Dear Families,
The importance for children to articulate their thinking
As our children grow and develop, an important skill they can acquire is the ability to articulate their thoughts and ideas effectively. Articulating thinking goes beyond mere verbal expression; it empowers children to communicate their feelings, needs, and perspectives. In this newsletter, we will explore the significance of encouraging our children to articulate their thinking and how it can positively impact their development.
Building communication skills: Articulating thoughts is the foundation of effective communication. When children learn to express themselves clearly, they are better equipped to convey their needs, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations with peers, teachers, and family members. These skills lay the groundwork for success in school and later in life.
Boosting confidence: When children are encouraged to voice their thoughts and opinions, it helps boost their self-esteem and confidence. They feel valued and heard, which in turn, empowers them to participate more actively in classroom discussions and social interactions. This confidence will serve them well as they face various challenges in their lives.
Enhance critical thinking: Articulating thoughts requires children to organise their ideas and think critically about what they want to convey. It encourages them to reflect on their experiences and make connections between different pieces of information. This process of structuring thoughts contributes to the development of analytical thinking skills.
Problem solving and decision making: When children can express their thought processes, it becomes easier for adults to guide them in problem-solving and decision-making situations. Children who can articulate their thinking are more likely to weigh the pros and cons, consider alternatives, and make informed choices.
Empathy and understanding: Encouraging children to articulate their thoughts also helps them understand the perspectives of others. By listening to their peers and learning to express themselves respectfully, children develop empathy and social skills, fostering harmonious relationships in both school and home environments.
Preparation for future success: The ability to articulate one's thoughts is a valuable skill that will serve children well in their academic, personal, and professional lives. Whether they are presenting ideas in the classroom, speaking in a job interview, or navigating complex social situations, the skill of clear communication is an asset that cannot be underestimated.
In conclusion, nurturing the skill of articulating thinking is an investment in your child's future success. It helps them become confident, empathetic, and critical thinkers, preparing them to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
First Holy Communion
Many of our Year 4 students have recently received or will be receiving their First Holy Communion. I offer my congratulations to the respective children. Thank you to Ms Ingrid Douventzidis, Ms Bernardette Robinson, Ms Rosanna Parrella and Ms Sara Altobelli, along with Fr Michael and Sr Josie, in preparing the children for this Sacrament.
Appointment of new Assistant Principal, Religious Identity and Mission (APRIM)
As has been mentioned on several occasions, Ingrid Douventzidis will complete her tenure as Deputy Principal and APRIM at the end of this year. Applications for a new school APRIM closed recently. When a new APRIM is appointed, it will be announced to the community.
Festival Choir
Our school will be participating in the Catholic Schools Music Festival on Thursday 28 September at the Festival Theatre. Our School Choir is looking forward to the event. I thank our School Choir Trainer (and Voice Coach), Julia Johnson, in preparing the students for this special occasion. I also congratulate Festival Choir member, Eric Mathew (5YV), who has been elected to sing a solo across the whole week of festivities.
School Fees, 2024
As I highlighted in the last Parent Newsletter, there will be no increase in school fees for the 2024 school year. Additionally, further fee remissions are available to any family who is struggling to pay school fees due to financial difficulties. Families should contact School Finance Officer, Helen Crosato, hcrosato@stjopayn.catholic.edu.au for more information.
Student Disco
It was pleasing to see most of the school students gather for the Student Disco last Friday afternoon/evening. I express gratitude to the Parents and Friends Committee for the time and work they invested in creating this occasion for our children. Also, thank you to those who volunteered at the disco.
Grandparents Day
Tomorrow, Friday 22 September we celebrate the Grandparents Day. It promises to be a great morning. As per the information which went home recently, we encourage grandparents to bring along one of their favourite story books (appropriate for the age of their grandchild) and/or any school souvenir/memento (photographs, school tie or cap, certificates, etc) to share with their grandchild.
Diary Dates and Term Four Calendar
The Term Four Calendar will be distributed to you in the short-term. In the meantime, I highlight a couple of whole school events taking place next term:
Sports Day, Friday 3 November (at Payneham Oval); and
End of Year Christmas Concert, Wednesday evening, 29 November (on school grounds).
New School Uniform, 2024
The new school uniform was circulated to you, in the form of a storyboard recently. All uniforms will be available for online orders or in-store purchases from 1 November 2023 (to be confirmed). Appointments are to be made for any purchase and or fittings. There will be a complete sizing range from early Term Four, in the ‘Parent Room’ (located at school), for families wishing to measure and order online. As I have been promoting, there will be a transition between the current and new uniform.
Condolences
I extend my sympathies to:
- the Russo family (Ivy, 6CK and Layla, 3VM) and the Zollo family (Issac, 1MP and Ella, Preschool ‘Joeys’) on the passing of their grandfather.
- the Piteo family (Ella, 5AS, Zara, 4BR and Aria, 2TM), on the passing of their paternal great grandmother.
- the Ricco family (Penelope, 1SP and Allegra, Preschool ‘Koalas’), the Simone family (Casey, RRD) and the Rositano family (Antony, RLM and Arianna, Preschool ‘Kangas’), on the passing of their great grandmother.
- the Forte family (Renato, 1DC), on the passing of his uncle, Charlie Sabatino.
- Sonia Vernillo (Year 3 Teacher), on the passing of her husband’s grandmother, Carmela.
Congratulations
I offer my best wishes to:
- the Spaziani family (Sebastian, 1DC), on the birth of a girl, ‘Oriana’.
- the Zaytoun family (Vanessa, RJM), on the birth of a girl, ‘Sandra’.
- Brontè Platt (Semester One, Year 3 teacher), on the birth of her son, ‘Sunny Lou’.
Conclusion of Term Three and Start of Term Four
As this is the last Parent Newsletter for Term Three, I wish you well for the two-week Spring break. Please note that Term Three finishes on Friday 29 September at 3:00pm. Term Four commences on Monday 16 October at 8:40am.
Wishing you well!
Simon Mechis
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