A Word from the Principal

The College value of Justice is a deeply ingrained value, held by our Sisters of Charity and the very reason Mount Carmel exists. The word justice comes from the Latin word “jus”, which means right or law. Justice is often used interchangeably with the word “fairness.” Many philosophers and sociologists define justice as the proper ordering of people and things. All races and religions include a definition of justice in their codes of law and conduct. Justice is, in fact, the glue that holds societies together. For us we often equate the notion of justice to equity and equality.  At its fundamental core of belief is that every human being is made in the image of God and is worthy of the same level of respect and dignity. As our students learn about the life of Jesus, they learn about his fight for justice for all. 

Our founders’ commitment, from the very beginning, was to improve educational opportunities, especially for young convict women, equipping them with skills to make a positive contribution to society. This sense of justice - that all are entitled to an education based on excellence is what continues to drive Mount Carmel. As I look at our students, I know that there are many for whom Mount Carmel is their home away from home. I have a sense of the positive community that underpins what we do and makes us what we are.  Acceptance and a commitment to ensure we foster and provide for our community. We remain true to this focus today at the College, and strive to provide an education which fosters creative thinkers, confident problem solvers and independent learners. Certainly something we saw our students do during Learning@Home. Both the staff and the students were awesome at working out how to do things, to resolve the problems that they encountered and to continue learning.

I know that like any family, we have our weaknesses and our “spates”. Often these are based on issues that occur using social media platforms and are generally exacerbated because of miscommunication and mistrust. I also often hear a cry for a “best friend”, an idea or concept that is perpetuated by the many films and series from the US. This perception is a difficult one to change, however my belief is that the College prepares students to look outward - to check in on others and to focus on what is happening around them, personally, locally and globally. As news of another black death in custody hits our television screens, our young people are activating their sense of Justice. Everyone is entitled to be treated with respect and dignity, to have the same opportunities for education and health that we have. This is a great stance as we acknowledge our history and celebrate Reconciliation Week.

Last week, I welcomed back to the College our beautiful students and their families.  I thank the parents for their support of the new normal and their willingness to keep my staff and others well and safe. It has meant a change in how we operate and what we do. However, our willingness is also a part of the realisation that we should all have access to our College, the sick and vulnerable as well as the healthy and young.  We have been able to bring almost everyone back onsite with this commitment and I cannot thank the parents, carers and staff enough for this.  This is justice - when together we can welcome all and provide for all who want to come. Thank you Mount Carmel, we aspire to continue to teach this much needed value of Justice.

Thought of the week

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly;  defend the rights of the poor and needy. 

Proverbs 31:8-9

Fiona Nolan

Principal