Week 3, Term 1 2024 - 6th February 2024

Principal's Reflection

In my role as principal, I am blessed to be able to meet many dozens of prospective families each year during their child’s enrolment interview. 

In these meetings, I have the opportunity to explore their aspirations and visions for their child, and without fail, parents express a desire for their child to be happy.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the pursuit of happiness remains a fundamental aspiration for us all, young and old.   In today's fast-paced society, filled with technological advancements and ever-increasing demands, finding true contentment can sometimes feel like a daunting task. However, it is precisely in these moments of challenge that we must pause, reflect, and reevaluate our approach to happiness.

Recent research in psychology and neuroscience has shed light on the nature of happiness and how we can cultivate it in our lives. Studies have shown that while external factors such as wealth and material possessions may contribute to temporary feelings of pleasure, long-lasting happiness is more deeply rooted in internal factors such as meaningful relationships, personal growth, and a sense of purpose.

One of the key insights from the abundant canon of contemporary self-help literature is the importance of practicing gratitude. Gratitude has been linked to increased well-being and resilience, as it shifts our focus from what we lack to what we already have. By taking time each day to reflect on the blessings in our lives, whether big or small, we can cultivate a more positive outlook and a greater sense of fulfillment.

Another essential aspect of happiness is fostering strong social connections. In today's digital age, it's easier than ever to stay connected online, but meaningful face-to-face interactions are invaluable for our well-being. Building and nurturing genuine relationships with family, friends, and community members not only brings us joy but also provides a support network during challenging times.

Furthermore, embracing lifelong learning and personal growth can significantly contribute to our overall happiness. Engaging in activities that challenge us intellectually, creatively, or physically not only expands our horizons but also boosts our self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. Whether it's learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, or setting ambitious goals, the journey of self-improvement is inherently fulfilling.

As a Catholic primary school, St Mary’s is guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ, who emphasised the importance of love, compassion and service to others. Acts of kindness and generosity not only benefit those around us but also bring a deep sense of joy and fulfillment to our own lives. By embodying these values in our daily actions, we contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious society. 

With this in mind, St Mary’s school looks forward to next Thursday’s Wellbeing Showcase day, where students will enjoy a variety of activities that cultivate wellbeing, connection and happiness.

In conclusion, the pursuit of happiness in today's society requires a holistic approach that encompasses gratitude, meaningful relationships, personal growth, and acts of kindness. As we strive to instil these values in our school community, let us remember that true happiness is not merely a destination but a journey and it is within our reach when we cultivate a mindset of positivity, compassion, and gratitude.  For more information, I highly recommend the SchoolTV series on happiness and gratitude, which has some great information and videos to further reflect upon this topic.

All the very best,

Wes Rose
Principal

From our Principal - Mr Wes Rose

Welcome Mass
Sincere thanks to Fr Matthias for presiding at our Welcome Mass today.  I also thank Mrs Leotta for her diligent preparation as well as the Year 6 students who assisted in various ways.

Bishop & Director Visit
Tomorrow (Wed 7^th Feb), we welcome two very special guests to our school, Bishop Michael McCarthy and our Diocesan Director, Miss Leesa Jeffcoat.  Bishop Michael and Miss Jeffcoat will hold an assembly with students, meet new staff and tour our school grounds.  I thank Bishop Michael and Miss Jeffcoat for taking the time to visit our school.

2024 St Mary’s P&F Committee

Following last week’s AGM, I am delighted to announce our P&F committee for 2024;

President                            Dan Kinnane
Vice-President                 Lisa McNamara
Treasurer                           Samantha Dawes
Secretary                            Majella McGowan
Events                                  Mel McGuinness

St Mary’s values the strong partnership between home and school and I thank these parents for assisting the school in this way.  The P&F warmly invites interested parents to attend our next meeting, held in the staffroom on Tuesday 5^th March from 6pm-7pm.  At this meeting, parents will have a chance to give their input into various funding initiatives for the 2024 school year, and look ahead to some fun social events we have in store.

