Dear Families

At a time when restrictions are being eased across the community, in schools we are still obliged to function under some very restrictive measures. Masks are still to be worn indoors for all staff and visitors as we are identified as a ‘high-risk setting’.

We do so, however, with a positive mindset, knowing it is for the safety of all our students, families, and staff. Parents are reminded, that as in all schools in the ACT, visitors are not permitted unless for essential purposes. If you wish to meet with a teacher, please contact the front office to arrange a mutually convenient time and method.

So many parents are patiently and responsibly working with us to ensure children are safely delivered to and from school each day. Please continue to be patient and vigilant in our carparks and streets around the school.

The process of safely managing this for 480 children, while keeping year levels separated, is not a small one, and I thank most parents who help us to do this with patience and good humour. Thank you.

Reminder - no students are to attend school if they are showing any COVID-like symptoms. They must remain at home and follow all ACT Health Directions in relation to testing and/or quarantine instructions, and can only return to school when cleared to do so. Students who present as unwell or with symptoms will be required to go home.

FIRST RECONCILIATION

Last week our Year 4 students made the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It was a reverent celebration at Holy Family Church with both Fr James and Fr Josh. We congratulate all our students. They demonstrated a clear understanding of the meaning within the Sacrament and how this brings them closer to God.

A big thank you to Fr James and Fr Josh, Anne Gowan, Lisa Conroy and our Year 4 teachers, Mrs Maruskanic, Ms Gatt and Mr O’Brien for preparing the students for this special day.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

Last Thursday we acknowledged those who who died while serving in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. Remembrance Day is held on 11 November each year. This is the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I. People in Australia, and many other countries, observe 1 minute's silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month because that's when the Armistice came into effect. It is a time to honour our service personnel who died in service of Australia.

A huge thank you to our Year 3 students and their teachers, Mr Hargraves, Miss Barr and Mrs Ducker for their outstanding work in guiding us through such an important event. Even though this was done via video it was such a moving service.

REPORTING SCHEDULE

Due to the disruption to the children’s learning this Semester, we have revised our reporting schedule to ensure the children get enough time to complete the relevant learnings and assessment that is taking place in the classrooms. As such, please be aware for the following timeline.

• Parent/Teacher Interviews – Monday 29 & Tuesday 30 November

These interviews will take place before reports go home. Children in Year 3 – 6 are encouraged to attend these interviews and participate in the conversation about their learning. These meetings will occur remotely, via Microsoft Teams. 

Bookings for appointments are open now through the Compass Parent Portal. Please click the link on your news feed in the Compass Parent Portal to make a booking.  Or if using the app you can book under 'Conferences'.

Please know that 5 Kanbi students with Miss Archie will be having their interviews on Wednesday 1 & Thursday 2 December instead.

• Reports will be made available on Monday 13 December

Please know that reports will not be printed and sent home this year. Access to your child's report will be through the Compass Parent Portal. 

KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION

Kinder orientation will proceed in Week 9 in a modified format. Pre-school groups will visit their new classrooms and get to meet their teacher in an after-school session. We are really looking forward to welcoming our new students to our school. 

SCHOOL FEES 2022

The Community Council will meet on Monday night for the last time for 2021 to discuss school fees and the budget for 2022.  We will publish the breakdown of School Fees for 2022 in next week’s memo.

CRAZY SOCK DAY

A reminder that tomorrow is Crazy Sock Day - please see our newsletter article for more information on how you can donate to support Catholic Missions.