Dear Parents/Carers,

This morning I was reading through my preferred news app which, naturally, had a number of articles related to the current lockdown and statistics related to COVID-19. There was one section of the app that caught my eye. It was an offer to subscribe to a daily newsletter which would only provide news of hope and positive things happening in the world. At first, I was disappointed to know that I could only get access to such news by subscribing - why aren't such stories placed front and centre of mainstream news. Then I realised that it is up to me to make sure I am focusing on the good that is happening around me so that I do not get consumed by information that can easily diminish any sense of hope. Having more time to spend with those I live with, having time to attend to things around the house that otherwise may not get done, knowing that our world's scientists have developed vaccines much sooner than first anticipated.

There have also been some very creative ways of bringing people together in order to offer comfort and support. This movie clip was shared with me showing over 300 local churches across Australia singing a blessing over our nation. Even our own Bishop Brian makes an appearance. I pray that it brings you a sense of hope and joy.

      "The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace." (Numbers 6:24-26)

Remote Learning

We have had some parents express to us that they are concerned their child might be 'falling behind' with their learning. As we have mentioned previously, remote learning is very different to face-to-face learning and it is definitely not the preferred mode of learning, for students and teachers alike. Our priority during this time is for everyone's care and well-being, so that engagement in some learning can occur. There may be days when your child is not overly engaged with their learning, and that should not be a cause of worry or stress. Our teachers are constantly monitoring your child's work and making any necessary adjustments to support them. They will know how best to meet their needs when we return to face-to-face learning.

While there is uncertainty as to how long this lockdown will last, this period of remote learning will only be a short period of time compared to the many years of your child's education. Treating their years at school as a marathon rather than a sprint will assist in meeting their learning needs. 

I continue to pray for all of you during this challenging time.

Paul Moroney

Principal

Happy Birthday to the following students and staff who are celebrating

their birthday this week 8th August - 14th August

TERM 3 WEEK 4

REMOTE LEARNING ENGAGEMENT AWARD

REMOTE LEARNING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Book Week

Week 7 (23-27 August) this term is Book Week.  As we will still be in remote learning we will celebrate Book Week virtually this year!  The theme this year is Old Worlds, New Worlds, Other Worlds.  We are inviting children to dress up using this theme.  This is completely optional and we do not want this to place unnecessary stress on families, especially given that all the stores are closed at the moment.

A photo of your child, or children dressed up together, can be emailed to info_sjct@dow.catholic.edu.au strictly no later than Thursday 19 August.  Please use the words BOOK WEEK in the subject title of the email.

The photos will be collated into a video clip that will be shared with our school community and posted on our school Facebook page during Book Week.

We ask that you only email one photo of your child (either individually or as a family) and preferably in landscape, as that will look better in the video.