St Paul's Newsletter: Thursday, 7 December 2023
2023 St Paul's Newsletter - Term 4, Week 10
From the Principal
Dear Families,
This year, the season of Advent begins on Sunday 3 December and runs until Christmas Eve. The word Advent derives from the Latin word meaning “coming”. In this instance, we are referring to “The Lord is coming”. Advent is the first season of the Church year, leading up to Christmas, and includes the four preceding Sundays. This coming Sunday is referred to as the First Sunday of Advent.
Advent invites us to prepare for the commemoration of God’s coming by taking time to have a closer look inside ourselves away from the busy outside. This looking inside is not about remorse or regret, nor about listing ways life over the past year could have been different; it’s not about wishing we were better people. It’s about forward movement, getting new bearings, relying more on God for directions. It’s about a fresh start, getting closer to the “fire” and the “light” that are God’s love and compassion.
Advent is a time to “Rejoice, let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is nigh.”
St Paul Phil 4:4,5
Farewell and Thank You
Oh how time flies! I arrived on Monday 9 May, 2016, and it feels like only last week! It is with a mix of emotions that I say farewell to this incredible community after nearly eight years serving as the Principal of St Paul's Primary School. The journey has been nothing short of remarkable, and I am filled with gratitude and humility as I reflect on the time we've shared.
First and foremost, I must express my deepest appreciation to our hardworking and dedicated staff. Each of you has played an integral role in making St Paul's the nurturing and thriving environment it is today. The commitment you've shown to the wellbeing and education of our students is unparalleled, and I feel privileged to have worked alongside such an exceptional team.
A special thank you goes to the Deputy Principals I have worked with - Caroline, Denham, Stephenie and Carolynne. Your support, loyalty, and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in the success of our school. Helen alongside me in the office, has been the warm and welcoming face of St Paul's, and your contributions in my time have been phenomenal.
I am also deeply grateful for the guidance and wisdom provided by our esteemed Parish Priests. I have been fortunate enough to work with Fr Simon Grainger, Fr Geoff McIlroy, and Fr Anthony Cruz. The spiritual guidance I have been supported with has enriched my professional and personal journey, and I am truly grateful for this.
To our parents – thank you for your continuous support. Your involvement in the education of your children and your engagement with the school have been invaluable. I am always blown away by the generosity of our parents, always willing to roll up their sleeves when it counts!
A huge thanks to the heart of St Paul's – our students. Every one of you is a source of joy and inspiration. It has been a delight to greet you every morning and witness your enthusiasm for learning. Your curiosity, creativity, and resilience have made St Paul's a special place.
St Paul's has been more than a workplace for me; it has been a home filled with warmth, laughter, hard work and a shared commitment to education. I am profoundly grateful for the memories we've created, the challenges we've overcome, and the successes we've celebrated together.
As I embark on a new chapter in my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned over almost 8 years - and there are MANY! St Paul's will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for allowing me the privilege to serve as your principal. May St Paul's continue to inspire and flourish in the years to come.
Thank you.
Staff Farewells
On behalf of the St Paul’s community I wish to thank Cathie Vermeer, Elizabeth Van Graas and Irene Haritos for their tremendous contributions to St Paul’s Primary School. For those who could not make it to the farewell yesterday, here are some of the words that were spoken about these wonderful people:
Farewell Cathie Vermeer:
Cathie has been an integral part of our St Paul's family for over two decades. Cathie's journey at St Paul's with us has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it is with a mix of joy and sadness that we celebrate the incredible impact you've had on our school community.
Cathie's prowess in mathematics is legendary. She is the maestro who turned numbers and equations into a symphony of learning for generations of students. Her dedication to the subject and the countless hours spent ensuring that each student understood the beauty of mathematics have not only shaped minds but also inspired a love for learning.
Cathie has been a "Keeper of the Vision" and has been instrumental in shaping the ethos of St Paul's. Her steadfast belief in the importance of family, community, and parent-teacher partnerships has created a school culture that values not just academic achievement but the holistic development of each child.
Cathie, as you embark on this new chapter in your life, we want you to know that your impact will resonate for years to come. Your passion for education, your love for mathematics, and your unwavering dedication to our school community have left an indelible legacy. You may be saying goodbye to St Paul's, but you take with you the love, gratitude, and respect of generations who have had the privilege of being your students and colleagues.
Farewell Elizabeth Van Graas:
For 25 years, Elizabeth has been the beacon of light for our students, especially those who needed it most. Her journey began not as a mere job but as a calling – a calling to champion the cause of inclusivity, to embrace diversity, and to ensure that every child, regardless of their challenges, felt seen, heard, and valued.
In an age where the term "inclusive education" has become a buzzword, Elizabeth embodied its true essence. Day in and day out, she walked through our school with purpose and passion, not just assisting in the educational process, but becoming a pillar of support for those who needed it most. Elizabeth’s commitment to the well-being and growth of every child has been nothing short of inspiring.
