Dear Parents and Guardians,

What an incredible Term this has been. I would like to express my sincere gratitude and praise to you all. Together we were able to achieve a lot. It has not always been easy, so I thank you for your understanding and resilience in getting yourselves and your families through an extremely challenging situation.

I am incredibly proud of our staff who have shown commitment to their roles by putting our students front and centre in every decision they have made. From planning rich and engaging tasks to assessing and giving quality feedback to all our students.

Our school motto - Non Recuso Laborem - We shall not refuse the task by embracing life’s challenges, has certainly given us the strength to reach our goals. I am delighted to share with you snapshots of the learning that has taken place this term and a video of our community embracing remote learning. Thank you to the creative talent of Claire Forbes in putting the video together. It certainly did bring a big smile to my face.

Term 4

The first week of term commencing Monday 5 October remains in its current form as remote and flexible learning for all students, with onsite care for students of essential workers. Catholic Education Melbourne have highlighted three main priorities for schools in planning for Term 4. They are; Wellbeing and Equity, Learning and Excellence and Transitions.

We are excited to be welcoming back our Prep to Year 2 students on Monday 12 October and hope that Year 3 to 6 students will be returning soon after. We will communicate further details with you about the return to school for students but I would imagine it would be a similar model to earlier in the year.

As our Government continues to evaluate the latest COVID data and trends, adjustments may be made to the original roadmap. We will keep you informed as to how this impacts our school. I plan to send out detailed correspondence on Monday 5 October about our plan for return to school for our students. I also hope to have greater clarity on the possibility of school events that can be held in Term 4 in the coming weeks.

School Review

We are very pleased to share with you that we met all the requirements for compliance in relation to Child Safety Standards and standards for school registration last week. It was an amazing effort from both the leadership team and administration team to complete all this documentation. We will receive official recommendations on October 15 of our key priorities for school improvement for the next four year cycle.

School Fees

Many school events have not been able to take place this year due to the impacts of COVID on the community. As a result of camps being cancelled, adjustments have already been made to accounts. I am currently exploring possible alterations for 2021 school fees. This will include no excursion levies as we will roll over the levy received for 2020. We will also hold off on any annual increase. Mary Milione (Bursar) will be in contact with our current Year 6 families in relation to the 2020 excursion levy.

We have been advised by the Department of Education and Training that they have extended applications for CSEF for families with Health Care Cards.
If you have had a change in your financial circumstances and are eligible for a HCC from Centrelink you may be eligible for this payment. Please email Mary (marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au) if you require the application form. In the meantime please send Mary a copy of your Health Care Card. Applications reopen on 5th October and close in late November.

Please know you can always reach out to me for support if you are experiencing financial hardship.

Planning for 2021

During the past few weeks, I have met with all our staff for an Annual Review Meeting. This is one opportunity to speak one on one about achievements, wonderings and future goals. As we begin planning for 2021 I will inform you of the progress in upcoming newsletters.

Could I please ask that any families who are not returning to St Martin’s in 2021 (other than our Year 6 families) inform us in writing as soon as possible by sending an email to office@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Learning Packs

Learning Packs for week 1 of Term 4 will be sent home for Prep- Year 3 students during the second week of the school holidays. Please be sure to look out for them.

Parish/School links

Building parish and school links is very important to me as school principal. I was just thrilled with a recent project that our Year 5 students engaged in. They wrote letters to reach out to our elderly parishioners who no doubt are struggling, like many at the moment, due the isolation of COVID life. In their letters they shared a little about themselves, school life, questions and wonderings and included a prayer like the one below. The initial feedback I have received from members of the Parish Pastoral Council is that this very kind gesture has made an enormous impact.
I would like to once again thank you all for walking with us on this unique journey. I truly do hope we are able to celebrate some school events together in Term 4. We hope to send out a diary of dates early next term with optimism that we will be able to connect in with one another in some form.

Please take the time to read the article 'Encourage kids to occupy themselves' written by Michael Grose, as it provides parents with some useful strategies for the upcoming school holidays.

Please know I remain contactable over email in the school holidays and please continue to take care and create some more special family memories together.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Prep

The Prep students learnt about living and non-living things in their environment. They learnt that all living things need food, water, shelter and air to survive. They discovered that plants and animals are both living things. The clever Preps learnt that birds, fish, reptiles and mammals all have features and even learnt how to label a diagram of each animal showing these special features. They also recorded some facts learnt about each animal in an “Animal Discovery Book”.
   

Year 1

The Year One students learnt about what life was like in the olden days. They identified the similarities and differences between schooling and home life and showed their understanding through writing a journal entry. They made connections by sharing their knowledge of what life was like in the olden days through creative and engaging show and tell presentations. It was wonderful to see students interview their family members and ask questions about what it was like for them growing up in a different time. It was great to celebrate our learning by having the students dress up in olden day clothing and share what they learnt from the unit!

Year 2

The Year Two students learned about the wonderful rainforests all over the world and why they are so important to us. They researched rainforest animals and wrote impressive information reports, which they presented to each other. The students put their creative hats on and made their own rainforests in S.T.E.M! They reflected on the difference they can make to our world, by being caretakers of creation.
   

Year 3

The Year Three students were encouraged to be Conservation Warriors. They learnt about a variety of extinct, endangered and vulnerable animals. At the end of the unit, they researched and composed an information report about an endangered animal of their choice and created a campaign to encourage all people to take action. This was supported by the different persuasive devices they were exposed to in Literacy and it was great to see their passionate presentations.

Year 4

Year 4 students became inventors of arcade games! During the term, students learned about forces, motion and the six simple machines. They used their understanding of the unit to design and build their very own arcade game using recycled materials at home - and had a lot of fun in the process! Through problem solving and design trial and error, students were able to put their knowledge of forces and motion into everyday machinery.

Year 5 - ‘See the person, not the disability’ Jack Swift

The Year 5 students asked the question ‘How can we best work together to meet the diverse needs of all in our community? Our particular focus was on understanding what life might be like for those with a disability, and how people in our community live with these everyday. After studying the design process, students began thinking about how they might design something that could assist a person with a disability. With the help of AKORN Education, students followed a design to come up with a prototype of some sort of assistive technology. They reflected on inclusivity and how they can show justice and compassion towards all people within our community. We are extremely proud of the amazing prototypes our students created throughout this inquiry unit.

Year 6

Our students investigated the pros and cons of a variety of renewable energy forms and became experts in a particular type. Not only did they present their understandings of their inquiry as online presentations, for writing, they wrote persuasive pieces to highlight their ability to create evidence informed justifiable opinions about the value of these forms of energy and their impact on our world, both now and into the future.

Our Sacramental Life: A message from Archbishop Peter Comensoli

In his latest video message, Archbishop Peter Comensoli sends his prayers and blessings to the Melbourne Catholic community, and explains some of the work being done in the background to help us move towards an opening up again of sacramental life in the Archdiocese for our students.

Art and Soul: Fr Elio Capra                     

I am sharing with you a message from Fr Elio Capra in regards to his new website called Art and Soul. Over the past few years, Fr Elio has worked closely with the staff and parents of St Martin’s in supporting us and the students in their Sacramental journey. If you are seeking ways to build on your own faith formation, Fr Elio uses art works as a way to reflect on scripture and prayer and makes links with the Liturgical year, where possible.

From Fr Elio...
My dear friends,
Being home because of COVID19 gave me extra time to start a website on art and spirituality.
The website is called Art and Soul with Elio. I would like to make it clear that I am not an art historian. I am presenting from my heart, the ways that art has touched me and what I see and experience when looking at art.
While I may discuss the techniques and history related to an art work, my primary focus is the spiritual dimension that the work opens and the way it provokes reflection and prayer. The length of the videos is between 3 to 5 minutes so that they can be used for prayer and reflection in a classroom, staffroom, home or any way you may like. I hope that sharing my thoughts and ideas will prompt you to uncover the spiritual in art as you experience it.
This is the address https://elioartandsoul.wordpress.com/ This is a free website and so let your friends and colleagues know about it. I intend to make one new video per week. Whenever possible the theme of the videos will reflect the cycle of the Liturgical Year.

Please, enjoy and let me have your feedback.
Keep smiling,
Elio

Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.

Encourage kids to occupy themselves    

A child’s ability to fill in their own time and cope with moments of boredom are important independence skills to develop. Children have less practise at keeping themselves occupied than those of past generations. You have many jobs as a parent, but constantly entertaining your child, should not be one of them. These ideas will help:

Invite them to keep themselves busy

When your child tells you that he or she is bored they are bringing you a problem to solve. Boredom is your child’s problem, not yours. If this happens, encourage your child to keep themselves busy by asking questions such as “How can you keep yourself amused?”

Make a list

If your child is stuck for ideas make a list of activities that they can refer to when they’re bored. Include a variety of activities such as creative tasks, performance tasks, crafts, sports, indoor and outdoor games, music activities, reading and helping. Place the list in a convenient place with easy access and visibility.

Make a boredom buster jar

Cut up a list of boredom busting activities and place them in a jar. When your child is stuck for an idea to keep him or herself amused invite them to select an activity from the boredom buster jar. Ask your child to add enjoyable activities to the jar over time.

Encourage plenty of green-time

Today’s children spend more time in front of screens, and less time outdoors than those of previous generations. Not only is time spent in natural environments refreshing, relaxing and rejuvenating, but It’s also a wonderful way for kids to relieve boredom. Encourage your child to spend some of their free time outside in natural environments to promote good mental health and develop their confidence.

Help find their interests

If your child struggles to keep him or herself occupied, consider helping them identify a hobby or interest that they enjoy. Often finding that one activity a child loves or excels in makes a huge difference to their self-esteem and wellbeing, and can become the driver for future career choice.

Build in downtime

A trait common among healthy families is the propensity for everyone to enjoy spending downtime or unstructured time together. It’s during downtime that parents and children share activities together, which promotes better relationships and helps children’s informal learning.

Most children when given unstructured time will rise to the occasion (even after some complaining) and will find interesting things to do. By encouraging them to find something “to do”, other than filling their time with screen-based activities, you are promoting a fabulous life-skill in your kids.

We wanted to share and celebrate some of the incredible artistic work that has been happening at home during Term 3 of remote learning.
While being away from the art room has been a challenge at times we have been amazed by the creativity that’s continued to flourish in your homes.
We are so proud of all the incredible work that’s been created. Here is just a sample for you to enjoy.

With a happy heART
Ms Kent and Lisa

Magnificent Prep Artists

Year 3 Amazing Artists

Year 6 Talented Artists

Masses at SMOT this week….

Weekend Mass can be found on our website www.smot.org.au or on our facebook page @SmotParish
Weekday Masses livestreamed Tuesday (22 Sept) & Thursday (24 Sept) this week at 9.15am on our facebook page and Friday via Zoom (25 Sept)
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86821580873?pwd=OHQ5Y21pNUtlWkFTRUd6SFVVaDlZUT09

SOCIAL SERVICES SUNDAY On 20th September 2020

We mark Social Services Sunday within the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne on Sunday 20 September 2020.
On this day we are invited to give thanks and pray for all who stand with and provide support to those who are marginalised and vulnerable within our communities. We recognise with deep gratitude, those working within Catholic Social Services Victoria’s 45 member organisations, the 7,000 staff and 17,000 volunteers, who together, serve more than 200,000 people in need each year.
We also give thanks for all in our parishes, who are so often at the forefront of providing practical support and care to those in need within their local communities, and beyond. We call to mind the 2020/21 Social Justice Statement brought out recently by the Australian Catholic bishops, To Live Life to the Full: Mental Health in Australia Today, and so draw your attention to a recent event hosted by CSSV, Counselling and Therapeutic Support in a Time of COVID, which provided an opportunity to become more familiar with mental health services, and how to practically reach out for or point to assistance. Parishioners will find the resources in this article helpful.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Spring is in the air (and our hair today) and the warmer days are certainly lifting our spirits.
                

Oh Lord
Thank you for Spring,
The season of your expression of joy
Let every bloom remind us of your grace
Let each sunny day bring light to our soul
As we spring ahead let these months give birth to warm thoughts and kind gestures.
Amen

Thank-you for continuing to support your children at home during Remote Learning. It certainly has been challenging maintaining the momentum. We wait in anticipation and hope that the Premiers press conference on Sunday brings promising news for our students returning to school. As soon as I know the next steps I will inform you. At this stage Remote Learning remains in place until the end of this term (Friday 18 September). For those children who are onsite, school will finish at 1pm.

Feedback

An important element of our Remote Learning is regularly gathering feedback and improving our practice.
Thank you for taking the time to complete our recent parent surveys.

We received the following affirmations;
● The teacher check ins and additional google meets (both learning and social) have been beneficial

● The pre-recorded videos work well and support the learning requirements

● The content and setup of remote learning has been of an excellent standard

We have received the following areas for improvement;
● Exploring ways to support students who are disengaged and lack motivation

● Ways to support parents who are managing work commitments along with remote learning

● Ensuring all teachers are available and checking in with all students

School Review

Our staff have done an amazing job gathering all our evidence for our school review which officially takes place next week. Our Catholic Education Melbourne Reviewers Gilbert Keisler and Christine Lynch will work remotely when engaging with staff, parents and students next week.
A comprehensive timetable has been set up which also includes the reviewers attending some learning google meets for various year levels. The most exciting part of the Review process is being provided with feedback on insights, strengths, opportunities and recommendations for the next four year School Improvement Plan. I look forward to sharing this with you all.

Term 4

We have had many questions in relation to whether events planned for Term 4 will go ahead. I am hoping I can respond with more certainty later this term. We are currently exploring options of more outdoor, open air events and smaller group gatherings.

Some of the events that need to be considered include; St Martin’s Feast Day Mass, Prep 2021 Orientation/Transition Program, Prep 2021 Parent Welcome Dinner, Sporting Events, Year 6 Big Day Out, Graduation and Mass, End of Year Whole School Mass, Year 1-6 2021 Transition Day and Christmas Carols.

The following are confirmed School Closure/ Pupil Free Days for Term 4, 2 November and 30 November.

Fathers Day

I would like to wish all the dad’s, grandfathers and carers a special day on Sunday. I’m sure the day will be filled with laughter, celebration and many creative ways of saying “Thank you and I love you!” Please click here to read a 'Father's Day Prayer'.

Show bags

Congratulations to the winners of our Design a Showbag Competition. The lucky winners are: Abigail C - PVL, Poppy D - 1LB, Phoebe W - 2T, Lucia B - 3C, Bethany M - 4C, Natalia B - 5V and Maya D - 6ZW

SMOT Carnival - Sunday 29 November 2020

Unfortunately the decision has been that the Carnival will not go ahead this year due to the uncertainty of the impacts of COVID-19. I would like to thank the committee, Trish Di Pietro, Belinda Pryse, Kathy Bekavac, Anna Hanks, John Lundari, Teresa Michelangeli and Marita Anderson for the hours and hours of work that they have dedicated to our wonderful community.

Once again I encourage you to take the time to read the article 'Help kids to beat COVID induced anxiety' written by Michael Grose, as it provides parents with some useful strategies.

If there is anything we can do to support you or members of your family at this time please do not hesitate to contact me. If you are experiencing financial hardship please reach out or if you just need to talk please know we are here.

Take care
Jacqui Marshall
Principal

       

St Teresa of Calcutta Feast Day - Saturday 5th September       

Who is St Teresa?

● Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu was born on the 26th of August in 1910 in Skopje.
● She received her First Communion at the age of 5 and was confirmed in 1916.
● As a youth she was involved in the Jesuit parish of the Sacred Heart.
● She left home in September 1928 at the age of 18 to pursue missionary work.
● Teresa joined the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland and received the name Sister Mary Teresa after St Terese of Lisieux.
● In 1929 she arrived in Calcutta where she taught in St Mary’s school for girls.
● Sr Teresa made her Final Profession of Vows in 1937.
● From that time on she was called Mother Teresa.
● In 1944 she became the principal of the school.
● She was known for her charity, unselfishness, courage and her capacity for hard work
● Mother Teresa established a religious community, Missionaries of Charity, dedicated to the service of the poorest of the poor.
● She began each day with communion and went out to find and serve families with her rosary beads in her hand.
● Over the years to support her mission, Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity Brothers, Contemplative Sisters, Contemplative Brothers and Missionaries of Charity Fathers and the Lay Missionaries of Charity.
● In 1979 she won the Nobel Peace Prize to honour her work in the name of the poor.
● In spite of increasingly severe health problems towards the end of her life, Mother Teresa continued to govern her Society and respond to the needs of the poor and the Church.
● Mother Teresa died on September 5
● She left a testament of unshakable faith, invincible hope and extraordinary charity.
● St. Teresa of Calcutta was canonized by Pope Francis on September 4, 2016 in a ceremony that was witnessed by tens of thousands of people, including 1,500 homeless people across Italy.
● A relative of Mother Teresa on his wife Michele’s side of the family, Mr Witchell and his family attended the canonisation and participated in the Mass.
● St. Teresa of Calcutta is the patron saint of World Youth Day, Missionaries of Charity and a co-patron of the Archdiocese of Calcutta, alongside St. Francis Xavier. Her feast day is celebrated on September 5.

Father’s Day Prayer

We especially thank our fathers, grandfathers and special friends of our St Martin’s community who have supported our students with their learning and families with their love during remote learning. You are the best! We wish you all a wonderful Father’s Day on Sunday.

GOD OUR FATHER, WE GIVE YOU THANKS AND PRAISE FOR FATHERS YOUNG AND OLD.

WE PRAY FOR YOUNG FATHERS, NEWLY EMBRACING THEIR VOCATION; MAY THEY FIND COURAGE AND PERSEVERANCE TO BALANCE WORK, FAMILY AND FAITH IN JOY AND SACRIFICE.

WE PRAY FOR OUR OWN FATHERS AROUND THE WORLD WHOSE CHILDREN ARE LOST OR SUFFERING; MAY THEY KNOW THAT THE GOD OF COMPASSION WALKS WITH THEM IN THEIR SORROW.

WE PRAY FOR MEN WHO ARE NOT FATHERS BUT STILL MENTOR AND GUIDE US WITH FATHERLY LOVE AND ADVICE.

WE REMEMBER FATHERS, GRANDFATHER, AND GREAT GRANDFATHERS WHO ARE NO LONGER WITH US BUT WHO LIVE FOREVER IN OUR MEMORY AND NOURISH US WITH THEIR LOVE.

Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.

Help kids to beat COVID induced anxiety            

Since COVID has entered our lives I’ve had countless conversations with parents and enquiries from schools seeking presentations on how to support kids who with COVID induced anxiety.

It’s wonderful to see how kids’ mental health and wellbeing is being prioritised, and importantly, resourced. However these conversations show we still have some way to go as a community to fully grasp the nature of anxiety.

While the current situation we are all living through is extremely difficult, it does present an opportunity to develop sustained growth and vitality in anxious children and young people.

In Anxious Kids, the book I co-authored with Dr. Jodi Richardson we wrote, “Anxiety doesn’t have to be the shadow that clouds the days of children and young people. Understanding that anxiety is a well understood and manageable condition brings anxious kids such relief.”

We wrote this pre-COVID and nothing since has caused me to change my mind. In fact, experiences of this COVID era have reinforced that the more we know about anxiety the less fearful we are and better equipped to move kids from anxiety to real resilience.

There is no cure for anxiety

Just as there’s no cure for the common cold, and it would appear the coronavirus, there is also no cure for anxiety. We know that anxiety runs in families. Children are born with a predisposition for anxiety. There is every likelihood that an anxious child will have at least one parent who experiences anxiety, maybe not clinically, but one who is familiar with a churn in their stomach, the constant overthinking and the desire to over prepare when they face new or unfamiliar situations.

The impact of anxiety can be minimised

Anxiety may be a constant companion for many children but it’s certainly not their best friend. Often, it’s a demon with which they are locked in a long-running, laborious battle where simple activities such as attending school camp or doing at home learning become something they dread. Alternatively, they can avoid events or situations that make them anxious or bring them discomfort.

It’s better to give an anxious child or young person tools such as mindfulness, checking in and deep breathing with which they can manage their anxiety, rather than allow them to miss out and be miserable, or tackle discomfort full on and be stressed out.

You can build anxiety resistance

While we can’t necessarily tackle anxiety at its source and make the situations that overwhelm a child disappear, we can help them to develop a lifestyle that builds their resistance against the very worst of anxiety. Plenty of sleep, adequate diet, regular exercise and sufficient time in nature are some of the lifestyle factors that builds strength against the psychological ravages of anxiety.

You can help kids reduce their ongoing anxiety

While the world waits and prays that we’ll come up with a coronavirus vaccine, we don’t have to wait to help a child or young person with anxiety. A combination of being nurturing and firm (features of the authoritative parenting style) offers the best protection against ongoing anxiety. A child is best prepared to face difficulties when they have a confident, calm adult in their life who says, “I think you can do this,” encouraging them to face their fears. This approach needs to be supported by an empathetic adult who understands the impact of anxiety and makes sure that kids feel safe and secure.

While parenting an anxious child or young person can feel overwhelming and difficult, I encourage you to think about it differently. We can’t change what is happening right now, and we can’t undo it. Help your anxious child to flourish in this COVID era by building their understanding of anxiety. Give them the tools to help them push anxiety into the background. Promote a lifestyle that will protect them from its affects by ensuring they experience nurturing, firm, brave and hopeful parenting. We hope coronavirus will one day disappear, but your child’s ability to be impacted by difficult events will still be an issue unless you take some preventative action now. The good news is that there is so much you can do to help.

Online Mental Health Resources

● Kids Helpline
● Parenting Anxious Kids online course
● Smiling Mind app
● eheadspace

“Tour De St Martin's”

Over the past 2 weeks, over 150 children from St Martin’s took part in the first ever “Tour De St Martin’s”. This activity was set for their Physical Education lessons and required the children to ride a certain distance while having it timed. The children then sent through their results and the overall winners of each year level were determined. The distances that the children were required to ride were:

Prep – 2 km
Grade 1 and 2 – 4 km
Grade 3 and 4 - 6 km
Grade 5 and 6 - 8 km
Listed below are the winners for each year Level.

SEASON OF CREATION 2020 - free program

Pope John Paul II in 1990 named environmental care as integral to the Catholic faith and named St Francis of Assisi as the patron of ecological conversion. Pope Benedict XVI reinforced this Catholic vocation delivering homilies and speeches asking world leaders to take action. Pope Francis, in his 2015 Encyclical Laudato Si’ detailed the call to See, Judge, Act on care for our common home.

Every year, Christians of all denominations join in prayer and action for our common home and celebrate the Season of Creation starting on 1 September, the Day of Prayer for Creation and ending on 4 October, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. See www.columban.org.au for the program.

MASSES AT SMOT THIS WEEK

Weekend Mass can be found on our website www.smot.org.au or on our facebook page @SmotParish

Weekday Masses livestreamed Tuesday (8 Sept) & Thursday (10 Sept) this week at 9.15am on our facebook page and Friday via Zoom (11 Sept)

Join Zoom Meeting:   https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2137834081?pwd=RmtMZ0dGRTEvOFVvN3FId2V0MjhLQT09
Use the id and password below if you use Zoom this way
Meeting ID: 213 783 4081
Passcode: 415472

A BLESSING FOR FATHERS

We thank you, God, for the gift of our fathers,
For grandfathers and godfathers and fathers-in-law too.
Send your Holy Spirit upon our fathers,
In whose laps we were cradled, at whose hands we were fed, instructed, at times corrected,
In whose company we learned to work and play and pray, at whose side we hear your word and celebrate your mysteries.
Heal their pains and disappointments.
Forgive all that needs to be forgiven.
Give to them the good that they have given to others.
Welcome into your arms those who have died.
Fill this world, O God, with a father’s love!
We ask this through your Son Jesus Christ, who taught us to Pray to you as “Abba”.
He lives and reigns with your and the Holy Spirit, who is the Father of the poor, one God forever and ever.
Amen.

"A Thousand Stars" Community Art Project Invitation    

Every year in October we recognise Australian children’s’ talents, contribution to society and children’s rights by celebrating Children’s Week across the nation.
This year the Australian Children’s Week theme is ‘Children have the right to choose their own friends and safely connect with others’.

Banyule City Council is encouraging children and the community to make a lantern and help us illuminate these dark times!

The Thousand Stars Project is inspired by the age-old tradition of keeping a candle burning in the window for a visitor.
The lantern in the window signifies that, whilst we may now be isolated, tomorrow we will be together. It is a symbol of resilience and hope.

