Dear Parents and Caregivers
Welcome back to all members of our school community! We hope the holiday break was an opportunity to recharge, reflect and relax, and for students and teachers, the chance to return with fresh energy and inspiration, ready for another exciting term ahead. As we begin this new term, we also pause to reflect on the recent passing of Pope Francis, a true champion of compassion, hope, and the power of education. His papal life and exceptional leadership have left a lasting legacy for us all. In the pope’s words, “Education is an act of love; it is like giving life.” Inspired by his message, may we look forward to a term filled with fresh opportunities, meaningful challenges, and continued growth, as we nurture the hearts and minds of every child in our care.
We extend a warm welcome to Mrs Natasha Scioli, who has joined us to teach Kindy Blue for the remainder of the year. We are so grateful that you have joined the Mary MacKillop Community and we also welcome Mr Dylan Salvia, who will be working in Mrs Noone’s Year Four class, and Miss Geordie Cole-Radice, who joins Mrs Cullen’s Year Five class, both as part of their teaching practice placements. We are delighted to have them with us and wish them all the best.
Berry Street Wellbeing PD
On Monday, our staff engaged in professional development to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Berry Street Educational Model, with a particular focus on recognising and building children’s character strengths. This important work aligns with our ongoing commitment to nurturing the whole child, recognising and building upon the unique qualities each student brings to our community. Staff engaged in meaningful reflection, discussion and the creation of practical strategies to further embed a strengths-based approach in their teaching, ensuring that every child’s individual gifts are identified, celebrated, and developed.
Mother’s Day Celebration
We warmly invite all parents and families to join us for our Mother’s Day Mass, to be held in the Church at 8:45am. Following our mass, please join us for a relaxed morning tea in the staffroom as we honour and give thanks for the wonderful mothers and mother figures in our lives.
Parish News
During the Easter weekend, Fr John announced that Fr Vinh Dong will be joining us as our new parish priest in the coming weeks. Fr Vinh has been the parish priest at St John Paul II Parish in Banksia Grove for the past ten years and will be a wonderful addition to the Mary MacKillop community. We look forward to building strong partnerships between Fr Vinh, students, parents, staff and wider community. Fr John will continue with us until 29 May. We are currently organising a special farewell event to thank Fr John for his long and fruitful association with the school and parish. This is an opportunity to express our gratitude for his years of service, spiritual guidance and work in our community.
Winter Uniform
A reminder that a two-week transition period is currently in place where students may still wear their summer uniforms. However, from the beginning of Week 3, all students are required to wear the full winter uniform, which includes trousers instead of shorts. The uniform policy is available on our website should you need any clarification. We appreciate your support in ensuring all students are dressed appropriately.
Interschool Swimming Carnival
Congratulations to all students selected to represent our school at the Interschool Swimming Carnival! Mr Boyce has done an outstanding job assembling the squad, who will compete at the Perth High Performance Centre (formerly HBF Stadium) in Mt Claremont on Friday, 9 May. We are proud of the sportsmanship, determination and unwavering team spirit our students consistently show. Parents and grandparents are most welcome to attend and cheer on our Mary Mac team!
P&F Meeting
Our Term 2 P&F meeting will be held in the staffroom at 8:45am on Monday, 12 May. We would love to see as many parents as possible attend and support the wonderful work of our P&F Association.
Wishing everyone a fantastic start to Term 2!
Yours sincerely
Lisa Liebregts
Short Term Principal