Principal's News
Journeying Together in Christ
Fortunately, we had two terms with no forced closures or remote learning due to health concerns. The challenges remained or at times were more difficult with staff illness. It was the same across many or all businesses. We did get 3 out of 4 excursions/camps ticked off the list, for which I am very grateful to the staff and parents who made this possible.
School Holidays - At times we hear comments from a small percentage of people whether linked to our school or in the community like, "teachers are getting another holiday" or "don't you get enough". For the small percentage of people who may think this, you may like to reflect on why there is a massive shortage of teachers and the numbers of 1st year teacher enrolments at universities are very low. Some schools are experiencing this shortage now, but I am very concerned for what things may look like over the next few years. I know my staff love what they do most of the time and they deserve a break. Yes, we sometimes experience challenges and it may not look like we love what we do, but I am sure we all experience this in our workplace at some stage. BUT, if someone you know is thinking of teaching, it is a great career/vocation.
For the high percentage of our families who support our teachers, we thank you so much and really enjoy working with you every day.
Everybody has a choice - media and social media
We see so many silly choices, comments and videos on all social media platforms. Children watch this and see the reports in the news media. Please monitor your child's activity during the holidays. The online world is a very good baby sitting option, but it can backfire very quickly. We all have a choice on what we share, post and say.
School Fees
Please address this if you have not paid fees this year. School fees help operate the school along with some Federal funding. We are invoiced by Catholic Education Sandhurst regardless of the percentage of fees we have collected.
Fee Collection for 2022
Total Owing $525,606
$ received 30th April $151,214
% received 30th April 26.9%
We factor in direct debits, but some families have not notified the office on when school fees will be paid.
Please contact the office if you need to start a direct debit or to communicate your own plan. Alternatively, you can deposit online.
Uniform Policy - The Length of Hair
We have seen the introduction new hairstyles for many years. The 'mullet' is one of these. A reminder that if your student's hair is shoulder length or longer it must be in a pony tail or tied back to an acceptable standard.
New Building Tours
We opened up last Tuesday 21st June at 7:00pm and after Mass on Friday. We will not have anymore scheduled tours. There will be an official opening at some stage, but unfortunately this will not be for the whole school community as we will not all fit in the Auditorium. When the weather starts to improve later in Term Three, we will open the building up at a social event. Alternatively, when I see people at different times I will simply ask if you want to take a look.
Class Delegates
We thank the following people:
Foundation:
Beth Ivory - bethanivory91@hotamil.com
0448808875
Kristin Schroeders - tiamat96@hotmail.com
0424704399
1/2
Raathika Saranathan- dr_raathika@gvdental.com.au
0421300924
Sheena Russell - jeeandsheena@icloud.com
0413902752
3/4
Renee Threlfall - threlfall81@hotmail.com
0448105073
Tammy Edwards - tam-edwards@bigpond.com
0408778993
5/6
Kirsten Clurey - kirtyhart@hotmail.com
0417574060
Pip Robinson - s_probinson@bigpond.com
0428280981
Delegate Team Leader - Tammy Edwards
0408778993
Staff and Student Health
We have not escaped the current issues associated with COVID and the flu. We have a number of staff away. We will attempt to be as consistent as possible but I am sure you will understand the challenges. All businesses have challenges at the moment. If your child presents positive to COVID please use the email below.
notify@slshepparton.catholic.edu.au
Library News
A lot has been happening in the library over the past couple of weeks. We have been very busy relocating it to the Gathering Space. The new library space will be ready for the start of Term Three. Thank you to all the staff who assisted with the move and Mary Pendergast for her valued time. We also thank the students for waiting so patiently. The books can't wait to see you again!
Book Week 2022
Next term Book Week will take place the week of 20th to 26th August. This year’s theme is ‘Dream with eyes wide open’. The school will hold its book parade on Friday 26th August at 9:15. More details will be given next term. We can’t wait to see all the fabulous costumes and ideas that both students and teachers come up with (Nicole Keenan)
Term 3 begins on Monday 11th July for Staff and Students.
I wish every all the best during the July school holiday period.
We pray for all our community who may be at home unwell. We continue to pray for peace in our world and those who may be homeless and cold.
David Keenan
(Principal)