Cooee

Principal's Message

with Mr Brendan Gill

Principal’s message

 

What a great term it has been!  Despite the unsettling nature of the COVID disruptions, we have managed a calm and positive term.  

 

Some highlights:

  • The introduction of Library staff at the school: both Kathryn and Kristia have made an enormous difference to the school.  A new Library system will soon be online, which families will be able to access at home.  Hundreds of new decodable readers have been added to our collection.  Many new books are now landing at the door.  A lot of time has gone into planning the new 2023 Library space.
  • The breaking of the ground for the new multi-purpose space.  The dreams are being fulfilled and it is all action on site.  This is so exciting for the school as it is the biggest investment in John Paul II since its inception nearly 40 years ago.  
  • The flexibility and resilience of our families, students, and staff throughout the COVID-19 situation has been amazing.  I particularly acknowledge our administration staff, putting together all the RAT tests and taking down all the COVID-19 information.  I also acknowledge our Deputy Principal, Lauren Hall who has spent many hours to ensure that staff have been replaced and students are safe!
  • The support of the community around Ollie Holmes and his family has been inspiring.  Thank you wholeheartedly to those involved.  We keep Ollie, Barb, and Rory in our prayers over the Easter Break.
  • The expansion of lunch time clubs has been a great initiative.  It has been a wonderful outlet for students, and we have had everything; HIIT, Yoga, Chess, Biking, Dancing and Art Club.  
  • The re-energisation of the Parents & Friends Association.  The P&F has a long and proud history at John Paul II Catholic School, and it is exciting a new chapter is about to begin.  Please contact Kiri Van Duiven at jp2parentsandfriends@gmail.com or 0448849366 if you would like to be involved.
  • To the many new families that have joined the school community this year,  it has been a joy to get to know the you and your children.  If you ever feel a bit flat, just spend a bit of time in Kinder and all the world’s problems simply dissipate! 

Thank you to families who attended our Stations of the Cross re-enactments today.  Thank you to Jane Davies, Rachelle Smith, and Megan Hickey for their leadership in this area. I wish families every blessing during the Easter Period.

 

Brendan Gill | Principal