Setting a Positive Example for Our Children
In our ever-changing world, where children are constantly exposed to a multitude of influences, setting a good example for our children has never been more important. We, as parents/caregivers have a profound impact on their growth, development, and the values they hold dear.
Educational experts emphasise the crucial role parents/caregivers play in shaping children's character and values.
Children are great imitators, so give them something great to imitate. Children learn by observing and emulating their parents. They look up to us, not only for guidance, but also for inspiration. Our actions, attitudes, and behaviours are the templates from which they will form their own worldview.
Actions carry more weight than anything we say. We can lecture our children on values and ethics, but it's our daily actions and choices that truly leave an impression. Children notice how we treat others, how we handle challenges, and how we navigate difficult situations.
The best way to teach our children is to model the behaviour we want to see. Children absorb their moral compass from the people they admire and respect, especially their parents. To instil virtues such as kindness, empathy, and integrity, we must embody these qualities ourselves.
The values we live by at home become the values our children take into the world. The values and principles we uphold within our family create the foundation upon which our children build their own belief systems. This foundation influences how they interact with others and make decisions in the wider world.
Children watch us as closely – be the role model they need. In this digital age, children are constantly observing, whether it's on screens or in real life. Being a positive role model means being mindful of our actions both online and offline.
As parents, our actions are the most powerful teaching tool we possess. By setting a positive example in our daily lives, we can help our children develop the values and character traits that will serve them well throughout their lives. Remember, we are not just raising children; we are raising the future leaders, thinkers, and caregivers of the world.
Staffing, 2024
After many years of dedicated service at St Joseph’s Payneham, Marie Polvere has decided to retire at the end of this year. Marie first joined St Joseph’s in 1988, and in this time has had many roles. For the last 20 plus years, Marie has been our school’s Inclusive Education Coordinator – a position in which she has excelled.
On that note, I congratulate Nicole Joanni on being appointed to the Inclusive Education Coordinator role, commencing Term One, 2024. Nicole will be coming to us from St Andrew’s Walkerville, having held a similar position there.
At the End of Year Mass on Friday 8 December (at 9:15am in our church), we will farewell Marie and Deputy Principal and APRIM, Ingrid Douventzidis (who is also retiring). Following Mass, parents/caregivers are invited to the school gymnasium, for light refreshments.
End of Year Student Reports
As cited in the previous Parent Newsletter, and as per the communication this week, for the End of Year Student Reports, the application, SEQTA Engage, will open. This means you will be able to access your child’s Report online. Families who wish to have a hard copy, can request this option from the Front Office.
Sports Day thanks
Thank you for your attendance at Sports Day on Friday 3 November. We had ideal conditions to make for a splendid and successful day.
I acknowledge the children’s effort and enthusiasm; our parent volunteers who gave out ribbons, assisted in walking the children to and from Payneham Oval, and who helped distribute Boost juices and lunches; staff who ensured the events ran effectively and those who assisted in the setting and packing up of equipment; the scorers; First Aid officers; the staff and P&F members who stayed back at the end of the day to make sure all rubbish was collected and everything in order; the P&F for not only setting up the fruit stall, but also handing out the fruit to the students; and the generosity of Tony and Mark’s for supplying the fruit.
Lastly, I extend my thanks to Physical Education Teacher and Coordinator, Adrian Mastrangelo, for the planning, organisation and work in the lead up to Sports Day – it’s a big task and I congratulate Adrian on a very successful school-wide event.
Children’s University
Last Friday at Bonython Hall, located on the University of Adelaide grounds, some of our students were recognised for their efforts in completing extra-curricular hours, contributing to their Children’s University award. A big congratulations to Leo Calabro, Jayden Dias, Sophia Festa, Dishawn Gavasgaran, Alessio Lionello, Ava Lionello, Nadia Marroncelli, Louis Monterosso, Liam Panozzo, Avantika Swaminathan, Evie Traino, Mihir Yadav, Charlotte Doyle, Julian Luppino, Cartia Mitolo, Rosha Vojdani, Alexis Williamson, Brooke Willamson, Oliver Doyle, Sebastian Martino and Jayvin Purba on this achievement.
I also acknowledge staff member Josie Colangelo, who has worked behind the scenes, in liaising with children, families and the Children’s University. If your child would like to participate in the Children’s University program for 2024, please do speak with Josie – jcolangelo@stjopayn.catholic.edu.au
New School Uniform, 2024
Details regarding the new school uniform have been circulated on several occasions. The new school uniform is mandatory for all new students to the school from January 2024. For all other students, there is a two-year transition period (between the current and new uniform); meaning that by the start of the 2026 school year, all students need to be wearing the new uniform.
End of Year Concert, Wednesday 29 November
The End of Year Concert is being held on Wednesday 29 November, commencing at 6:15pm on the school grounds. This is for all Preschool to Year 6 children and families. There will be food and drink available on the evening (noting it is an alcohol-free event).
Child safety and consideration for our neighbours
Please ensure you are watching your child/ren when leaving the school grounds at the end of each day, including when travelling on footpaths.
Additionally, please be considerate of our neighbours, by not parking or standing with your vehicle in their driveways. Further, please ensure your child is keeping out of residents’ gardens and not ripping petals, leaves, etc. from their property.
Building and Infrastructure Update
The new building is nearing completion, ready to house our Reception and Year 1 students from 2024. A committee is at work to determine the name of the building.
As has been revealed, a new nature play space will be constructed over the December and January school holiday period, replacing the current playground. The endeavour is for the play area to be open at the beginning of the 2024 school year.
Google Review
If you can spare a few minutes, please consider leaving us a ‘Google Review’. This will also help prospective families understand the quality of our services and community when considering enrolling their child at our school. Please click on the QR Code (located in this week’s Newsletter) to access. Thank you!
Condolences
I extend my sympathies to:
- the Sassano family (Emilio, 2MG) on the passing of his paternal grandfather.
Wishing you well!
Simon Mechis
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