Principal's Page
A Message from the Principal
It has been incredible celebrating the many special days with our wider community over the last 2 weeks. The older students have participated in volleyball coaching sessions during their PE lessons, everyone took part in the Harmony Day activities and we had a great turnout of scooters and bikes for National Ride 2 School Day last Friday. It is fantastic to have such great support from our enthusiastic community. The Health benefits from participating in these days supports our students wellbeing and overall physical health too.
Last week I was invited to speak to the Eastern Region Deputy Principal's Network about our schools Professional Learning Plan. This plan has evolved over the last three years and supports the ongoing learning of all of our staff. It is always a great achievement for the whole school community when we are recognised for the significant work that is happening at St John's Mitcham.
Connecting with our Families through PAM
It is good to see that most of our families have now joined the new school communication platform, PAM. Teachers are beginning to post excursions and messages on this platform and we don't want anyone to miss out. If you haven't signed up yet then please do.
Harmony Day
Thank you to all of the parents and families who were able to help us celebrate Harmony day last week. We greatly appreciate the support of Peri Natoli for her Cook Island Dancing, aptly displayed by Cain, Charlize and Bella and to Aunty Merm, Boston's Aunty, for sharing the local Indigenous culture with us all. Thank you also to all the students who looked fabulous in their traditional dress as well as the many parents who stayed and helped with the lapathon and artwork activities.
The Chinese Dancers were from a local Mitcham Dance School, MCPA http://mcpadance.com.au/
They did a whole school performance and then group sessions for all of our students. They were another highlight of a very special day.
Please read a sample of the student's reflections on the Harmony Day Page.
National Ride 2 School Day
It was extraordinary to see the number of students and parents who took part in this years national Ride 2 school day. Students met at 3 different locations around Mitcham then scootered, cycled or walked on their way to school. All students were welcomed with platters of fruit and stickers, recognising their support for Ride to School Day. Thanks to the many parents who got up early to join in the fun and exercise. You are all great role models for your children.
District Swimming
Congratulations to all of our students who participated in the Whitehorse Division Swimming event. We are very proud of them all. We are delighted that Yasmine came second and went on to represent St John's in the District Swimming. It is wonderful that our students proudly share their skills with great sportsmanship and courage.
Fire Carriers
This year we will have a Team of Fire Carriers. Congratulations to our team of students who were formally initiated as Fire Carriers at last week's assembly.
It was a very special celebration for them all and we look forward to having them lead our school through the many actions of reconciliation, while promoting a greater understanding of indigenous culture.
School Fees
Thank you to our families that have arranged payment plans and those who have already paid their fees for this year.
For those families that have elected to pay their 2023 school fees in three instalments at the end of each Term 1-3, your first instalment is due to be paid by the last day of Term 1, Thursday 6 April.
St John's Social Media
If you aren't following us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook then it's time to follow us and spread the word amongst your family and friends.
If you could repost and share our latest stories that would be greatly appreciated.
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Joke of the Week
Where should you go in the room if you’re feeling cold? The corner—they’re usually 90 degrees.
Have a Wonderful Week!
Verona Gridley
Principal