Make a Star or Jar Lantern at home and hang it in your window!

Visit https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/1000stars to register your interest and receive your pack. Alternatively, you can create your own star or jar packs from readily available household materials. Photograph your lantern in a window and post on Facebook and Instagram tagging @1000.Star.Project and using #1000StarProject.

Presented by Banyule City Council in partnership with Sanctum Studio.
Connecting community through lock-down.

Dear Parents and Guardians

Thank you for your support as we continue to do the best we can in the most trying of circumstances. We are all experiencing difficulty in some way, shape or form but somehow find the inner strength to be there for one another. I strongly encourage you to take the time to read the article Staying the course in COVID times by Michael Grose. It provides some strategies at these challenging times that include: accepting difficult emotions, encouraging acceptance, taking it one day and one week at a time and being a person of hope.

Over the past two weeks it has been lovely to check in with many families through google meets as part of our Prep 2021 transition process. The younger children were so excited to have their own google meet and talk with me about starting school next year.

Sacraments

We are still awaiting final confirmation from the Archdiocese but it is highly likely that Confirmation, Eucharist and Reconciliation will not be taking place this year. If this is the case both of these Sacraments will take place in 2021 for our current Year 6, Year 3 and Year 4 students.

Learning Packs

The last of the learning packs for this term will be distributed next week to students in the junior school. We have once again organised a special delivery to your homes.

PFA News

How exciting that the Show is coming to SMOT! This week all families would have received information about our Showbag fundraiser and Design a
Showbag competition. All orders and designs are due by the end of next week. I am looking forward to seeing all the creative designs. Please visit the PFA weebly page for more information.

Prep 100 Days

Today I interviewed 3 prep students Mila Z, Rory D and Lewis B to ask them about their 100 day celebrations and all that they have learnt in 2020.
Mila shared that she dressed up as an old Grandma and read to me the book she wrote and illustrated about dogs.
Rory enjoyed making his 100 day crown and now knows how to write more letters and numbers.
Lewis proudly showed me his 100 number chart and how he has been enjoying reading books on his Ipad.
It was just lovely to talk to some of the prep students today.

Staffing

Steve Domini is currently on long service leave for the rest of this term. Maria Mandarano will be taking his classes for Italian. We congratulate Jess Casamento on completing her teaching round with us over the past five weeks. I know the students have learnt a lot from her in this remote space.

Moving forward

Please reach out if you need any support at these challenging times.
As you would be aware at this point remote learning continues whilst we experience Stage 4 restrictions which currently concludes on 13 September.
The term is scheduled to finish on Friday 18 September. I believe it would be highly unlikely that students would be back onsite for the last week of term.
Let’s hope and pray that Term 4 allows for students to be back learning in their classrooms, playing in the playground and connecting back in with their peers.

Take care
Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Who is St Joseph?

Joseph is the patron saint of families, carpenters, and working people in general, but he is also the protector and patron saint of home sellers. Many sellers believe burying a statue of St. Joseph will help them get their house sold.

We pray especially for our families of St Martin’s parish and school as they continue to isolate from their dear ones during these difficult times. Joseph, keep our families safe, watch over them always and let good health, happiness and your blessings be upon them. Amen

Prayer to St Joseph
from the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne

St Joseph,
You were receptive to God working in your life.
Help us by your prayers at this time of trial.
You kept Jesus and Mary under your watchful care:
may your prayers assist our local Church to respond to those in need.
You taught the Christ Child your trade and prayers:
help us to follow his example of love.
You were part of God’s plan for all humanity:
assist us to be vigilant and responsible this day.
You spent your life in service:
may we be mindful of others, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, caring for them in these difficult days.
You trusted in the clear primacy of God over all history and every situation: help us to grow in faith and pray to the Father,
Thy will be done.
Amen

We also pray for those who have succumbed to the illness and for those on the frontlines – our doctors, nurses and medical staff and other carers, including our teachers, clergy and chaplains, as they risk their own wellbeing in service to others.

Loving God,
we place into your care
all our doctors, nurses, healthcare workers and carers.
Give them courage of heart
and strength of mind and body.
Keep them safe from harm.
May they know our deep gratitude
for all they are doing
to heal and help those affected by
the coronavirus.
God of all consolation
may they know your protection and peace.
Bless them in these challenging days
and bless their families.
Amen.

100 days of Prep!

On Thursday the 13th of August we celebrated 100 days of Prep! Things were a little different this year but we still had lots of fun! Each child received a delicious iced ‘100’ cookie - yum! Many children dressed up as a 100 year old. So many wrinkles, grey hair and walking sticks!

      

At our Whole Class Google Meet children shared 100 objects in a bag. We saw 100 bits of pasta, 100 beads, 100 buttons etc. It was great hearing about the children playing the board game called ‘Race to 100’ with their parents and siblings and so many were exhausted after completing 100 exercises.

        

Our wonderful school captains also gave us a special certificate.

       

We are all 100 days smarter now!

Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.

Staying the course in COVID times

COVID-19 continues to test us in ways that were unimaginable at the start of 2020. It’s becoming the defining event of this generation and a reference point for decades to come. We’ve had depression kids, war kids and now we have COVID-19 kids.

The impact of COVID-19 is felt differently across the country. Currently, Victoria is in Stage 4 lockdown while other states are on high alert. Not every student is working from home, but most students are COVID conscious, knowing that they’re only a corona cough or virus-filled hug away from remote learning.

Encouraging kids to stay the course when they’ve been denied access to the classroom, peers and community activities is now a common parenting challenge. Denial is generally tolerable in the short term, but the novelty of changed circumstances soon wears off. The following strategies will assist both parents and kids to stay the COVID long course:

Accept difficult emotions

‘There’s nothing so bad that we can’t talk about, but there are behaviours that we won’t accept’ is a mantra that serves families well. It’s okay for children to feel frustrated, annoyed, angry or upset about their change of circumstances due to the pandemic but that doesn’t give them permission to behave disrespectfully, miss school requirements or fail to assist at home. It helps if parents validate how their children feel, then encourage them to focus on fulfilling school and family expectations.

Some children and young people will protest the COVID induced changes that have been imposed upon them. In some respects, it may be admirable for children to push for a better deal, but the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic means that the individual needs to bend toward the greater community good. This is simply a case of accepting and making the best of the situation at hand.

Take it one day and week at a time

On family bush walks my young children would rarely complain when the tracks were windy. The complaint levels rose when paths were long and straight as the finish line seemed such a long way off. In a similar vein during our current times it’s smart to keep kids focused on getting through each day and week rather than look too far ahead. Six weeks of Stage 4 may seem intolerable, so it’s better to focus on getting through each day and week.

Be the hope person

Help children and young people understand that they will get through difficult times. “This too shall pass” is perhaps the most apt meme for our times. If your hope bucket is emptying out, seek out positive friends and relatives who can top it up. Our own resilience needs nurturing if we are to last the distance. The internal parenting manual that guides us probably doesn’t include chapters dealing with remote learning, lack of peer interaction and kids’ disappointment. Most of us are treading new parenting ground so it’s best to be open to change, accepting of difficulties and forgiving of inevitable parenting stumbles.

Hello to our amazing SMOT families,

We hope that you are all staying safe and well.

We are amazed to see the various special ways that each of you are connecting with books remotely during our Library lessons. As the talented J.K Rowling so aptly said, “The stories we love best live in us forever.”

Earlier in the year some of our students signed up to participate in the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge, which started at the beginning of Term 2.

So far an amazing 1,491 books have been read!

The challenge is now drawing to close, so please take note that the finishing date for adding all of your books and completing the challenge is by Friday 11th September.

To receive the Premiers’ Reading Challenge Certificate, you must have met the challenge requirements:
* Prep to Year 2 students need to read a total of 30 books - 20 challenge books and 10 choice books
* Year 3 to 6 students need to read a total of 15 books - 10 challenge books and 5 choice books.

If you have any questions regarding the challenge, please do not hesitate to contact Chloe Jones - cjones@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Take care,
The Library Team

St Martins Mental Health Check ins

Hi St Martins Community, this is Chris one of the youth leaders. During this lockdown period, many of us are at risk of the negative effects that social Isolation can have on our mental wellbeing. This can be especially true for the members of our community as weekly masses have been halted. That’s why from the 23rd of August to the 19th of September, 2 other Nursing student volunteers and I will be offering mental health check-up calls to those who feel they need it or to those who think a family member or friend may need it. In these weekly calls we will offer guidance, advice, and support regarding your quarantine experience, staying safe and possible referrals and recommendations to services you may find useful. Most of all we are here just to listen to anything you want to say, these calls are confidential and if you would like can simply be for you to socialise. If you think you, a friend or a family member may benefit from this service, email christopherwebb4321@gmail.com and send me the name and number of the person and we will follow up with a phone call. Stay Safe everybody and God Bless.

CATHOLICCARE SERVICES

In these challenging and unsettling times, many families and communities have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have lost jobs and are in financial crisis. There is emergency relief available. Others are experiencing increased anxiety and depression due to social isolation. Meanwhile, couples and families are facing relationship issues while in prolonged lock-down. It is important to look after your health and wellbeing during these difficult times. Whether you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or sad; talking to a counsellor can help. If you are having relationship problems, CatholicCare can also provide couples or family counselling. We are offering FREE counselling via phone and video conference during the COVID crisis. You do not need a referral or a mental health care plan to access this service. Learn more about how counselling can help or call to make a booking. Call 9287 5555. Or visit www.ccam.org.au

MILESTONE OCCASIONS

Do you have a significant marriage milestone or significant birthday coming up?? Parishioners may like to receive a blessing at Mass on these special, important occasions. A certificate will also be given to commemorate the milestone. Please let us know via email of your milestone and we can arrange to have the occasion celebrated during Mass.

Dear Parents and Guardians

As we all get used to a new kind of normal for the next 5 weeks please remember to be kind to yourselves. I know many of our families have had to make significant changes to their lives. Please know the staff at St Martin’s are committed to ensuring our students have the best opportunities to continue their learning and the wellbeing of everyone is our priority. Mr Witchell proudly shared with me this week the results of the St Martin’s Virtual Cross Country as we all know getting out and doing some exercise is so important at the moment.

On the advice of the government all school staff are now working remotely. Minimal staff will be onsite for our students of essential workers. As the risk of community transmissions remains high we know that remaining at home is extremely important. Email would be the best form of contact at this stage, please reach out and keep in touch.

A message from our School Captains (Hanna, Luca, Maya and Zach)

Hi Everyone
We hope you are all safe and well during these times. Remote learning is very different for all of us and we are still trying to get used to it but we also need to remember that we need to put in lots of effort in our work to produce the best results we possibly can. We know we are missing out on lots of special things this year such as camp, Sacraments, excursions, and more, but it will be great to help our Preps celebrate their 100 days of school next week. We hope that all the Preps can have a wonderful day celebrating this special day as part of our St Martin’s family.

    

Home Learning Packs

With the increased restrictions we feel it is not responsible to ask parents to come onsite to collect learning packs. We believe they are an important tool to break up the onscreen time for students and also provide another way of learning. For these reasons we have organised for the learning packs to be couriered to your homes. The contactless deliveries will take place Tuesday and Wednesday next week. There will be a second delivery of packs later in the term.

Staffing

We keep Teresa Michelangeli and her family in our prayers as her beloved mum Maria passed away after a short illness earlier this week. May Teresa’s family find strength in the precious memories that they have of a much loved mother and grandmother.

Prep’s 100 Days

As mentioned by our school captains our Preps celebrate 100 days of school on Thursday 13 August. It certainly will be 100 days that we will never forget. Never has a Prep cohort at St Martin’s had a mix of school and home based learning as part of their first 100 days. A fun day has been planned for them which includes dressing up as a 100 year old person and reading, counting, sport and art activities all based around 100. We look forward to sharing photos of their celebrations with you all.

Prep 2021-Current Families

I look forward to connecting in with our current families who have Prep children starting in 2021 over the next two weeks via Google meet.

Year 6 Camp

We have made the decision to cancel the Year 6 camp booked at The Briars for October. We feel that there will be little or no chance that camps will be permitted. Your accounts will be adjusted accordingly. Mary Milione our bursar will be in contact with you via email.

PFA Meeting

On Tuesday night the PFA met via Zoom to review the activities conducted to date and to canvas ideas for the remainder of the year. Please take the time to read the PFA News for a summary of the meeting. Earlier this year they launched the SMOT Community Business Directory. We would like to support all our families struggling at the moment so if you would like us to promote your business please contact the PFA.

School Counsellor

Our School Counsellor Perri Ashton is beginning to connect in with some of our families. Wellbeing and Mental Health checks are very important at this time so please know you can access Perri’s service for your children by completing the documentation on our school website. During remote learning Perri will work through a telehealth service with individual students and families. Please feel free to contact Jamie Atherton, Wellbeing Leader, or myself if you have any questions.

At this time, we call on our faith to keep us steadfast in the face of adversity. We wait with hope that all of this will pass and one day soon our lives will return to some normality.
Please continue to take care and if you are experiencing financial hardship or need some emotional support know that we are here for you.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

St Mary of the Cross                                           

On Saturday 8th of August we will celebrate Mary Mackillop’s Feast Day. Mary became a school teacher who assisted poor children in attending school. Mary gave up her life to God and became a sister of St Joseph in 1866. Mary was declared Australia’s first Saint on the 17th of October, 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI.

Listed below are some interesting facts about Mary’s life from ‘Mary Mackillop For Kids’ @homeschoolingdownunder.com

★ Mary MacKillop was born in Victoria in 1842. She was the eldest child in her family and had 3 sisters and 4 brothers.
★ Her father had an excellent religious education and most of Mary’s education was at home.
★ Mary’s first job was as a clerk when she was 14, she then worked as a governess looking after her cousins and teaching them (and other farm children) their lessons.
★ She loved children and later became a school teacher.
★ In South Australia she met a priest named Father Julian Tenison Woods who also wanted to help poor children attend school.
★ Together Mary MacKillop and Father Tenison Woods started the ‘Stable School’ in 1866.
★ All of the children had lessons in reading, writing, math and singing. The girls also enjoyed learning to sew whilst the boys enjoyed woodwork. Mary and her sisters also taught the children about God and taught them to trust in Jesus.
★ In 1866 Mary MacKillop and Father Tenison Woods started the religious order of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart (the Josephites) and in 1867 Mary MacKillop became a nun – Sister Mary of the Cross.
★ Mary and the Josephite nuns set up schools in Australia and New Zealand.
★ They also set up houses for elderly women, young girls and women without jobs. They gave their life to people in need often giving comfort to the sick and dying and even visiting people in jail to give them whatever help they could.

At times in her life Mary MacKillop met people who made it hard for her to perform her good works but she never gave up and today the Sisters of St Joseph are still doing the work that Mary MacKillop started all those years ago.

We Pray...
St Mary Mackillop friend of children,

Help us get on well with our brothers and sisters
Help us listen to our parents
Keep us interested in our work
Help us make new friends
Comfort us when we are sad
Help us be sorry when we are cranky
Keep us trying to be true
Help us to forgive when someone hurts us
Help us love ourselves
Help us to love God heaps
St Mary Mackillop, Pray for us! AMEN.

The Assumption of Mary into Heaven - 15th August

God has already been active in the lives of the two women who meet in the Gospel. Elizabeth, a kinswoman of Mary, has conceived a child in her old age, by the grace of God. The journey Mary undertakes to go to her (and return) would have been arduous and difficult, from Nazareth in the North to the hills of Judea in the south. Both women are carrying children who are destined to play important roles in God’s plan of salvation. Elizabeth already knows the greater role that Mary plays, and her greeting affirms this. Mary’s prayer, known as the Magnificat, points us towards the greatness of God. Nothing is impossible for God.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke Luke 1:39-56

Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your voice, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”

And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on, all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and his descendants for ever.” And Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months and then returned to her home.

God chose Mary to be the mother of his son, Jesus. Mary was always ready and willing to do whatever God wanted. Because she was so special she was taken up body and soul to be with Jesus in heaven – this is what ‘Assumption’ means. What qualities of Mary would we like to grow in our lives?

The Magnifcat

My soul magnifies the Lord
And my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour
Because He has regarded the lowliness of His handmaid;
For behold, henceforth all generations shall call me blessed;
Because He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name;
And His mercy is from generation to generation on those who fear Him.
He has shown might with His arm,
He has scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.
He has put down the mighty from their thrones, and has exalted the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent away empty.
He has given help to Israel, his servant, mindful of His mercy.
Even as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity forever.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal

Last week, the winter appeal items and vouchers were collected by Parish volunteers who assist in the local conference of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Below is an email I recently received thanking our school families for their wonderful generosity.

Thank you so much for this - the generosity of the school and broader parish is heartening - especially in these challenging times. I’m sure the chocolates will be welcome additions to our daily assistance visits. I’d be grateful if you could include a huge “thank you" from St Vincent de Paul Macleod conference for all the generous donations. They will be so very welcome by those we assist as so many are really struggling right now. God bless you and the whole school community. Thank you once again as I believe all the wonderful donations - together with the excellent gift cards - were collected and are on their way to deserving folk. Our Vinnies conference is so very grateful for the generosity shown by you and the whole school community. It certainly assists us greatly in our work.

St Martin of Tours Virtual Cross Country

Over the past 2 weeks, over 250 children from St Martin’s took part in the first ever Virtual Cross Country. This activity was set for their Physical Education lessons and required the children to run a certain distance while having it timed. The children then sent through their results and the overall winners of each year level were determined. The distances that the children were required to run were:

Prep – 500m
Year 1 and 2 – 1km
Year 3 and 4 - 2 km
Year 5 and 6 - 3 km

Listed below are the winners for each year Level.

Please keep a look out for the Physical Education lessons in the next week, as the children will be competing in the Virtual “Tour De St Martin’s.”

In order to compete in this activity the children will require a bike and a bike helmet for safety reasons. Further information will be on the Physical Education Webpage next week and the Tour will start on Wednesday 12th August.

The Term 3 PFA Committee meeting was held remotely earlier this week. In this meeting, we reviewed PFA activities conducted to date and canvassed ideas for the remainder of the year.

In Term 1, we held the Shrove Tuesday Picnic (which was cancelled at the last minute due to weather), Snow Cones day and Easter Raffle. A big thank you to Sam and Liana for their help with the Easter Raffle. In Term 2, we were excited to run the Beanie Fundraiser which has received support from both SMOT families and staff members, with lots of positive feedback. Families with an eldest child in Prep-2, received their beanies with learning packs collected last Friday. Families with an eldest child in Years 3-6, will receive their beanies in the coming weeks.

Despite this being a difficult year, we are grateful for the continued support of our SMOT community which has helped us raise a total of $4,951.37 to date. Jacqui will be reviewing the "Persuade the Principal" letters submitted earlier this year to consider what our fundraising goals might be for 2020/2021. The Play Pods which were to be funded by the Colour Run held last year, have not been forgotten. However, in light of the current situation, they will have to be put on the backburner for next year.

This year we also launched the SMOT Community Business Directory. As many businesses are presently struggling, we have decided to provide the opportunity for anyone in the SMOT community who has a business to provide their details and have it listed and promoted for free so that we can help support each other by using and/or referring others to use their services.

At this stage, we are uncertain what will be possible for the remainder of the year. However, our focus this term will be to try and do something fun for the kids to raise their spirits during this lockdown.

MASSES AVAILABLE TO WATCH ON LINE…

SMOT Parish Mass can be found on our website www.smot.org.au or on our facebook page @SmotParish

St Patrick’s Cathedral The 11am Sunday Mass at St Patrick's Cathedral is televised free to air on C31 (often listed as Channel 44 on digital TVs) as well as live streamed on our website and YouTube channel. We invite you to share the news widely, particularly with those who might be limited to TV viewing. Watch here: https://melbournecatholic.org.au/Mass

Mass for you at home This program has been allowing the faithful – particularly those with mobility problems – to participate in Mass from their homes for many years. Mass for You at Home is broadcast on Eleven and Network Ten on Sundays and Aurora Channel on Foxtel every day. It is also the fourth-longest running television show in Australia.
Watch here: http://www.mfyah.com/video.html or https://10play.com.au/mass-for-you-at-home

Dear Parents and Guardians

This week we began round two of Remote Learning and the feedback I have received is that families and staff have embraced the changes made.
The Learning Conversations last week were an important opportunity to set shared goals and adjust our programs to suit the needs of our parents when working with their children at home. Staff are constantly ensuring that the learning tasks on the websites are engaging and challenging and also allow opportunities for student voice. Once again whilst we are on this journey we will ask you for feedback along the way so we can refine our practices. Please know that you can reach out to me at any time as your wellbeing is very important to me. Also if there are families who are experiencing financial hardship please know you can contact me to discuss this further.

      

Collection of Learning Packs

This term we will dedicate Fridays for collection of Learning Packs and resources to support the learning from home. Each Year level will communicate with their families and set the times for collection. As per the government's directive all parents who enter the school grounds must wear a mask or face covering.

School Counsellor/Provisional Psychologist

This week the St Martin of the Tours community welcomes Ms Perri Ashton as our new school counsellor/provisional psychologist. The role is dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of students by providing pastoral care services and strategies, and this includes supporting the wellbeing of the broader community.

Within Perri’s role she will:
★ Work as a member of the school’s wellbeing team in the delivery of student wellbeing services
★ Contribute to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment
★ Provide pastoral care and guidance to students
★ Support students and staff to create an environment of cooperation and mutual respect

Jamie Atherton our Wellbeing Leader has updated our website. Please click here for information on how you can access Perri’s services. During remote learning Perri will work through a telehealth service with individual students and families. Moving forward Perri will also provide group sessions to support social skill development for our students.

Perri would like to share a bit about herself….

Hi everyone! My name is Perri, and I am the School Counsellor/Provisional Psychologist at St Martin of Tours for Term 3 and 4. I am very excited to be a part of the team, and to get to know the St Martin’s community. As the School Counsellor, I will be talking and working with students and their families who would like some support. I recognise that many families may need another person to lean on, especially as we all adjust to remote learning.
I am currently completing my Master’s degree in Educational and Developmental Psychology at Monash University. I spend my free time reading, eating delicious food, and sometimes even get to help my mum raise Guide Dog puppies.
I can’t wait to spend the next half of this year meeting the community at St Martin’s.

School Review

This term we are undergoing a formal school review facilitated by Catholic Education Melbourne. Staff are currently gathering evidence of our achievements over the past four years in the following 5 Spheres: Religious Dimension, Learning and Teaching, Student Wellbeing, Leadership and Management and Community. An important part of this process is feedback from students and parents.
Due to the impacts of COVID-19 this feedback will be gathered via surveys and online forums. Your feedback is very important to ensure that our new School Improvement Plan has the voice of all stakeholders. A Compass news feed titled: Parent Survey Questions – 2020 School Review has been sent today. It would be greatly appreciated if you could take some time to respond to the questions in the survey. All responses will be anonymous and the closing date will be Friday 31 July. We would appreciate it if your responses could encapsulate your experiences over the past few years not just about our current remote learning environment. Your voice is very important as we plan our next school improvement plan for St Martin’s.

Prep 2021

Unfortunately we have had to postpone our Prep Assessment Sessions that were booked for August for all our Prep 2021 enrolments. Last term Fr Michael and I had the opportunity to meet all our new families through Google Meet. I would like to offer our current families this same opportunity this term as a way of getting to know you all. We will send out more information about this next week.

Staffing

We farewelled Wendy Roussety this week after seven years of service at St Martin’s. Wendy has taken up a position as a library technician at Alphington Grammar. Wendy has many fond memories of her time with us and they include; book week celebrations, author visits and 100 days of prep. We thank her for inspiring our passion for books and reading and great care of our library. Wendy’s message to us all is 'take care of the books and take care of one another'. We will miss Wendy but wish her every success.

This term we welcome Mr Steven Villani on staff two days per week who will be taking on STEM and Christie Kotsifas as a Learning Support Officer. Jessica Casamento, one of our LSO’s is currently completing her Master of Teaching and will be doing her teaching rounds for the next 5 weeks in the Year 4 area.

