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Dear Parents, Caregivers and Families,
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Learning Happens Here Everyday
We have now ticked off six weeks since our return back to school and our students are learning in a settled and structured environment.
At today’s assembly, I spoke to all students about ‘acceptance’, outlining how acceptance means treating ourselves and others with kindness and respect, despite our imperfections and differences. Loving each person equally just like Jesus did. Unfortunately, this is not the message we see and hear on TV and social media these days, as the opposite of acceptance (exclusion, being rude and hurting the feelings of those around us), is seemingly more common place, encouraged and allowed.
I spoke about the importance of making people feel welcome, not excluded, while always being kind and friendly, and I reminded the children that you don’t have to like everyone, however, you do have to be kind to everyone. Not liking someone is not an excuse to be mean or rude to them.
I encourage you to continue this conversation with your children.
School Drop-off Pick-up Zone Reminder
A reminder to all parents, caregivers and families regarding the School Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zone, and the proper use of the designated zones. Cars parked in the designated Drop-off Pick-up ZONE on Kemp St outside the School Hall, should not be left unattended in this zone during both the AM and PM drop-off or pick-up.
The Law states that within this No Parking Zone between 8:00-9:30am and 2:30-4:00pm (pictured), you have 2 minutes to drop-off or pick-up passengers, and you must stay within 3 metres of your vehicle.
Failure to observe these rules can get you a $196 fine and 2 demerit points. This is monitored by the NSW Police.
In order to minimise congestion and for legal and safety reasons we ask that parents do not wait for children at this location, it is for quick and safe drop-off and pick-up only. Parents and family members wishing to wait for their children are asked to park in a designated parking spot and walk to the School gate. Alternatively, quick afternoon pick-up between 3:10-3:20pm can occur from the Council Oval, parking along Sea Street. However again, this is for immediate pick-up only.
If all parents and family members could please follow this NSW roads regulation, it will make drop-off and pick-up a more efficient, safe and happier place.
As always, I thank you for your support in regards to your child’s ongoing learning.
Guy Campbell
Driving Excellence in the Macleay
GOSPEL REFLECTION - Laetare Sunday
When visiting art galleries and exhibitions, there is a sense of wonder and joy about the paintings that capture your imagination. The talent of the artist’s creativity, their skill in capturing a moment in time and their ability to literally take you into other worlds is a true gift. And let’s not forget the power and beauty of sculpture and music too in the world of art and creativity.
In our second reading from Paul to the Ephesians this weekend we hear that, “we are God’s work of art, created in Christ Jesus to live the good life.” God is the Great Master, and we are His creation. His creation dwarfs the efforts of the other great masters with each of us, made in His image. What a joy to behold we are.
In the 4th week of Lent we celebrate Laetare Sunday. The day’s theme comes from the entrance antiphon reflecting on Isaiah 66:10-11: “Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exalt and be satisfied at her consoling breast.” Laetare is the first word — meaning “rejoice” — in the Latin text.
So, in the more sombre time of Lent, we see the Priest wear rose coloured vestments and we are reminded of the joy that does await us following the crucifixion. Our readings this weekend reflect the life and faith journey written about in the quote from Isaiah above, and the absolute and total love that God has for his people. The readings also offer us the hope of redemption where we can turn back to God, to the light, if we have turned towards the dark.
In the Gospel, John gives us the promise of the resurrection and of new life, eternal life. But before we live that eternal life, Paul’s message to us in Ephesians is to be that work of art created by God and to live our best lives.
Reflection, taken in part, by Greg Ryan
Reflect on and be grateful for the gifts we have been given.
PRAYER
Father, let us take a minute to say thanks, for the gift of today. Amen
https://cms.vinnies.org.au/media/drxlpkwm/srg_jan_apl_2024_web.pdf?folder=nsw__spiritual-reflection-guides&path=drxlpkwm%2Fsrg_jan_apl_2024_web.pdf
With Mrs Krystal Brady, Assistant Principal, Learning & Teaching and Mrs Erin McGovern, Assistant Principal, Mission
INCITARE
Last Tuesday, Year 6 students; William, Hunter, Molly, Astin, Jason, Bella, Gus, Lara and Hope participated in the Incitare Faith Retreat.
