father Gleeson, I thank everyone who attended for their presence and participation with our children and staff as a vibrant faith community. Now as we journey both personally and collectively during this season of Lent, our reflection through prayer, almsgiving and sacrifice actively seeks to bring us closer to God.

Our almsgiving works in partnership with Caritas Australia to raise much needed funds for communities in need. Our whole school fundraising revolves around our BIG Easter raffle. Consequently, I humbly ask that families donate an Easter chocolate-something, like a rabbit, bunny, bilby, or box-o-chocolates, that can then be included in our massive prize draw on Thursday 6th April. Tickets will go on sale at school next week for $1 each as well as a final sales pitch on the actual date. Thank you in advance for your kind donations. Similarly, our children and staff will be preparing for the Easter Bonnet parade that will begin at 11:30 am in the Undercroft on Thursday 6th April. Families are encouraged to come along and enjoy a bring your own picnic on the lawn. More information will be sent out closer to the date.

Congratulations to the local CWA on their 100 year Anniversary celebrated in the Town Hall on Monday. Our School Choir kicked off the celebrations with the National Anthem and 3 lively songs led by our supremo conductor - Mrs Shanny Core. I publicly affirm not only the high quality of the singing but the generosity of the parents and students who attended on the Pupil Free Day. Congratulations on a fine public performance!

Our showcase of past student success focuses this week on Zari Campbell who is studying a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Diagnostic Radiation) at the University of Newcastle and has recently been awarded a $10 000 Academic Excellence Scholarship Recognising Outstanding Performance in Undergraduate Studies. These scholarships are competitively assessed and reflect the hard work and dedication to their studies. Congratulations Zari - another fine graduate of St Joseph’s School Glen Innes testing themselves at the next level and achieving success!

Finally, check out this important article from Centacare for our families that focuses on an essential aspect of well-being for children - SLEEP. There are some great tips that are easily organised in the home to promote positive success in school and in life.

Until next time.

May God go with you.

Geoff McManus

Principal