Parish News

Please take some time to read the St Martin’s Parish News which is emailed to parishioners each Wednesday. The news provides many spiritual resources for you to access during this lockdown period. All public Masses have been cancelled at St Martin’s and Fr Michael is once again offering online weekday and weekend Masses. You will find these Masses on the parish website www.smot.org.au or on the parish facebook page @SmotParish

Please take care as we continue to navigate through these challenging times.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

MASSES AVAILABLE TO WATCH ON LINE…

SMOT Parish Mass can be found on our website www.smot.org.au or on our facebook page @SmotParish
St Patrick’s Cathedral The 11am Sunday Mass at St Patrick's Cathedral is televised free to air on C31 (often listed as Channel 44 on digital TVs) as well as live streamed on our website and YouTube channel. We invite you to share the news widely, particularly with those who might be limited to TV viewing. Watch here: https://melbournecatholic.org.au/Mass
Mass for you at home This program has been allowing the faithful – particularly those with mobility problems – to participate in Mass from their homes for many years. Mass for You at Home is broadcast on Eleven and Network Ten on Sundays and Aurora Channel on Foxtel every day. It is also the fourth-longest running television show in Australia.
Watch here: http://www.mfyah.com/video.html or https://10play.com.au/mass-for-you-at-home

RCIA & RCIC ENQUIRY FOR 2020

RCIA - Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults & RCIC - Rite of Christian Initiation of Children.
We warmly welcome anyone interested in finding out more about the Catholic Faith for yourself or for your children/grandchildren. Please see Fr. Michael or Sr Maria for further information.
Alternatively, contact the parish office on 9401 6338 for an appointment. An enquiry night will be held on the 6th August via Zoom.at 7.30pm.
All are welcome to virtually attend.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal 2020

The Winter Appeal has now successfully concluded and we would like to thank you for your very generous contributions.
As a result of your generosity the society will be able to provide assistance to the needy in what will be a very difficult period for the people of Victoria.
Our own Macleod Conference will be continuing with the work in St Martin’s Parish and a part of St Pius Parish.
Please remember those needing assistance in your prayers.

          

It certainly has been a term we will never forget. I am incredibly proud of how all our students have transitioned back. As a staff we are also grateful for the words of thanks and generosity from our parent community. We have received many gifts/treats and today on behalf of you all our school captains delivered to every staff member with a most precious message along with a gift.

Thanks a million

Not all superheros wear capes...some wear onesies!
In these last couple of months, we all looked to you for guidance and leadership and we received that and so much more.
We watched on as our school leaders and teachers shared a warmth and dedication that made our children feel safe and loved.
You were strong and resolute and while still having to care for yourselves and loved ones, all while making us feel that our children were the most important.
We thank you for the endless hours of work, commitment and patience you have shown to our beautiful children.
Trepidation made way for smiles as they were welcomed back with magical characters and open arms.

2020 will certainly be a year we will never forget!
Please accept this small gesture and know how much you are admired and appreciated - drinks are on us!

With all our love,
The families of St Martin's.

Last Day of Term

Term two comes to an end for students at 1pm on Friday 26 June.
Our end of the day pick up will be as follows with three collection times.

A-I students to be collected between 12:30pm - 12:50pm
J-R students to be collected between 12:50pm - 1:10pm
S-Z students to be collected at 1:10pm
Students walking home or to a designated pick up point (A-Z surnames) will leave the school yard at 1pm
Students enrolled in OSHClub will be collected from top yard by OSHClub staff at 1pm.

We will not send out a new Compass event for this pick up arrangement. We will make the following adjustments.

3pm pick up will be changed to 12:30pm
3:20pm pick up will be changed to 12:50pm
3:40pm pick up will be changed to 1:10pm

If you are changing your pick up point on this day please contact the office via email or phone.

Reports

I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all our staff who are currently involved in preparing school reports. Reports may look a little different this semester due to our remote learning experience. There will be an opportunity to discuss your students learning with our teachers early in Term three. Reports will be sent home via Compass on Thursday 25 June.

School Review

Next Term we will undergo a formal school review initiated by Catholic Education Melbourne. This process occurs every four years and has two key dimensions: Improvement and Compliance. The review process provides an opportunity for our school to reflect on its last School Improvement Plan and identify priorities that will be integral to the school’s strategic planning over the next four years.

The external reviewer will be in the school for a few days and would like the opportunity to meet with students, parents and staff. I will continue to inform you of the process throughout next Term.

Learning Conversations Mid Year

Learning Conversations will take place in week two of Term three. The dates are currently set for Wednesday 22nd (4pm-6pm)and Thursday 23rd of July (1pm-8pm). We are unsure of the format of these conversations due to COVID-19 restrictions, but are awaiting advice from Catholic Education Melbourne.

To facilitate these learning conversations there will be a school closure day on Thursday 23 July. Staff will spend the morning preparing for our school review.

We value this opportunity to work together with both you and your child to reflect on their learning. These upcoming conversations will provide an opportunity to consider our home learning experience, reset, and establish student learning goals for the remainder of the year.

A survey will come home from your child's classroom teacher next week. We would be extremely grateful if you took the time to fill it out, as this survey data will inform part of the Learning Conversation.

Sacraments

Please take some time to read the R.E News as there is important information related to how the Sacraments will be celebrated this year with the COVID-19 restrictions. We have spent some time planning with our Parish team - Fr Michael and Sr Maria on how to proceed with Confirmation and Reconciliation. First Eucharist Sacraments will not be taking place in 2020.

Social Media

This Term we have spent a lot more time accessing social media to stay in touch with our family and friends. Social media, (including Google Hangouts) is a great way of communicating but it can also be negative if used in the wrong way. Can I please remind all our students and parents to always be respectful when making comments on social media.

Words can be very powerful and play a significant role in people's mental health. Often people can feel brave when they hide behind a screen and then regret their actions at a later stage. As Principal my message would always be, ‘Don’t ever put something in print that you wouldn’t say personally to someone’. Relationships should always be respected. I thank you for your support in this space and encourage you to have regular conversations with your children about how to behave responsibly.

Mr Ooi and I plan on visiting our senior students in their classes next week to remind them of the school guidelines when using devices both at home and at school.

Staffing

As a community we congratulate Emma and Ben O’Malley who are expecting a baby in December. Jack is so excited to become a big brother.

I would also like to advise you that Miss Stephanie Laws has resigned from her position as classroom teacher effective the end of this Term for personal reasons. I would like to thank Stephanie for her contributions to St Martin’s in the time she has been with us this year and wish her every success for her future endeavours. For the rest of this year 5L will be taught by Mr Brendan Ooi and Mrs Martine Klaic. Brendan will teach three days and Martine two days.

Mr Steven Villani will teach STEM two days per week next semester. Ms Emma Kent will teach library an extra day next semester.

Prep 2021 Enrolments

Fr Michael and I have loved meeting our new families over the course of the Term as they wait with excitement for their children to begin their journey at St Martins next year. Many have shared their reasons for choosing St Martin’s and they include wanting a faith filled community and its wonderful reputation. I also look forward to meeting with our current families next Term who have children starting prep next year.

The enrolment process has looked very different this year due to the impacts of COVID-19. We had to cancel many of our Open Mornings and our Information Night. With current restrictions, there may be families who are unsure of how to approach a school for tours, applications etc. If you have friends or neighbours that are considering St Martin’s as a school for their child’s education, please encourage them to contact our office. We are taking on-site tours (after school hours), with appropriate social distancing measures in place. We currently have limited spaces available.

Semester Two Calendar of Events

As we continue to get more updates from Catholic Education Melbourne about what school events can take place we will update our school calendar. We thank you for your patience and understanding with this.

We can confirm the following dates:
Thursday 25 June      Reports go home via Compass
Friday 26 June          End of Term 2 - 12:30pm - 1:10pm finish
Monday 13 July         Term 3 commences
Wednesday 22 July    Learning Conversations (4pm - 6pm)
Thursday 23 July       School Closure Day (Review Preparation/Learning Conversations)
                              Learning Conversations (1pm - 8pm)

For your future planning we have changed some of the scheduled school closure days for 2020.
Thursday 23 July         Review Preparation and Learning Conversations
Thursday 15 October    Cancelled (normal school day)
Friday 16 October        Cancelled (normal school day)
Monday 2 November    (day before Cup Day) School Closure -Report Writing Day
Monday 30 November   School Closure -Planning Day for 2021

The October planned school closure days have been cancelled and removed from our school calendar.

Once again thank you for your support as we manage government requirements with COVID-19. The same pick up times will be in place for next week with a small adjustment for Friday. I will keep you advised as to what school life will look like as we head into Term three.

Regards
Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Sacraments

Sacraments are suspended at this point in time until further notice from the Archdiocese.

Confirmation - Year 6

After much collaboration with the Parish and keeping within guidelines and directives from the Archdiocese of Melbourne, Catholic Education Melbourne and the Government, we have tentatively booked dates in October to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with our Year 6 students. Fr Michael has been granted permission from the Bishop’s Office to preside over these Masses. Please be aware if numbers of people allowed to attend gatherings continues to increase, we may not need as many Masses. More detailed information will be sent home to families in Term 3.

Friday 9th October at 5pm / Saturday 10th October at 11am

Friday 23rd October at 5pm / Saturday 24th October at 11am

Friday 30th October at 5pm / Saturday 31st October at 11am

Friday 6th November at 5pm / Saturday 7th November at 11am

Eucharist - Year 4

The Sacrament of Eucharist for the Year 4 students will be rescheduled for 2021. Next year, we will have 2 year levels celebrating this sacrament. Dates are yet to be determined.

Reconciliation - Year 3

Once again after much collaboration and keeping within the directives and guidelines from the Archdiocese, CEM and the Government, the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated in November for our Year 3 students with a different format. The liturgies will take place during the school day with Fr Michael visiting each class to celebrate a Liturgy which will include the Gospel Reading and Examination of Conscience. On the same day, students in small groups will enter the Church to individually speak to Fr Michael with their class teacher in attendance. We are exploring ways in which parents can be a part of this. More detailed information will be sent home to families in Term 3. The dates for this sacrament will be:

Monday 16th November 10am - 1pm

Monday 23rd November 10am - 1pm

Monday 30th November 10am - 1pm

Fr Elio Capra will lead a Reconciliation Faith Formation evening for parents on Tuesday 1st of September at 7pm in the GECCO. At the same time, students will work with their classroom teachers on activities based on the sacrament in their classrooms.

Feast of the Most Sacred Heart - 19th June

The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary - 20th June

Both of these feasts use the heart as a symbol of love.

In the case of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the emphasis is on God’s love and mercy. In fact, that love and mercy is so intense that the symbol of the sacred heart is a human heart encircled with a crown of thorns, crowned with a cross, and radiating flames: this is how much Christ loves us.

Marian devotions flow from Mary’s privileged status not only as the Mother of God but also as the first fruit of the grace poured out by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. She is the model Christian; devotion to her Immaculate Heart not only calls upon her help, but provides a model for what our own hearts should look like.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal

Today is the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. A time to celebrate the deep and personal love Jesus has for each of us. Each year St Martin’s students support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal which runs throughout the month of June and July. Last week, I spoke to one of our parishioners who is a member of our local St Vincent de Paul conference and she made mention that this year’s pandemic has had a big impact on families and more are in need of support from the St Vincent de Paul organisation.

St Vincent de Paul are in need of winter clothing which includes scarves, warm jackets, blankets, beanies, jumpers, gloves, socks, slippers and cans of non perishable foods. A tent has been placed outside the school office as a collection point. Please place your generous donations into the tent and the Captains will gather these items each day to pack into boxes for collection.

Thank you to the families who have placed necessary items into the tent. Due to the difficult times we are in, we will continue to support the Winter Appeal through the month of July.

St Martin of Tours Masses

Small religious ceremonies for up to 50 people are now in operation. St Martin’s Parish offer 9.15am Weekday Masses and 10 am Mass on Sundays for worship. Bookings through the Parish Office are essential if you are wanting to attend. Strict hygiene conditions are in place and need to be adhered to when in attendance. Further details are in the Parish News section of this bulletin. The Church remains closed at all other times.

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )

PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au  Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/

MASS TIMETABLE AT SMOT

Easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government currently allows Mass for strictly 20 people only. As a result weekday Mass will be held next week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 9.15am. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10.00am. Weekend Mass is strictly by booking only. It will be imperative that you adhere to strict hygiene conditions, which are detailed in the Church, sign a register to say you have attended the Mass, follow entry and exit signs, and follow any other instructions as relayed by Fr Michael. We also ask that you only attend if you are well. The Church remains closed at all other times.

BAPTISM TEAM

Volunteers are invited to join the Baptism Team. Those interested to joining us in this important role are requested to contact the Parish Office 9401 6338. Training will be provided.

Message from our Catholic feeder schools

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Thank you once again for your support throughout the first stage of return to school.
Remote learning comes to an end today and we all take some time to enjoy a long weekend with family and friends.
We have put together a staff reflection on the COVID-19 remote learning journey as a way to say thank you and remember all the wonderful things we have achieved together.
On behalf of the staff I would like to thank you for trusting us and walking alongside us for the past 8 weeks. We have all learnt a lot. I know many of us remain anxious so let's continue to support one another by making a commitment to keeping one another safe.
The staggered times for arriving and departing from school will be in place for Term 2. We will await advice from Catholic Education Melbourne as to the requirements for Term 3 and advise you as soon as we know.

Stage 2 Return to School - Tuesday 9 June

We are very excited to have all our students back at school on Tuesday. At the same time we know we need to ensure the health and safety of all in our community so can we please ask for your support with the following.

★ During the morning drop off times parents are asked to remain in vehicles or if dropping their child off in Silk Street to not enter the school grounds. During Stage 1 parents have been so supportive of this arrangement and we know it will continue.

★ Could parents using the drive through pick up point at the end of the day please ensure they have their family name and child’s classes displayed in their car. We have some families with the same surnames and this will just streamline the process.

★ If you have not responded to the compass event - student pick up point commencing June 9, your child/ren will wait down on bottom yard at their designated pick up time.

★ Please ensure your child has everything they need for their school day as we need to limit parents entering the school to drop off items during the day. We have bottled water for students who forget their drink bottles.

★ We respectfully ask for all parents to adhere to social distancing when dropping off and picking up your child. It is very important for the safety and wellbeing of all in our community that parents do not congregate in groups in or around the school.

Reminders

Morning drop off times
8:30am: A - K Families
8:45am: L- Z Families
9am: Students who may need additional support in transitioning back to school

Afternoon pick up times
Drive through pick up point on bottom yard or walking pick up point in Silk Street on top yard.

A-I students to be collected from 3:00pm
J-R students to be collected from 3:20pm
S-Z students to be collected at 3:40pm
Students with surnames S-Z will arrive at their pick up point from 3:30pm so please do not arrive too early.
Students enrolled in OSHClub will be collected from top yard by OSHClub staff at 3:25pm.
Dobson Avenue will remain closed for pedestrian access to support the flow of cars leaving the school.

I understand that some changes may need to be made to these collection times so please communicate these to the school office.
We are hopeful for the final two weeks of the term that we will be able to amend the pick up times to 3pm, 3:15pm and 3:30pm. We just want to give parents and ourselves time to adjust to the new routine.

Student Health

Students must not come to school if they are unwell. Children should cough or sneeze into their elbows or a tissue followed by washing hands or using hand sanitiser.
If a child displays any symptoms of being unwell they will be isolated at school and will be sent home immediately. There will be hand sanitiser in every classroom however students are also encouraged to bring their own.
If you are keeping your child at home you must mark them as absent on Compass.

Cleaning

A rigorous cleaning schedule has been developed to ensure all high-touch surfaces (door handles, benches, lockers, etc) throughout the school are cleaned and disinfected daily. This includes cleaning student tables and sports equipment twice daily. Floors will be vacuumed /washed every night.

COVID-19 and Student Wellbeing

The following resource may be helpful for parents in supporting your children at this time. (Click here)
As a school we will continue to spend time supporting student wellbeing at this time.

Prayers

We keep our staff member Patsy Lynch in our thoughts and prayers as her beloved husband Peter passed away today. May her family find strength in the precious memories they have created together.

Staffing

Whilst Jamie Atherton remains on carers leave, Mrs Anne Hubber will teach 6AM Monday - Wednesday for the rest of this term.

Twitter account

Our school has a new twitter account. We feel this is a good tool to promote all the wonderful things we are doing at St Martins. Feel free to follow us.
Enjoy your long weekend
Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Trinity Sunday

On Sunday the church celebrates the feast of the Holy Trinity. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. One God. Each time we make the sign of the cross we are saying a prayer to the Holy Trinity.

What does the sign of the cross mean to you? Have you ever talked about it to your children? If you have small children, perhaps you could try to teach them the sign of the cross and help them understand its meaning.

Please click here for a link to a reflection of the weekend’s readings by Genevieve Bryant.

St Martin of Tours Masses

With the easing of restrictions now allowing 20 people to attend Mass, the weekday Masses on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.15am have resumed.
This weekend will see the return of the 10am Mass on Sunday. Bookings through the Parish Office are essential if you are wanting to attend.
Strict hygiene conditions are in place and need to be adhered to when in attendance. Further details are in the Parish News section of this bulletin.
The Church remains closed at all other times.

Project Compassion 

Project Compassion boxes were sent home prior to the Easter break. Caritas Australia are now collecting these boxes from schools and parishes. If you are wanting to return the box, please hand into the School Office by Friday 12th of June.

Through your generosity during Project Compassion this year, you are empowering communities with hope and helping those in great need to shape a better future for themselves, their families, their communities.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal

Each year St Martin’s students support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal which runs throughout the month of June. Yesterday, I spoke to one of our parishioners who is a member of our local St Vincent de Paul conference and she made mention that this year’s pandemic has had a big impact on families and more are in need of support from the St Vincent de Paul organisation.

St Vincent de Paul are in need of winter clothing which includes scarves, warm jackets, blankets, beanies, jumpers, gloves, socks, slippers and cans of non perishable foods. A tent will be placed just outside the Church on the lawn area. Please place your generous donations into the tent and the school captains will gather these items each day to pack into boxes for collection.

Staff Reflections on Remote Learning

What a lot we have all learnt about ourselves, each other and our students!! We can cope with and achieve more than we ever expected.
We learnt heaps of new things about technology and different ways of working. The support and positive feedback from our parents and families was truly amazing!

What an amazing experience and we are so proud of all of our superstar students. Their resilience shone through with the way that they were able to adapt to changes and continue the learning at home with such a positive attitude. Our favourite part of the week was getting to chat to the students through the Google Meets and hear about all of the exciting things that they were doing. We are so thankful for the support from all of the amazing families during this time!

We have loved being able to connect with our students and their families throughout this time. It was an opportunity to support each other and really get to know and understand each child and family. It was a big learning curve for everybody and we adapted so well. We really enjoyed seeing our class grow and especially seeing our little ones become technological geniuses, using the technology with ease. They will all be so resilient coming out of this experience and I feel so grateful to have gone through this with the support of our whole St Martin’s Family.

There is a saying, ‘When life deals you lemons you make lemonade’. Well we definitely think that has been the case in our year level. Remote learning has been challenging, but what we have learnt and achieved in 8 weeks has been amazing. We are so proud of all of our students and our families. Without their effort and support, online learning would not have been as successful as it has been.

Keep calm and carry on!
Working in your slippers (Students and teachers). Snacking from the fridge between sessions
Unreliable internet. Discovery. Cooperation. Trust. Community. Reflection. Unity.
This whole experience has shown that we are true to the school motto “Non Recuso Laborem” We do not refuse the task!

It has been fun, exciting, somewhat uncomfortable (sitting in front of a computer screen all day) and a scary journey setting up an online classroom and interacting with our classes from a computer screen. It truly was amazing to see how quickly the students were able to adjust to the new way of life. The first few weeks really set a high standard for how the term was going to unfold and although at times it was difficult for everyone to keep their spirit high and achieve their best work it was amazing to see the effort that everyone was able to put in. Looking forward to Tuesday morning and seeing all our wonderful students back in the classroom. Congratulations to everyone involved on a truly wonderful job!

We have really enjoyed supporting students and getting to know the parents. It was great to be able to make connections with their home life as well as schooling. It was just wonderful driving down Silk Street and seeing the balloons and welcome banner to welcome our Junior children back to school. We really missed them!

It has been amazing to see our community's love of books shine through, even from home! Reading is our superpower SMOT!

What a wonderful learning experience remote learning has been!! Not only have we learnt new skills, but we have enjoyed the weekly connections with the students, parents and teachers. The students have always shown enthusiasm and a need to learn, The support the parents have given has been fantastic to see. We will miss the Google Meets. Thank you to all the teachers who have assisted me in this new way of learning and teaching.

It was a rewarding experience for us as teachers and we believe it has given parents an opportunity and insight into how teachers work with the children.

On behalf of all the staff at St Martin’s we say Thank you!!!

We cannot wait to open up our library properly again very soon, but for the health and wellbeing of our community we must operate in a limited capacity for the time being.

The following will apply to the SMOT library until further notice;
★ Students will have a library lesson each week and be allowed to borrow two books for their classroom book box.
★ There will be no home borrowing; students are still encouraged to use
★ Story Box Library
OR for 4/5/6 students
Our ebook platform through Infiniti.
It’s also important to note that limited borrowing is now available from your local library.
★ All returns must be placed in the plastic tub OUTSIDE the library for quarantining
★ The library will not be open before/after school or at lunchtimes

Premiers Reading Challenge   

Not even COVID19 can stop the phenomenal commitment our SMOT students have to their enjoyment of reading.

Even with the library closed and students having to manage using other resources, we have still had 130 students sign up for the Premiers’ Reading Challenge.

These 130 students have already read 588 books.

Well done SUPER SMOT READERS…..not even a pandemic can stop you from reading your favourite books.

Reflection: E-communication during remote learning

The remote learning experience for students has been filled with learning, challenges and successes. We have been so proud of the teachers and how they adapted to a digital approach of teaching and learning.

Successes

★Students using emails to communicate with teachers
★Students use of all the learning platforms (Google Sites, Seesaw, Google Classroom and Hapara) to complete work
★Teachers and students using Google Meet as a video conferencing tool for learning and wellbeing
★Teachers using Google Meet to video conference students for meetings
★Students showing initiative in being autonomous

Challenges

★Students using Google Meet and Hangouts for other purposes other than learning
★Expecting students to be autonomous with their learning
★Educating teachers and students on how to use the platforms effectively
★Google not having a way to control some aspects of google meet and hangouts

Moving forward

★Using the Google Meet function as a norm for students to communicate with teachers
★Teaching students how to communicate safely, effectively and respectfully online
★Educating students and parents about online safety
★Educating the students on how to safely create content on a google site

The students and parents have been so fantastic in their support and how they have adapted to remote learning here at St. Martin’s.
We are so grateful for the community that we are a part of and appreciate the support from our parents and friends.

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )

PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au  Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/

MASS TIMETABLE AT SMOT

Easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government currently allows Mass for strictly 20 people only. As a result weekday Mass will be held next week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday at 9.15am. Mass will be held on Sunday at 10.00am. Weekend Mass is strictly by booking only. It will be imperative that you adhere to strict hygiene conditions, which are detailed in the Church, sign a register to say you have attended the Mass, follow entry and exit signs, and follow any other instructions as relayed by Fr Michael. We also ask that you only attend if you are well. The Church remains closed at all other times.

BAPTISM TEAM

Volunteers are invited to join the Baptism Team. Those interested to joining us in this important role are requested to contact the Parish Office 9401 6338. Training will be provided.

Thank you to all of our parents and guardians who continue to support our staff and students and provide encouraging feedback around the high quality of remote learning provided at St. Martin of Tours. It is great to see the students connecting with one another through Google Meets.

I would like to share with you some of the feedback we have been receiving both from members of our Education Board and also our Year 4 - 6 families. Google surveys were sent out to some year levels over the past week and next week we will be asking our Prep to Year 3 families to have a voice in this space.

So why is Feedback important?

Feedback ensures effective listening and creates an environment of trust and respect. It provides an opportunity to motivate and improve performance and supports us to keep learning.

We have really appreciated the teaching videos, they have supported the learning significantly and have been purposeful and clear. We love how students can work through the work at their own pace. Loving the whole class meets and small group catch ups.
Navigating the different platforms for learning can be challenging at times.

You’re all doing an amazing job! I’m mindful that our kids have gone into home learning after weeks of no social interaction and I feel like cracks are starting to show with frustration at sitting at a desk doing tasks. Saying that, I’m supporting all the tasks that have been set but trying to listen to their little voices when it feels like their new normal is all too much.