This was a special faith retreat where students talked about what they value in the world, how they can be Christian, how they can follow Christ with courage, and how they can all make a difference in our lives.
Incitāre means to stir up, incite, urge, spur - when the Holy Spirit comes into our lives we are invited to spread the good news to all we encounter. This one-day retreat uses various group processes and student discussion led by CSYMA student leaders from local secondary schools. Students experience faith nurturing activities and skilling for being faith leaders in their respective schools.
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 sit each year. It is the only national assessment all Australian students have the opportunity to undertake.
As students progress through their school years, it is important to check how well they are learning the essential skills of reading, writing and numeracy. NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through the school curriculum and allows parents/carers to see how their child is progressing against national standards.
NAPLAN tests the sorts of skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life, such as reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy. It is important to remember that NAPLAN is not about passing or failing, but about assessing learning progress.
Next week, students in Years 3 & 5 will complete NAPLAN online. Click here for more information. If you have any questions about NAPLAN, please contact your child’s teacher.RECONCILIATION COMMITMENT MASS & THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILITATION
Tuesday 12th March 3:30pm OR 5:00pm
Today our Stage 2 students attended a Parish Mass in preparation for the upcoming Sacrament of Reconciliation. 16 students from Year 4 have been preparing and learning about the Sacrament of Reconciliation and will make this sacrament for the first time this coming Tuesday afternoon. The students will be accompanied by a parent/ carer and will attend a short liturgy in the Church, hosted by Fr James before each having a turn to say sorry for the sins they have done and ask for God’s forgiveness.
Sacrament of Reconciliation Tuesday 12th March, 3:30pm OR 5.00 pm at the All Saints Catholic Church.
Reminders
Parents please send in the return slip indicating which session your child will be attending.
Students can wear school uniform.
Students to bring along their white sacramental garment.
WILDFIRE LISMORE PROCLAIM TEAM VISITS
ST JOSEPH'S
10:10 Retreat & Song Writing Workshop
On Monday and Tuesday St Joseph’s school were lucky to have a visit from the Ten:Ten Youth Ministry Team and the Lismore diocesan band, Wildfire. On Monday all students K-6 engaged with the Ten:Ten program, which is a high-energy experience focused on enabling students to achieve the fullness of life. Inspired by the words of Jesus in the Gospel of John, “I came so that they may have life, life to the full” (John 10:10), this experience provided an opportunity for students to celebrate life with their peers and hear the relevance of the Gospel from a team of faithful youth ministers. The sessions are an invitation for students to encounter Jesus through music, talks, interactive activities and prayer. We also thank the Year 10 Youth Ministry class from St Paul’s that came and supported the small group sessions on the day. A special thank you to Mr Mitchell, Mr Goswell and the St Paul’s College Youth Minister Olivia for preparing the students and coming to visit and share their faith, skills and leadership with us.
On Tuesday when Year 6 were off enjoying ‘A Day in the life of a St Paul’s Student’ grades Kinder to year 5 enjoyed a second session of music and prayer through song as Wildfire led us through a songwriting workshop to create a school song. It was a wonderful two days of music, prayer, reflection and joy, in the words of St Augustine, “When you sing you pray twice”.
We are very grateful for this opportunity and all the wonderful Youth Ministers and Wildfire band members who facilitated the days and made it so much fun for our students.
PALM SUNDAY
PROJECT COMPASSION
This year the theme for Project Compassion is Together, we can make a difference now, and For All Future Generations. Each year, Caritas Australia, (the international aid and development organisation of the Catholic Church in Australia) runs ‘Project Compassion’ during the six weeks of the Church season of Lent.
2H HISTORY
BUILD A HABIT OF GOOD ATTENDANCE
Make getting students to school
on time every day a top priority.
- Establish a Consistent Routine - Set a daily routine that includes specific times for waking up, getting ready, having breakfast, and leaving for school. Consistency helps children develop good habits.
- Model Punctuality - Children often learn by example. Demonstrate the importance of punctuality by being on time for family events, appointments, and other commitments.
- Limit or Have No Screen Time in the Morning - Minimise distractions such as excessive screen time in the morning. This helps your child stay focused on getting ready for school without unnecessary delays.
