Dear SJMS Community
It is wonderful see the school making its way back to a new normal.
Over the last week, our Preschool students were presented with a Preschool polo shirt (pictured above). As I presented these shirts, most wanted the Preschool educators to put their shirt straight on. It was a delight to see the precious looks on their faces. These polo shirts are a gift for the children to enhance their sense of belonging and a celebration that they are competent and capable Preschool students.
Now that the Federal and State Governments have set up the phased lifting of restrictions, I am aware that many of you will want to get back into normal activities as soon as possible.
While it is the case that schools are not required to observe the same social distancing and gathering restrictions required of the general public, it is necessary that St Joseph’s Memorial School continues to adhere to the directions/restrictions in place that are designed to minimise the likelihood of catching COVID and/or spreading it. Another thank you to parents and caregivers for your continued support in respecting these arrangements.
We are aligning with current SA Department of Education advice, Department officials are constantly liaising with SA Health and will keep you informed as soon as we are aware of any updates.
Sport - COVID
While the SA Government requirements for community sports are observed, in a school context, training groups must be 10 or less providing we are on school grounds. To be consistent across all sports and until restrictions on sporting venues are lifted, regular training will not commence until we have greater clarity on the issue.
At this point in time, school sporting competitions and carnivals will not go ahead. Mr Siinmaa is in constant contact with the relevant Sporting Associations as they try to map a way forward based on the requirements of SA Health and the Government. You will be kept informed as the situation evolves.
Allied Health Personnel and Music Tutors - COVID
We are aligning with current SA Department of Education advice for their schools that non‑essential adult visitors are not allowed on site. CESA is in contact with Department officials and are constantly liaising with SA Health. We will keep you informed as soon as we are aware of any updates.
Term 2 Camps and Excursions - COVID
In accordance with SA Health Guidelines for Schools, both camps and class excursions are still unable to take place in Term 2. We are conducting our normal Assemblies via Teams and it has been great for us to come together across both Bridge and William Street sites to celebrate as a community. Our Year 6 ICT Leaders have done a wonderful job in streaming all assemblies to classes; thank you to Maxwell, Sparsh, Harrison and Mason.
National Reconciliation Week
Each year, from 27 May to 3 June across Australia, we celebrate National Reconciliation Week. The dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey - the anniversaries of the successful 1967 Referendum and the High Court Mabo decision. National Reconciliation Week this year has the theme ‘In This Together’, which amazingly was announced last year. The focus is to foster positive race relations, the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the broader community must be grounded in a foundation of truth.
National Sorry Day
Next Tuesday is National Sorry Day. National Sorry Day recognises the negative impact of Australian policies, practices and attitudes on Indigenous people.
The story of Reconciliation between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous peoples has a short, but important history in Australia. Many people feel that an integral step to reconcile these groups starts at the top - with the Government recognising and apologising for policies, practices and attitudes that discriminated against, isolated and marginalised Indigenous people.
School Board
The School Board met last Wednesday night to discuss strategic matters of the school’s operation. One agenda item raised was the ongoing development of the plans for the Performing Arts Studio that have been developed further (as pictured below). Our Design Committee of Megan Nehmy (School Board), Poulami Ray (Parent Rep - Interior Architect), Mrs Vassallo-Wakefield and myself have been meeting and will continue to meet every third week to develop these plans further. The Design Committee would greatly appreciate any feedback you have on these designs that can be considered at our next meeting. Please go to https://forms.gle/sU4WmEUVCdd1oqzY9 to contribute to these designs.
Parents and Friends Committee
The Parents and Friends Committee is a great way to contribute towards school life and strengthen connections with other parents and caregivers. Since the AGM, COVID has prevented the calling of new members. If you are interested in being a member of the Parents and Friends Committee, please do not hesitate to email info@sjms.catholic.edu.au to be a part of the next meeting when restrictions ease.
Pupil Free Day
Please be reminded of the Pupil Free Day scheduled for Friday 5 June. Staff will be embarking on the Certified Educational Assessors Course. Care arrangements are available through OSHC (outlined below).
God Bless
Brady Stallard
Photo: Some of our Preschool children proudly wearing their SJMS Preschool polo shirts