Newsletter #38 December 15
Principal News
Dear St Paul's families,
Welcome to our final newsletter for the year. The last two years have left their mark on all of us in one way or another. We have been challenged, at times pushed to breaking point, frustrated and left feeling exhausted mentally, emotionally and physically by the impact of the pandemic. And yet, here we still are! There is always hope, belief and faith. I am extremely grateful for the support that I and the staff have received from many of our school families over the last two years. There have been highs and lows and we have gotten through them together. I hope that in some way you feel the support has been reciprocated by us as well.
The children have proven time and time again how resilient they can be. Even when we try and put on a brave face to protect them and shield them from the 'problems' of the world, they still manage to continually surprise us with their positivity and beautiful smiles. Somedays all it takes is a simple hello, a wave or smile to brighten our day.
Christmas is a time of joy and hope for us all. It's a time to reconnect with families and friends, especially as that contact has been limited for so long. It's a time to remember what Christmas is really about for our school community as we celebrate the birth of Jesus. I know the children are excited to see what Santa brings them and what other tricks the Elf on the Shelf is up to next, however, I am still reminded by a Christmas quote that simply says, "It's not what is under the Christmas tree that matters but who is gathered around the Christmas tree". That speaks volumes.
As Jesus became the light of the world for us, we also have an opportunity to shine and become a light for our children and families. Let us be a beacon of hope as we move forward into 2022.
For those families that attended the graduation Mass and ceremony on Sunday evening, thank you! It was a lovely celebration and showcased once more the resilience of our Year 6 children. They, and their parents, should be commended for what they have been able to achieve. I certainly wish them all the best for the future.
At this time of year, we also farewell staff and families leaving St Paul's. I hope in some way you will always have fond memories of St Paul's and never forget that you are and always will be a part of the St Paul's family. Thank you for your contribution to St Paul's:
Mr Shaun Emmett, Mrs Di Champion, Mr Jack Freeman and the following families: Gemits, Hunia, Oliver, Ovenden, Pantazopoulos, Richmond, Schilling, Smith (Gabrielle), Thai, Truong, Wilson, Luo, Mannan, Tardio, Cranston, Ahotaeiloa, Vea & Wilkins.
The Middle and Senior unit students have participated in "camp" activities this week. A great way to certainly end the year and acknowledge their hard work.
Congratulations to our final milestone winners who have continued to: Be Safe, Be Respectful and Be Your Best.
BEE MILESTONE: Dan Boby, Harrison Burns
HIVE MILESTONE: Harper Hannah, Noah Hunt, Zalee Le Poidevin, Rafael Mammone, Sophia Moala, Emmy Rayson, Jackson Rowbotham, John Thang
ASSEMBLY: Tomorrow we will have our final assembly for the year. This will begin at 2.00pm in the hall. Parents are invited to attend and as per current guidelines are required to QR code in, wear a mask and provide proof of vaccination. Unfortunately, if you are not fully vaccinated you are unable to attend. Please enter through the front office and then make your way down to the hall. At our final assembly we will officially farewell staff and families leaving St Paul's as well as announcing the Year 6 Excellence Award recipients and the new school leaders for 2022.
SCHOOL FINISH: School will finish at the normal time of 3.25pm tomorrow.
Once again, thank you to all our St Paul's families. May you have a Blessed and Holy Christmas and a Happy New Year. See you all on the first day back at school Tuesday 1st February 2022!
Keep the Faith!
Vince Muscatello
Senior News
The Grade 5 and 6 students have had a fantastic few days with heading to the Perry Sandhills, Wentworth Pool, Cinema, Workers for Lunch and a Science Show. To finish off the last week of school for 2021, we will also have a visit from Sarah from EnviroEdu to show us her amazing animals.
Grade 6 Graduation was a special night. We wish the Graduating students a fantastic holidaysand transition to Year 7. Please come back and visit us!
Wishing everyone in the Senior Unit a blessed Christmas and New Year.
Mrs Courtney, Mr Emmett, Ms Kedmenec and Ms Parker.
