Week 9, Term 4 2023 - 28th November 2023

Principal's Reflection

Dear Parents, Staff and Students,

Last night we held our Yr 6 graduation dinner.  I include for you a copy of my speech from the evening.  I hope you enjoy.

Good evening everyone.  Tonight, I would like to talk about a wonderful documentary I watched recently on Disney+, called, “The Rescue”.    This doco explores the events that unfolded in 2018, a story that captured the hearts and minds of people worldwide—the remarkable rescue of the Thai soccer team trapped in a flooded cave. It is a tale of resilience and collaboration; celebrating the extraordinary capabilities of individuals with diverse skills and talents who rescued the boys.  If you are looking for an inspirational watch these school holidays, I highly recommend it.

A bit about the story.  In June 2018, twelve young boys from a local soccer team, who along with their coach found themselves trapped deep within a subterranean cave system in Thailand. The situation seemed dire, and the world watched in collective concern.

What followed was a testament to the power of unity, and the application of specialized skills from people across the globe.  Divers, engineers, special forces personnel, medical professionals, and countless others converged on the site, bringing with them a myriad of talents. The rescue effort transcended borders, languages, and backgrounds; working harmoniously toward a common goal—the safe rescue of the 13 members of the Wild Boars soccer team. It was a poignant reminder that when faced with challenges, humanity has an innate ability to come together, leveraging our unique strengths for the greater good.

Now, in the teachings of Jesus, there is a powerful message that resonates with this story. In Matthew’s gospel, Jesus said, "A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before all people, that they may see your good works and glorify God." This Bible passage reminds us that we all have a light within us, God-given talents that are both innate as well as developed over time; meant to shine forth for the benefit of others.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of our graduating students today, we are reminded that each one possesses their own set of unique gifts and talents. Your time at St. Mary's has been about discovering and nurturing these gifts, preparing you not just for personal success but hopefully for a greater purpose. 

Just like the international team that collaborated to rescue the boys from the cave, you too will find yourselves in situations where your unique skills are needed. Whether it's in your future careers, your community or out in the big, wide world, remember the power you hold within. Your intelligence, creativity, kindness and perseverance are not just personal attributes—they are tools that should be used for the betterment of society.

Students, in the spirit of Jesus' message, ‘let your light shine’. Do not hide your God-given talents under a bushel. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, I encourage you to reflect on the lessons of the Thai cave rescue and the teachings of Jesus. Embrace diversity, collaborate willingly, and utilize your gifts for the collective good. 

Congratulations, students for reaching this significant milestone. As you embark on your journey beyond St. Mary's, carry with you the knowledge that your special gifts are not just for personal success but for the greater good of society.  Let your light shine brightly, and in doing so, bring hope, joy, and positive change to the world. Thank you, and may your futures be filled with purpose, compassion and success.

All the very best,

Wes Rose
Principal

From our Principal - Mr Wes Rose

End of Term Thank You
I extend my sincere thanks to the students, parents and staff for all their efforts this year and wish you all the very best for the Christmas holidays.  Please note that the school office closes next Wednesday 6th December and will re-open Monday 15th January 2024. I look forward to seeing students back for first day of the school year on Monday 22nd January 2024.

Staff Leaving
This week we farewell several staff from St Mary's;

Emily Dalglish - Emily has worked at St Mary's for the past 12 years. During her time she has been a classroom teacher and for the past 5 years served as our Learning Support Teacher with distinction. Emily departs St Mary's to join the staff at Catherine McAuley College, a new chapter in her teaching career. On behalf of the school community I sincerely thank Emily for her contribution to our school community and wish her all the best for next year. 

Chana Sticklan - Chana joined us this year as Year 5 Teacher following an extensive career as a high school teacher. Chana has done a remarkable job with our students, who will fondly remember their time with her. Chana will rejoin the staff of St Patrick's College next year as a support teacher. 

Katrina Azzopardi - Katrina will go on leave for 2024. On behalf of the school community I wish Katrina well during this time. Katrina will resume teaching in 2025.

Rachel Kelly - For the past 12 months we have had the pleasure of having Rachel as a teacher at St Mary's. During this time, she has willingly shared her musical gifts and talents, along with her teaching expertise. Rachel looks forward to a move to Toowoomba to be closer to her family. 

Paul Gibbs - For the past 2.5 years, Paul has expertly coordinated our school tuckshop, serving delicious meals to our staff and students. Last year Paul also took on the role of WHS Coordinator, a role he has fulfilled with diligence. In the new year, Paul joins the staff of Catherine McAuley College in a fulltime capacity. We thank him for his efforts at St Mary's.

Peta Armstrong - Peta has been a Teacher Assistant at St Mary's for the past 14 years, working with a significant amount of staff and students during this time. Peta is also heavily involved in coordinating staff social events which have been enjoyed by all. Although Peta will step down from her part-time duties, we will see her again in a relief capacity next year. 

Tanya Davies - Tanya joined our staff 4 years ago, and in this time has held various positions including Teacher Assistant, Admin Secretary and Prep Aide. She has fulfilled each of these roles with dedication and professionalism. She has also assisted with coordinating our Christmas Fair for many years. We wish Tanya all the best in her new career with Zarb Road Transport. 