Term 1 - Weeks 5 & 6
Awards will be presented at today's Assembly
Friday 8th March at 1.05pm
Parents/Carers Welcome
|
CLASS |
MARY MACKILLOP AWARD Recognises Catholic attitude, behaviours & helping those in need |
ST JOSEPH Recognises positive actions witnessed within our school community |
CATHERINE McAULEY Recognises a growth mindset & effort in learning |
THE VALUES AWARD
ACCEPTANCE |
|
KSpirit |
Avani Carroll | Mihira Prakhya | Olivia Hanna | Zane McMurray |
|
KTruth |
Zarli Tammjarv | Cullen Pereira | Shiloh Higgins | Avah Welch |
|
KHonour |
Quinn McMeekin | Memphis Smith | Everly Bruce | Oscar McGovern |
|
1Truth |
Anya Lunn | Lachlan Mann | Noah Malcolm | Lucy Atkinson |
|
1Honour |
Toby Jackson | Isabella Manuel | Casey Smee | Isla Higley |
|
2Truth |
Tex Duncan | Fletcher Smith | Annalise Waters | Evelynn Russell |
|
2Honour |
Archie Wade | Stella Swan | Taylah Morris | Dustin Buck |
|
3Truth |
Tony Jerin | Veronica Button | Kiera Goodman | Charlotte Smith |
|
3Honour |
Flint Barnett | Chelsea Carroll | Chase Cudlin | Isaac Fairhall |
|
3/4 Spirit |
Camille Pereira | Gus Meehan | Charlotte Edwards | Hugh Atkinson |
|
4Truth |
Henry Browning | Jackson Cameron | Maddison Huxley | Ava Beecham |
|
5Truth |
Glydel Clarke | Amber Simpson | Vincent Thurlow | Ryder Sproule |
|
5Honour |
Buddy Moorehead | Belinda Rudder | Zane Jordan | Chelsea Mainey |
|
6Truth |
Olivia Rutledge | Keeley McManus | Ethan Shore | Zavier Gill |
|
6Honour |
Lachlan Betts | Londyn Sutton | Gemma Rayward | Adam Mickle |
With Mr Watts
DIOCESAN SWIMMING CARNIVAL
Our 10 representatives did us proud at the Diocesan Swimming Carnival held at Macksville last Friday against the best in the Diocese.
Well done to Ethan Shore, Peyton Moor, Mila Tolman, Claire Meehan, Ryder Sproule, Amailia Brandt, Jazmin Crilley, Camille Pereira, Lachlan Betts, Ari Abigall, Noah Davies.
RUGBY 7s GALA DAY
Unfortunately, the Rugby 7s Gala Day was cancelled but will reappear on the calendar later in the year (most likely May). Thank you to all those parents who have paid, this payment will rollover to the new date.
HASTINGS ZONE RUGBY UNION TRIALS
Zone Rugby Trials were held at the Verge Street ovals on 28th February. Congratulation to Lachlan Betts, Zak Kane and Lleyton Kemp for being selected.
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Diocesan Winter Sports Trials - 8th March in Grafton
- Rugby Union 7s (Years 3-6) to be held in Kempsey on 27th March
- School Cross Country (Years K-6) to be held at the Kemp Street playing fields on 4th April
CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY
As we continue to tackle our national waste challenges and protect our environment, last Friday, Joey's students cleaned up around our school grounds as part of Clean Up Australia 2024. School Clean Up is a great way to inspire students to learn about the impact of rubbish on their local environment while playing an active role in their community.
Stage 2 students made posters to promote Clean Up Australia Day.
Here are some of their thoughts on why it is important for us to participate.
Amelia - “It helps the environment”.
Abella - “It keeps the school safe”.
Scout - “It is easier to learn in a clean environment”.
Asher - “So the birds don’t get sick with the rubbish” .
Sophia - “It makes it a better learning environment”.
Daisy - “We want everyone to know that St Joseph's is a nice clean school to come and learn and play”.
Mackenna - “It prevents rubbish from entering our waterways and making animals sick”.
Amali - “It makes the world look cleaner”.
10c RETURN AND EARN RECYCLING
SUSTAINABILITY HUB
Please feel free to drop these into the bins located in the canteen foyer.