School Photo Day
This year’s school photos will be taken tomorrow, Wednesday 7^th Feb.  Students are to wear their formal school uniform (Preps to wear their prep uniform).  Photo order packs have been sent home and need to be returned on photo day to be scanned by the photographers, even if you are not intending to order a photo pack.  The photo schedule is as follows;

Pupil Free Day - Friday 16^th February
I advise parents that next Friday 16^th February is the Bishop’s Inservice Day, a religious formation day for all staff.  This is a pupil free day and the school office will be closed.

Staff Training
This Thursday, our Librarian Mrs Camargo will attend a training session with other librarians from across the Mackay region.

Also this Thursday, our APRE Mrs Leotta will attend the regional ARPE meeting.

8am Tuesday Mass at St Mary's Church
Parents and students are warmly invited to attend the parish Mass at 8am each Tuesday, commencing 13th February.  This short 20 minute Mass is an initiative of the parish to engage families in the life of the Church. Whilst all are welcome each week, specific year levels will receive a invitation to attend on a rotation basis.

Afternoon Pick Up Procedures

• All students in Prep are to be collected from their prep classroom by a parent or guardian.
• For all other students, the car park works effectively when everybody follows the procedures. 
• Please allow others to come out of car parks. Drive slowly through the car park, especially when merging in front of the parking bays. 
• Cars should drive from MacDonald St. into Morley St. and turn right into the school car park. 
• Everyone must turn right into the car park in the afternoon and turn left when exiting. (In the afternoon those that turn left into the car park are pushing in and this upsets others!)
• If everyone is considerate it will be safe and fair for all users. I encourage parents who are not Prep parents to actively use our drive through pick-up protocol. 
• We have two staff members supervising this area. Parents are asked to drive on and line up if their child is not ready.  This avoids any unnecessary delays.
• Please ensure your name is displayed on your sun visor as this will speed up the process. 
• In the afternoon please turn left when leaving MacDonald Street as this speeds up the line-up. 
• Please do not encourage children to wait outside of the school or church where they are not directly supervised.  We have had some unpleasant situations in the past when children have been told to wait outside the school by parents. It is simply not worth the risk!  

 Please support us to ensure the safety of your children. For those families using the drive through for the first time, please contact the office for your laminated name card.

Tuckshop Reopening Week 5
I am pleased to announce that our school tuckshop will reopen from 21^st February, ready for service each Wed-Fri.  I welcome our new tuckshop convenor, Miss Steph Dowton, who joins St Mary’s after several years in the hospitality industry.  There will be some slight modifications to our menu, which will be communicated via the online ordering system, QuickCliq.

Just 1 Thing
Positive parent engagement in a child’s education is critical to achieve the very best of educational outcomes.  To assist the school and P&F to engage parents in their preferred ways, we ask that all parents complete this short, 1-minute survey. This survey will be open until Friday 16^th Feb. 

The ‘Just 1 Thing’ campaign was hugely successful last year and it is our aim to gather 200 responses this year, so please make time to consider the ways to can be involved in your child’s education.  Well done to 1B and 3P, who lead the school in form submissions. If you haven’t submitted your response yet, please do so asap!

School TV
St Mary’s is very excited to inform all parents of school TV, an initiative to help support the wellbeing of our students. After all, happy and well supported students are better equipped to learn and succeed.

We know that it can be difficult and time consuming for parents to source credible information when it comes to ongoing wellbeing support strategies for their children.   To aid with this we have partnered with SchoolTV, an online resource designed to empower parents to better deal with the challenges for raising happy, well and resilient young people.

Because parenting doesn't come with instructions, the SchoolTV resource has now been implemented at our school to assist parents and caregivers in navigating the challenges of modern-day parenting. This outstanding resource delivers credible information with practical strategies featuring video interviews with leading specialists, supported by a host of resources from key wellbeing organisations.

SchoolTV offers parents a fresh approach to the issues and pressures faced by children and young people in our communities throughout Australia.

Some topics featured include:

• Youth Anxiety
• Raising Girls
• School Refusal
• Positive Parenting
• Digital Reputation
• Managing Screen Time
• Cyberbullying

We encourage you to visit our SchoolTV site and view the content but more importantly use this resource if and when needed to support your child and family through particular needs as they may arise. At a time when the wellbeing of our youth has never been more challenged, we are pleased to be able to offer this accessible, credible and empowering resource to our families.

