Dear Parents,

Thank you for your continued support with the COVID-19 restrictions especially with the early morning drop offs and after school pick-ups. These arrangements continue to be in place until further notice. In particular the playground is still out of bounds after school. The teachers have commented to me that they are finding the children are more settled as they start each day as the teachers can focus on the students and help them get their jobs completed for a successful start.

Moving forward into next term we are still waiting for confirmation regarding camps, excursions and swimming programs to see if they are going to be able to go ahead. These are dependent on government restrictions which as you know can change rapidly. We have rebooked the photographer for our school photos for during term three but again must wait to see if and when external people can enter the school to work with the children. The Parents and Friends group are also waiting for further advice before resuming hot lunches.

The time students have spent at school during 2020 has been greatly reduced by the circumstances we have found ourselves in through COVID-19. Term one was a short term and some students were also kept home due to health concerns at the time. As a result, the semester one reports will be very basic and not like the reports that were sent home last year. This will be rectified at the end of year reports. Parents will also have the opportunity to meet with teachers during term three to discuss their child’s progress.

Our focus at the minute at St Michaels is ensuring that teachers can quickly adapt and learn to deal with the “new normal” we find ourselves in. We are spending time identifying what students have learned and listening to the students to monitor their sense of wellbeing, allowing them time to reconnect with their teacher and friends. The teachers are valuing the continued support they are receiving from you all via email. Teachers now need time to explore what the children now know and what they need to be learning next to ensure the events of 2020 has no lasting impact on every child’s progress.

Traditionally at St. Michaels at this time of year we would be preparing for our Giving Mass which aligns with the Sacred Heart of Jesus Feast Day. Unfortunately, due to COVID we are unable to gather and celebrate with a Mass however many in the community are still in need (even more so at this time). St Vincent de Paul Society have contacted the school to see if we could still give food (canned items) as they are anticipating more people in need this winter. Therefore, we will still plan to collect canned and other food items to give. All items need to be collected by the last day of term. If you can spare a can or two, please send them in with your child. 

Kind regards

Jodie