As we bid farewell to Elizabeth, we are not just saying goodbye to a colleague and LSO; we are saying goodbye to a legacy. A legacy of compassion, dedication, and a profound belief in the transformative power of education. Elizabeth leaves behind a school that is richer, not just in academic achievements, but in the spirit of inclusivity and acceptance.
Farewell Irene Haritos:
Irene was our Music/Performing Arts Teacher from 2019 - 2022. Irene was the organiser, director and producer of our 2022 Musical - "Wonder in Aliceland", which was a major highlight of my entire time at St Paul's. In Irene, we bid farewell to a teacher who has ruled our hearts much like the Queen of Hearts herself! Just like the Queen, Irene has wielded her influence with grace, passion, and a touch of whimsy that has left an indelible mark on our Wonderland of learning.
Much like the Queen of Hearts, she has been a ruler in her own right, commanding not with an iron fist, but with a kind heart and an incredible dedication to her students. Her music room was a kingdom of knowledge, where curiosity reigned supreme and creativity knew no bounds.
As our Queen of Hearts takes her leave from our Wonderland of education, let us not dwell on the parting, but instead celebrate the moments of joy, laughter, and, yes, even a few "off with their heads" moments that have made our time together unforgettable. In particular, we remember and thank Irene for her incredible singing, amazing music program, and there are no words to describe the joy we all felt throughout the “Wonder in Aliceland” journey last year. Just as Alice grew and thrived through her adventures, so too have we grown under the watchful gaze of our Queen.
Family Farewells
As we approach the end of this school year, we say farewell to some of our cherished families who have been an integral part of the St Paul's community. We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for the valuable contributions and lasting impact these families have made during their time with us.
To our departing families, your presence at St Paul's has enriched our school in countless ways. Whether through volunteering at events, participating in school activities, or offering your time and talents, each family has played a unique role in creating the vibrant and supportive community that defines St Paul's.
As you embark on new journeys and adventures, please know that you will be greatly missed. To each family moving on, we extend our warmest wishes for continued success, joy, and fulfillment. May the lessons learned and the friendships formed at St Paul's accompany you on your new endeavours.
On behalf of the St Paul’s community, I wish to thank and farewell the following families for their contribution to St Paul's:
- Chan
- Dias
- Clark-Pearman
- Gardner
- Milikins
- Moody
- Price
- Radley
- Storer
- Xi-Smith
Welcome to St Paul's
This Thursday 14 December we have our “2024 Meet the Teacher” morning at 10:00am.
New Staff:
Next year we welcome Katherine Mirabella to the St Paul's staff. Katherine, currently teaching at St Patrick's, Pakenham, will be teaching Year 1/2 full time at St Paul's and will be a huge asset to the staff. Welcome Katherine!
We have also appointed Rick Ramsay to the St Paul's staff in 2024. Rick is about to begin his 4th year at University, training to be a teacher, and Rick will be working across the school as a Learning Support Officer. We welcome Rick to the St Paul's community.
New Students:
I am delighted to welcome 4 students to St Paul's next year. Along with our 2 new staff members and 22 new Preps, we say a huge welcome to:
- Elsie (Year 2)
- Logan (Year 3)
- Tyler (Year 5)
- Pippa (Year 4)
Welcome to all new students, staff and families!
St Paul's 2024 Staffing
I am proud to detail the staffing at St Paul’s for the 2024 school year as follows:
Leadership Structure
- Principal: TBC
- Religious Education Leader: Carolynne Boyd
- Teaching & Learning Leader and Maths Leading Teacher: Kelly Geoghegan
- Learning Diversity & Student Wellbeing Leader: Sarah Kleverkamp
- English Leading Teacher & Literacy Intervention: Stephenie Peels
Office Manager
- Helen Hermann
Classroom Teachers
- 5/6S: Daniel Salan
- 3/4BD: Carolynne Boyd and Julie Dietrich (Wednesdays and every second Friday)
- 3/4MC: Jo McIntosh (Mon-Wed) and Maria Cook (Thu-Fri)
- 1/2D: Emma Dinkgreve
- 1/2M: Katherine Mirabella
- Prep KG: Jacqui Kerr (Mon-Wed) and Kelly Geoghegan (Thu-Fri)
Specialist Teachers
- Physical Education: Emma-Lee Curwood
- Visual Arts: Emma-Lee Curwood
- Music/Performing Arts: Teresa Fraraccio
- Languages Teacher (Italian): Isabella Lepore
Education Support
- Learning Support Officers: Alayne Kowald, Bosa Sofranic-Carter, Greg McCourt-Hickman, Rick Ramsay
- Counsellor: Paula Hogan (Mondays and Thursdays)
- Library Technician: Alayne Kowald
Parents and Friends Association News
We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to every member of the Parents and Friends Association for their incredible dedication and hard work. A special thank you goes out to Carla Rademaker, Tasha Selby, and Tameka Groen for their pivotal role in re-establishing the group following Covid lockdowns, and to Bek Milikins for her instrumental contribution to the success of the Country Fair.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Jodie Brown for her outstanding efforts in running the hot lunches, ensuring that our students and parents alike enjoyed delicious meals throughout the year. Also, thanks again to Sally Moody for running our Book Club for so many years - Sally has handed over the reigns of Book Club Co-Ordinator to Katherine Sheers now that the Moody family have their youngest child finishing at St Paul's this year - thank you Katherine for taking on the role. We also wish to acknowledge and thank Kelly Garrett for running our secondhand uniform shop, which continues to be an invaluable resource for our families.
