Dear Parents and Friends,
This week brings Term 2 to a
close. It has been a busy and exciting
term for us all at St Mary’s as we continue to shape our school community and
share in the many momentous experiences that bring us together.
The students and staff have
been involved in many activities: the Mother’s Day Liturgy; Family Masses; the
Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist; Athletics Carnival; special
assemblies; sporting challenges and triumphs; individual and group
achievements; public speaking and debating; choir and band performances and
superb examples of students adopting a growth mindset- just to name a few! I
see vibrancy, enthusiasm, empathy and hope for the future everywhere.
I have found it rewarding to
read and observe the students’ progress in the rich and varied domains in their
recent school reports and reflect on the work of Carol Dweck and the focus on
building a growth mindset. Dwek’s research states that a focus on effort and
not intelligence is the key to success in school and in life. In the spirit of
this research, parents are encouraged to examine the school report not always
in terms of grades but to also look at the effort grades. Focus on intelligence
is fixed, whereas focus on effort leads to growth and can be changed and
controlled by the student. Praising student effort and hard work that leads to
working towards areas of personal best makes more impact.
We have appreciated the
opportunity to talk with parents this week at the parent/teacher meetings where
through trusting conversations we have successfully built on the understanding
of the specific needs of each child. Your support in this process has been well
received by the teachers.
Musica Viva performed recently
for all students in a wonderful concert. The performance was engaging and
interactive from the very beginning, with the musicians involving the children
in conducting, composing and playing as well as active listening. This performance
certainly stimulated the children’s creativity and curiosity.
I hope that you all enjoy a
wonderful holiday and I am looking forward to another exciting and vibrant
semester as our students and staff continue on their learning journey together.
There are more exciting things to come in Term 3.
Happy Holidays,
God bless
Beverly