The website has been outstanding and the examples that have been given are extremely helpful, both to help the students understand the task and to know how much to write. It’s very impressive, thank you to everyone involved in putting the website together!! My only feedback is that some of the subjects are very engaging and well planned and others are very brief.

The check ins are definitely appreciated, boosting my child's confidence of being on track with his learning. Thank you so much. Teachers are doing great! More group sessions will be great. He sure misses his classmates. We as parents are very grateful for the support given by all teachers.

You've done a great job in very new and challenging circumstances so thank you. It may be helpful to have more frequent class check ins to keep the children more connected. Looking forward to next week's trivia session.

I would like to commend all of St Martins for adapting so quickly in this difficult time. The teachers have provided the right level of interaction and encouragement on Google Classroom, Seesaw and the website.

Next steps - Students Return to School

At this stage we are waiting for the outcome from the National Cabinet Meeting held today. Catholic Education Melbourne are awaiting direction from Premier Andrews in line with advice from the Chief Medical Officer. I believe the next press conference will be held on Monday 11th May. I will inform you of any changes as soon as I hear them.

Also, we are waiting on government guidelines to see if we can proceed with camps or excursions this year. Families can make contact with me at any time if they are experiencing financial difficulty.

Wellbeing Wednesday - 13th May

Responding to some of the feedback we have received and to say thank you for all your hard work in this space we have set this coming Wednesday aside as a day for your Wellbeing.

It is a day to celebrate all the wonderful learning we have done so far this term.
It is a day to celebrate how wonderfully our community has joined together to provide the best learning opportunities possible for our students.
It is a day to recharge our batteries.

On this day, we ask you to do what is best for the wellbeing of your family. There will be no timetabled activities on our website, and no check ins via Google Meet. On this day teachers will not be available to respond to your emails as they will be planning future activities, assessing and beginning to report on student work. Your family may choose to have a screen free day, or to spend the day doing something that is good for your collective soul. You will find a list of possible ways to spend the day on the “Wellbeing Wednesday” section of the newsletter. Please, do not feel under any obligation to do these. Do what works best for you and the circumstances of your family.

The school will still be providing supervision on Wednesday for the children of essential workers however the learning may also look different on this day.

Sacraments for 2020

After discussions with Fr. Michael, Sr. Maria and Marita Anderson, and recommendations from the Archdiocese of Melbourne our sacramental program will look very different this year.
The sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist will take place in 2021. The sacrament of Confirmation is planned to take place in the month of October over 4 weekends. There will be a Friday night celebration at 5pm and a Saturday morning celebration at 11am. We will Confirm 10 students at each of these Masses. More information to follow as soon as we know we can go ahead with this plan.

Prep 2021 Enrolment process

Fr. Michael and I began our Prep interviews yesterday. We had the opportunity to meet and talk to our new families through Google Meet or phone conference call. I just love hearing the reasons why new families are choosing St Martin’s and the hopes and dreams they have for their children. We will continue to meet with more families in the coming weeks.

Message from our School Captains

Thank you for sending in your pictures, prayers and letters of the work of Police Officers. We will now put together a reflection to share with the community.

Happy Mother's Day

On behalf of all the staff at St Martin’s I would like to wish all our mums, grandmothers and special friends a Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday.

Jamie Atherton would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers and support during this time. His wife is now at home recovering from her surgery. Jo Maloney, David Witchell and Teresa Michelangeli will continue to teach 6AM whilst Jamie remains on leave.

Thanks for all your support.
We miss seeing all our families.
Take care.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

A Prayer of Blessing for Mothers

Lord God,
Through your creative power you give birth to all
and love all as a mother loves her child.
Bless these women who are mothers.
When they work to provide a home for their child, stand beside them.
If they mourn for their child, hold them in your love.
When the joy of their child overtakes them, laugh with them.
Bless them, and may they each be a living symbol of your love, a symbol to their children and all who they encounter.
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.
Amen

We now read the words of Luke’s gospel, and to the joy and love of two mothers.

A reading from the Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:39-49)

In those days, Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zecheriah and greeted Elizabeth, her cousin. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord,’

And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God by Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.’

The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ

Reflection...

Two women, cousins, both pregnant through the miraculous and awesome power of God. They come together and the joy of the Holy Spirit moves within each of them. Their immediate response is to recognise the work of God in their lives. Both are pregnant unexpectedly and in a situation that could have brought shame, but their response is joy and praise.

Although our own births were probably a bit more ordinary than the births of John the Baptist and Jesus, it is still true that every child’s birth is a witness to the miraculous and awesome power of God. It is through our mothers that God works this particular miracle. So it is appropriate that we take the opportunity at this time to do what we do often enough throughout the rest of the year - to acknowledge our mothers and grandmothers, to say thank you and to let them know how much we love them.

Perhaps there is a special way you can do that this Mother’s Day?

We join these prayers with the prayers of people all around the world as we say the Hail Mary…

Hail Mary, full of grace.
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art you among women
And blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus
Holy Mary, Mother of God
Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.
Amen

Dear Parents,

The St Martin of Tours School staff declare next Wednesday the 13th of May to be;

WELLBEING WEDNESDAY   

It is a day to celebrate all the wonderful learning we have done so far this term.
It is a day to celebrate how wonderfully our community has joined together to provide the best learning opportunities possible for our students.
It is a day to recharge our batteries.

On this day, we ask you to do what is best for the wellbeing of your family. There will be no timetabled activities on our website, and no check ins via Google Meet. On this day teachers will not be available to respond to your emails as they will be planning future activities and assessing and beginning reporting on student work.

Your family may choose to have a screen free day, or to spend the day doing something that is good for your collective soul.

Below we have listed some possible ways to spend Wellbeing Wednesday, but please, do not feel under any obligation to do these. Do what works best for you and the circumstances of your family.

We hope you have a wonderful day…….and thank you for all your support.

The St Martin of Tours Staff

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )

PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au  Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/    

Our stars of the week, this week, are our parents who have supported the home learning platform by adjusting their home life and working conditions. We acknowledge it hasn’t been easy balancing everything. The staff appreciate the time you have given to guide the learning as we all work together to connect and collaborate online.

It has been wonderful to see how our students have embraced the new remote learning program and are achieving their learning goals. Our focus initially was to check in with students individually through google meets to track everyone’s wellbeing and set everyone up for success. As this way of learning evolves, we are beginning to move into small and whole class google meets to enhance collaboration and social connection. I was invited to join two class google meets this week and it was just beautiful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as they connected in with their peers.

I would like to thank our staff who have spent hours designing and planning learning tasks for your children and exploring the potential of learning opportunities in a digital world. The curriculum they have planned is both rich and engaging. In particular I would like to acknowledge Brendan Ooi for his work in the area of technology. He has worked tirelessly troubleshooting issues.

As previously mentioned I am aware that families may be impacted financially by this pandemic and are facing challenging times. Please know you can engage with me confidentially about your situation in relation to school life. The impacts of COVID 19 have made it difficult to predict at this stage what future school events will proceed. I do want to assure parents that any levies that have been paid for extracurricular activities such as camp will be reimbursed if they are cancelled. Catholic Education Melbourne will continue to provide me with advice in this area.

Parish Education Board

Members of the board are providing us with regular feedback on how remote learning is being experienced in the home. This feedback is then shared with our teaching staff.
This week some of the feedback includes;
● Impressed with the systems that have been selected for home learning.
● Appreciated the consistency of staff check ins and feedback on seesaw.
● Important to ensure the language used on the websites is able to be understood by students and parents.

Staffing

We keep Jamie Atherton and his family in our prayers. Jamie’s wife has been diagnosed with cancer and will undergo surgery next week. Parents of 6AM received a letter yesterday outlining the staffing arrangements to support the teaching and learning whilst Jamie takes leave to care for his family.

At this current time the government directive remains the same in stopping the spread of COVID 19, all students who can learn from home must learn from home and we appreciate your support with this. It remains important that we have minimal students on site for the health and wellbeing of all.

I will continue to keep you updated on any changes to the way we are operating. At this stage schools are operating remotely until further notice. Please continue to communicate with your child’s teacher regularly. It is important that parents are close by when students are having google meets. We also record all google meets as part of our assessment and accountability practices. I encourage our children to embrace their love of reading by accessing our new ebook system through our SMOT school library at home.

Please take care of yourselves in these challenging times. Thank you for supporting one another. We are certainly learning a lot about ourselves and the importance of family at this time. We have really appreciated the positive emails we have had from parents and the gestures of goodwill.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Hello to all of our beautiful St Martin’s families!

We miss you! And so do the books!

We know many of you have borrowed some extra books to read while we are away from school. Make sure you read the special books you have chosen so that they don’t feel lonely and find a nice safe place to keep them at home.
For the time being our Library is not open to borrow books, but we have been busy coming up with some other ways to help you access books from home.

Story Box Library 

Story Box Library combines quality Australian literature with entertaining and engaging narrators. There are picture books for both junior and senior school students and some novels too.

To login simple go to: https://storyboxlibrary.com.au/login
Username: Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
Password: Please check Compass News feed- Accessing Books from Home
*Please note: Many of these books are on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge!

EPIC 

Epic is a digital library for kids 12 and under. It has a large range of books including fiction (novels too), non-fiction, biographies and graphic novels.

To access, go to: https://www.getepic.com/ 
You will either need to sign up using the website, or you can also download the app on another device.
All details and relevant links should be on the website.
*Please note: This is US based and so many of these titles will not be on the Premiers’ Reading Challenge list, but can still be added as ‘Choice’ books.

ePlatform 

ePlatform is our new eBook software! Students can use Infiniti (our Library system) to search for books and now eBooks! This is only available for Year 4-6 students. This week’s Library lesson has been created so that these students can log on, explore and borrow their first eBook. Details are on the Week 2 Library page of your year level page.

Otherwise you can access by going to: https://smrosanna.eplatform.co/
Username:Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
Password: Please check Compass News feed -Accessing Books from Home
*Please note: You can search for Premiers’ Reading Challenge books on this app. How fabulous!

Premiers’ Reading Challenge     

You are invited to join the Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge for 2020! You would have received a special notification in Compass about this event today.

The Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge has become a cherished event for our school community that takes place in Term 2 and 3. It really highlights a love that we all share at St Martin's - BOOKS! Given our current situation, this quote is so true for us all - Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are -Mason Cooley. Whilst we are all at home, it is the perfect opportunity to pick up a book and let it take us on a wonderful journey.

The Challenge is open to all Victorian children from birth to Year 10 in recognition of the importance of reading for literacy development. It is not a competition; but a personal challenge. Children from Prep to Year 2 are encouraged to read or ‘experience’ 30 books with their parents and teachers. Children from Year 3 to Year 6 are challenged to read 15 books.

All children who meet the Challenge will receive a certificate of achievement signed by the Victorian Premier and former Premiers.

A new application is being used this year that offers a range of exciting features including:
● access to a library catalogue (including book images and blurbs)
● a modern user-friendly interface
● rewarding students with badges as challenge milestones are achieved
● the option for students to mark books as a favourite, give them a star rating or complete a book review

Please talk to your child about taking up this challenge in 2020. All you need to do to begin the process is to give consent to your child participating in the challenge via Compass.

After that we will send home a username and password via Compass, which will enable you to log into the site and start recording your reading. We aim to have all students off and running by the end of week three. The challenge finishes in September.

To read the Premier’s letter to parents, view the booklists and for more information about the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge, visit: www.education.vic.gov.au/prc
Let's make it our best year yet! Reading: Everybody, Everyday!
                                    
If you have any questions regarding the information that has been included in Library news this week, please do not hesitate to contact Chloe Jones via email: cjones@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Take care,
The Library Staff

Please remember you are welcome to pray with Fr Michael as he streams his Masses online via youtube or the Smot Parish Facebook page, each Sunday.

Anzac Day: Lest we forget

Did you know?     
The Rising Sun Badge: One of the mainsprings of an army is its esprit-de-corps - that spirit which gives a soldier purpose and the endurance to carry on when others might give up. In the prolonged and bitter struggles of World War 1 and World War 2, the soldiers of the 1st and 2nd AIF (Australian Imperial Forces) had this esprit-de-corps, and its focal point was a humble badge. The so-called ‘Rising Sun’ badge, worn on the upturned brim of a slouch hat, typified the spirit of ANZAC - the camaraderie of Australian soldiers to fight for the Crown and the British Empire. © Warrant Officer C. JOBSON 1998

Jesus replied, “Now the hour has come for the Chosen One to be glorified. The truth of the matter is, unless a grain of wheat falls on the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain; but if it dies, it yields a rich harvest.” (Jn 12: 23-24)

We pray:
God of love and liberty, we thank you for the peace and security we enjoy. It was won for us through the courage and devotion of those who gave their lives in time of war. We pray that their labour and sacrifice may not be in vain, but that their spirit may live on in us and in generations to come. We ask this prayer in the name of Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Driveways At Dawn

Early Saturday morning we are all encouraged to remember our Anzacs by standing in our driveways at 6am for a minutes silence. You may like to play the Last Post or tune in via the radio for the Dawn Service.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Lest we forget!

The Ode comes from For the Fallen, a poem by the English poet and writer Laurence Binon and was published in London in The Winnowing Fan: Poems of the Great War in 1914. This verse, which became the Ode for the Returned and Services League, has been used in association with commemoration services in Australia since 1921.

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )

PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER: 9401 6338 EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au  Parish Website: http://www.smot.org.au/

Celebrating Term 1

As I reflect on my first term as Principal at St Martin’s a few words come to mind - welcomed, grateful, memorable and enriching.

I thank all in the community for welcoming me, sharing your stories with me and trusting my leadership. I had heard so many wonderful things about the community of St Martin’s before arriving and have now experienced it myself. Building relationships is very important to me and I have loved how students have allowed me to share in their learning and how parents have shown faith in how we care for their children. You are so fortunate to have such a wonderful staff who show belief in every student to ensure they reach their potential. I feel privileged to be part of the team. I take the responsibility for leading this community very seriously and have been challenged this term managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
I trusted my intuition on all the decisions I made, not only as a Principal, but as a parent. Your safety and wellbeing will always be my priority. Even though many events we had planned for this term did not eventuate we still have much to celebrate they include:

● Gathering together at our beginning of the year Mass to celebrate our gifts and talents and look forwarding to a wonderful 2020
● Introducing our gorgeous library story dogs Ava and Charlie to our school
● Empowering student voice and leadership through ‘Persuade the Principal’ letters and leading community prayer
● New learnings and achievements for all students
● Building relationships and friendships through our buddy program
● Knowing that the sun was shining on what would’ve been our SMOT Carnival day and looking forward to the event in November
● Staff creating ways of working online to connect in with our students next term.

I would like to thank you all for your words of welcome and appreciation over the term. I would like to thank all staff for embracing me and in particular Marita Anderson (Deputy Principal) for her guidance and support since my appointment. Marita has played a significant role in walking the journey with me to help me understand what is valued at St Martin’s and areas for growth. 

Please know I remain committed to ensuring we all remain safe and connected as a community.

COVID-19 Update

It still remains important in protecting our community at St Martin’s that I am informed of any confirmed cases of COVID-19 or close contact of a student, parent or staff member in our school. You must email me immediately.

We continue to follow the government and Catholic Education Melbourne directives and at this stage they include:

● Schools prepare for the possibility for children learning remotely in Term 2.
Over the past four days staff have been working on ways to provide rich learning by establishing websites and various learning sites. Thank you for taking the time to come into the school on Wednesday to gather resources that may be needed. Over 1100 library books were borrowed which just highlights the love of reading our students have. Please remember to respond to my previous Compass alert if you are requiring support with technology in your home.
To support Continuation of Learning in the home St Martin’s has prepared a detailed strategy to inform all families outlining home learning in Term 2. This outline will be shared with you on Friday 10th April prior to the first week of Term 2. Students will receive official access to their year levels website on Wednesday 15th April. Information on the year levels website will guide your child’s learning journey.

● Maintaining social distancing, hygiene practices and monitoring your health
School holidays will look very different this time around. What is often a time to connect in with family and friends will now be exploring ways of keeping busy and having fun in the home environment. I know families will continue to follow government guidelines in the area of hygiene, social distancing and maintaining good health.

● Providing student care/supervision for families of essential work
I have been engaging with OSHClub (Before and After School Care Provider) this week to explore what they can provide for our families of essential workers or students who are vulnerable if schools remain closed in Term 2. The current definition of essential workers includes: logistics, grocery retailing, emergency services, government and many other occupations and professions essential to the effective operation of our community at this time. I will continue to keep you informed of what this service will look like for Term 2.

If you meet the criteria for an essential worker and would like to access this service in Term 2 could you please email me before 7th April on principal@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Please include your occupation, number of children and their year levels, so I can prepare for this effectively. OSHClub are providing Vacation Care at various venues (not at SMOT) and will be contacting families enrolled in the service. If you are currently not enrolled and are an essential service family and would like to access this service please contact their customer service team on 1300 395 735.

Outreach - supporting our families in need

We are well aware, as the staff at SMOT, that we are fortunate in this current climate to be maintaining our jobs even though we are operating differently.
We know that many families in our community are not so fortunate and times will become very tough for you. For this reason we want to reach out to our families in need and provide meals to support you. It is often hard to ask for help but we want you to. I am coordinating this project to maintain confidentiality. I will be the only one who knows the families in need.
If you need support with meals please email me at any time and we have staff ready to cook for you. They will be delivered to your home - dropped on your front door step. As in the words of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop “Never see a need without doing something about it!” We are in this together so please take care and reach out.

Congratulations to our Easter Raffle winners

Thank you to the PFA for coordinating this event and for the generosity of all in supporting it.
Our lucky winners were:
Alfonso U-V PPV
Valentina S 1B
Mikaela G 2T
Olivia M 3C
Max Byron 4C
Isobel S 5V
Patrick M 6W
Bonus Prizes
Ethan P - PPV and Charlie P - 1B

Prep 2021 Enrolments

Thank you to all our current families who have returned their enrolment forms, Karen has done a great job processing them.
We are conscious that many families considering enrolling at St Martin’s in 2021 do not have the opportunity to see our school in action as School Tours have been suspended and we also cancelled our Enrolment and Information night due to COVID-19. We have updated our Enrolment Information on our website to reflect this. Our staff have created a presentation that celebrates the life at St Martin’s that we would love to share with prospective families. Can you please communicate this with any families that you know who may be considering enrolling at St Martin’s.

Time to Reflect and Pray

Today we offer special prayers for our much loved previous Principal Mr Dane Malone (2016 - 2019) on the one year anniversary of his death.

Lord, we keep the anniversary of the death of Mr Dane Malone in our prayers and thoughts.
Give him the unending joy of your love in the company of all your saints.
We remember how Dane shared with the community of St Martin’s the gifts of creativity, passion, joy, leadership, fairness and love.
Today we pray for his family and friends. Let us be reminded that we are always in the presence of God - our God who mourns with us; our God who has welcomed Dane with love; our God who gives comfort and strength at this time.
We make this prayer, and all our prayers, through Christ, our Lord.
Amen.

We also keep in our prayers the families in our community who have lost loved ones this term.

Easter reflection

Easter is the most important time on the Christian calendar. It is a time for reflection and for thinking about Jesus’ resurrection.



Please take care of yourselves at this challenging time and try to find something to be thankful for everyday.
During the school holidays I will remain available to you all through email but may not access my emails daily. I will communicate any updates to you via Compass.
In the current climate of social distancing my holidays will involve reading some good books, watching Netflix and Stan (happy for recommendations I enjoy a romantic/comedy) trying to fit in some walks where possible with my dog Dusty and trying some new recipes. I’m also expecting my house will be the cleanest it’s been for sometime!!!

Blessings to you all
Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Conversations will not be cancelled.
Relationships will not be cancelled.
Love will not be cancelled.
Self care will not be cancelled.
Songs will not be cancelled.
Reading will not be cancelled.
Hope will not be cancelled.

May we tune into and lean into the goodness that remains.

COVID - 19 Update

Our first priority at St Martin’s is the health, safety and wellbeing of our school community. I will continue to keep you informed of the latest advice and any impacts for our context. Any incidents that arise will be addressed in accordance with our Critical Incident Management Policy. We also have access to resources and support from Catholic Education Melbourne and the Department of Health and Human Services.

We are currently setting up structures for Continuity of Learning in the home environment should our school be closed. This will involve using such platforms as Seesaw, Compass, Google Applications for Education and various other educational websites.

As parents, you have a critical role in helping the school manage this situation and I thank you for all that you are currently doing to support our school. Please exercise good judgment by keeping children home if they are feeling unwell for any reason and I encourage you to talk to your children about the situation, as they may be feeling anxious and worried. Please take the time to read the articles in the Parenting Ideas and Student Wellbeing section of the newsletter.

The Department of Health and Human Services has a number of resources on its website, which explain the virus, detail risk-reduction practices and behaviours, and answer frequently asked questions. These are available at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus. You can also find information about Catholic Education’s response at http://www.cecv.catholic.edu.au/Coronavirus-information-for-parents

We will continue to implement the following to maximise the health and safety of all in our community:

• We will ensure children wash their hands regularly, especially before eating.
• Children will have regular water breaks (students must have their water bottles at school).
• We will avoid large group gatherings and promote social distancing where practicable.
• We will use outdoor spaces where possible so students can be spread out in the fresh air and opening up doors and windows.
• We will continue to limit visitor access to the school.
• All parent meetings and Masses have been cancelled until further notice.

It is vital that families communicate with me immediately if you have a confirmed case of Coronavirus in your family or if you have been in close contact with someone confirmed with COVID-19. Families returning from overseas travel must not enter the school grounds until I have discussed a management plan with them.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff at this challenging time for the dedication they are showing to our students and families. It is such a time of uncertainty and many of our students are showing a different range of emotions. The staff at St Martin’s have been exceptional in working with our students and taking care of one another.

This is an evolving situation, but we will keep you updated as things change. Many parents have chosen to keep their children home, which I can understand. I encourage those families to keep the learning going by reading everyday, writing stories and following the learning sent home via the year level bulletins. If we are advised to shut down for any reason at any time, I will notify you immediately through Compass and communicate a plan of action. I ask you to continue to work closely with the school and contact me should you have any concerns. Thank you for your support.

Prayers

We take some time to celebrate the life of Fr Peter Robinson (Robbo) who passed away on 14 March 2020. He was a much loved Parish Priest of St Martin of Tours from 1993 - 2009. His humour, caring nature and friendship to all will never be forgotten and his Spirit will long live on within our Community. One with God. May he rest in peace.

We also offer prayers in the coming week for the life of our much loved Principal (2016 - 2019) Mr Dane Malone on the one year anniversary of his passing. We had planned to offer Mass for his family, colleagues, friends and school families on Thursday 2 April at 9:15am at St Martin’s Church however with the current suspension of Masses this is now not possible.

Parish Education Board

The board met for the first time last week and together we explored our 2019 parent data from the surveys completed last year. The areas discussed included; family engagement, school climate, communication and Catholic Identity. The board also has an important role in reviewing and ratifying policies.

The board acts as an advisory body to the Parish Priest and Principal on matters concerning education in the parish as well as promoting community development. If you are interested in joining the board as a parent representative or have any questions please email me and we can explore this further.

Holy Week

We may not be able to gather as a community for Mass to celebrate Holy Week this year so I strongly encourage you to please take some time with your family to reflect on the prayers shared by our Religious Education Leader Marita Anderson in her section of the newsletter, Project Compassion and Holy Week Easter Tableau.

Today I asked some of our Preps what they have loved about their first term at school…

 ★ Playing
 ★ Doing quiet things
 ★ Dancing the Animal Boogie
 ★ Playing soccer with my friends
 ★ Sports
 ★ Drawing
 ★ Writing
 ★ Playing basketball
 ★ Playing with my friends
 ★ Reading books

Now I know why the Preps love The Animal Boogie.....

Next week

Assuming it is business as usual, we will begin our week on Monday with Community Prayer and Assembly over the PA system with children sitting in their classrooms.
As we all know our much anticipated Carnival has been postponed to Sunday 29 November.

Students finish school on Friday 27 March at 1pm.
School will resume on Tuesday 14 April (after Easter)

Even though there is no formal newsletter next Friday I will send out a Principal’s Bulletin through Compass reflecting on my first term as Principal of St Martin’s.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Due to our current climate and the Archdiocese decision to suspend public liturgies and celebrations of the Mass until further notice, you are encouraged to continue active participation in the life of the Church through prayer, reflection, action and participating in a Mass online.

melbournecatholic.org.au offer the following resources for you.

