Principal's Update

There is no doubt that Term 2, 2020 will be long remembered by staff, students and families alike as we all embark on working and learning remotely.  This significant change in how we live, work, learn and socialise has been thrust upon us with very little notice! I am incredibly proud of how we, as a school community, have adapted to an entirely new way of learning and teaching.  Teachers are tirelessly exploring and embracing new technologies to deliver content and support their students in both their learning and wellbeing.  At the same time, students are readily engaging with their teachers and peers online and taking on greater responsibility for their learning during their asynchronous study time. Well done girls!

It has been wonderful for teachers to receive so many messages of gratitude from parents and students for their considerable efforts and for the College to be affirmed for the decision to adopt a blended remote learning model that focusses on community, learning and wellbeing.  Thank you for taking the time to send an email, post a message on Facebook or telephone the College and for your continued support.

I would like to acknowledge our three Assistant Principals, Jane Ward, Stephanie Smyth and Tanya Kolb, who were instrumental in the development and implementation of our remote learning program and supporting documentation.  They worked tirelessly over the school holidays to have the program ready for the commencement of the term and have continued to support staff and students with its implementation. 

Being mindful of our own wellbeing and that of those around us is particularly important during this time as we are so restricted in our social interactions and activities.  As previously advised the College is still providing counselling and support services as it normally would to students and families so please make contact with the appropriate member of our Wellbeing Team should you have any concerns.  These contacts are listed in the Remote Learning Guide for Students and Families.

Last Sunday was the Second Sunday of Easter, often referred to as Low Sunday. The origin of the name is uncertain, but it is apparently intended to indicate the contrast between it and the great Easter festival of the Sunday prior.

I share with you some excerpts from Fr Frank Brennan’s Homily for the Gospel of the day, which was John 20:19-31.  Fr Frank Brennan SJ is the Rector at Newman College, University of Melbourne.

Today’s gospel is set a week after Easter, just as we are today on what is called Low Sunday.

The disciples are in lockdown in a room, just as we are today with the virus.

The disciples are afraid, just as we are – not knowing what is coming next. In their case, it was following the crucifixion of Jesus; in our case it’s awaiting the effects of any unflattened curve.

Jesus appears to the disciples with two messages, and he gives us the same messages today.

The first message is ‘Peace be with you’.

The second message is ‘As the Father sent me, so am I sending you’.

In the midst of our fears, the Easter Jesus wishes us and gives us the gift of peace. In our sedentary lock down, we are being commissioned; we are being sent.

Let us pray for that gift of peace and for that sense of mission and purpose once we can leave the locked room.

We Pray For

We ask for your prayers for members of our community and their families who have recently lost loved ones:

Lucia Berghella

Cousin of Alyssa Sheedy (Year 8)

and member of the St Joseph's Primary School, Chelsea and John Paul College, Frankston communities. 

George Mangos

Brother-in-Law of Tony Grosso (Staff) 

Silvana Grosso

Cousin of Tony Grosso (Staff)

Kate Munro

Past Staff (1987 to 2010)

Mitchell Williams

Nephew of Christine Hammett (Staff)

Judy Brown (nee Kennedy)

Past Pupil (Class of 1959)

We pray that our loving God hold them gently in the palm of His hand.

Nicole Mangelsdorf

Principal