Principal News
Dear Sacred Heart School Community
A week on from the horrific explosion in Beirut, we pray for the people of a devastated Lebanon. Already with their own challenges presented by the COVID 19 virus, an event of this nature is incredibly tragic. Within our own school community we have families deeply affected by this tragedy, with loved ones and family members hurt and homes destroyed. Across the world governments have shown solidarity with the people of Lebanon by lighting up iconic landmarks with the image of the flag of Lebanon.
Again this week I would like to share a prayer for our Sacred Heart School and wider community.
Let Nothing Disturb You (By St. Teresa of Avila)
Let nothing disturb you,
Let nothing frighten you,
All things are passing away:
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things
Whoever has God lacks nothing;
God alone suffices.
Distance Education
During this week, I have been able to catch up with some online activities that our students who are at school have also participated in. On Tuesday, I was part of an alphabet bingo game with our Year Prep students and Bethany. From the pictures below, you can see that our two Year Prep students at school that day, Cody and Tristan also participated. Yesterday I watched some of our school choir members test their musical knowledge with Kate in a game of Kahoot.
Parent's/Guardians Wellbeing
Whilst we are acutely aware of our responsibility during this period to our student's wellbeing, we are also aware that our parents and guardians are experiencing unprecedented times. As a result of our school board meeting discussion on Tuesday night, Amelia has passed on the following information about support services for adults who are seeking help.
CORONA VIRUS MENTAL HEALTH & WELL BEING ON- LINE and PHONE SUPPORT
This support line and online resources is available for everyone in Victoria, whatever you are feeling during these challenging times – you can talk it through with one of our counsellors. We will provide advice and support based on your specific needs.
https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/ - COVID Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Service - This website will be regularly updated with information, advice and strategies to help you manage your wellbeing and mental health during this time. And you can stay up-to-date by joining our email community.
2020 School Review
Earlier this week I received confirmation that our school review which was due to commence at the end of this term and continue into the early part of Term Four, has been postponed until 2021. The postponement is due to the compromised schooling conditions we find ourselves in, and their impact on our ability to prepare for the review.
Replacement of Roof
We have had plumbers working on replacing a portion of our school roof these past three days. With the forecast heavy rains later this week, it will get a good workout.
Nationally Consistent Collection of Data - NCCD
Following on from this section of the newsletter, is a letter to all parents and guardians explaining the process through which all schools apply for funding to help students with additional needs. Parents of students who fit within the NCCD criteria will be aware of this process, and will have met with Liz our Learning Diversity Leader. It is important to note, that whilst this data is sent to Canberra to verify funding, the names of the students are kept confidential from the federal government.
As for many of you, zoom has become as natural part of our lives as eating breakfast. From the photo above, you can see our staff still continue to meet twice a week via the zoom format, to discuss, reflect and plan.
Please stay safe.
Yours sincerely
Mark Tierney
Principal
