From the Principal

Dear Families of Killester,

Our Gospel this week comes from Matthew and is the parable of the workers in the vineyard; much of what has been discussed about this Gospel relates to how we are all called to be members of the Kingdom of God, irrespective of when we choose to open our hearts, however I think another very important message we need to consider is the generosity of the landowner and the fact that he ensured as many people as possible had access to paid work. We know many families in our community, and indeed across our country and the world, are struggling from the financial impact of the COVID pandemic. Part of our call and mission should encompass how we can help others at a time when there are so many in need. The Killester community has always been outstanding when there has been a call to assist others and, indeed, there have been numerous examples of this at school these past few months. Our community has rallied, often at very short notice, to provide support to those in need, both within and beyond our immediate community.  These actions truly reflect our values of hope, compassion, justice, hospitality and wisdom and is something to celebrate and ensure we continue to remember with wonder. 

As Term 3 draws to a close it gives us time to pause and consider the achievements of these past few months. It has been, without doubt, one of the strangest school years thus far, and it is with enormous pride that I implore everyone to ensure they take a break over the holidays. I say this is done "with pride" because I have been, at times, overwhelmed by the way in which our community has worked. Our students have been the embodiment of strength and kindliness as they have persevered with their work, supported each other and maintained a focus on their mental health and well-being. Staff at the College have also been extraordinary in the manner in which they have gone about their work. They have had to create an entirely new way of doing all of their work and they have done so with compassion, love and good humour. My thanks are also extended in a very special way to the parents and carers of our students. We have been extraordinarily grateful for your support of us and your daughters as we have traversed this incredibly steep learning curve. We have always considered ourselves as having a very unique partnership with parents and carers and I believe the challenges of this year have further enhanced our enduring partnership. 

Planning is well underway for alternative celebrations for our graduating Class of 2020, won't they have wonderful stories to tell their children! We are doing all we can to ensure these celebrations are done in a way that involves families as much as possible. Once plans are confirmed they will be communicated to all of the parents and carers of students in Year 12. 

All families of students in Years 7 and 10 are asked to make sure they check the details further in this newsletter for the newly released immunisation schedule from the council. This can be found in the Latest News and Reminders Page. Additionally, many pages in this newsletter celebrate, yet again, the outstanding work of the students at Killester and I encourage each of you to take some time to enjoy the creativity and beautiful reflections created by our students. 

I hope all families are able to spend some time enjoying glorious Melbourne spring days as we slowly draw closer to a sense of normality.

Ms Sally Buick

Principal