● Online Mass and other resources
● 1000 ways to love your neighbour during coronavirus
● Digital devotion: online resources
● Helpful prayers during this time

Holy Week Easter Tableau

We are sharing with you the Holy Week story. You may read this with your children during the Easter days to reflect on Jesus’ journey and what this means for us, today.

 1. Jesus Enters Jerusalem As Jesus and His disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the Mount Of Olives. Jesus sent two of his disciples on ahead to a village to find a donkey. They brought the donkey to Jesus and spread their cloaks over it. The people cut branches from trees and spread them on the ground too. They cheered and chanted “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest”. Reflection: Is Jesus in your life? Do you think about him? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 2. The Passover Jesus told two of his disciples to prepare for the Passover feast. At the feast Jesus took some bread, blessed it and broke it. “Take and eat” Jesus said to his disciples. Then he took a cup filled with wine and gave it to them saying “Drink all of you from this, for this is my blood. Do This In Memory of Me”. Reflection: Have I been a good person to others? Do I share and include others? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 3. Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane After the meal with his disciples, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Jesus was really scared and asked his disciples to stay with him while he prayed. Jesus knew what was going to happen and he asked God if he really had to do this. He knew God would be with him. Jesus checked on his disciples 3 times but they were asleep. Jesus felt disappointed that his disciples were not there for him. Reflection: Are you a good friend? Do you let your friends down when they ask you to do something which is difficult for you? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 4. Jesus is Betrayed by Judas and Arrested While Jesus was speaking, Judas one of the disciples who shared the Passover meal with Jesus, arrived and with him were a crowd with swords and clubs and soldiers too. Judas had betrayed Jesus. Judas told the Chief Priests, who did not like Jesus, that he would kiss the man they were looking for. Judas went up to Jesus and said “Rabbi”.And then kissed him. The soldiers arrested Jesus and took him away. Reflection: Do we treat our friends fairly? Do I let others have their say? Am I loyal to my friends and classmates? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 5. Jesus Is Condemned To Die Jesus is standing before Pilate. Pilate asks Jesus “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus feels sad. There are angry people who are yelling and saying mean things to Jesus. Some of them tell lies about him saying that he did bad things. Reflection: Has anyone ever said mean or hurtful things to you or told lies about you? Do you find it hard to forgive others when you have been hurt? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 6. Jesus Takes Up His Cross The soldiers put a heavy cross on Jesus’ shoulder. He knew he had to carry that cross a long way and he knew it would be very hard for him. Jesus knows God is with him and asks God if he will help him to carry his cross even though it is too heavy. Reflection: Have you ever had something happen that was hard for you? How did you get through this difficult time? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 7. Jesus Falls The First Time Jesus was tired as he walked along the road. The stones on the road hurt his feet and the heavy cross kept pushing into his shoulder. People yelled at Jesus and pushed him. Jesus fell down but he never gave up. The love in his heart was stronger than his hurt and pain. Jesus got back up with his cross. Reflection: How do you feel when something seems too hard and you feel like giving up? How do you feel when you can’t make anyone understand what you are trying to say? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 8. Jesus Meets His Mother As Jesus carried his cross, his mother Mary came up to him. Mary was so sad to see her son Jesus in pain. Mary and Jesus can’t say anything to each other but Mary consoles Jesus. Mary’s love for Jesus kept him going. Reflection: How do you feel when you see someone you love in pain? How do you feel when your Mum holds you? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 9. Simon Helps Jesus Carry The Cross Jesus was very tired and the soldiers could see that Jesus could no longer carry the heavy cross by himself. The Roman soldiers looked in the crowd and saw a passer- by named Simon of Cyrene who looked strong enough to carry Jesus’ cross. Jesus looks at Simon and quietly says ‘Thank you’. They continue on the long road carrying the cross together. Reflection: Do you go out of your way to help others in need? How do you feel when helping is difficult? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 10. Veronica Wipes The Face of Jesus Jesus is hot, tired and sweating. His hair is tangled and he is covered in dust from the long walk. Suddenly a woman pushes her way out of the crowd and stands in front of Jesus. She takes a clean cloth and gently wipes the face of Jesus. Jesus’ face print is left on the towel. Reflection: Have you helped someone? Have you done something that makes someone feel better? Do you realize what a difference you can make to someone? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 11. Jesus Falls the Second Time In spite of the help from Simon of Cyrene, the cross was heavy and the road hard and full of stones. Jesus was unable to hold its weight and so he fell a second time. The noise of the crowd and the soldiers made Jesus feel worse. Reflection: Have you ever had a hard time with something? Maybe you can’t do something the way you want to? How does your heart feel when this happens? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 12. Jesus Falls A Third Time Jesus is so tired that he can hardly take another step. It is hard for him to breathe. He has been walking along the dusty road and he has no energy left. Then Jesus falls for a third time. Jesus asks God to help him and Jesus gets up again though this is very hard for him. Reflection: How can we be the helping hand for others? How can we be more understanding of others who find it difficult to do their best all the time? Have you ever persisted and tried again? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 13. Jesus is Stripped of His Clothes and Nailed To The Cross When they reached the place called the Skull, the soldiers crucified Jesus there with two criminals. One on the right and the other on the left. Jesus asked God to forgive them. The soldiers cast lots to share out Jesus’ clothing. Jesus looks at his mother and tells her to take care of the others. Even though Jesus accepts his fate, there are those around him that are filled with anger and hate. Reflection: Can you think of a time when someone hurt you with unkind words or actions? Was it hard to forgive? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 14. Jesus Dies On The Cross It was now the sixth hour and, with the sun eclipsed, a darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. The veil of the temple was torn right down the middle and when Jesus cried out in a loud voice he said, “Father into your hand I commit my spirit” With these words he breathed his last and bowed his head. Reflection: What sacrifices are we prepared to make for the sake of others? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

 15. Jesus Is Taken Down From The Cross and Placed in the Tomb Jesus’ friends took him down from the cross. They gave him to his mother and she held him. This was a sad moment. Jesus’s friends stayed close to Mary. After this they washed him and wrapped him in a clean sheet. They put him in the tomb and rolled a door across the doorway. They had to say goodbye to Jesus. Reflection: Do you ever thank others for special things they do for you? Are you thankful for Jesus in your life? Jesus, we praise you, we thank you, we love you.

Project Compassion

In Malawi, 18% of the population are undernourished.

Tawonga is a 10 year old girl, living with a disability. She lives in a village in northern Malawi in a region plagued by food insecurity and poverty. For most of her life, her parents have struggled to provide food for the family.

Since participating in a Caritas Australia program, Tawonga’s life has transformed. Her family now grows enough food to provide three meals a day, ending the struggle of malnutrition, and helping her thrive at school.

With your help, this transformational program can continue to empower vulnerable women, men and children, and strengthen the communities around them.

Watch a short film about Tawonga’s story: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank

Thank you for supporting Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion Campaign. Your generosity will work for the freedom of those living in poverty, challenge unjust structures, and empower people to work for a sustainable way of life.

Please return all Project Compassion boxes to the school office by Friday 1st May.

Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.

Leading the way for children during the Coronavirus pandemic   

If you’re like me, the news of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has your head spinning and your heart pumping. That’s only natural as life as we know has taken a seismic shift in recent days.

International travel bans, cancellation of sporting and cultural events, shopping frenzies and talk of school closures continue to dominate the airwaves. Terms such as social distancing, self-isolation and social lockdowns have entered our vocabularies and may soon become part of our daily lives.

Coronavirus is having an unprecedented impact on our daily lives, and will probably do so for some time. While keeping ourselves and children healthy and safe is our main concern, it’s also essential to address the anxieties of children and young people during these changing times. Here are some ideas to help inform, reassure and keep children and young people safe.

Build on what your children know

Children and young people have already been exposed to a great deal of information about corona virus through media, digital means and direct social contact. Their understanding will vary depending on their age and also the quality of their information sources so you probably will need to help kids process what they already know.

Casual conversations with teenagers and older children can be useful ways to glean their understanding. You could ask questions like “What are you hearing about Coronavirus? Is there anything you’re not sure about?” Younger primary age children may need a more direct approach with parents addressing their specific concerns without giving too much information that can overwhelm them.

Check your own thoughts and feelings

Check your own frame of mind and emotions about COVID-19 before talking to kids. Most children are astute mood detectives and they’ll gauge their safety by the way you communicate with them. If you tell a child, “You’ve got to wash your hands or you’ll get infected,” you are communicating your own anxieties, making it difficult for them to maintain a healthy state of mind. Have a think about how you can frame your instructions and their importance in a way that doesn’t heighten your child’s anxieties.

Stay informed

It’s difficult to work out fact from fiction, correct from incorrect, information from exaggeration when the news is changing so fast. However you need to educate yourself about the virus itself, including how it’s transmitted and how to stay safe. Get information from trustworthy sources such as The Australian Government Health Department website and the current federal government corona virus information media campaign.

Answer questions truthfully

It’s important that parents and teachers answer children’s questions honestly in age-appropriate ways and within context of what is happening at the given time. If their sport or hobby has been temporarily cancelled empathise with their concerns, while helping them maintain a sense of perspective.

Initiate positive action

One way to reduce anxiety and allay children’s fears is to involve them in planning and preparation for their personal and group safety. Positive activities such as maintenance of personal hygiene, greeting people with an elbow tap and getting plenty of sleep can help restore a sense of control, that is so important for their wellbeing.

Find refuge in rituals

Regular rituals such as mealtimes, bedtime stories and regular one-on-one time provide both an anchor to normality and a sense of connection for kids at times of change. Consider reconstituting favoured family rituals at this time if they have lapsed due to lack of time, or lifestyle frenzy.

Look outwards

In difficult times there is a tendency to look inwards, which is a natural protective strategy. The alternative is to establish a sense of connection and community spirit by focusing on generosity and togetherness. Help children see past their own needs and look for ways to assist others whether it’s shopping for an elderly neighbour, helping a younger sibling occupy themselves, or planning an indoor movie night for the whole family.

The Coronavirus presents many practical challenges to parents and other important adults in the lives of kids. Staying calm, keeping informed, and adjusting our own habits are just some of the challenges we face. However a significant challenge is one of personal leadership. That is, during these difficult times we need to be civil to each other, look out for each other and be mindful of the common good in everything we do. In this, we can all take a significant lead.

Premiers Reading Challenge is on it’s way!! Keep your eye out at the start of next term for registration details in the newsletter.

Story Dogs
Unfortunately our story dogs will temporarily not be visiting us in the library. We look forward to having them back in the library for pats and reading soon!

Dear parents,

Friday 20th March marks the 10th anniversary of the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA). St Martins celebrates this day every year and joins schools from around Australia to both educate our school community and promote a greater awareness of the issue. We aim to work together for a safer school and instil in our students the strategies they need to respond to this important issue.

To help us promote the day your child is invited to wear one orange item of clothing (eg, cap, socks, hair tie, runners) to school on Friday 20th March. If that is not possible rest assured that teachers will be supplying your child with an orange wristband to promote the day.

You are an essential part of what we do

At St Martin of Tours Catholic Primary School we aim to create a safe and supportive school community for everyone.

You are an important part of our work to prevent bullying and to respond effectively if it happens. Stopping bullying involves everyone.

The following tips are shared with you to compliment the work that we do at school. Parents know their children best and know the best way to tailor communication to their needs. Adapt these tips to what works for you and your child.

If your child talks to you about bullying:

1. Listen calmly and get the full story. Your calm response is important to allow your child to tell you all about the situation. After they’ve told you their story, ask questions to get more details if you need: who, what, where, when. Although you may feel some strong emotions about your child’s experience, try to keep calm to avoid more distress to your child.

2. Reassure your child they are not to blame. Many children blame themselves and this may make them feel even worse. You could say things like, ‘That sounds really hard to deal with. No one should have to put up with that.’ or ‘I’m so glad you told me. You should be able to feel safe at school; that’s not fair at all’.

3. Ask your child what they want to do and what they want you to do. A critical part of your response is to avoid jumping in to solve the problem. While it is natural to want to protect your child, helping them to find their own solution is a better option. It helps them feel they have some power in the situation.

4. Visit www.bullyingnoway.gov.au to find some strategies. The website has tips and ideas for different bullying situations. One idea is to practise strategies at home to help your child feel more confident.

5. Contact the school via the classroom teacher. Your child may be reluctant for you to do this, so discuss the idea and reassure them that their teacher would want to know and is able to help. Make an appointment to meet with your child’s teacher and, if you need to, ask to talk with the principal, Mrs Jacqui Marshall. Contact the school immediately if you have a concern about your child’s safety.

6. Check in regularly with your child. Keep the conversation going. It can take time to resolve issues, so check in regularly with your child about their experiences and their feelings. Your ongoing support is important.

If you are looking for support for yourself to deal with a bullying situation, you will find ideas on the Bullying. No Way! website for parents. As well, please feel free to contact the school if you would like to discuss any aspect of our approach to preventing bullying.

Thanks for your support to make St Martin of Tours Primary School a great school for everyone.

Warmest regards,

Jamie Atherton
Student Wellbeing Leader

For families paying school fees via instalments first payment is due by Friday 27th March 2020

If you have any queries in relation to this or any queries regarding fees please email me
marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
I am in the office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Mary Milione
Bursar

WEEK 7

PGR Jackson for always trying his best and having a go with challenging activities.

Michaela for sharing her super ideas in group discussions and listening carefully to others.

PPV Amelie for her enthusiasm for learning and happy demeanour. Well done Amelie.

PVL Lola for being a great friend to others. Well done!!

Abigail for being a polite and respectful girl in Prep VL. Well done!!

1B Dylan for always using his time effectively in the classroom and for completing all work to a high standard

1F Henry for your excellent handwriting and recount plan. Well done!

1LB Max for his consistent and wonderful effort during discussion time where he regularly shares his ideas in a clear manner and responds to questions. Keep up the amazing work Max!

2C

2OC Sophie for always contributing your thoughts with the class. You have valuable ideas to share.

Blake for using his place value knowledge when expanding three-digit numbers. Well done.

2T Jack F for challenging himself during place value lessons and for using his knowledge of place value to expand four and five digit numbers.

3C

3JC Clementine for using persuasive language to create an advertisement.

3MT Felicity making valuable contributions to class discussions.

4C

4T

5C Olivia D for demonstrating how to be a learning champion by always trying his best.

5L Jed C for demonstrating excellent problem solving abilities in Mathematics. Well done, Jed!

5V

6AM Adam M for persisting in Maths task and showing great results in his Whole Number Post Test. Keep working hard Adam.

6W

6ZW Dean C for showing such a drive to improve his reading this year. Dean is choosing challenging and engaging books and reading for extended periods of time well above the expectations of grade 6.

Sam R what a fantastic start to the year. I'm so impressed by your persistence with difficult tasks in Maths and your choice of books. Such a courteous member of our classroom.

WEEK 8

PGR

PPV

PVL Marcus for being an enthusiastic and engaged learner.

Bailey for making great choices and being a good role model to others.

1B Hugh for working so hard to sound out his words when reading, and for being a kind friend in 1B.

1F

1LB Evie for having a positive outlook with her learning by always aiming to challenge herself and seeking feedback to improve the overall standard of her work. Amazing effort Evie!

2C

2OC

2T

3C

3JC Isabella for using persuasive language to create an advertisement

3MT Riley for showing persistence and using higher digits with his place value work.

4C

4T

5C

5L Matthew P for taking exceptionally good care of a very upset prep student, showcasing his kindness and empathy. Well done, Matthew!

5V

6AM Chloe B for the detailed response you shared about St Martin as an example of a Spirit Filled person. Your work was through and detailed. Keep up the fantastic writing!

6W

6ZW Zach A - What a great start to the school year as School Vice Captain. Zach always has a positive attitude to his school work and shows persistence when attempting difficult tasks.

Hannah G - What a fantastic start to the school year. Hannah is a kind and courteous students who has already shown growth in her Maths, reading and descriptive writing this term.

Our School/Parish Carnival has been postponed to Sunday 29th November from 11am -4pm.

Parents who have purchased wristbands for rides will have their money refunded by trybooking as soon as possible. We will still go ahead with an online Silent Auction at an appropriate date so watch this space. Thankyou for everyone’s support!

Any queries, please email: carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Snow Cones Day

Last Wednesday 11th of March we had our first Snow Cones Day for the year.  Thank you to Adept IP for sponsoring the event and donating the syrups for the Snow Cones.  We made $747.60 from the event and had many happy children.  Thank you to our parent helpers on the day Michelle, Kate, Penny G, Penny K, Sally, Clara and Nadia.

PFA Persuade the Principal

The closing date for submissions is next Friday 27th March 2020.

PFA events in Term 2

Due to the current uncertainty with the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, the PFA will review plans for any PFA activities in Term 2 after the school holidays.

PFA Community Business Directory

The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.

Now, more than ever, it is so important to support our local shops and businesses, many of which are struggling during this difficult time. Why not choose from professionals within our own school community via the Business Directory? 

For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.

If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html  

OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm. 

Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au

Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information   

PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS

Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm Cancelled

Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival Cancelled

Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1, Casual Clothes Day (Gold Coin Donation) Students Dismissed at 1pm

Due to the current circumstance, confirmed events for Term 2 will be published in our next newsletter.

Term Dates 2020

Term 1: 29th January - 27th March

Term 2: 14th April - 26 June

Term 3: 13th July - 18th September

Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )

PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER 9401 6338. A DIVERSION REMAINS IN PLACE FOR THE OLD NUMBER, HOWEVER PLEASE UPDATE YOUR PHONE DIRECTORIES.  EMAIL ENQUIRIES: macleod@cam.org.au

Message from Fr. Michael:

All weekend and weekday Masses have been suspended immediately until further notice, for funerals, weddings and baptisms please phone the Parish Office on 9401 6338, please read the  Letter from the Bishops of Victoria for more information.

Sr Maria talked to me this week about a health professional she was watching on the TV. This person was giving a message to people that would help them at this time of anxiety as we face the pandemic. And the message was: “Stay balanced! - Sleep well, eat well, drink enough water, stay fit. Do not get too anxious because it will lower your immune system. Be hygienic and look after yourself and your family” This is sound and professional advice. And in regard to growing anxiety we could also say—"keep praying, trusting in God’s presence within you and with you at all times. Jesus did this always and at every testing time it always helped him so much. And he encouraged his disciples to do the same".

VALE FR PETER

It is with great sadness that we learnt this week of the passing of our dear friend and former Parish Priest Fr Peter Robinson. Fr Peter passed away on Saturday 14 March aged 87 years. Fr Peter was much loved and respected for his ministry. He was blessed with a wonderful sense of humour and a genuine love for life. He will be greatly missed by all of us. Fr Peter’s family have advised that there will be a private funeral for him next Monday 23 March with the intention of holding a more public Memorial Mass and celebration at a later stage after the COVID-19 crisis has passed.

‘O God, listen favourably to our prayers offered on behalf of your servant and priest, and grant that Peter, who committed himself zealously to the service of your name, may rejoice forever in the company of your saints. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen’.

CANCELLATIONS DUE TO THE THREAT OF COVID 19

The following functions have been cancelled due to the COVID 19 threat:
* CWA High Tea originally planned for the 28th March
* ‘ASHES TO EASTER’ Lenten Program in Heidelberg on the 26 March

Dear Parents,

As we head into a long weekend it is always a great opportunity to make time for yourself and also enjoy family time together.

Over the past fortnight a lot has happened at St Martin’s. It was great to see so many families at our Prep and Year 6 buddy Mass last weekend. It was lovely hearing how well the Preps have settled in and the children could articulate how they belong to the St Martin’s community. A big thank you to the parents who supported in the supper after Mass, we do hospitality well at St Martin’s.
It was unfortunate that we had to cancel the annual Shrove Tuesday Picnic. The team were hopeful the weather would improve but the late downpour made the area unsafe. Thank you to the PFA for the time and energy put into coordinating this event. I would encourage any new parents to our school to consider joining our PFA as it is a great way to meet other parents and support our community. If you are interested please let me know.

The 2021 Prep Enrolment process has begun with our first open morning this week. I was very proud of our Year 6 students as they took prospective families on a tour of our school and shared with them the narrative of St Martin’s.

It is wonderful to see many of our families are using the Kiss n Drop Zone on bottom yard in the mornings for school drop off. We do ask that you consider the 5km driving zone through this area so that we can keep our students safe at all times.

Coronavirus update

The Catholic Education Commission of Victoria Ltd (CECV) has been provided new information regarding the emerging outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus). The Australian Government has updated existing travel restrictions to include visitors from Iran who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents. These restrictions were implemented from 1 March 2020.

The extension to existing travel restrictions for visitors from mainland China remains in place. Visitors from mainland China who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents, or their dependants, will not be allowed entry into Australia. These restrictions will be reviewed by 7 March 2020.

Parents/guardians/carers should ensure that any child returning from mainland China (not including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) from 1 February, and from Iran from 1 March, is isolated at home and should not attend school until 14 days after they were last in mainland China or Iran.

Can I please ask that any families from St Martin’s who are travelling overseas to please engage with me before returning back to school so we can ensure the safety of all in our community. I understand that many parents are concerned and as Principal I am following Catholic Education and Department of Education's guidelines in managing this situation.

I would also like to remind everyone to practice good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene at this time. Here are some tips that everyone at school should follow:

● Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue, or cough into your elbow.

● Dispose of the tissue into a bin and then wash your hands afterwards.

● Wash your hands regularly, after using the toilet, and before eating.

Please click here for further information and updates.

Staffing

Last week we were delighted to have a special visit from Jess Mitchem (McGrath) and baby Rosie. Carmel Chubb will remain on leave this term.

Learning Conversations

Learning Conversations are coming up on the 10th and 11th of March. They are an opportunity for you to meet and get to know your child's teacher and strengthen the link between school and home. Through the sharing of information, the teacher can understand more about your child and their needs. Thank you for scheduling a time to meet with your child’s teacher.

Catholic Education Week

Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne to celebrate their Catholic identity. Catholic Education Week will run from Sunday 15 March 2020 to Sunday 22 March 2020. The theme is 'The future is listening'. Some of our Year 6 students will attend the annual St Patrick's Day Mass at the Cathedral on Tuesday 17 March.

Carnival - Thursday 26 March

The Carnival Committee have secured some great stalls for our event in less than 3 weeks. Thank you to those who have volunteered their time to help out. Don't forget to purchase your wrist bands for unlimited rides. Soon there will be an opportunity to participate in an online silent auction with some amazing items up for grabs.

Please take some time to read this week’s parenting ideas article. It is called 'Making new friends and staying in touch with old classmates'.

Our Year 6 Student Leaders have had a focus this term of introducing themselves to our community and reflecting what they want to achieve in their roles. They have also reflected on leaders they aspire to be like. Please take the time to read what they have written.

I look forward to connecting with more of you as the term progresses.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Introducing our 2020 Year 6 Student Leaders

Hanna (Captain)

I love SMOT because it feels like one big family and everyone is inclusive and caring! All the teachers are amazing and make class time so much fun. If someone gets hurt at playtime, there’s always someone there to help. A leader I admire is Allysa Healy. I admire her because she is such a good cricket player, always gives 100% and is a great role model for all young girls who play cricket. When I grow up I hope to be just like Allysa Healy. This year I hope to make SMOT a better place to be. I would like to bring back a nude food day. Over the years that I have been at SMOT I have seen many wrappers all over the school. Having a nude food day will make our school a cleaner place and will also save our planet.

Luca (Captain)

At SMOT we all fit in and are encouraged to give new ideas and help make our school blossom. I admire one of our previous captains Ryan. Ryan helped me get a feel of what we have to do to help our school in 2020. One of the things I will hope to achieve this year is to try set up more fundraisers and give more money to the people who are in need or sick and try and give families a better and easier future.

Maya (Vice Captain)

I love SMOT because I always walk into school feeling happy and leave school feeling happy. It is an amazing place to learn where we all feel included and safe. We have amazing teachers and LSO’s who make us all feel good about ourselves. A leader I admire is Caitlin Bassett, the goal shooter for the Australian Diamonds and captain since 2017. Caitlin demonstrates determination and fairplay in every game. She displayed resilience to get back up last year after an unbeatable team lost an unlosable gold medal netball match at last year's commonwealth games. This year I hope to achieve going to regional athletics in sprinting and going to the Banyule District netball grand final.