Grade Six Gradutation - Pizza Cafe
GRADE SIX T-SHIRT SIGNING
Students can bring in their Year 6 T-Shirt to be signed by their friends on THURSDAY 16th December. Please note, students are not permitted to sign the shirt they are wearing. It needs to be brought in seperately. Please also supply a permanent marker.
Junior Unit News
The students had a wonderful morning yesterday visiting their new classes and meeting their new teachers. The children were a little nervous but were so excited to see who was in their class for next year!
- I’m looking forward to being with my new teacher in Room 4. Max (J8)
- I enjoyed getting to meet my new teacher. I’m looking forward to getting to play on the John Hill Oval next year. Oscar (J8)
- I’m looking forward to being in a class with Max and Justin. Tajylen (J8)
- I enjoyed decorating t-shirts with all the things I like in Mr. White’s class. Tyler (J7)
- I enjoyed decorating a bee to put on my new classroom door. John (J7)
- I enjoyed making an accordion Rudolf in my new class with Mrs. McVean. Lorenzo (J7)
- I’m looking forward to having a new teacher and having Emma and Holliee in my class. Bridie (J6)
- I enjoyed making a rudolf accordion and I’m looking forward to being in my new class next year. April (J5)
- I'm looking forward to being with my new teacher and making new friends. Jess R (J4)
- I'm looking forward to going on Grade 3 camp. Levi (J4)
- I'm looking forward to having my sister at school and Ruby in my class again. Harriet (J5)
- I'm looking forward to EVERYTHING! Cooper C (J5)
The Junior teachers would like to wish all our families a very Merry Christmas. We feel so grateful for a wonderful (yet hectic) year with the children. We look forward to seeing everyone back next year after a well deserved break!
Foundation Unit News
The Foundation Unit would like to thank all of the parents for their support during 2021. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope you enjoy your break from routine and get to spend some quality time with your family. We look forward to seeing all of the children return to school as Grade 1 students.
RE News
The parish is currently seeking interested families who would like to take part in the nativity play during the 6pm Christmas Eve mass at the Sacred Heart Church. There will be a meeting next Tuesday 21st December at the Sacred Heart Church.
Please refer to the parish bulletin for more information or email Ms Jess.
Arts News
I hope you were able to enjoy our Virtual School Concert last week, or can find the time to watch it with your children in the coming days and weeks. Our amazing St Paul's students should be so proud of themselves... they are all superstars!
We have finished the year off with some lovely Christmas artwork.
Stylish Santas by Juniors
Christmas Candles by Middles
Pretty Peacocks by Foundation
Christmas Chalk Cheer by Seniors
I would like to wish all of our St Paul's families a very happy and safe holiday season. I look forward to a bright and productive new year in 2022!
Jess Freeman
Technology News
Wow...what a year it's been...it's so hard to believe it is nearly over!
Last week Foundation students put their knowledge of iPads to the test using the Chatterpix app to create animated Christmas Trees and Gingerbread Men.
Students had to take photos, record their voices and download their video; all using the iPad. If you haven't seen your students work yet, check their bags for their picture with a barcode attached. Scan the barcode with your mobile phone to watch their video.
How clever are the 1/2 students who designed and created 3D christmas baubles last week. They were very excited to use them to make this wonderful Christmas tree display.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO ENTERTAIN THE KIDS NEXT WEEK?
Check out this free coding session for children aged 7-12.
As the Technology Room signs off for the year, I wish you all a safe and restful break.
Blessings to all for a very Merry Christmas.
Mrs Simms
Administration News
Thank you to all families for returning 2022 School Fee & Parental Help form (green). Due to unforeseen circumstances we are still compiling the calculation sheets for some families. We will be following up with the Payment Option form early in 2022. We appreciate your support.
We would like to wish you all a very Safe & Holy Christmas and a Happy New Year with all your family.
Kathryn & Loretta
Parent Noticeboard
2022 School Magazine
Extra copies are available from the office for purchase - $25
Please contact the office if you would like to purchase one.
UNIFORM SHOP The Uniform Shop will be open at St Paul’s in the last week of the holidays on the following dates:
Tuesday 25th January 2022 8am - 1pm
Thursday 27th January 2022 1pm – 5pm
First day of school for students will be Tuesday 1st February 2022