Hello to Families and all in the St Joseph's School Community,

This is the final newsletter for Term One! The term has been a bit longer than usual with Easter being later this year and I think everyone is ready for the holidays! The term has flown by with many different events and activities throughout. A personal highlight for me would have to be our double celebration last Wednesday – School Feast Day and Harmony Week. A heartfelt thank you to all the staff, students and families who helped to make the day so enjoyable and meaningful. The day was a fitting example of being united for a cause and working together as a community. I could certainly get used to Wednesday lunch times like that each week!!!
Thank you to the many families who completed the recent school surveys. Your time and input is greatly appreciated and will provide direction for the future. I am sure you enjoyed Mrs Fitzpatrick’s amazing cookies!
This week I am writing my newsletter from Halls Gap, where I am attending a two-day Induction Program, as I continue to learn as a beginning principal. This professional learning is provided over the first three years of my leadership. The focus over these two days is on Community Engagement. 
Last week I submitted an application for a grant to upgrade the student amenity block and cleaner’s storage area as this building is reaching the end of its service and is requiring steady upkeep. We will find out if we are successful or not in January next year.

I spent Monday afternoon with the Grade 6 students, who are doing a fantastic job of leading our school in 2025. The students worked with me to simplify the Child Safe Standards, making them more accessible for children of primary age. They did a great job and we are now putting their ideas into a child friendly policy and poster form for display around the school. I look forward to sharing these with you very soon.

The Grade 6's also decided on hosting some fundraising activities for Project Compassion NEXT THURSDAY - see details below.

As the term concludes at the end of next week, Mrs Armstrong will start maternity leave and await the pending arrival of the next little Armstrong! We wish Chloe all the best, wishing her times of joy, rest, and precious moments. I take this opportunity to offer sincere thanks for the dedicated contribution Mrs Armstrong makes each and every day to make sure our students get the best possible care and attention. Her use of data, nature with the students and commitment to St Joe's is exceptional!  We look forward to welcoming Chloe back in January 2026.

Thank you for your continued support this term.  Best wishes for a restful holiday break as we journey through the remainder of the Lenten season towards the celebration of Easter.

Enjoy the week ahead,
Warm regards in faith & learning,
Mary