Term 1

Dates to remember

Friday 20th March

Harmony Day - Wear Orange

24th & 25th March

Conversations for Learning

Sunday 29th March

Sacramental Program 5-6pm in the School Library

6th April to 9th April

Holy Week Assembly

Thursday 9th April

Last day of Term 1

Dear Families and Friends,

As Coronavirus COVID-19 continues to impact communities around the globe, our thoughts are with those that have been affected. In challenging times like these, we know that clear communication is essential, which is why we continue to send you information as we receive it either through emails, letters home or class Dojo. However, if families are feeling concerned or are not sure of information in the community, please do not hesitate to contact us at the school for clarification. We also ask that families communicate with us if your child will not be at school and the reason for this so that we can record it accordingly.

For the moment it is business as usual at St Francis and this includes our celebrations for Harmony Day tomorrow.

The message 'Everybody Belongs' is being reinforced with our annual observance of the day aiming to encourage inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural background, while celebrating core Australian values.

Our P&F have also organised food from different cultures for us all to enjoy. A huge thank you to Rachel and her team.

Please remember to wear orange tomorrow.

Our 2019 School Captains leading Harmony Day celebrations last year.

Currently, there are a number of events and activities being postponed or cancelled. We have received advice that in the interest of student and staff health, the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA) on Friday 20 March 2020 is postponed. The activities we had planned at St Francis will be celebrated later in the year. A number of PARRS events have also been postponed and we will keep families informed as to when these will be rescheduled.

We are awaiting advice from the Bishop in regards to the sacramental program with the Parish which was to begin on Sunday the 29th March in the school library from 5:00 pm until 6:00 pm. For further information please contact Father Giovanni.

Our 'Conversations for Learning' are still planned to go ahead next week. However, we won't be offended if you need to reschedule if you're feeling unwell. Please click on https://sobs.com.au/pt3/parent.php?schoolid=864 to make your appointment for your child with their teacher. It is an expectation that your child accompanies you to the meeting with the teacher to discuss their learning goals for the semester. If you require a meeting with your child's teacher without your child's presence, please organise this outside this time.

As we continue to go about things here at school and at home, it is important that we reassure the children that they are safe. Please let them talk about their worries and express what is going on in their heads. There are some resources available that we are implementing at school including the Stop Breathe Think app which is available through your play store/app store.

As Essie writes "It's amazing what we can accomplish when we're in it together." During these challenging and stressful times, please be mindful to continue to work together, stay calm and be respectful of each other.

Grow in Wisdom and Love

Mel

Melanie Bolwell

Principal