Message from the Principal
Mr David Smith
Message from the Principal
Mr David Smith
A well-worn proverb suggests that “Pride cometh before a fall.” The suggestion is that pride and hubris are negative things. This can be true, especially if pride is connected with arrogance. However, an acceptable form of pride is the justifiable satisfaction one can take in achievement. It is natural and okay to be pleased as a parent when a child achieves something impressive or improves as a result of effort. Some forms of pride can be negative but to say “I am a proud Australian!” or to take pride in ones’ achievement and care about it is a positive thing.
Red Aurbach, a Basketball Coach once said, “Take pride in what you do. The kind of pride I'm talking about is not the arrogant puffed-up kind; it's just the whole idea of caring - fiercely caring.”
This fierce form of caring is something we seek to promote at school. Our School leadership team has been talking with students at all levels about high standards, expectations and taking ‘pride’ in what they do at Calrossy, encouraging positive attitudes towards belonging, engagement and involvement. We believe that we care for these things, it enhances our culture and everyone benefits. Pride within a school is connected to high standards and wanting things to be as good as possible for the benefit of everyone in the community.
As I walked around our two campuses last week during Open Day last Friday I noted many things that stirred up my Calrossy pride. Some of these included:
This form of pride isn’t just about one day of the year (Open Day) but also about school life. Other things in our culture that I have recognised are:
None of these says that our School is a perfect place or that every student engages at the same level. However, the walk around on Friday (and other regular observations) impresses upon me that we enjoy a rich community in which we can live and learn together. Long may it remain! May we continue to grow in pride of our School and be committed to a culture of strong belonging, ensuring that we all reward from being part of our community.
I look forward to discussing this more with students, staff and the community to ascertain in what things they find pride. As a Principal I can determinedly say I am proud to be part of Calrossy, in partnership with our community.
Young person, be content while you are still young. Let your heart be joyful while you are still strong. Do what your heart tells you to do. Go after what your eyes look at. But I want you to know that God will judge you for everything you do. Ecclesiastes 12: 9
David Smith
Principal