Newsletter August 25th, 2020
Dear Parents and Families,
The following quote 'Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations' by Zig Ziglar certainly holds some significance for us in 2020. The pandemic road is a rocky challenge: learning continuity with some students at school and many at home, employment complexity, parent anxiety, legislative and policy interpretation, constant decision making and ultimately the shared responsibility for the safety of all!
Also, our teachers’ preparedness to go the extra mile in delivering a remote program to cater for a diverse range of learners whilst also considering the needs and concerns of our parents. I believe a challenge for us all in this second phase of Covid-19 is to 'Be Kind To Yourself'.
This is certainly an extremely challenging time for school communities and our country. So as you combine your home duties, work commitments and remote learning with your children, be mindful that self-compassion plays an important role.
Be okay with who you are, even when you make mistakes or things don’t work out perfectly. Being self compassionate can help reduce stress, anxiety, depression, improve your sense of self and your ability to think positively about a range of situations.
This time we have expectations — of ourselves, of others and of the experience. We have compared stories with others and seen examples of what it can be like. We have also heard and seen the media coverage regarding the negative aspects of restrictions, masks, business shutdowns, learning at home…
For each of us our experience this time is determined by our mindset. The knowledge that we are all in this together — trying to navigate our way through a difficult and challenging time. It is also important that we all want the best outcome — for all — students, parents, staff and the wider community.
We are now over half way through our stage 3 lockdown - we can do this!
Take care,
Gabe
Next Sunday 30th August is Social Justice Sunday and the theme of this year’s Social Justice Statement is To Live Life to the Full: Mental Health in Australia today.
This is a particularly relevant topic given the impact that COVID-19 is having of the mental health of many within our community and broader society.
The statement can be found here.
Please refer to the attached information regarding the Family Fee Assistance Scheme. I encourage any parents/carers to contact Gabe or Emma if the current COVID situation is impacting your family’s financial capabilities.
Bookclub Issue 6 is available for online LOOP orders. If you are interested in ordering online, please do so by Friday 4th September via scholastic.com.au/LOOP or download the scholastic app. The catalogue can be viewed in the link below.
When orders arrive at school you will be notified by SMS to collect books from the administration foyer.
Watching our kids explore, discover and try new things for the first time is a moment of pride. We're proud of them for their bravery in venturing out into the unknown, for being willing to open up their worldview that much more.
Encouraging your child to develop a love of trying new things can sometimes be challenging. Check out the 'Try New Things BINGO' game attached - it is so much fun and teaches kids that when we try new things, our brain GROWS bigger!
The Victorian Government has reintroduced Stage 3 restrictions in regional Victoria. Unfortunately for us it means that our churches will be closed with no masses until at least September 13. There are exceptions for funerals and weddings. We hope all
parishioners are keeping safe and connected to our parish as we work our way through this very challenging environment.
The Parish Leadership Team are still meeting via zoom every fortnight. We’re not making any major decisions, just ensuring that the Parish is running smoothly, and addressing any pastoral needs within our community. We hope you are continuing to
keep connected, safe and healthy. Hopefully we can gather together as one community soon. Take care and stay well.
Social Justice Sunday:
This will be celebrated on 30 August 2020. The 2020-2021 Statement, To Live Life to the Full: Mental Health in Australia, encourages faith communities, governments and each of us to make mental health a priority. It is a timely message in the context of the COVID-19. The pandemic is affecting many members of our parishes, schools and communities. To download the Statement click here.