Zach (Vice Captain)

I love the fact that our school SMOT is a religious school so we can learn more about Jesus and the Catholic Community. I love how our school has a buddy program so all students can either look after their buddies and the younger students have an older buddy. A leader that I have admired is a past student and vice captain Dane. When I received my badge from him last year he gave me some great tips which gave me confidence. I hope to support fundraising ideas so we can help those in need.

Lily (RE Captain)

I love all different things about SMOT. I love all the fun and everyone is nice to each other. Our school has lots of different sports we can play. All the teachers are nice and are always here to help you if you need them. A leader I admire is Sharni Layton. Sharni is now playing for Collingwood in AFLW and she used to be an excellent netballer for the Australian Diamonds. I look up to her not only because she is good at sports but because she never gives up. This year I hope to achieve all different things including helping students at our school be kind and respectful. I also want the school to become clean.

Connor (RE Captain)

What I love about SMOT is that everyone works well together. I admire Mrs. Marshall because she is new to the school and is already a lot of people's favourite person in the school. (Thank you Connor, you are very kind) This year I hope that the school is clean and a better place to be.

Noah (Tours House Captain)

I love SMOT because everyone is friendly around here and if you need help, there is always someone willing to help. The leader that I admire is Father Michael because he is respectful to everyone’s thoughts and opinions. This year I hope to make the school a better place for the students and the teachers.

Luke (Xavier House Captain)

I love that everyone at our school is unique and special in their own way. I also love that we all learn and have fun at the same time. Someone who I admire as a leader is Trent Cotchin. Ever since I was little I have been a mad Richmond supporter. The way Trent teaches the young Richmond players amazes me. One day I hope I will be just like him guiding the Richmond footy club to premierships but that starts now by showing the little ones around the school. Obviously I hope Xavier brings home the chocolates, but I'm really looking forward to making our school known for being clean, safe and friendly.

Chloe (Mercy House Captain)

I love SMOT because it is a great place to learn and has amazing teachers and students. You always feel like you belong and you can always find a friend within the school grounds. We have great classrooms and open play grounds so we always have room to run around. We have lots of interschool sports which gives us plenty of opportunities to interact with other schools. A leader I admire is St Joan of Arc. She is a great role-model and always helped people. This year I hope to help our school be a better place for students and teachers. I also hope to help Mercy win the house points competition. I would like to have the donation buckets constantly full so that we can help more people who are disadvantaged.

Charlie (McAuley House Captain)

I love that in our school everyone is welcoming and gets treated the same way as everyone else. I also love how we are a massive team and we can cooperate with each other. We always have a lot of fun. Someone who I admire is Scott Pendlebury, yep that's right I barrack for the PIES!! Ever since I was young I have looked up to him. Every time he does an amazing skill I try to do it. One day I hope that I will be guiding Collingwood, as a supporter to a Premiership win. I hope to achieve a great year and have the funniest year of my life. I want to make this school known for being a really good school even though it is the best school ever and obviously I want McAuley to bring it home.

Learning Conversations 

Learning conversations are coming up on the 10th and 11th of March. They are an opportunity for you to meet and get to know your child's teacher and strengthen the link between school and home. Through the sharing of information, the teacher can understand more about your child and their needs.

The learning conversation takes place between the class teacher, the child and parents. It is vital that the child is present for this meeting. The focus is to discuss with the child how they feel they are going at school and what the next steps in their learning will be. The teacher will also discuss with you their progress and show you samples of their work to date.

If parents wish to speak to the class teacher about other matters without their children present, they should make this known to the class teacher at the beginning of the session and a subsequent discussion can take place after the child has left (if time permits) or at a mutually convenient time. However, it is vital that your child is present for the duration of the learning conversation and we would ask you to take that into consideration when selecting convenient appointment times.

As a parent/caregiver, your insights are invaluable in these learning conversations. Some things to consider might include:

● Are there any family/home issues (e.g. change in living or working arrangements, unexpected loss/grief, illness) that your child’s the teacher may need to be aware of to be of support to your child?

● Do you have any concerns about any specific learning areas? Eg work habits, socialisation, Mathematics, Literacy

● Do they have any special interests/hobbies outside of school time?

● Talk with your child before the interview and ask him/her if there is anything in particular he/she would like raised at the interview.

Communication

Respectful communication is vital in the learning conversation. It is an opportunity for discussions where you can be informed, as well as actively contribute. Discussions are more productive when everybody is calm. Remember that your child’s teacher also wants the best for your child too.

PARENT HELPER TRAINING SESSIONS  

At St Martin’s, we encourage parents to volunteer their time in classes to support student learning.
Parent Helpers’contributions are important and valuable to students’ learning.
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Helper that assists in classes, we ask that you attend one of our Parent Helper Training sessions (approximately one hour).
They are on the following dates:
Tuesday, 10 March at 9:15am
Wednesday, 18 March at 7pm
Please email our Literacy Leader for the Junior School to confirm your attendance. Dinesha Rajasingam - drajasingam@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

**If you are a teacher or if you have attended a training session previously you do not need to attend one of these sessions.**

Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.

Making new friends and staying in touch with old classmates 

Educational Learning
As a parent there is a great deal you can do to help your child adjust socially at the start of the school year. Here are some tips to help.

Encourage your child to be open to new friendships
An open, friendly attitude is a child or young person’s best social asset. Students who open to forming new friendships are more likely to succeed than those who seek solitude, who are critical and who limit themselves to just one or two familiar faces. Encourage your child or young person to seek out new friendships, even though they may feel uncomfortable or strange at first.

Encourage healthy relationships
Do all you can to encourage healthy relationships based on respect and common courtesy. Generally, when a relationship is healthy a child feels safe, valued and able to speak up. Unhealthy relationships, such as cliques, are restrictive, one-sided and are full of gossip and criticism.

Encourage inclusiveness
Studies have shown inclusiveness to be one of the prime social skills shared by socially successful students. Encourage your child or young person to include others in games, conversations, team activities and other group activities. Inclusiveness is not just a wonderful friendship skill, it’s strong leadership attribute as well.

Encourage friendships with both genders
If you are in a co-education environment encourage your child to form friendships with both boys and girls. This is particularly valid if your child has siblings of their own gender, or don’t have siblings. It’s through these early relationships that we gain the confidence to mix with different genders in the later years. Forming friends across genders helps to break down the mystique that sometimes forms, when a child has little contact with the ‘other’ gender.

Stay in touch with former classmates and school friends
Encourage your child to maintain friendships with former classmates and groups outside of school as this helps to insulate against unfriendly behaviour that they may experience with their close social circle.

Provide social scripts
Your child may benefit from being provided with some social scripts that they can use in common social situations such as meeting a new friend, joining in a game or asking someone else for help. Boys, in particular, can benefit when given the words to use in a variety of different social situations.

Forming new friendships can take time
Meeting new students and forming new friendships can be anxiety-inducing. If this is the case for your child, then it helps to acknowledge their feelings of discomfort, but also remind them that these feelings will pass. As well discuss the fact that feeling comfortable with new friends often takes time, particularly if your child by nature is reserved or slow to warm up in social situations.

Helping kids work through friendships can be tricky for a parent as you don’t have a great deal of control over what happens at school. However, with empathy, patience, encouragement and a supportive attitude you can do a great deal to help your child make a smooth social transition.

Lent: Did you know?  

Lent is 40 Days long because Moses stayed on the mountain for forty days with the Lord (Exodus 24:18), Elijah travelled forty days to Horeb to encounter the Lord (Kings 19:8) and Jesus spent forty days in the wilderness praying and fasting (Matt. 4:2).

Although the number of days from Ash Wednesday through Holy Saturday add up to 46 days, we observe the season as the 40 days of Lent. Some may feel it would be more accurate to refer to it as the "forty day fast within Lent." While the Sundays during Lent are certainly a part of the season, they are not prescribed days of fast and abstinence.

Project Compassion

First Week of Lent:
Around 2.8 million children in the Philippines do not go to school.

We begin Project Compassion learning about the story of Shirley. Shirley was struggling to support her family and keep her children in school. She faced regular discrimination and disadvantage, limiting her family’s access to food, education, employment and healthcare.

With Caritas Australia’s support, Shirley trained to become an indigenous health worker. She has learnt to supplement her income and feed her family. The program has also empowered Shirley to send her children to school. Watch a short film about Shirley’s story: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank

Thank you  

So far we have raised $250 which is bringing us closer to training 100 farmers in Malawi. Your generosity is greatly apprecated. Please return all Project Compassion boxes to school by Monday 23rd of March. 

Are you thinking about baptising your child before participating in school Sacramental programs? What is RCIC?

RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children) is the process through which children of catechetical age (7 years and older), are prepared to celebrate the sacraments of initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist and be welcomed into the Catholic Church. It is the process of initiation the Church asks us to use and is modelled on the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults).

The Parish will be offering classes to children and their parents who are looking to be baptised into the Catholic faith. The Parish will conduct RCIC sessions for interested families. If you are interested in participating in these sessions, please contact Marita Anderson (REL) at school on 8458 7500 or Sr Maria at the Parish Office on 9401 6338.

S.T.E.M 'ROBOGALS'

Congratulations to the following year five and six students Charlotte T, Olivia D, Isabelle K, Caitlin F, Mietta T, Sophie H, Hanna W, and Sarah E. These students applied and were selected to participate in the 'ROBOGALS' program at Melbourne University on Tuesday the 25th of February.

Students participated in challenges using robots and were tasked with working with students from other schools in order to solve space aged problems.

Coding the robot and checking for different types of variables was a big focus of the day and the girls did a terrific job in collaborating with other students and using different technology. Thank you to Katherine D. and Kathryn T. for being excellent parent helpers throughout the day.

Brendan Ooi
S.T.E.M Teacher

The senior school students at SMOT are being offered the opportunity to participate in the Prime Minister's Spelling Bee. This is an online competition run by ‘Kids News’ and invites students to expand their vocabulary and practise their spelling skills in a fun environment.

Please look out for a permission to participate form that will have come home today, sign it and send it back to school as soon as possible.

Any further information can be found here: https://www.spelling-bee.com.au/

Story Dogs

So far Ava and Charlie are having a wonderful time in the library. They work just inside the library entrance, so please be mindful of entering the library quietly on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings so as not to disturb them too much.

Please explain to your children that they will need to be patient whilst waiting for a turn with Charlie and Ava. Some students will visit them each week (as is a requirement of the program), but we also have made provisions for ‘one off turns’ so that all students have a chance to read to the dogs. We have a list of interested children and we are doing our best to work through this.

The list is kept in the library, so if your child is desperate to read to the dogs, please ask them to add their name to it when they come to their library class.

Religious Education Dates

March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau 
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm

April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly

May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am

June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am

July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am

August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am

September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am

October

★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm

November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am

December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am

For families with children participating in the music program for 2020, invoices were issued and due for payment on 3rd March 2020

If you have any queries in relation to this or any queries regarding fees please email me
marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
I am in the office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Mary Milione
Bursar

WEEK 5

PGR Isabella for taking time to draw her wonderful pictures and for concentrating well when completing her activities.

Noe' for always being ready and lining up on the green dots and for using his polite manners at school.

PPV Zane for 'having a go' and doing his best! Well done Zane.

PVL Tully for being a kind and caring girl in Prep VL.

Oscar for making such a great start to his school days!

1B Xavier for his valuable contributions to class discussions, and for being a wonderful classroom helper.

1F Allegra for always being so helpful and kind to others with a lovely smile. Well done!

1LB Gibreel for using his time effectively during writing where he was able to record clear and interesting sentences on what makes him special. Great effort Gibreel!

2C

2OC

2T Nancy for her perseverance during place value lessons this week. A great effort!

3C Chloe for the marvellous effort that she has shown in her writing.

3JC

3MT Lia for her persistence with her learning in all areas of the curriculum especially with her Writing and Mathematics.

4C Chiara P for her hard work and effort in every lesson and the creative comic she wrote in Writer's Notebook. Well done, Chiara!

4T

5C Mikayla M for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.

5L Sophie H for her skilful application of the "Show, Don't Tell" strategy in writing.

5V

6AM Oliver P for always offering his thoughts and ideas when learning and in class discussions. We all value his mature responses and respect for other people’s opinions. Keep it up Oliver!

6W Lily is kind and helpful. She is on task and helps the people around her learn.

6ZW Mara S for consistently working hard in every task presented to her and tackling work at home which either isn't finished or she is having difficulties with.

WEEK 6

PGR Charlie for being a wonderful listener and for making good choices about where he sits.

Nat for showing how much she enjoys her classmates by giving them cuddles and lots of smiles.

PPV Olivia for always completing neat and well presented work! Well done Olivia.

PVL Harper for being a kind and respectful girl at all times. Super!

Liesel for always using her beautiful manners. Amazing!

1B Grace for always showing beautiful listening and being respectful towards all of her classmates in 1B

1F Sofia L for making lots of different teen numbers with counters and helping her friends make more numbers. Good work!

1LB Zoe for trying her best during Place Value where she challenged herself by making larger numbers. Fantastic effort Zoe.

2C

2OC

2T Mikaela G for her beautiful reading during teacher group this week. I love how you paid attention to punctuation. Well Done Mikaela.

3C Lucia for working really hard to complete work to the best of her ability.

3JC

3MT Thomas for including others in classroom and break time activities.

4C Olivia B for her persistence and can-do attitude in completing challenging tasks. Well done for all your hard work and effort Olivia!

4T

5C Charlotte T for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.

5L Jamie S for making big gains in his reading and confidently sharing his narrative piece with the class.

5V

6AM Lucia for always persisting and working hard in all learning areas. Lucia always applies herself to tasks and is also one of our School District Swimming champions. Keep up all the hard work!

6W

6ZW Hanna W for being an amazing school captain and always leading by example. All work is completed on time and to a high standard even when Hanna is called out of class on official School Captain business. What an amazing start to the year.

In just under 3 weeks, we'll be celebrating at our school and parish carnival.
We're excited to share with you the progress of the planning thus far.
We can confirm that the following food trucks will be supplying us with delicious food, drinks and desserts.

• Curly Spuds

• Connie's Pizza

• Greek Trojan Yiros

• Mr Wonder Whip

• Elvize's Coffee Cuizine

The market stalls are all preparing for the big day, stocking up on products that will appeal to our school community.

Some of these include:
• Chelja Soy Candles - selling amazing candles, soaps, diffusers etc

• Clay by Design - beautiful handmade clay jewellery - look out for the school coloured earrings and Easter themed jewellery.

• Madwoman (Stands for Making a Difference) - a range of handmade (mostly hand sewn) items including bags, hair accessories, gratitude and thank you cards, purses, jar openers, reusable straw bags and much more. This wonderful organisation helps support Australia's most vulnerable and needy people. For more information: www.madwoman.com.au

• Boma-licious - hand made, fun, delicious smelling bath bombs, bath crumble and bubble bath with a great kids range.

• Melbourne Dance Theatre will be displaying their different genres of dance. Which might involve a little bit of dancing on top yard .... watch this space.

• Second-Hand Uniforms.

• Scrunchies made by our talented Year 6 students Declan and Maya.

• Year 5 Sustainability Stall

• Kumon

Don't forget to like our Facebook page (St Martin of Tours Carnival) for ongoing updates and pics on all things Carnival.

** FINAL CALL for businesses within the school community to come forth and assist us in the form of a donation or gift vouchers, for goods and/or services that you may be able to offer our school families and the wider community.

Thank you to all the people who have offered to volunteer at the Carnival. Your assistance is greatly appreciated and we will contact you shortly with your roster.

ONLINE SILENT AUCTION --- > Going LIVE next week!

We have some fantastic items that will be listed for auction next week until the Carnival. You do not want to miss this!

Details will be sent out via Compass and with each student soon.

Rides wrist bands are selling strong.... purchase yours prior to Friday 20th March 2020 to save $$$.

For online purchases of wristbands: https://www.trybooking.com/BIIBH
Cash payment can be made by placing order details and correct money in an envelope addressed to Carnival Committee, via the school office.

Reminder that this event (other than the external market stalls) will be CASH ONLY. So, bring lots of it (haha)

If you forget, we will have an ATM on top yard.

For any comments / questions, please email: carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/smotcarnival/ for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page and details of our Carnival. 

Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information   

PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS

Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY 
Parent Helper Training Session 9.15am 

Thursday 12th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Sunday 15th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Tuesday 17th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Wednesday 18th March Parent Helper Training Session 7pm  

Thursday 19th March Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening 

Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm

Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival

Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1, Casual Clothes Day (Gold Coin Donation) Students Dismissed at 1pm

Term Dates 2020

Term 1: 29th January - 27th March

Term 2: 14th April - 26 June

Term 3: 13th July - 18th September

Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)

PFA Community Business Directory

The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.

People prefer to use service providers they know, like and trust. Rather than having to search through unknown service-providers, community members can choose from professionals within our school community via the Business Directory. Details on listing your Business in the directory have been sent home today and can be found on the Compass News feed; PFA Community Business Directory.

For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.

If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html or email smotpfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au.

‘Persuade the Principal’ Student Letter

The PFA are aiming to raise $20,000 this year and we have invited St Martin Students to send a persuasive letter to Mrs Marshall to let her know their ideas on what they would like to see funds allocated towards at our School.

The Persuade the Principal letter was sent out to students on Tuesday and also posted on Compass. We will present all suggestions to Mrs Marshall and let you know in Term 2 what this year’s fundraising activities will be allocated towards.

PFA Activities

Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar, please visit our 'Helping Hands' register at https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer to sign up. 

*Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March

*Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March

*Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April (week 2)

*Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May

*Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May

OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm. 

Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm )

PLEASE NOTE NEW PARISH NUMBER 9401 6338. A DIVERSION REMAINS IN PLACE FOR THE OLD NUMBER, HOWEVER PLEASE UPDATE YOUR PHONE DIRECTORIES. ALL EMAIL ENQUIRIES PLEASE USE macleod@cam.org.au

CHRISTIAN MEDITATION GROUP

The Christian Meditation Group has commenced for the year. The group meets in the Parish House at 7.30pm on Wednesdays, except during the school holidays.
Contact Joan McKeegan on 0418 584 970

CARING FOR CREATION

Pope Francis says, "We are not faced with two separate crises, one environmental and one social, but rather one complex crisis which is both social and environmental".
I look forward to gathering with you, my fellow Catholics, and using our good hearts and minds to address this.
If you are interested, please contact me, Dennis Wollersheim, dewoller@gmail.com or 0414 529 454.

LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP -“LIGHT FROM WITHIN”

Held in the Parish House and continuing up to Holy Week.
If you have any queries please contact the Parish Office.
Maeve Louise Heaney VDMF.
Tuesday Mornings: 10.00 - 11.00am
Thursday Evenings: 7.30 - 8.30pm

Dear Parents,

It was lovely to have the opportunity to meet many of you last week at the Band recruitment night, Confirmation and Prep information nights and PFA meeting. It is wonderful to see that St Martin’s provides so many opportunities for our students gifts and talents to shine and I can already see great interest in all things musical. At the Confirmation information night Fr Elio reminded our parents that we are all called and awakened by God to take on the values of Jesus. Our Prep families had the opportunity to learn all about school routines and expectations to support a successful year for their prep children.

The PFA have planned some great community and fundraising events for the year. The first one is coming up on Tuesday, Shrove Tuesday Picnic which is always a great community event.

Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar:

Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm

Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March

Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March

Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April

Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May

Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May

Please take the time to read all about some new PFA initiatives such as 'St Martin of Tours School Community Business Directory' and 'Persuade the Principal' in the PFA News section of The Cloak.

Carnival News - Thursday 26 March

The committee has been working hard to ensure our Carnival is a great success. Many hands make light work so we would appreciate you offering your time to support in whatever way you can. Thank you for your generosity with the Mystery bottles and other donations that are being made. Please take the time to read all the Carnival News correspondence that is coming home.

Parenting Ideas - Michael Grose

St Martin's subscribes to ‘Parenting Ideas’ which is one of Australia’s leading providers of parenting education resources to schools. We will be uploading a new article fortnightly to our website. As parents we can often benefit from guidance when making decisions for our families. This week’s article is 'Managing separation anxiety at school drop-offs’

Community Prayer/Assembly

Our student leaders are doing a wonderful job leading our community on Monday mornings. As we finalise the best seating/standing arrangements for the students can we please ask parents to stand around the perimeter of the top yard as soon as the first bell rings. This will lessen congestion and allow teachers to supervise the students. Thank you for your support.

Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass - Saturday 29 February

We look forward to our prep families and their Year 6 buddies joining us for the Prep Welcome Mass. We will be asking for God’s love as our children learn new things, make new friends and our families begin their journey at St Martin's. Our Prep families are then invited to share pizza together in the GECCO after mass.

Ash Wednesday Mass

Parents are warmly invited to attend Ash Wednesday Mass on Wednesday the 26th of February at 9.15am, please read the R.E News section of the newsletter for more information.

Parent-Teacher-Student Learning Conversations

Learning Conversations for Year 1-6 students will be held on Tuesday 10th March (4pm-8pm) and Wednesday 11th March (4pm-6pm). It is a requirement for Year 1-6 students to attend with their parents to support the conversation and establish a shared vision for the student’s learning. Bookings can be made via Compass, please check your Compass News feed for instructions and further information. Bookings close Thursday 5th March.

School Photo Day

School photos will be taken on Thursday 5th March. Students are to wear their summer uniform. Orders for school photos must be made online, further details can be found on the Compass News feed.

We keep in our prayers the family of Anthony Auslebrook who passed away recently. Anthony was a previous Principal at St Martin’s between 1988 - 1990.

Once again I have enjoyed getting in classrooms and seeing the wonderful learning taking place. My door is always open, so please come in and say hello!

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

Books are like shoes – they need to be a good fit!

In Library lessons we have been discussing how important it is to be engaged in the book you are reading.

The Year 3s have been speaking about how books are like shoes, they need to be a good fit!

The Year 4s, 5s and 6s have been using the ‘Does it engage me?’ strategy to help us choose good fit books. When we select a book in the Library, we read the first few pages. Whilst reading we ask ourselves some of the following questions to help us determine if the book ‘grabs us’ and is a good fit:

Can I read most of the words?

How do I feel about this book?

Can I see the story in my head?

Do I care what happens next?

Do I want to keep reading?

Students have been having some important conversations around how we all enjoy reading different books and our answers to the above questions will be different from our classmates.

Here are some students that have found a good fit book! Happy reading!

Story Dogs Starting!

We are so very lucky to have Ava and Charlie, our trained story dogs, working with us in the library to listen to our students read.

Ava and Charlie will be starting with us on Wednesday and Thursday next week! Yay!

Library Opening Hours

Please find a copy of our library timetable here.
We remind all families we are open every day from 8.30am, and we LOVE seeing families come in together and take some time out to read a book.
We are also open until 3.45pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.

LRC TIMETABLE 2020

Year Six: What is ZENDALA?

Year six students completing their Zendala's during the confirmation information evening with Father Elio.

Zendala is a process of creating a Mandala using the Zentangle® technique. Using this magical art form to create beautiful tangled mandalas is a fun and easy way to create both a meditative experience and a piece of personal artwork.

The year six students used only symbols that represent Confirmation to them to create their Zendala’s. These meditative pieces of artwork will be continued throughout the term and displayed during Confirmation.

Year Five Sustainability: WASTE NOT! WANT NOT!

As part of the Year Five sustainability topic, Waste Not! Want Not!,’ we will be collecting donations of pillow cases and t-shirts that you now longer use.
We will be recycling these items into shopping bags! Items can be printed materials or plain.
We will not be accepting new items as we are encouraging students to recycle and reuse.

The more donations we get, the better!

You will get the opportunity to see our finished products during the school Fete at the Year Five sustainability stall.
Could you please send washed items to the 5V classroom by Friday 13th March.

We appreciate your support,
The Year 5 Team

Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It. His latest release Anxious Kids, was co-authored with Dr Jodi Richardson.

Managing separation anxiety at school drop-offs

Going to school for most children is a positive experience however some children can struggle making the transition from their home environment to school. It’s naturally distressing to see your child upset at school drop-off but there is a great deal you can do to make school drop-offs easier for you and your child.

Breaking the cycle of separation anxiety at school

A child’s clinginess, crying or tantrums at school drop-off can be disturbing for you as a parent. Despite putting on a brave face, you can feel guilty that somehow you’re the cause of this behaviour. Unless something traumatic has occurred then leaving your child at school is a normal part of life, something your child will get used to. The following strategies may help eradicate your child’s tears and fears when you take them to school:

Tell the story

Prepare your child thoroughly each morning for what will happen when you leave your child at school. Repeat the story each morning before school so they can fully prepare for drop-off.

