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Dear Parents and Carers,
Approaching children on school grounds
As you would be aware, schools are complex places. At STM, we have over 168 students, all with their unique needs. For some of our students, they may have a disability or medical need that make self-regulation sometimes difficult. We know that when dealing with the needs of all students, there are going to be times when things are running smoothly, and other times when we will need to work with parents to address an issue or a conflict – that's the reality of every school. On this basis, no parent should directly approach another person's child. The school will deal with issues between students as part of the school's behaviour management process.
It's the job of the teacher, support staff and leadership team members to resolve issues when raised, and in a way that preserves the dignity of every child and ensures their psychological safety. We also use our knowledge of child development, the child's background and their needs to resolve conflict in an age appropriate way. For this reason, it is imperative that parents/carers do not under any circumstances, approach a child (other than their own child) in the playground or classroom to raise the issue or provide a direction to that child. This is an intimidating practice, as there is a power imbalance between the child and the adult initiating the contact.
If there is a problem or an issue related to your child, that may involve another student, the appropriate way to handle the issue, is to refer it to your child's teacher in the first instance, who, with the support of myself, will work with you, your child, and other children, to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Winter Uniform
A reminder to parents that we will be wearing the Winter uniform when we return for Term 2 on Tuesday, 20th April. School shoes must be black leather school shoes and sports shoes are to be predominantly white. The new sports polo is coming along; however, there is a delay in the manufacturing end. We are still yet to approve the long sleeve option. With such changes it’s important that we get it right. The new polo won’t be available until later in the year.
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Last Saturday many of our Yr. 2 students received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It was a beautiful experience and students did such a great job. Thank you to Fr Emil for supporting the students in their faith journey.
Yr 5/6 Camp
Our Yr. 5/6 students are on camp and it’s not the same without them! They’re having a great time! Check out our Facebook page for updates.
ANZAC Day liturgy
On the first Friday back next term we will have our ANZAC Day liturgy. Our focus this year will be on the 100-year centenary of the Royal Australian Air Force. It will start at 9am in Holy Faith Hall.
Easter Blessings
Have a happy and holy Easter. Enjoy the break with your families.
Yours sincerely,
Julie Wiley
Principal
Christian Meditation
I encourage you to read Helen Bramanathan’s article in the current issue of the Catholic Voice- Find the Power of Peace. For ourselves, our children and young people. When I read the article I was reminded about the importance of Christian Meditation when reading a quote from the late Bishop Michael Putney “if children are taught when they are young to be still so their hearts can be open to the movement of the spirit.. they will have a gift that will continue to bring them great blessings throughout their lives”.
Journey with Jesus Retreat
Last Friday a team of Youth Ministers, including our own Youth Minister, Anh, and Faith Formation officers from Catholic Education ran an all-day retreat for our Year 5 and 6 students. The students spent the day learning about what we need in life for our journey with Jesus. The team engaged our students in games, talks and small group discussions. At the end of the day the students were able to reflect and respond on their journey so far. A number of students nominated to be part of our Youth Ministry group here at St Thomas More’s which will be run by Anh.
Project Compassion
Donations to Project Compassion allows Caritas Australia, the Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development, to work with local communities around the world to alleviate poverty, hunger, oppression, and injustice. Project Compassion boxes can be returned to school next term so donations can be forwarded to Caritas Australia.
Sacrament of First Reconciliation
The celebration of the Sacrament took place last Saturday. Mrs Wiley, Mrs Washington and myself were privileged to witness this celebration.
Yours in Christ,
Samantha Mance
Religious Education Coordinator
St Thomas More's has introduced a new online portal called Compass. The parent Portal allows parents to receive information about your child’s school and their progress. It will give you access to school reports, messages, classroom blogs and the ability to submit attendance notes. The portal is accessible via the web and the Compass School Manager App (via the App store on your device).
This Parent Portal will make engaging with your child’s school faster, easier and more secure.
Login Id's have been sent to all parents. If you have not registered you will need to do so as the schoolzine absentee app will cease to operate.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Receive relevant messaging through the app or desktop
- Submit absence notes
- Give consent for events/excursions
- Communicate directly with teachers (desktop only)
- Book parent-teacher conferences
- Access your child’s academic reporting
- Update basic contact information knowing your data will remain secure
The links to download the Portal are below:
Apple: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/compass-school-manager/id778415974
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jdlf.compass&hl=en_AU
If you require any assistance, please contact Julie Ogden in the Front Office on 6249 8869 or email julie.ogden@cg.catholic.edu.au
Fees
Term 1 fees are now due. Please ensure your fees have been paid in full prior to the end of term.