If you have other items that you think the school may be able to use for art/craft etc please contact us.
UPCOMING ENVIRO EVENTS
- Earth Hour, 23rd March - Earth Hour is held annually to encourage individuals, communities and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights, for one hour. Joey's will be powering down for one hour on this day!
With Mrs Hagger and Mrs CroweHARMONY DAY SPECIAL MENU - 21st March
Harmony Day is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone.
On Thursday 21st March St Joseph's will celebrate Harmony Day. On this day a special canteen menu will be available for pre-ordering (orders need to be received by Friday 16th March via Compass Canteen). Please note that our normal menu will not be available this day.2024 CANTEEN MENU
"OFFSITE BAGGED LUNCH"
This special lunch bag will be an option for any offsite local events that are local (no hot lunches will be delivered offsite).
Lunch Bag consists of chicken & salad wrap or sandwich, bottle of water, muesli bar, pkt plain chips and a piece of seasonal fruit for $15. Select "Offsite Bagged Lunch" from the Compass Canteen Menus.
STUDENT BIRTHDAY BUNDLES
Should you have any queries please contact our Canteen ladies, Mrs Hagger & Mrs Crowe.
The Kempsey Show will be held 9th-10th April and will be a whole world of fun! Get your Hall Exhbit entries in before 3rd April.
To view the Hall Exhbits Schedule click here. Entries close 3rd April. Click here to download an Entry Form.
For more information and what else is on click here to view the Kempsey Show Facebook page.
WHY JOEY'S OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE?
We have two dedicated classrooms on the St Joseph's Catholic Primary School campus in Kemp Street, West Kempsey. The classrooms are filled with resources and games to suit children from Kinder to Year 6.
Students from all schools in the Macleay Valley and surrounds are welcome at Joey's OOSHC.
Joey's OOSHC has a proud history of providing high quality out of school hours care for than ten years. Joey's dedicated and experienced staff plan and manage programs that offer both fun and educational opportunities.
To find out more and to explore the enrolment process visit our website at https://www.joeyskempsey.org.au/
To learn more about the COMPASS Platform please click here
About the Compass Platform
The Compass platform is a web-based system that is accessible on any modern web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome & Safari) or by using the Compass School Manager iOS or Android App.
Parents have the ability to;
- Receive notifications about school events, news and information
- Enter an explanation for absences
- Communicate with your child’s teachers,
- Update your family contact details (mobile phone & email)
- View your child’s timetable and the school calendar
- Download and view your child’s academic reports
- Book parent-teacher conferences (parent/teacher interviews)
- Pay and provide digital consent for events (No more permission slips)
- Order lunches from the Canteen
- Pay school fees
LEARN TO RIDE - AUSBIKE
Registrations for the new national ‘Learn to Ride’ program called AusBike for Term 1 are now open. The fun cycling program is being delivered by a local provider, Montem Bike Tours at Kempsey Golf Club and Driving Range, 330 Macleay Valley.
The Program has been designed for 5–12 year-olds who are just getting started in their cycling journey. They will learn how to ride safely, with confidence under the guidance of an AusCycling accredited coach.
The Term 1 program will commence on 29/02/2024. The cost of the program is $90 which is for the whole 6-week program ($15 per session). This is paid for upfront at the beginning of the program (like AusKick).
You can view a short video about the program here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?
NORTH COAST HEALTH CONNECT
North Coast Health Connect is a free new service providing health support and advice from registered nurses 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays. If you are a resident or visitor to the North Coast, you can speak or live chat with a nurse. The nurse will ask some questions to understand what’s troubling you and then provide advice on what your next step should be.
This may include self-care advice to help you to manage your health (or that of a loved one) from home, or the nurse may recommend a GP appointment or a consultation with a pharmacist. The nurses are able to book an appointment for you directly with a local general practice or pharmacy or if appropriate, can transfer you to a 24/7 GP telehealth service. If the nurse believes you need to attend an emergency department or see a different health service, they will let you know.
Visit https://northcoasthealthconnect.org.au/ for more info and save as a contact for when you need it by visiting https://qrco.de/bdkiJm or by scanning the QR code below.
