Dear Families,
Taking time out for deep thinking
We mustn’t underestimate the significance of profound thinking.
Consider the following: If you believe that the difference between your very best and the worst day was at least 50% mental, how much time do you actually spend developing your thinking skills?
Another question: When was the last time you sat for an hour of pure thinking? If you are like most people, it has been a while. Is this simply a function of our high-speed era? The absurdly talented George Bernard Shaw, a world-class writer and the founder of the London School of Economics, noted this thought deficit many years ago. ‘Few people think more than just two or three times a year,’ Shaw reportedly said. ‘I have made an international reputation for myself by thinking once or twice a week.’
When David Cameron took office as Prime Minister of the UK some years ago, then US President Barack Obama, reportedly advised him that, ‘The most important thing you need to do is to have big chunks of time during the day when all you’re doing is thinking. Without that, you lose the big picture.’
As we reflect on our own children, perhaps it is worthwhile for us to allow them times for uninterrupted thinking. Yes, we live in a very busy world and we always have many distractions. Notwithstanding the importance of connections, study, communication, etc.; allowing the opportunity for thinking, without disruption, is going to be beneficial, so that we can live our lives in a more fulfilling way, both personally and professionally.
Possibly in your household, permit for some quality thinking time each week. Try the process for a couple of months; see if there are developments, changes, etc.
I know when I ‘have a good think’, I feel better, come up with solutions, generally have greater confidence and have a clearer picture of where I’m going.
Why not join the Parent and Friends?
The Parents and Friends (P&F) are eager to have more members. There are no special skills or qualities required – just a willingness to share ideas and help-out from time to time.
It is not an onerous responsibility, rather an opportunity to join a group who share common goals that include: holding events for the children at St Joseph’s Payneham; raise funds for the school; and create occasions for community bonding, all whilst having a bit of fun and building relationships with other parents/carers at our school.
Please email current P&F Chair, Aly Giannitto at: missaly1@y7mail.com to put your name forward. Alternatively, feel free to have a chat with myself if you’d like more information. We’d love to see more faces on the P&F during 2022.
School Fees, 2022
I can reveal that the 2022 School Fees will remain the same as this year. Therefore, there will be no change to the fee structure. Details will be distributed by the Finance Team in the short-term.
Notes going home
It is perfectly fine to send a note home to families in your child’s class re. a donation for a birthday present for the teacher, a class weekend picnic catch-up, etc. However, I do ask that notes are sent to Deputy Principal, Ingrid Douventzidis, for checking prior to distribution. Thank you.
Condolences
Last week, staff member Anna Garimella (Preschool teacher), had her father-in-law pass away. This is an especially difficult time for Anna, as her family are all overseas, and she is unable to be with them at present.
Also, over the weekend, staff member Laura Parletta, lost her beloved grandmother.
Lastly, our sympathies go to Akira Daram’s (Year 2MM) family. Akira’s grandfather recently passed away.
Updated COVID-19 information re. wearing of face masks
Catholic Education South Australia, in line with community requirements, has advised that the wearing of face masks is not required outdoors on the school site (physical distancing must still occur).
However, if you need to enter a building, please COVID-Safe check-in, physically distance from others, and in this situation please wear a face mask.
Friday 12 November: R-6 Sports Day and Preschool Student Free Day
St Joseph’s Payneham Sports Day will be held on Friday 12 November. For further details, please view the letter which was circulated last week by Sports Coordinator, Michael Musolino.
Additionally, please note that if your child attends Preschool, Friday 12 November is a Student Free Day.
End of Year Christmas Concert
As you may have seen in the Term Four Calendar, the End of Year Concert will be happening on Thursday 25 November, commencing at 6:30pm, on the school grounds. Further details will go home soon.
Wishing you well!
Simon Mechis
Social