Principal's Report
Dear Parents and Carers,
Last week I was lucky enough to spend 2 nights at Camp Nillahcootie with our Year 6 Students and Staff. We were blessed with sunshine for the week and a magnificent location by the lake. The students all settled into the camping spirit, supporting each other and taking on new challenges. It was wonderful to spend time with them all, in a relaxed setting. Some highlights included the night walk and marshmallows on the camp fire, the initiatives course, low rope challenges, canoeing, water slide and mountain bike riding. It was certainly a jam packed few days but a wonderful experience for everyone.
Parish School Education Board AGM 17 March
You are all invited to attend our AGM for the School Education Board tomorrow night. We will be presenting the Report for 2019 and establishing the Board for 2020. We will be seeking nominations for positions on the Board and setting goals in line with our Annual Action Plan. I look forward to seeing you there.
Electronic Watches and Devices
Please be advised that students are no longer permitted to wear any electronic watch or device. If a student wears one to school it will be kept in the office until a parent or carer comes to collect it.
We have made this decision due to the added distraction during class time and to ensure that students remain focused throughout the day.
Thank-you for your support and understanding in this matter.
Labeling School Uniforms
We have noticed an increased number of uniform items in lost property and unfortunately many are not named. Please remember to label all items of clothing, that are worn to school and lunch boxes.
Assembly
Today our host class was 3/4TJ. They shared their learning in maths, discovering more about length and perimeter. They also shared their wonderful writing pieces about folktales.
Open Day
This Thursday, 19 March, will be our Second Open Day for the year. Please invite your neighbours and friends to come along and see our fantastic school in action.
COVID - 19 Update
Our first priority at St. John's is the health and safety of our school community. I want to reassure you that the school is well-prepared for the impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus).
We are being provided the latest advice from the Australian and Victorian Chief Medical Officers by the Catholic Education Commission of Victoria Ltd to ensure that our school practices are helping to keep our school community safe from the outbreak.
Any incidents that arise will be addressed in accordance with our Critical Incident and Emergency Management Plan. We will also have access to resources and support from Catholic Education Melbourne and the Department of Health and Human Services.
As parents, you have a critical role in helping the school manage this situation:
- Exercise good judgment by keeping children home if they are feeling unwell for any reason
- Talk to children about the situation, as they may be feeling anxious or stressed. You have a key role in helping students feel prepared and safe
- Encourage children to be proactive and committed to their schoolwork, and to stay connected with the school and their teachers.
The Department of Health and Human Services has a number of resources on its website, which explain the virus, detail risk-reduction practices and behaviours, and answer frequently asked questions. These are available at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
You can also find information about Catholic education’s response at http://www.cecv.catholic.edu.au/Coronavirus-information-for-parents.
This is an evolving situation, but we will keep you updated as things change. I ask that you continue to work closely with the school and to contact my office should you have any concerns.
Thank you for your support as we work to keep our students safe.
Have a great week!
Verona Gridley
Principal
vgridley@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au