PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

Well, here we are at the end of another term. The holidays once again will provide both staff and students an opportunity to relax and replenish after the challenges of the term. 

I thank parents and guardians for keeping students home when they have been unwell. The number of COVID-19 cases has reduced significantly with only two or three cases each week, however colds and flus have been on the increase. It is important that we continue to use proper sanitisation during this time. The school does supply tissues, however it would be helpful if students had their own supply, kept in their pencil cases.

Last week I was fortunate to travel to Sydney to participate in the annual AJASS (Josephite Secondary Schools) Principals Conference. Restrictions did not allow me to attend in 2021 and the conference was cancelled in 2020, therefore it was wonderful to be with Principals once again that share in the charism of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop and the Josephite sisters.

I want to thank the staff at St Mary MacKillop College for the amazing way that they support each other in our community. This semester has been like no other and in some ways has been more difficult than the past two years. The constant challenges of teaching without full classes, as well as many staff having to isolate at varying times has placed pressure on our teachers, in particular, to cover classes. I am grateful for the wonderful support of our limited number of casual relief teachers, as well as part-time teachers that have sometimes worked extra days to help out. We are blessed to work in a community that supports each other so well.

I also thank the students and parents/guardians that have been very supportive as we managed through this semester. We have provided so many opportunities for our students and one of the best ways that you support the staff that organise events, Masses, Reflection Days, camps and excursions is to ensure that your child attends (illness excepted). Participation in every aspect of our school is important. We are a community that enjoys being together and to strengthen this sense of belonging we all need to participate.

Next week families will receive a letter from me in regard to some staffing changes and other information for Semester 2. Early in Term 3 parents and guardians will be sent an Operoo asking you to confirm your child’s enrolment at the school in 2023. It would be appreciated if any families that know that they are moving, or that their child is not returning in 2023 for other reasons, inform us as soon as possible. For many reasons we need this information to ensure that we can accept new student enrolments and that we can staff our school appropriately. I thank you in advance for completing this Operoo as soon as possible.

The winter solstice has passed, so our daylight hours will begin to increase. I hope that you have a restful break these school holidays and if you are travelling, stay safe.