Dear Families,
Understanding and Forgiveness
A few years ago, Nelson Mandela’s former personal assistant, Zelda La Grange, was in Australia as part of International Women’s Day, where she presented in various forums across the nation.
When Zelda was being interviewed, one of the questions was regarding Nelson Mandela’s greatest qualities. Zelda spoke about his ability to listen, with the intention to truly understand the other person’s point of view, and not with the intent to only respond. Zelda also commented on Mandela’s approach to fairness and tolerance – truly comprehending the challenges faced by another person. Lastly, Zelda discussed how she learnt the ability to give oneself enough time to think about a problem and not to be impulsive in trying to respond or resolve any issues.
The qualities Zelda witnessed in Mandela are humbling. Importantly, there are messages for us here today, in our lives, as parents, educators and as we go about day-to-day living. The communications presented by La Grange, tie in very closely with a key Easter message about understanding, forgiveness and relationship repair. Of course, as we know it is easier said than done; and for certain intense scenarios, this can be a very difficult process.
However, as La Grange remarked, living with resentment, aiming for revenge or payback, is certainly not the right way. Having this mindset only leads to feeling bitter, negative and there is no resolution. Not only does our Catholic faith teach us to reconcile, but we feel better when we do restore relationships. It is not a sign of weakness, rather a sign that we are human and that we make mistakes. This is why it is important to forgive and try to make relationships work. It doesn’t matter if this is out in the school yard, workplace, between friends or even in the home.
I certainly recommend holding conversations with your child(ren), about the importance of developing and maintaining healthy relationships. This includes a positive outlook and mindset when someone has been harmed, to make things ‘right’ (especially by apologising and trying hard not to repeat the same behaviour); and expressing forgiveness when someone does say ‘sorry’.
Thank you….
I take this opportunity to thank all those fantastic volunteers/helpers who have contributed to making our school run so smoothly this term. It is very much appreciated. I would like to thank each of you for the various forms of support you give to your children, the staff and the school community as a whole. My gratitude to the many people who make St Joseph’s Payneham work so efficiently! The culture of the school is indeed a result of the partnership and efforts of everyone concerned.
Child Protection Curriculum
The Keeping Safe Child Protection Curriculum provides the framework to teach children and young people from age 3 to Year 12, in an age-appropriate way, to recognise abuse, talk to trusted adults and understand ways to keep themselves safe. Keeping Safe Child Protection Curriculum is mandated in all Catholic schools in South Australia. Our teachers undertake professional learning to implement this important area of curriculum.
The South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools (SACCS) has developed and implemented a number of different policies and procedures that all Catholic Schools are mandated to strictly adhere. Many of the guidelines have been developed in collaboration with the Department for Education and the Association of Independent Schools, to ensure that all educators in South Australia are fully aware of their responsibilities no matter which educational system they work for. I include the relevant policies for you (click on the link to access).
- Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy
- Cybersafety: Keeping Children Safe in a Connected World
- Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum
- Reporting Harm of Children and Young People Procedure (link immediately below)
https://online.cesa.catholic.edu.au/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-33949/Reporting+Harm+of+Children+and+Young+People+Procedure_2020_SACCS.pdf
Nominations for Teachers Registration Board
The Minister for Education, Hon John Gardner, MP, has written to seek nominations for a place on the Teachers Registration Board of South Australia, commencing on 1 July 2021. The criteria is expanded to include teachers and parents of current school students. The Registration Board will consist of not less than 10, and not more than 14 members, appointed by His Excellency the Governor in Executive Council.
If you are interested, please read the following criteria and contact information carefully and please note the expressions of interest close on Thursday 22 April 2021.
Board members are to demonstrate knowledge, skills and experience in the areas of teacher education and matters affecting employers of practising teachers. Teachers, pre-service teachers, higher education providers, legal practitioners, those with experience in corporate and public sector governance and parents of current school students may be interested in applying. All persons appointed will be subject to a Working with Children Check. Applicants from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and from every stage of life are welcome to apply. Self-nominations or nominating of another who meets the criteria must include a cover letter detailing relevant experience and a current curriculum vitae.
Nominations must be addressed to: Hon John Gardner, MP, Minister for Education C/- Ms Leonie Paulson, Registrar, Teachers Registration Board of South Australia PO Box 3649, Rundle Mall SA 5000 or leonie.paulson@trb.sa.edu.au Further information regarding requirements of board members can be obtained by contacting Ms Paulson 8253 9717.
Year 6 Camp
Our Year 6 students left for camp at Aldinga Beach on Tuesday morning, returning this afternoon. I attended the camp yesterday and was pleased to see the students having a great time in the beautiful April weather, and also, impressively using fine manners and helping one another out when needed.
Welcome to our Preservice teachers
We welcome Taylah Charlton and Claire Bryars (from UniSA) and Cherry Greenslade (from Curtin University) to St Joseph’s Payneham from the start of Term Two. Taylah and Claire will be completing their university preservice placement in the Preschool, whilst Cherry will be located in Reception Karam.
Rest in Peace
I offer my condolences to the family and friends of the late Francesco Costanzo. Francesco was grandfather to Joyce Nero (Reception teacher) and Angela Luppino (parent and regular volunteer at SJP); great grandfather to Olivia Nero (4R) and Julian Luppino (2W); and father of Maxine Gentilcore (school banking volunteer).
Sympathies are also offered to Suhasini Sarah and Gabriella (1P) on the passing of their father and grandfather respectively. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Baby News
A big congratulations to Michael Musolino (our school’s P.E. teacher/coordinator and classroom teacher in 2TM) and Caterina (also a teacher at St Joseph’s Payneham, currently on maternity leave); on the safe arrival of a healthy baby boy, Adrian Joseph – born on Wednesday 7 April. By all accounts everyone is doing well.
Also, best wishes to Danika Panozzo (Liam, 1C), who gave birth to a healthy baby boy late last week. Great news!
Term One conclusion and beginning of Term Two
This Friday 9 April we break for a two-week holiday. Term Two commences on Tuesday 27 April at 8:40am (Monday 26 April is the ANZAC Day public holiday).
Term Two is when the school Winter Uniform is worn. We always have a two-week transition period. However, by the start of Week 3 all students need to be wearing the Winter Uniform. If you are unsure of any school uniform requirements, please speak with your child’s class teacher, or the Front Office.
Term Break and Holiday Reading
As mentioned above, school holidays commence this Friday. Whilst the holidays are an important time for rejuvenation, fun and some extra time with family, the break is also an opportune time for extra reading. I am a passionate advocate for reading. Usually, people who are avid readers are articulate; have a wide range of vocabulary; are strong spellers; use good grammar; are sound writers; and imaginative.
Great reading skills provide a solid foundation for learning. Once children learn the essential skills to read, they require regular practice for reading to continue to develop. Reading is like anything else that requires practice to cultivate, such as riding a bike, playing a musical instrument or painting a masterpiece. Children of all ages benefit greatly from reading each day. Encourage your child to read daily and they will reap the benefits!
Wishing everyone a fantastic and safe holiday!
Simon Mechis
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