Dear Parents and Friends,
As Term 1 comes to a rapid close, it is a delight to look back over the past ten weeks to see how far our students have progressed, to celebrate their learning journey and to thank them for their generous contributions they have made to school life. There have been many outstanding achievements as our students have worked with motivation, perseverance and commitment. Well done to all!
Throughout this Lenten season, our school theme of Gratitude has been at the forefront of our minds. The school community has generously supported Project Compassion. Caritas Australia's annual Lenten fundraising and awareness-raising appeal is an extraordinary, ongoing demonstration of the faith, love and generosity of our Catholic community and caring supporters throughout Australia to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold the dignity of every human being, especially those who have suffered greatly and have little. Our social justice captains have diligently collected money in the project compassion boxes each week and delivered it to the School Office for safe keeping. We look forward to sharing the total amount raised when students return in Term 2.
We are grateful for the continued support of the P&F, thank you to Hamish, Tony and Susan for your efforts. A special thank you to Susan and the BNO Bunnies who sold over 900 buns today!
Building Works Update: With constant rain delay experienced over the past couple of months, the builders are six weeks behind schedule, but are confident of making up time over the next six months.
There are two Staff Development Days attached to this holiday break where the teachers will engage in professional development on Quality Literacy Teaching to improve student learning outcomes in all areas of the English Syllabus. St Mary's teachers will join with the teaching staff from St Michael's Lane Cove and Sacred Heart Mosman to specifically assess the most effective ways to engage students in the writing process. Next term there will be some parent sessions where this process will be modelled in some workshops to assist parents in understanding their child's progress.
As we enter into the last week of Lent and the school holiday break, may the message of new life and hope be with you and your family.
Happy Easter to all!
With every blessing,
Beverly Coffey