Many thanks again to the support provided by Catholic Education Rockhampton Northern Region to get this up and running across all schools in the region.

Quote of the Week

School Fees

Please note that school fees were issued on the 1^st February 2024 and are due for payment this Thursday, 15^th February 2024.

Thank you to all those parents who have paid fees or entered into a payment plan to pay off their fees over the course of 2024.

If your fees are yet to be paid and you would like to enter into a payment arrangement (either weekly, fortnightly or monthly) please contact me as soon as possible to arrange this.

You are most welcome to call into the office, email smm_finance@rok.catholic.edu.au or phone on 4951 1743 to arrange this.

If you have any questions in relation to school fees, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Kathy Parrish
Finance Officer

Important Dates

5-9/2/24          Parent Teacher Interviews 

6/2/24               Opening School Mass; 9am Hall 
                             P&F Welcome Night 5:30pm-7pm.   

7/2/24                School Photos / Bishop and Director Visiting St Mary’s  

14/2/24             Ash Wednesday – Beginning of Lent 

15/2/24             Wellbeing Day 

16/2/24             Bishop’s Inservice Day 

22/2/24             Year 6 Student Retreat (Surf Club)

24/2/24             St Mary's Youth Mass  - St Mary's Church 5pm-6pm

26/2/24            ASD Parent Seminar – info in newsletter 

15/3/24              St Mary’s Senior X-Country 

28/3/24             End of Term 1 / Holy Thursday 

15/4/24             Term 2 commences 

18/4/24             Prep-Yr 2 Fun Run (at St Mary’s) 

7/6/24               Senior Athletics Carnival (ARC) 

10/6/24              Junior Athletics Carnival 

20/6/24            Mackay Show Holiday 

21/6/24             End of Term 2 

8/7/24               Term 3 commences 

10-12/7/24      Challenge Cup RL and Netball; Cap Coast 

22-26/7/24     Catholic Education Week 

31/7-2/8/24     Yr 5 Camp (Seaforth) 

27-29/8/24      Yr 6 camp (Cap Coast) 

30/8/24              Pupil Free Day 

10/9/24               St Mary’s Art Show 

13/9/24               End of Term 3 

30/9/24              Term 4 commences 

13/10/24             St Mary’s Bike-a-thon (suggested) 

28/10/24            Swim carnival (ARC) 

16/11/24              St Mary’s Fair (booked in with Parish) 

2/12/24                Yr 6 Grad Dinner (MTC) 

5/12/24                Christmas Concert (Basketball court) 

6/12/24                End of Term 4 

Shrove Tuesday - 13th February

Shrove Tuesday is the day before Lent which begins on Ash Wednesday. The name Shrove comes from the old middle English word 'Shriven' meaning to go to confession to say sorry for the wrong things you've done. 

The other name for this day, Pancake Day, comes from the old English custom of using up all the fattening ingredients in the house before Lent, so that people were ready to fast during Lent. The fattening ingredients that most people had in their houses in those days were eggs and milk. A very simple recipe to use up these ingredients was to combine them with some flour and make pancakes!

Don't forget to place your order for pancakes next Tuesday.
Orders close on Quickcliq at 9am on Monday 12th February!
All proceeds to Project Compassion.

2024 School Leaders

Congratulations to our 2024 school leaders, who were recognised at last Friday's badge presentation ceremony. All year 6 students made their leadership pledge and look forward to the many opportunities throughout the year that will develop their leadership capabilities. We would also like to thank Fr Matthias for blessing the badges.

Welcome Mass

Thank you Fr Matthias for leading our Welcome Mass this morning. This year our Catholic Social Teaching focus is "Dignity of the human person". Congratulations to our school leaders who assisted in the ministry of the Mass. Your confidence and reverence was delightful.

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 18

Next

St Mary's Chess Club

P & F News

Swap It - Week 3

Collection Notice for Parents/Guardians

Please find below a letter from the Australian Government regarding the 2024 Student Residential Address Collection Notice. 

Please click on the link below for further information.

Student of the Week

Week 2, Term 1 Student Award Winners

Community News