This Wednesday we will be acknowledging the beginning of Lent with an Ash Wednesday liturgy at 12 o’clock. Please join us if you can. Lent is the period of preparation for Easter – a time of prayer, fasting and giving to those in need. During this time, we have an opportunity to draw nearer to God and be transformed by the Holy Spirit. The theme for Lent 2020 is Renewed by the Spirit. Pope Francis says, ‘Let yourself be transformed. Let yourself be renewed by the Spirit... do not abandon the path of love but remain ever open to his supernatural grace, which purifies and enlightens.’ (Gaudete et Exsultate #24) Life is a journey, with mountains, valleys, and unexpected challenges. We all need time to be renewed and transformed. God is the ultimate source of truth and love. Through this season of Lent let us encounter the Spirit anew so that we can continue on the ‘path of love’ as Jesus showed us.  

This week we will be inviting parents to come into our school with their child/ren and meet class teachers. All parents should receive a ‘Three Stars and a Wish’ page to complete before you come into the meeting with your child’s teacher. It is important that you have a discussion with your child prior to the meeting to list three things that they believe they are successful at. This sheet will inform the meeting as parents, children and teachers can discuss the areas of strength then collaboratively establish a goal for future learning. This format was also attached to the original compass alert. We look forward to seeing many of you this Tuesday and Wednesday. Please book your appointment through the Compass portal, or if you are having difficulties call the Office who can help you. 

This Saturday, St Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Parish in Milton is coordinating the Rising from the Ashes family outdoor event on the grounds of the Ulladulla Civic Centre in collaboration with various volunteer organisations, community service groups, local clubs, businesses, schools and churches. Everyone is invited to come along as neighbours, as families and as a community from 12:00pm–4:00pm on Saturday 29 February 2020. There will be lots of music, entertainment, food, arts and crafts, market stalls, as well as rides and activities for the children. There will also be a healing and renewal blessing between 1:00pm–1:30pm. Pet friendly—bring a chair/rug and spend the afternoon with us! St mary’s School will be running a stall with Fairy Floss and Cold Drinks, Mini Vinnies will also be involved, more details coming out this week so parents and students can volunteer to help on our stalls. 

Last Friday our ‘Chillzone’ sessions with Catholic Care began in each class, this first week was focusing on “Making Sense of Children’s Emotions” and next week ‘How Thinking Affects Feelings” . The classes really enjoyed working in groups and engaging in social and emotional learning without sharing any personal experiences. Please have a look at the attached information sheets for parents so you can support and discuss this important learning with your children. 

I hope you have a wonderful week and I hope to see you at school.

Yours in partnership

Laurinda Nelson (Principal)