Principal's Report

Dear Parents and Friends,

Our Gospel this week comes from Luke and tells the story of the interaction between Zacchaeus and Jesus. Luke shows us that Jesus was prepared to publically acknowledge and befriend Zacchaeus when others condemned him for being a tax collector, someone to be vilified. We are therefore challenged to think yet again, about the times we stand up for what is right and just when faced with criticism from others. The Principles of Living Justice we embrace here at Killester encourage all in our community to ensure that we too, try to act like Jesus. Specifically we are called to be the hands, feet, eyes, heart and voice of Jesus.  Our ongoing work with St Joey's Van, Wellsprings in Dandenong, the Wallara community, Friends of Refugees in Springvale and many other organisations show the rich determination the staff and student at the College have to act as Jesus would and, in doing so, give witness to our faith.

There were tears and laughter (sometimes both together) as we farewelled the graduation class of 2019. Our graduation liturgy and farewell assembly were both lovely celebrations that highlighted the achievements of the graduating class of 2019. Ms Leanne Di Stefano was the guest speaker at the Year 12 liturgy and the staff and students were delighted to welcome her back and hear her speak to them of the joys and challenges they will face in life beyond the gates at Killester. Most importantly Ms Di Stefano spoke of carrying the strength and kindliness they have forged here at Killester into the world. The Year 12 cohort have been outstanding role models for all in our community, they have been exemplified by true leadership from all in the year level, not just those officially elected to positions of responsibility. Our Year 12 students have given enormous pride to their families, our school community and to themselves. We wish all of them the greatest of success as they complete competencies for their final VCAL assessments or exams for their VCE studies. It is impossible to thank everyone individually for their contribution to the celebrations, in some way every member of our staff contributed to the success of these important rite of passage celebrations, in the main because our students conducted themselves with such integrity and goodwill- meeting the expectations set by all at the College. Organisationally however I would like to thank Ms Loreto Cannon, Ms Luana Doko, Mr Peter O'Neill, Ms Kath Lawson, Mr Bernie Hickey and the Year 12 homeroom teachers for their work in helping create such meaningful events.  

The assembly also gave us the opportunity to farewell Ms Clare Compton and Ms Frankie Flanagan. Both Ms Compton and Ms Flanagan have been successful in their applications for significant roles of responsibility outside of Melbourne. Ms Compton will be settling in the Sale diocese and will continue her tireless work in advocacy for diversity across all schools in that region. Ms Flanagan and her family are moving across the isle to Tasmania where Ms Flanagan will continue her work in Catholic education. Both staff members will be missed by all in our community and we wish them the greatest of luck in their new roles. 

Sally Buick

Principal, Killester College