It takes two

Involve your child’s teacher in the drop-off process as they will be the person who must deal with an upset child. In extreme examples, at the start of term or after a long absence, a later starting time may give your child a chance to say goodbye in more relaxed circumstances.

Give me five

Rituals are both personal and reassuring so develop a special goodbye ritual that you consistently use when you leave your child each morning. Your special ritual may be simple such as a special wave or kiss, or fun such as a high five, low five, fist pump bursting into a hand explosion. Then leave quickly without stalling or looking back. Avoid making leaving a bigger deal than it what it is.

Reduce the rush

Is your child a morning star or night owl? Many children are slow starters in the morning, which can mean that they’re frequently rushed and arrive at school in highly anxious states. Do all you can to reduce morning stress, which may include earlier bed and waking times; laying out school clothes the previous evening and making minimal demands on their time.

This is the place

Location carries memory so choose carefully the place you say goodbye to your child. If a kiss or hug at the school-gate means a happy child, then you’ve probably found your goodbye place. Experiment with your goodbye location until you find one that works.

It’s your job

If goodbyes continue to cause tears, tantrums or clinginess consider, if possible, saying goodbye to your child at home and allowing another adult – your partner or another parent – to take your child to school.

If separation anxiety continues

If your child’s separation anxiety interferes with their concentration and learning, prevents them from making friends, is excessive and goes longer than a month, consider getting professional support. Separation anxiety left unchecked can lead to school refusal and other anxiety disorders later on. For professional support consult with welfare teacher at your child’s school, your local general practitioner or local council for suitable health care professionals in the area.

Ash Wednesday Mass

Parents are invited to attend Ash Wednesday Mass on the 26th of February at 9.15am. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Church’s season of Lent.
During the Mass, we will receive a marking of ash on our foreheads as an expression of our faith and a sign that we are asking God for forgiveness.

Did you know?

The ashes come from the Palm Sunday palms. Parishioners have been asked to bring their palms to this weekend's masses so they can be burnt in readiness for Wednesday’s Mass. Parishioners will then receive new palms on Palm Sunday.

Project Compassion

Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and giving to others. Through prayer we come closer to God so that we are better able to realise our baptismal promise to live justly as Jesus teaches us.
Fasting joins us in solidarity with the poor who often have no choice but to go without basic needs such as food, water and shelter.
Yesterday, families received a Project Compassion box. Giving to the poor or ‘almsgiving’ is a sign of our commitment to justice and our thanks for all that God has given us.
One way we can do so during Lent, is to fill a Project Compassion box. In the last week of the term, as a school, we send the donated money to Caritas, a catholic organisation who help communities in poorer countries.
During Lent, class teachers will show some video clips from Caritas - Project Compassion of communities around the world that we have supported in past years.
To view the Caritas Project Compassion video clips, please refer to the link: https://lent.caritas.org.au/#blank

Religious Education Dates

February
★ 25th - Shrove Tuesday
★ 26th - Ash Wednesday Mass at 9.15am
★ 29th - Prep Welcome Mass at 6pm

March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau (TBC)
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm

April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly

May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am

June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am

July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am

August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am

September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am

October

★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm

November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am

December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am

PARENT HELPER TRAINING SESSIONS  

At St Martin’s, we encourage parents to volunteer their time in classes to support student learning.
Parent Helpers’contributions are important and valuable to students’ learning.
If you are interested in becoming a Parent Helper that assists in classes, we ask that you attend one of our Parent Helper Training sessions (approximately one hour).
They are on the following dates:
Tuesday, 10 March at 9:15am
Wednesday, 18 March at 7pm
Please email our Literacy Leader for the Junior School to confirm your attendance. Dinesha Rajasingam - drajasingam@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

**If you are a teacher or if you have attended a training session previously you do not need to attend one of these sessions.**

WEEK 3

PGR Prep GR for being so wonderful starting their full days at school! Woohoo!

PPV Alex for being a fabulous member of Prep PV and participating in class activities.

PVL Clara S for colouring in so neatly and carefully. Well done!!

Fabian M for taking great care when completing his schoolwork!

1B Leo for being such a fabulous listener and a wonderful friend to everyone in 1B!

1F Sofia B for being a respectful member of the class who is always so smiley and willing to teach me Spanish! ‘Muy bien!’

1LB Milana for being a caring and friendly member of our class. She is always willing to help others and sets a fantastic example for her peers. Amazing effort Milana!

2C Chloe S for making my hear happy.

2OC Josh for always following the school rules and being a great role model.

2T Jack N, for his hard work in every lesson and the beautiful reflective prayer he wrote in R.E. Great work Jack!

3C Gabriel for being helpful and offering to assist his teacher and others.

3JC Finn R for using fantastic describing words when retelling, 'The Bear's Lunch'. 

3MT Evie for using 'sizzling starts' and adjectives to make her writing come alive.

4C Aiden F for his positive attitude towards his learning and being a role model for others. Well done Aiden!

4T Max S for making good choices and setting an example for others.

5C Isabelle K for starting the year on the right foot by demonstrating how to be a learning champion.

5L Molly P for being so vigilant and looking out for the health and safety of her peers. Well done, Molly!

5V Issy for her persistence during writing tasks. She has really listened to feedback from the teacher and applies this to her writing. Keep up the growth mindset.

6AM Adam D for his huge efforts and application to his class work. You have listened, tried and applied yourself. Well done!

6W Luca has been responsible in catching up on learning tasks when he has been out of the room for leadership duties.

6ZW Liam D for being so helpful and organising Mr. Zac when he needs to be reminded of important events. Also for working hard and climbing out of the learning pit when working on binary coding.

Audrey C for making fantastic choices in class. Audrey has started the year exceptionally well focusing on her work and ignores distractions.

WEEK 4

PGR Maddie for being a great listener and a kind helper to her new friends.

Jesse for playing fairly with his friends and for using the pictures in the classroom to follow directions.

PPV Sienna for being an enthusiastic member of Prep PV. Well done Sienna.

PVL Lewis B for always using his beautiful manners at all times. Well done!!

Genevieve D for being a kind and patient member of Prep VL. Super!!

1B Kayleigh for always trying her best in all learning activities and being a kind and caring 1B class member.

1F Ethan for always putting 100% into his work and being a focussed learner. Awesome stuff!

1LB Jonty for consistently presenting his work at a wonderful standard and striving for his best in every lesson. Fantastic effort Jonty!

2C Olivia F for always staying on task and making good choices with her learning.

2OC Zara for beginning her procedure steps with a verb. Beautiful writing Zara!

2T Loukas for his outstanding enthusiasm and participation throughout our procedure unit this term. Well Done Loukas!

3C Matilda for listening attentively to the speaker and trying her best in class time.

3JC Chloe C for writing a fantastic 'sizzling start' to a story.

3MT Jacob for helping others to log onto the chromebooks and assisting those in need when using them.

4C Sam F for his positive choices in behaviour and encouraging others to meet classroom expectations. Keep it up, Sam!

4T Olivia S for always offering to help others in the classroom.

5C Jhon S for demonstrating how to be a learning champion by always trying his best.

5L Marko S for his efforts seeking out and applying teacher feedback to improve his writing. Well done on such a positive start to the year!

5V Emmy for being a kind and caring member of the classroom, by helping others in need. Thank you for helping your injured classmate during the school day. You really are a kind person.

6AM Adam K for his positive work ethic and strong work habits. His enthusiasm and maturity makes him a leader in our 6AM classroom.

6W Sid is patient and understanding, especially in Maths when he helps other students.

6ZW Lachie B for his positive attitude towards his learning and being a role model for others by always putting in 100% effort in everything he is doing.

Natasha B for going to such great lengths to climb out of the learning pit, always seeking out and applying feedback to improve her writing. Well done on such a positive start to the year!

PARENT INFORMATION 2020                      

Welcome to the 2020 school year. We have included some general information that we hope will assist parents throughout the school year. Specific information relating to your child’s year level and class shall be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.

Starting Time

Students are expected to be at school by 8.40am and in the classroom by 8:45am. Punctuality is important as we start meditation at 8:50am on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Monday mornings we hold a Community Prayer and Assembly on Top Yard. 
If you are late to school, please take your child to the office and sign them in via Compass. Teachers take the roll at 9:00am. Students that arrive after 9:00am will be recorded as late. The overall number of absences and late attendance will be recorded on each student’s report at the end of each semester.

Bell Times:                   
8:30am Gates Open 
8:40am Students begin to enter the classroom with their belongings when the music plays.
8:45am Students begin morning routine and meditation
9:00am Classes begin 
11:00am Eating time
11:10am First Break
11:50am Classes resume
1:50pm Eating time 
2:00pm Second Break
2:40pm Classes resume
3:30pm End of school day

School Pick Ups (Year 1-6 Students)

Please ensure you have arranged a safe pick up point with your child and throughout the year you advise your child of any changes in the usual routine for pick up. Students can leave the school grounds via the Top Yard gate around the back of the Mercy building and via the pedestrian gate at Dobson Avenue. Students can also be collected by an adult and must be escorted down the stairs to the car park. NO student is to enter the carpark without an adult. Primary age children do not have enough car awareness to walk through the car park safely.

If your child is to attend OSHClub (After School Care), it is their responsibility to know which nights they go. Please ensure you are registered with OSHClub as students who are not picked up at the end of the school day will be sent to OSHClub. 

School Pick Ups (Prep Students)

At the end of the school day Prep students can be picked up from their dots. 

Seesaw Digital Portfolio 

This year teachers will continue the use of a digital portfolio in place of the Learning Journals. It is an opportunity for parents to gain greater insight into learning at St. Martin’s. More information will be sent out regarding Seesaw digital portfolios from your child’s classroom teacher. 

Home Practice/Learning Requirements  

An expectation of all St. Martin’s students is that they read for at least 20 minutes every night. Classroom teachers will advise parents of specific Home Practice/Learning Requirements for each year level.

Specialist Timetable 

Your classroom teacher will avise you of the days your child has Library, LOTE, STEM, Art, Music and Sport. 

Brain Food    

We encourage healthy eating because of the benefits this has to both our mind and body. We ask that students bring a labelled small plastic container with diced or chopped up fruit or vegetables (Nude Food) that can be eaten as a snack during class time.

Communication 

All our school communication is via Compass. Parents can email their child’s classroom teacher via Compass. Due to teaching and meeting commitments it may take up to three working days before a teacher is able to respond to emails. If your matter is urgent, please contact the school office. 

Absences

Student absences must be placed on Compass as soon as possible. Failure to place an absence on Compass will result in parents receiving an SMS from the school office. As a courtesy, could you please provide your child’s classroom teacher with an email, so that they are able to monitor your child upon their return to school.

Early Leavers

If you need to pick your child up before 3:30pm, please enter this absence on Compass indicating the time of early release, late arrival or return to school. As a courtesy please send a short note with your child to give to the classroom teacher on the day. If possible avoid collecting your child during first and second break as students can be difficult to find on the yard.

Permission Forms

Permission forms for excursions are sent via Compass. Please check Compass regularly and ensure you approve excursions by the due date. Failure to approve an excursion may result in your child not being able to attend.  

Medication

If students require medicine to be administered during school time, you will need to complete a Medical Request Form, (also available at the school office). Please clearly label all medicine as it is kept in the school office. Medication will be given by the office staff and must be returned to an adult.

Allergies

At St. Martin’s we strongly encourage 'no sharing of food' amongst students due to some students having allergies. We also ask parents not to send products containing nuts. Please advise the school office of changes to your child’s medical condition so that our school records are up to date.

Birthdays 

If you wish to send a treat for your child’s birthday, please refrain from sending food, we ask you to consider those students that have food allergies. Instead please consider sending in small items, such as, balloons, bubbles, stickers, pencils etc.

School Visitors/Parent Volunteers 

It is a legal requirement that all parent helpers and visitors assisting in any way in the classroom, sport days or on excursions MUST have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC). You will need to provide your WWCC number to the school office when signing in. Please ensure you check the expiry date of your card.

School Uniform, Hats and Bags 

Full school uniform must be worn appropriately at all times, this includes wearing sports uniforms on sports days. If your child is out of uniform please provide your child’s teacher with a note explaining why. Please ensure you label ALL school uniform items. Hats are to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. No hat means No play. Sunscreen is strongly encouraged however it is your child’s responsibility to apply it within school hours. 
We also encourage all students to carry their own school bag to and from school and to be responsible for packing and unpacking their own bags.

Canteen 

The canteen is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Students are able to purchase icy poles during first and second break. Lunch order items are listed on the canten menu.

Office Items

If any money is to be sent to the school office, please ensure it is clearly labelled with your child’s name, class, the amount payable and what it is for and given to your child's classroom teacher. 
We ask parents to advise the school of any changes to family/student information as they occur e.g. home address, emergency contacts, place of employment and occupation. These changes can be made by completing a Change of Information Form. 

Personal Items 

Students are not to bring mobile phones or electronic devices to school. Expensive and sentimental toys/items are also discouraged, as they could be easily damaged or lost. Please label any balls etc. with your child’s name. Lost property is located near the school office.

Please visit our school website for further information.

We wish families a smooth start to the 2020 school year.

The St Martin of Tours School & Parish Carnival is 5 weeks away!! Make sure you have Thursday 26th of March booked in your calendar for a fun afternoon celebrating our School, Parish and Community.

Our Carnival flyer and ride wristband booking details have gone home with students today. They contain lots of information about the Carnival so please take the time to read them. Un-limited ride wristband bookings are now open on Trybooking- https://www.trybooking.com/BIIBH

Wristbands are $30 per child for unlimited rides on the Cha Cha, Bungee Run, Chair-o-plane, Giant slide, Jumping Castle and Activity Centre. Early Bird wristband sales on Trybooking close on Friday 20th March and after that wristbands will be $35.

Requests for Carnival Volunteers on various stalls went out yesterday via different year levels, these formas are also available on the Compass News feed. Please complete the form that was sent home and return it to the office if you are able to volunteer your time on that stall, or email us at carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au
Many hands make light work, so your help is greatly appreciated!

We are also still looking for people with a current RSA to help out with the bar on a roster basis, no longer than an hour of your time. Please get in touch if you can assist.

Collection of second hand children's books and games (both in good quality) is still ongoing. Collection tubs are outside the GECCO and house points will be received for each item.

Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/smotcarnival/ for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page and details of our Carnival. 

The PFA held its first meeting of 2020 last Wednesday evening and we had a productive start to the year with our fundraising planning.
Below are upcoming dates of PFA activities for your calendar.

*Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm

*Snow Cones Day - Wednesday 11th March

*Easter Raffle Drawn - Monday 23rd March

*Next PFA Meeting Term 2 - Tuesday 21st April (week 2)

*Mother's Day Stall - Wednesday 6th May

*Mother's Social Night - Friday 8th May

PFA Community Business Directory

The St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends’ Association (PFA) have developed a Community Business Directory for the St Martin of Tours School (SMOT), Rosanna, Community. This initiative serves to connect families, staff, alumni, parishioners and supporters of our school throughout our community.

People prefer to use service providers they know, like and trust. Rather than having to search through unknown service-providers, community members can choose from professionals within our school community via the Business Directory. Details on listing your Business in the directory have been sent home today and can be found on the Compass News feed; PFA Community Business Directory.

For a small fee of $20 for the year, the Directory provides a unique opportunity for businesses to promote themselves and provide special offers directly to our SMOT Community, whilst also supporting our school.

If you would like to advertise your business, please visit: http://smotpfa.weebly.com/business-directory-registration-form.html or email smotpfa@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au.

Shrove Tuesday Picnic - Tuesday 25th February 5pm

Our first event for the year is hosting the annual St Martin of Tours Shrove Tuesday Picnic this Tuesday at 5pm.

There will be BBQ sausages, pancakes and drinks for sale. Lawn games and two jumping castles ($2 ticket).

Please bring BYO picnic blankets, chairs etc. It's always a lovely evening to catch up with friends or to meet new ones in our community. If you are able to spare 30 minutes of your time to assist serving food, please visit our Helping Hands register at https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer to sign up.

‘Persuade the Principal’ Student Letter

The PFA are aiming to raise $20,000 this year and we have invited St Martin Students to send a persuasive letter to Mrs Marshall to let her know their ideas on what they would like to see funds allocated towards at our School.

The Persuade the Principal letter was sent out to students on Tuesday and also posted on Compass. We will present all suggestions to Mrs Marshall and let you know in Term 2 what this year’s fundraising activities will be allocated towards.

PFA Administration Note

On an administration note, we would like to remind the community that St Martin of Tours School Parents and Friends' Association is a School Controlled PFA.

In late 2019 we held a Special General Meeting where our Constitution was amended to include the necessary wording to comply with the CECV Financial Compliance Obligations Guide (2016) since becoming a School Controlled PFA in late 2016. There have also been procedural changes during this time to ensure we are following the guide and school audit requirements.

Being a School Controlled PFA means that the income and expenses of the PFA are included in the School's annual financial statements. As funds raised by PFA activities already form part of the School's financial reports, the decision on how fundraising money will be allocated lies with the Principal. The PFA do not have discretion to make decisions on allocating PFA money that is not for fundraising purposes.

Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information   

PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWS FEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS

Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday PFA Picnic 5pm

Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am

Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm

Tuesday 3rd March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Thursday 5th March School Photo Day Students to wear Summer Uniform

Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY 
Parent Helper Training Session 9.15am 

Thursday 12th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Sunday 15th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Tuesday 17th March School Tours - Open Morning 9.30am

Wednesday 18th March Parent Helper Training Session 7pm  

Thursday 19th March Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening 

Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm

Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival

Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1

Term Dates 2020

Term 1: 29th January - 27th March

Term 2: 14th April - 26 June

Term 3: 13th July - 18th September

Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)

OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm. 

Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm ) 03 9401 6338

ASH WEDNESDAY 26th February 2020

MASSES - 9.15 AM and 7.30 PM

Project compassion boxes will be available on this day.

LENTEN DISCUSSION GROUP - “LIGHT FROM WITHIN”

Maeve Louise Heaney VDMF.

Tuesday Morning: 25th February 2020, 10.00 - 11.00am

Thursday Evening: 27th February 2020, 7.30 - 8.30pm

Held in the Parish House and continuing up to Holy Week.

Please put your name on the sign up sheets in the foyer to indicate your attendance to the Lenten discussion sessions.

The parish office will order books for you to use during these sessions. If you have any queries please contact the Parish Office.

ALTAR SERVER’S TRAINING:

All students from Year 3 upwards are invited to attend Altar Server’s training on Tuesday 3rd March at 11.45 am in the Church.

BAPTISM TEAM:

Volunteers are invited to join this Team. Those interested in this important role, please contact the Parish Office. Training will be provided.

Children’s Liturgy Program- WE NEED MORE VOLUNTEERS !!

The purpose of this Ministry is to bring the Good News to the younger members of our community, in a safe and age-appropriate environment.

Volunteer parents and helpers take children out to partake in a short lesson based on the readings of the day during 10 am mass.

Suitably trained adults are welcome to join as leaders and helpers of the program. Children aged 4 – 12 are invited forward at every mass during the academic year.

There are currently 10 adults involved in this ministry. Working with Children Checks are required.

Adults may contact the Pastoral Associate, Sr. Maria Bui maria.bui@cam.org.au or the Coordinator: Sarah Gittins at Sarah.Gittins@bigpond.com

Dear Parents

Our students have settled into their new classes getting to know their teachers and classmates. Yesterday Fr Michael and I walked around the school with our school captains Hanna and Luca and blessed all the learning spaces, children and staff. At the beginning of the school year mass on Tuesday, we gathered together and asked God to bless us all and guide us in all that we do. The choir consisting of students and teachers, sang with joy as we embrace a year of new beginnings.

We welcome many new families to St Martin's this year and look forward to supporting them on their journey. Communication processes are very important in understanding the life of a school so I encourage all families to regularly check Compass and the school events calendar for upcoming events. Our fortnightly school newsletter will provide valuable information as schools are vibrant places that provide many opportunities for celebration of learning, social and community events and enrichment, information and faith formation experiences.

Our prep students are loving school life.

Many of our volunteer groups such as; Parents and Friends Association, Parish Education Board and Carnival Committee are planning their dates for the year which will be included in the calendar shortly.

Community Prayer and Assembly

Every Monday morning at 8.50am, parents are invited to join Fr Michael, the student leaders, teachers and students to participate in our Community Prayer on top yard. Parents are invited to stand next to their own children to listen to the weekly Gospel Reading and announcements about other events which involve the student community. We conclude our Community Prayer and Assembly with the raising of the flags whilst singing our national anthem.

School closure days for 2020

The following days have been set aside for staff professional learning. As we are undergoing a Catholic Education School Review this year additional days are needed to address school improvement and compliance matters. I will outline the review process at a later date. Thank you for your support. Wednesday 17 June, Thursday 23 July, Thursday 15 October, Friday 16 October, Monday 2 November (day before Cup Day) and Monday 30 November.

Parking and student safety reminders

Student safety is very important and the beginning of the year is a time to remind you all of the processes for morning drop off and afternoon pick up.

Morning
Kiss and Drop - each morning at 8.30am the Silk St entrance to bottom yard is opened for a ‘Kiss and Drop’ procedure. Cars enter in a single file and stay in single file and move towards the junior playground equipment. A teacher will be on duty adjacent to the play equipment. Students will be able to exit their car from this point only. No parking on bottom yard. Cars must exit via Dobson Avenue gates.

Afternoon
The bottom yard will be opened at 3.15pm. Cars must enter through the Silk Street gate and exit through Dobson Avenue gate. Parents may park in the yard from this time onwards. Children are to be collected by parents from a designated safe point within the school yard. Children will be under the supervision of the teacher on yard duty. Playgrounds are out of bounds before and after school. Do not wait in your car or call children through the traffic. To avoid traffic congestion it is suggested that where possible, cars are parked away from the school and children walk the remaining distance. Walking promotes physical activity, independence and responsibility in children.

Silk Street Pick-up/Drop-off Zone
This zone is designed for quick movement of cars and is a council enforced standing time of 2 minutes - no parking is permitted. Normal parking restrictions and council signs should be observed when the flags are displayed on the School Crossing. Note that cars may only turn left out of Silk Street and NO cars should attempt to make a U turn and hold up the flow of traffic along the drop-off area. Parents are welcome to use the community centre car park located on the corner of Silk Street and Lower Plenty Road when there is a space available.

Mercy Building car park
Parents are asked not to park in this area for the safety of students. There may be times when community events are happening that it may be open and we will advise this through compass.
Thank you for your support.

School Counsellor

Throughout this term we will be reviewing our school counsellor program. Feedback will be sought from families and staff. During this time all matters related to Student Wellbeing should be directed to your child’s classroom teacher, Jamie Atherton (Student Wellbeing Leader) or Jacqui Marshall (Principal).

Upcoming events

Monday 10 Feb Community Prayer and Assembly - 8:50am
                     Band Program Information and Recruitment Night - 7pm

Tuesday 11 Feb Confirmation Information Night - 7pm

Wednesday 12 Feb Prep 2020 Information Night - 7pm
                          PFA Meeting - 7:45pm

Saturday 15 Feb Confirmation commitment mass - 6pm

Sunday 16 Feb Confirmation commitment mass - 10am

Monday 17 Feb Community Prayer and Assembly - 8:50am

Tuesday 25 Feb Shrove Tuesday Picnic - 5pm

2021 Prep Enrolments are NOW OPEN

It is that time again where we ask existing families to drop into the school office to register, collect and complete an enrolment form for their child. It would be appreciated if families could do so as soon as possible so that we can make some projections of how many places we are able to offer new families. Parents are welcome to spread the word to potential new families that our enrolments are now being taken for 2021.

2020 Open Days - Please let your friends know.

School tours will be conducted at 9.30am on each of the following days. Tours will be approximately 30–45 minutes and will be conducted by staff and Year 6 students.

● Tuesday, 3rd March

● Thursday, 12th March

● Sunday 15th March

● Tuesday, 17th March

● Tuesday, 5th May

Prep 2021 Enrolment Information Evening – Thursday 19th March, 7pm.

Families are welcome to contact the school office to arrange a personal tour on other days.