Fiona Ahwong - Fiona concludes her time as Acting Indigenous Teacher Assistant at the end of this year. It has been a pleasure having Fiona back at St Mary's, sharing her gifts and talents and extensive wisdom with our school. We look forward to seeing Fiona in a Relief Teacher Assistant capacity next year. 

2024 Student Leaders
Following last week’s student speeches and voting process, the following students have been selected as our 2024 student leaders.  They are a fine group of students and I am sure they will do a great job as leaders. 

Report Cards
Semester 2 report cards will be published this Thursday 30^th November from 4pm, via Parent Lounge.  I encourage all families to log in to Parent Lounge to access and read these reports, which give parents a comprehensive summary of your child’s academic progress this semester.  Follow these steps to access the file:

1. Open the St Mary’s schoolzine app and click the ‘Parent Lounge’ tile or alternatively click here to access from our St Mary’s website.

2. Login with your username (6 digit ID code which can be found on your school fee account). Your password remains the same as previously used.

3. Click on the ‘Academic Reports’ tab.

If you have any issues accessing your Parent Lounge account, please contact the school office.

Christmas Concert
The St Mary’s Christmas Concert will be held in the Basketball court area this Thursday 30^th Nov.  Join us from 5:00pm for a BBQ tea and drinks, with the concert starting from 6pm.  A reminder that the menu (hot dogs, steak burgers and sausage on bread) is pre-order only via quickcliq, with the cut off time 12pm 29/11.  Drinks for adults and the kids will also be available for purchase on the night.

Please note that students will be sitting with their class, with parents to find a suitable seat (BYO chair) around the student seating area.  The year levels have been practising their concert items over the past few weeks, so I really do encourage every student and family to attend.  In the event of heavy rain, the Mercy College Undercover area is our alternate venue.  Parents will be advised via the school Facebook page if circumstances change.

Baby News
Congratulations to the Cullen Family who welcomed baby George last week. He is a little brother to Jack (Prep R). 

2024 Qld School Term Dates
Term 1
Monday 22 January to Thursday 28 March - 10 weeks

Term 2
Monday 15 April to Friday 21 June - 10 weeks

Term 3
Monday 8 July to Friday 13 September - 10 weeks

Term 4
Monday 30 September to Friday 6 December - 10 weeks

End of Year Gifts and Treats
With the end of year upon us, many students bring in cards, lollies and gifts for classmates and staff.  Whilst it is a lovely gesture to bring in a card or gift, I ask that students refrain from bringing in candy cane or other lollies to share with their classmates. 

Uniform Guidelines
With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, it is timely to look forward to the 2024 school year and remind all families about the school uniform guidelines in place for all students.  I ask parents to consult this guide to assist with decisions particularly around hairstyles, shoes, jewellery, etc.

Chewing Gum
We have noticed a lot of students bringing chewing gum to school.  I remind all students that chewing gum is not allowed at school, as we are increasingly finding gum left on the concrete and other places.  I thank parents and students for their support with this matter.

Fair Evaluation
With any event, some things work well and other things can be improved for next time.  If you have any feedback about the Fair, please complete a response here.

Quote of the Week

Book Pack Collection Reminder

St Mary's Schoolzine App

Have you downloaded the St Mary's Schoolzine App?

Download this free app today to;

• advise student absences
• view the newsletter
• access Parent Lounge
• order tuckshop
• receive notifications

Once downloaded, please complete your registration, using our school passcode 4142. 

Click here for more details.

Student Medication

All student medication needs to be collected by a parent at the office by Friday 1st December as we are not legally allowed to give this to a student to take home.  This does not include asthma sprays and EpiPens. 

Any medication that is not collected by this date will be disposed.  When collecting the medication, you will be issued with a new authorisation form to bring at the start of term in 2024.

From the Tuckshop

Green Card Draw

End of Year School Mass

Thank you Fr Gasper for leading our End of Year School Mass this morning. We came together in Jesus' name to farewell our Year 6 students. This was followed by a candle ceremony where year 6 students handed over symbols of light to our new 2024 leaders.

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Sport News

Congratulations to the 2023 “Spirit of St Mary’s Sports Award” winner, Lucy Clark. A very well deserved choice Lucy, we are all very proud of you.

Student of the Week

Week 8, Term 4 Student Award Winners

Community News

CASUAL POSITION VACANT

A casual position exists for a School Crossing Supervisor at St Mary's Catholic School.

The School Crossing Supervisor may be required to work five days per week in all weather conditions. The hours of work for School Crossing Supervisors are 1.45 hours a day and usually comprise of 1 hour in the morning and 45 minutes in the afternoon Commencement date to be advised a Pay Rate of $30.34 per hour.

The successful applicants will be dependent on:

• The suitable outcome of a health assessment carried out by a GP of your choice according to the guidelines in the “Notes for Medical Practitioner” on the School Crossing Supervisor Scheme – Health Assessment Form; (this is paid by the Department)
• A Positive Blue Card Notice (This is also paid by the Department and means you do not need to have a blue card to apply for the position)

If you are interested in the position, please complete an application form by clicking on the link below or contact Karen Cantoni (Road Safety officer) on 49 518331.

The School Crossing Supervisors Application is to be returned to school for the School Principal's recommendation.