Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome back to Term 2, it has been a busy but wonderful start to the term. Many of our Year 2 class joined with other students of the Parish to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This is a such a significant milestone for children, as they learn to accept responsibility for mistakes and to seek forgiveness. Forgiveness and the notion of reconciliation is central to who we are as Catholics, making peace with those who have caused hurt. 

Last Thursday we celebrated NAIDOC lead by Uncle Phil Butler who offered a ‘Welcome to Country’ as a local Yuin/Budawang man. During the ceremony our students danced a welcome and sang in Dhurga language, including songs written in language by Aunty Chris Finney. We were so fortunate to have St John the Evangelist Goroon Cultural Group supporting us with dance, didge and singing. All of our students were so reflective and respectful during the assembly, we are so lucky that our students have these experiences of local culture. It was wonderful to have so many parents and special guests joining us on the day. 

I would like to congratulate many students at St Mary’s who show respect everyday in many ways. Respect is shown in the small things that matter. This week I have seen that respect in our students:

• arriving looking their best in their school uniform
• greeting other students and staff by saying hello
• being ready for learning
• keenly following school routines and procedures
• listening carefully
• speaking kind words
• being in the right place at the right time
• being the best person they can be 

Just a reminder to all students that chewing gum is not allowed at school. Please ensure that your child wears their school tie and brings their school hat each day. 

I look forward to seeing you at school. 

Yours in partnership,
Laurinda Nelson