This term we excitedly prepare for the St Martin's Carnival on 26 March. I have been so impressed by how much has already been achieved by the committee and know they are looking for volunteers to support. Your generosity of time is much appreciated.

I will introduce our student school leaders to you in our next newsletter.

Congratulations to Jess McGrath and her husband Johnny on the safe arrival of their beautiful daughter Rosie Merle. We look forward to meeting Rosie when Jess pops in for a visit.

Thank you for the warm words of welcome and I look forward to walking alongside you all to ensure your children meet their potential. St Martins is a wonderful place to be.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

PREP PARENTS INFORMATION EVENING

An information evening for Prep Parents will be held on Wednesday 12 February at 7pm in your child's classroom. 

Compass login details have been sent to our new families. Please contact th school office if you have not received your details or if you have any queries.

PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES

Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 11th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 12th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students 
Thursday 13th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 14th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm

Monday 17th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 18th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 19th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students 
Thursday 20th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 21st February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm

Monday 24th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Tuesday 25th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Wednesday 26th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students 
Thursday 27th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm
Friday 28st February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm

During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.

Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.

Religious Education Dates

February
★ 11th - Confirmation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 15th - Confirmation Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 16th - Confirmation Commitment Mass at 10am
★ 25th - Shrove Tuesday
★ 26th - Ash Wednesday Mass at 9.15am
★ 29th - Prep Welcome Mass at 6pm

March
★ 13th - St Patrick’s Day Mass and Concert for Student Leaders (all day event)
★ 21st - Year 5 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ Easter Tableau (TBC)
★ 26th - Parish/School Carnival 3.30pm-8.30pm

April
★ 10th - Good Friday
★ 12th - Easter Sunday
★ 13th - Easter Monday (holiday)
★ 14th - ‘He is Risen’ Liturgy
★ 18th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 19th - Confirmation Preparation Mass at 10am
★ 27th - ANZAC Assembly

May
★ 2nd - Confirmation Masses at 11am or 1.30pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Information Evening at 7pm
★ 30th - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 31st - Eucharist Commitment Mass at 10am

June
★ 6th - Winter Appeal commences
★ 13th - Year 2 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 19th - Sacred Heart Mission Mass at 9.15am
★ 20th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
OR
★ 21st - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am

July
★ 16th - Eucharist Retreat Day (TBC)
★ 25th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 6pm
★ 26th - Eucharist Preparation Mass at 10am

August
★ 7th - Mary Mackillop Mass at 9.15am
★ 8th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 9th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am
★ 14th - Feast of the Assumption Mass at 9.15am
★ 15th - First Eucharist Mass at 6pm
★ 16th - First Eucharist Mass at 10am

September
★ 1st - Reconciliation Information Evening at 7pm
★ 5th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 6pm
★ 6th - Reconciliation Commitment Mass at 10am

October

★ 13th - 3MT Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 17th - Year 1 Level Family Mass at 6pm
★ 20th - 3JC Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm
★ 27th - 3C Reconciliation Liturgy at 7pm

November
★ 11th - St Martin of Tours Feast Day Mass at 9.15am

December
★ 14th - Graduation Mass at 5pm
★ 15th - End of School Year Mass at 9.15am

PARENT INFORMATION 2020                      

Welcome to the 2020 school year. We have included some general information that we hope will assist parents throughout the school year. Specific information relating to your child’s year level and class shall be provided by your child’s classroom teacher.

Starting Time

Students are expected to be at school by 8.40am and in the classroom by 8:45am. Punctuality is important as we start meditation at 8:50am on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. On Monday mornings we hold a Community Prayer and Assembly on Top Yard. 
If you are late to school, please take your child to the office and sign them in via Compass. Teachers take the roll at 9:00am. Students that arrive after 9:00am will be recorded as late. The overall number of absences and late attendance will be recorded on each student’s report at the end of each semester.

Bell Times:                   
8:30am Gates Open 
8:40am Students begin to enter the classroom with their belongings when the music plays.
8:45am Students begin morning routine and meditation
9:00am Classes begin 
11:00am Eating time
11:10am First Break
11:50am Classes resume
1:50pm Eating time 
2:00pm Second Break
2:40pm Classes resume
3:30pm End of school day

School Pick Ups (Year 1-6 Students)

Please ensure you have arranged a safe pick up point with your child and throughout the year you advise your child of any changes in the usual routine for pick up. Students can leave the school grounds via the Top Yard gate around the back of the Mercy building and via the pedestrian gate at Dobson Avenue. Students can also be collected by an adult and must be escorted down the stairs to the car park. NO student is to enter the carpark without an adult. Primary age children do not have enough car awareness to walk through the car park safely.

If your child is to attend OSHClub (After School Care), it is their responsibility to know which nights they go. Please ensure you are registered with OSHClub as students who are not picked up at the end of the school day will be sent to OSHClub. 

School Pick Ups (Prep Students)

At the end of the school day Prep students can be picked up from their dots. 

Seesaw Digital Portfolio 

This year teachers will continue the use of a digital portfolio in place of the Learning Journals. It is an opportunity for parents to gain greater insight into learning at St. Martin’s. More information will be sent out regarding Seesaw digital portfolios from your child’s classroom teacher. 

Home Practice/Learning Requirements  

An expectation of all St. Martin’s students is that they read for at least 20 minutes every night. Classroom teachers will advise parents of specific Home Practice/Learning Requirements for each year level.

Specialist Timetable 

Your classroom teacher will avise you of the days your child has Library, LOTE, STEM, Art, Music and Sport. 

Brain Food    

We encourage healthy eating because of the benefits this has to both our mind and body. We ask that students bring a labelled small plastic container with diced or chopped up fruit or vegetables (Nude Food) that can be eaten as a snack during class time.

Communication 

All our school communication is via Compass. Parents can email their child’s classroom teacher via Compass. Due to teaching and meeting commitments it may take up to three working days before a teacher is able to respond to emails. If your matter is urgent, please contact the school office. 

Absences

Student absences must be placed on Compass as soon as possible. Failure to place an absence on Compass will result in parents receiving an SMS from the school office. As a courtesy, could you please provide your child’s classroom teacher with an email, so that they are able to monitor your child upon their return to school.

Early Leavers

If you need to pick your child up before 3:30pm, please enter this absence on Compass indicating the time of early release, late arrival or return to school. As a courtesy please send a short note with your child to give to the classroom teacher on the day. If possible avoid collecting your child during first and second break as students can be difficult to find on the yard.

Permission Forms

Permission forms for excursions are sent via Compass. Please check Compass regularly and ensure you approve excursions by the due date. Failure to approve an excursion may result in your child not being able to attend.  

Medication

If students require medicine to be administered during school time, you will need to complete a Medical Request Form, (also available at the school office). Please clearly label all medicine as it is kept in the school office. Medication will be given by the office staff and must be returned to an adult.

Allergies

At St. Martin’s we strongly encourage 'no sharing of food' amongst students due to some students having allergies. We also ask parents not to send products containing nuts. Please advise the school office of changes to your child’s medical condition so that our school records are up to date.

Birthdays 

If you wish to send a treat for your child’s birthday, please refrain from sending food, we ask you to consider those students that have food allergies. Instead please consider sending in small items, such as, balloons, bubbles, stickers, pencils etc.

School Visitors/Parent Volunteers 

It is a legal requirement that all parent helpers and visitors assisting in any way in the classroom, sport days or on excursions MUST have a current Working With Children Check (WWCC). You will need to provide your WWCC number to the school office when signing in. Please ensure you check the expiry date of your card.

School Uniform, Hats and Bags 

Full school uniform must be worn appropriately at all times, this includes wearing sports uniforms on sports days. If your child is out of uniform please provide your child’s teacher with a note explaining why. Please ensure you label ALL school uniform items. Hats are to be worn in Terms 1 and 4. No hat means No play. Sunscreen is strongly encouraged however it is your child’s responsibility to apply it within school hours. 
We also encourage all students to carry their own school bag to and from school and to be responsible for packing and unpacking their own bags.

Canteen 

The canteen is open on Thursdays and Fridays. Students are able to purchase icy poles during first and second break. Lunch order items are listed on the canten menu.

Office Items

If any money is to be sent to the school office, please ensure it is clearly labelled with your child’s name, class, the amount payable and what it is for and given to your child's classroom teacher. 
We ask parents to advise the school of any changes to family/student information as they occur e.g. home address, emergency contacts, place of employment and occupation. These changes can be made by completing a Change of Information Form. 

Personal Items 

Students are not to bring mobile phones or electronic devices to school. Expensive and sentimental toys/items are also discouraged, as they could be easily damaged or lost. Please label any balls etc. with your child’s name. Lost property is located near the school office.

Please visit our school website for further information.

We wish families a smooth start to the 2020 school year.

Confirmation Information Evening

Next Tuesday evening the Year 6 parents are invited to gather together to listen to Fr Elio Capra speak about Confirmation as a sacrament in today’s world. The Year 6 students, along with the Catechist children, will also attend the evening to work with their teachers on developing their understanding of the Sacrament.

Confirmation Commitment Mass

We invite our school families to pray with our Year 6 students as they begin their preparations for Confirmation. At the weekend Masses (15th/16th February), the Year 6 students will commit to their faith as they prepare to receive the final Sacrament of Initiation.

Welcome back to school! It’s been great to see all of our students return to the library and enthusiastically start borrowing from our collection again this week.

We have some exciting things planned in the library space this year and we know 2020 is going to be a wonderful year for our students where they will continue to develop a lifelong love of reading.

Please CLICK HERE find our library timetable. We remind all families we are open every day from 8.30am, and we LOVE seeing families come in together and take some time out to read a book. We are also open until 3.45pm on Monday, Thursday and Friday afternoons.

Library Team for 2020

Monday: Chloe Jones
Tuesday: Emma Kent
Wednesday: Martine Klaic
Thursday: Chloe Jones
Friday: Emma Kent

Library technician: Wendy Roussety (Monday and Thursday)
Library assistant : Cristina Grande

Story Dogs

We are beyond excited to share with you that we have two new library staff members at SMOT this year.

Please meet………

Ava and Charlie

Ava and Charlie are trained story dogs and they will be working with us in the library to listen to our students read. Please look out for correspondence regarding this program via Compass in the coming week. We hope to have the program beginning in late February.

Ava came for a little visit last Wednesday…….and judging by the response of everyone she met, she is going to be a very welcome member of the SMOT library team.

She definitely got the ok from our new Principal!

Band Program Information and Instrument Try-Out Evening - Mon 10th Feb 7pm GECCO

St Martin of Tours offers your child the opportunity to join the St Martin of Tours Catholic Primary School Band Program.

To find out about this amazing opportunity we would like to invite you to an information evening explaining our program and offering your children a chance to try out instruments and see which one might best suit them.

Instrumental tuition is available for the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, and percussion.

Students who take up this opportunity will rehearse with the school band weekly on Thursday mornings at 8am. They will also attend a weekly instrumental tuition session. There is a cost involved that covers both tuition and band membership fees. The band will be given opportunities to participate in performances, workshops, festivals as well as visits with other school bands.

Please join us this Monday the 10th Feb at 7pm in the GECCO to find out all the information you need about this program.

Feel free to contact Elliott Westbury - our new band program coordinator and senior school music teacher on band@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au with any questions.

S.T.E.M Partnership with Rosanna library

Rosanna library - After School Activities
Craft Box - Every Monday - 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5–12 Finished primary school for the day and looking for something to do?
Enjoy craft activities, puzzles, technology or games. Contact the branch for information, weekly focuses or themes.

Rosanna Library - LEGO Club
Every Tuesday 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5–12 LEGO helps to build skills in construction and creativity. Imagination meets feats of engineering in this after school club.

Rosanna Library -Doggy Tales
Every Tuesday 4.00pm–5.00pm
Ages 5+ Doggy Tales program is an exciting way for children to practice their reading. It provides children with a non-judgmental, canine audience. No need to book. Just come along and meet our reading dog.

Rosanna Library -STEAM Club
Climbing Firemen Wednesday 19 February 4.00pm–5.00pm - Book Now
All Ages Join us for some wacky experiments, amazing arts and engineering feats as we explore all things STEAM each week.

Rosanna Library -Code Club:
Saturday 8 February 10.00am–11.00am
Scratch for Beginners -Ages 8+ Learn basic coding! Create games, animations and interactive stories with Scratch – a programming language for beginners. Book Now.

SCHOOL FEES 2020

Families who are paying fees via instalments I have been issued statement of school fees this week.

If you wish to discuss your school fee payments I am in the office on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, alternatively you can email: marym@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Mary Milione
Bursar

WEEK 2

PGR Prep GR for being so smiley and happy settling in to school on their first week.

PPV Prep PV for a fabulous start to school life. Looking forward to a big year of fun and learning.

PVL All of Prep VL for having such a settled start to their school journey. Well done!!

1B To all of 1B for their amazing start to Year One! 

1F Well done 1F for making a fantastic start to the year. You are all quickly learning to make good choices in and out of the classroom and being respectful people. Awesome!

1LB 1LB for having a fantastic start to Year One. They have settled in so well to their new routine and have a great attitude towards their learning!

2C

2OC All the wonderful students in 20C for being so kind and supportive of each other and settling in so well to Year 2!

2T All of 2T for having such a beautiful and settled start to Year Two.

3C All of 3C for a marvellous start to Year Three!

3JC Vivienne for settling in to your new school so well!
      
3MT For settling into the 2020 year so well. Great work 3MT.

4C To all the wonderful students in 4C for being kind, safe and fair in all that they do. Well done!

4T Emily H for being a fantastic listener in the classroom.

5C

5L Mietta for providing a very articulate induction into the daily operations of the school.
    Gus M for his excellent attitude to his learning and willingness to ask for help when required.

5V Max for settling positively into his new classroom and school. We are so happy to have you as part of our team.

6AM Rochelle for her positive start to her grade 6 year. She has shown initiative and maturity in her attitude and is always willling and keen to share her work with the class.

6W Mia M has contirbuted her thoughts to Class discussions.

6ZW

THURSDAY 26TH MARCH 2020 3:30PM – 8:30PM

St. Martin of Tours is hosting an amazing parish/ school carnival as its major fundraiser, next month!
The Carnival is a celebration of our school, parish and community.

We are very excited for this occasion, which vows to be a fun afternoon / evening comprised of:
• Food trucks
• Bar
• Market stalls
• Entertainment
• Children’s rides
• Activities (Bubble Soccer, Petting Zoo)
• Silent Auctions / Raffles

We would love your support / involvement in the form of sponsorship, donations, or even assisting with running of the stalls / activities.

We are particularly looking for people who could coordinate:
• Cake Stall
• Games / Books Stall
• Chuck-a-choc stall
• Set up and Packing up of Eating Areas

This role would involve liasing with the committee, setting up on the day and organising a roster for someone to be present in your area at all times.

We are also looking for some volunteers with a current RSA to help out with the bar on a roster basis so no longer than an hour of your time would be greatly apreciated.

Wanted: talented face painters and / or hair sprayers who could volunteer their time on the evening of the carnival please.

If you are able to assist in any way, please email carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Also,
• Mystery Bottles are back! Bottles will be sent home with each child on Tuesday. Instructions to follow.

• Collection of second hand children’s books and games (both in good quality) is ongoing. Collection tubs are outside the GECCO. House points will be received for each item.

• A couple of our wonderful Year 6 students are making hair accessories out of school dresses and boys and girls blue shirts, to sell at the carnival. If you have any of these items that are no longer required, please forward on to Declan L in 6AM via the office. 

Be sure to follow us on our Facebook page 'St Martin of Tours Carnival' for updated info. Please feel free to invite family, friends and our wonderful community by sharing the page.

We would love to hear from you.

The Carnival Committee
carnival@smrosanna.catholic.edu.au

Firstly, we wish to welcome all our new Prep families to St Martin of Tours Primary School. The Parents and Friends Association (PFA) hosted 'Tea and Tissues' morning tea on Monday 3rd February and it was pleasing to see so many parents, grandparents and carers come for a cuppa and a chat in the GECCO. We hope all the Preppies are settling in well!

We also extend a very warm welcome to our new Principal Jacqui Marshall.

The first PFA Meeting for 2020 will be held next Wednesday 12th February at 7.45pm in the Seminar Room (new building). All parents and carers are welcome to attend our meetings and we encourage new members to join us this year. The PFA meeting on Wednesday will be following the Prep information evening, so if you are a new parent to the school and are interested in getting involved with the PFA, please come and say 'hi'.

If you'd still like to be involved with the PFA's activities but can't attend meetings, please visit our Helping Hands register to view and volunteer for upcoming events. Sign up as a volunteer at: https://signup.zone/smotpfa-volunteer

Our first event for the year is the traditional St Martin of Tours Shrove Tuesday Picnic on Tuesday 25th February at 5pm. Please save this date, it's a wonderful evening for families to catch up and meet new faces. More information on the Shrove Tuesday Picnic will be coming out next week.

A reminder you can also keep up to date with our PFA activities on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SMOTPFA and our Website: http://smotpfa.weebly.com

Our Executive Committee for 2020 is:
Co-Presidents: Kate Kelly and Belinda Pryse; Secretary: Michelle Don Paul; Treasurer: Carla Ting.

We look forward to a wonderful 2020 school year.

Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information   

PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS

Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO

Wednesday 12th February Prep Parents Information Evening 7pm in your child's classroom

Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass

Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday

Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am

Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm

Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform

Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday 10 or Wednesday 11 March Parent / Teacher / Student Learning Conversations Year 1 -6 Students ONLY 

Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm

Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival

Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1

Term Dates 2020

Term 1: 29th January - 27th March

Term 2: 14th April - 26 June

Term 3: 13th July - 18th September

Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)

OSHClub at St. Martin's operates from Monday-Friday 7am-9am and 3.30pm-6.15pm. 

Enrolment is free. All families must be enrolled to attend the program. Further information can be found at: www.oshclub.com.au

OFFICE HOURS: Mon— Friday 9.00 am — 5.00 pm (closed for lunch 1.00 pm — 2.00 pm ) 03 9458 4275

WEEKEND MASSES

Saturday Vigil: 6.00 pm

Dawn Mass: 7.30 am

Italian Mass: 8.30 am

Family Mass: 10.00 am

WEEKLY MASSES

Mon 9/2, Tues 10/2, Thurs 12/2, Fri 13/2- 9:15am Mass

Wed 11/2 Liturgy of the Word & Communion 9:15am

Saturday 8:30 am Mass. Reconciliation 10am

Vigil Mass 6pm Saturday

Welcome to the 2020 school year.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to you all. Firstly I would like to sincerely thank Fr Michael and the panel for appointing me as your principal and look forward to meeting all in the community.

I have been working in Catholic Education for 30 years having had a range of experiences as a teacher and leader. As an educational leader my focus is always on continuous improvement. I want to see learning environments that reflect personalised learning, developing creativity and curiosity. My aim is to ensure there is always a focus on engagement, achievement and wellbeing, where everyone’s voice is valued. I want to ensure a whole school vision that promotes trust, optimism, resilience and respect.

Family is very important to me and I am fortunate to be a mother to two adult boys, Jacob and Liam and wife to Gary. We enjoy travelling as a family with Hawaii being our happy place. I follow Richmond in the AFL and our gorgeous groodle is named Dusty after my favourite player.

My initial observations are that St Martin’s is a warm and vibrant community. I have felt so welcomed by the staff, students and parents this week. I took the opportunity to go around to all the classrooms today and share a little about myself with the students and they were just delightful. I feel blessed to have been given this opportunity and look forward to meeting everyone.

The staff is looking forward to a great year, ensuring every student meets their potential. Thank you for supporting the student assessments over the last few days. This allows teachers to have accurate starting points to ensure they can personalise the learning for all students. I feel confident that 2020 will be a great year, full of hope, celebration and new beginnings.

A Prayer for the New School Year
Blessed are you, Lord God.
As we begin this new school year,
we ask for your blessings on our community.
Open our minds as we learn more about one another,
grant us courage as we accept new challenges and help us to cherish and protect our environment.
Bless every family and open our hearts to the love of your Spirit.
Amen

Today’s newsletter is a short one, we will begin our fortnightly newsletters next week.

2020 Staffing Line Up

Principal:  Jacqui Marshall
Deputy Principal: Marita Anderson
Literacy Leader / Coach (P-3) : Dinesha Rajasingam
Learning & Teaching, Literacy Leader / Coach (4-6) Martine Klaic
Learning & Teaching (P-3), Maths (P-3) Leader / Coach: Sandra Tieppo
Maths (4-6) Leader / Coach:  Terry Zacharakis
Religious Education Leader: Marita Anderson
Learning Diversity Leader: Teresa Michelangeli
Student Wellbeing Leader: Jamie Atherton
Literacy Intervention 4-6: Carmel Chubb

Prep PV: Lisa Philp / Donna Vincent
Prep GR: Andrea Getson / Dinesha Rajasingam
Prep VL: Leslie van Loggerenberg
Year 1B: Laura Bumpstead
Year 1LB: Laura Butler
Year 1F: Claire Forbes
Year 2C: Michelle Cameron
Year 2OC: Emma O’Malley / Karen Crimmins
Year 2T: Melanie Thierjung
Year 3C: Melissa Campbell
Year 3JC: Kris Jordan / Joanne Collier
Year 3MT: Lilia Mosbauer / Sandra Tieppo
Year 4C: Tess Cosgrave
Year 4T: Adele Truefeldt
Year 5C: Aaron Connolly
Year 5L: Stephanie Laws
Year 5V: Neesha Valvo 
Year 6AM: Jamie Atherton / Jo Maloney
Year 6W: Gareth Wells
Year 6ZW: Terry Zacharakis / David Witchell

ART: Lisa Cherubin / Emma Kent
STEM: Brendan Ooi
PE: David Witchell
LOTE: Maria Mandarano / Steve Domini
MUSIC: Elliott Westbury / Maryanne Kos
LIBRARY: Martine Klaic / Chloe Jones / Wendy Roussety / Emma Kent

Administration:
Wendy O’Keefe, Mary Milione, Karen Livingstone, Patsy Lynch, Veronica Castles.

Learning Support Officers:
Patsy Lynch, Ida Fruci, Gayle Carrazza, Jessica Casamento, Cristina Grande, Kate Sanford, Carmel Malignaggi, Tomasina Lagos, Niki Potenza.

Jacqui Marshall
Principal

PREP 2020 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.

Prep Parents 'Tea and Tissues' morning tea 8.45am - 9.30am

PREP PARENTS INFORMATION EVENING

An information evening for Prep Parents will be held on Wednesday 12 February at 7pm in your child's classroom. 

PREP 2020 SCHOOL DAYS AND TIMES

Monday 3rd February - Prep students commence Term 1, finishing school at 1pm.
Tuesday 4th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Wednesday 5th February -NO SCHOOL for Prep Students. 
Thursday 6th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.
Friday 7th February - Prep students finish school at 1pm.

Monday 10th February - Prep students attend school from 8.45am to 3.30pm, except for Wednesdays.
During the month of February Prep students do not attend classes on Wednesdays ie 5th February, 12th February, 19th February and 26th February, as Prep teachers conduct Prep student assessments.

Monday 2nd March - Prep students commence FULL school week days.

Visit our Event Calendar for more events and information   

PLEASE CHECK YOUR COMPASS NEWSFEED AND CALENDAR FOR CHANGES AND UPDATES TO OUR SCHOOL EVENTS

Friday 31st January Years 1-6 students commence formal classes

Monday 3rd February Prep students start school on 8.45am-1.00pm (half days only this week). Please click here for further information regarding Prep 2020 students

Prep Parents 'Tea and Tissues' Morning Tea 8.45am - 9.30am GECCO

Tuesday 11th February Confirmation Information Evening 7pm GECCO

Wednesday 12th February Prep Parents Information Evening 7pm in your child's classroom

Saturday 15th February or Sunday 16th February Confirmation Commitment Mass

Tuesday 25th February Shrove Tuesday

Wednesday 26th February Ash Wednesday Whole School Mass 9.15am

Saturday 29th February Prep and Year 6 Buddy Family Welcome Mass 6pm

Thursday 5th March School Photo day Students to wear Summer Uniform

Monday 9th March Labour Day Public Holiday

Saturday 21st March Year 5 Weekend Mass 6pm

Thursday 26th March Parish and School Carnival

Friday 27th March Last day of Term 1

Term Dates 2020

Term 1: 29th January - 27th March

Term 2: 14th April - 26 June

Term 3: 13th July - 18th September

Term 4: 5th October - 18th December (TBC)