News
Senior Primary News
Last week our 5/6/7 class had their first MITIOG lesson for the year. The focus for the lesson was on understanding that we are all made in the image of God, unique, with dignity that cannot be taken away. We explored the way society often views people, stereotyping them and putting them into boxes. Students discussed the dangers of this and how it goes against the belief that we all have a worth that goes beyond our usefulness and abilities. As a class we had the opportunity to discuss how we as individuals can treat people with respect and dignity and make sure that we give our genuine love and attention to all, regardless of their personal circumstances. We agreed that the first step in making a change is to not stereotype or put people into boxes. In doing so we will allow people to feel loved for who they are and give them the opportunity to reach their full potential, in all aspects of their lives. Our next lesson will focus on the importance of giving ourselves the same love and respect. Understanding that we are worthy of love and have inherent dignity.
Spanish News
We have seen information recently in past newsletters, about two savoury dishes which are very well known in Spain and Spanish speaking countries, namely Nachos and Chorizo.
Here is a dessert that is delicious and very tempting; Churros. They taste a lot like sugary, warm donuts. It is thought that long ago, shepherds staying high in the mountains to protect their flocks, made these Churros easily in a frying pan, over an open fire. When the Conquistadors arrived in South America in the 1500’s, they introduced this delicious food. Then when the Spaniards returned to Spain, they were able to take CHOCOLATE from the native people, back to Europe. What a combination, hot, crisp Churros, coated in crunchy sugar and dipped into melted chocolate. Delightful, delectable, delicious.
i Disfrutar! [Enjoy!]
Reception and Junior Primary News
Last week the Receptions celebrated completing 100 days of school. To celebrate this achievement, the Reception class joined up with the 1/2 class to complete a variety of 100 themed activities. Both classes also dressed up as 100-year-old people as part of our celebration.
Principal's Report
Learning Expo
During the week the Year 5/6/7 students held a Learning Exhibition for their friends and family. On a cold night (the coldest night across South Australia for 20 years), we had a wonderful turnout of families and friends to the event. The children started the night sharing their learning with their friends and family, before moving on to their gaming arcade. The student's had fashioned games out of cardboard and other arts and crafts and recycled material.
Finally the students held what has been known across educational circles as a 'Date with the Distinguished'. Each student spoke as a distinguished person from the past, sharing elements of their life. We heard from astronauts, scientists, artists and former presidents. To stand up under lights in front of a 100 people is daunting. It becomes even more daunting when you are by yourself, reading a script that you have written. We are extremely proud of all the children, even those who simply wrote the script but preferred not to speak. It was a lovely event.
Building Project
Next term our building program will begin. I can say that with confidence. From around Week 2/3 next term the builders will take over a portion of our site to build our new R-2 classroom, and new toilet block.
At the end of the project the toilets will be individual cubicles. This change helps support issues of misbehaviour that sometimes occur in toilet blocks with young people.
The new R-2 building will be a beautiful new redbrick building, in order to fit in with the current architecture at the school. It will have breakout spaces for the children to read and learn as well as spacious classrooms, fitted with modern furniture, joinery and technology.
During this time there will be some disruption to our site. We will keep you in the loop as this occurs, with a further update coming in Week 1.
Staffing
Danielle McGrath will be joining Jorja in Reception as a Mid-Year focussed Reception Teacher. Danielle is familiar to our staff having worked in the Year 3/4 classroom this term.
Keyara Tucker will be working on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to cover NIT release for many of the classes. Keyara is familiar to our students and staff having been a relief teacher this term, and also led our Reception Transition program.
Buses
Due to enrolment demand through Stansbury, Curramulka and Pt Vincent we will be making some adjustments to our SCMS van runs. We will now be running 3 vans which will travel to and through the following destinations each day:
Stansbury
Pt Vincent
Minlaton
Curramulka
This is part of our commitment to ensure access for families, especially those who live a large distance from the school.
Keeping a School Small
Last night I spoke to the staff about something that is extremely important to our staff and myself.
As the school grows with larger student numbers and new buildings, the question was posed how we keep the feel of a school small.
We spoke about why families choose our school. Some choose it for Catholic or Christian values, others for academic success, others for the community feel, some for proximity to their house, some because they went here themselves or their families have strong connections and others because of positive word of mouth in the community.
I spoke to all our staff last night about the fact that we should know every student's name. We should be able to if we were to run into a family member in the supermarket or at football, be able to share something about that child we have seen. A conversation, an act or service or something we know about the child.
I actively involve myself in the community as much as I can and seeing the students outside of schools is never a hassle but it's an absolute privilege. It's something that I take joy in, as do our staff.
As the school grows through buildings and new students our challenge as a community is to hold on to these connections.
This will be supported by next term the resumptions of school assemblies, and a broader invitation for families to attend Mass with the students.
It's going to be another big term.
God bless,
Scott March
Principal
Senior Primary News
This week our school hosted its first Learning Expo. Students from the Upper Primary class invited their family and special friends to walk through an exhibition, showcasing their work from this semester. Part of this exhibition was an oral performance, where they presented a soliloquy on a distinguished individual they'd been researching. Students got into character by coming dressed as the individual, using costumes made from recycled materials. We are so proud of the way the students were able to embrace this task and push through the complexities of script writing and performance.
Finance
.
Middle Primary News
Hi all, we have had a great term in the year 3/4 class! We would like to thank Miss Danielle McGrath for her time in our class these past 5 weeks filling in for Mrs G-O. We have loved having her in the class!
Next term we have Mrs G-O back from long service leave and Mrs McPhail back from Maternity leave. We are looking forward to a wonderful semester ahead jam packed full of learning, fun and a camp! Have a great school break!