A special mention and thank you also to our P&F for giving up their time last weekend at the Merry Monbulk Festival - we sold hundreds of choc top ice creams! WOO HOO!!
An acknowledgment is due for the innovative school disco this year, split into junior and senior events. The participation of our very own Jacqui Kerr as the MC, along with the students' involvement in creating Spotify playlists, added a unique and enjoyable twist to the festivities.
The wonderful events organised by the P&F this year, such as the Mother's Day and Father's Day Hot Breakfasts and gift stalls, have been highlights for both parents and students. Starting the day with a hot egg and bacon roll or a refreshing fruit cup, followed by the excitement of the in-house gift stall, created memorable mornings for everyone involved. The success of the disco is a testament to the creativity and dedication of the P&F.
Furthermore, the support provided by the P&F for the annual Footy Colours dress-up day, complete with a sausage sizzle for the students, added a heap of fun on the day.
In summary, thank you to the entire Parents and Friends Association - with the committee of Carla, Tasha, Tameka, Jodie, Bek, Angela and Sarah, as well as all others that have assisted along the way. Thank you for your tireless efforts and commitment to enhancing the school experience for both parents and students. Your contributions have made a significant impact, and we look forward to another fantastic year of collaboration in 2024.
School Advisory Council News
The School Advisory Council (SAC) Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place last Wednesday 29 November.
During the meeting, we delved into important aspects of our educational strategy, particularly the MACS 2030 Strategy. We discussed the upcoming priorities outlined in the School Improvement Plan and took a brief look at our current school data snapshot. These discussions have laid the foundation for the path we plan to take to ensure the continuous growth and success of our school.
I wish to express our gratitude to Cara Kirby for her outstanding leadership as the Chairperson of our School Advisory Council (SAC). Cara's dedication to this vital role has not gone unnoticed. Helping to navigate the complexities of a school community, she has steered our discussions toward constructive outcomes. Cara's ability to foster an environment of open dialogue and collaboration has had a significant impact on the overall effectiveness of the SAC. Cara's positive attitude has been infectious, uplifting the spirits of everyone involved in the SAC. It is most evident that Cara genuinely cares about the wellbeing of our school community. Thank you Cara!
Last week's AGM was bittersweet as we said goodbye to two members of the SAC, Sally Zylinski and Kristen Dias. Sally, who has been an integral part of the SAC for an incredible nine years, represented our Parents and Friends Association with unwavering dedication. Sally also served as the Chairperson for a significant period, showcasing exemplary leadership. We extend our deepest gratitude to Sally for her enduring commitment and invaluable contributions to our school community.
We also express our heartfelt thanks to Kristen Dias, who served on the SAC for three years. Kristen brought her educational expertise to the group, offering valuable insights and support to various initiatives and ideas. Her contributions have significantly enriched our discussions and decision-making processes. Both Sally and Kristen will be greatly missed, and we wish them the very best in their future endeavours.
As we bid farewell, we also extend a warm welcome to the newest members of the 2024 SAC—Adam Carne, Katherine Sheers and David Cox. We are excited to have them on board and look forward to their fresh perspectives and contributions.
The 2024 School Advisory Council is made up of the following community members:
- Principal
- Parish Priest: Fr Anthony Cruz
- Chairperson: Cara Kirby
- Secretary: Megan Bourke
- Lein Jenkins
- Debbie Czaja
- Katherine Sheers
- Adam Carne
- David Cox
Once again, we want to thank everyone who attended the AGM and contributed to the meaningful discussions. Your engagement is vital to the success of our school community, and we appreciate your ongoing support.
With Sympathy
It is with a heavy heart that we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Gardner family as they mourn the recent passing of two beloved members of the family— Andrew's sister-in-law and Benjamin's Aunt, as well as Andrew's father and Benjamin's Grandfather. We are thinking of Andrew, Kate, Genevieve and Benjamin (Year 6) at this incredibly difficult time.
Passing On Ceremony and Graduation: Wednesday 13 December
Graduation Day is a very exciting day for the Year 6 students. The students begin the day in their classroom as normal before participating in the Passing On Ceremony at 12 noon. Parents are welcome to join us in the Church for this special occasion.
Following the Passing On Ceremony, the Year 6 students will enjoy their Graduation lunch.
Wednesday 13 December: GRADUATION DAY
- PASSING ON CEREMONY: 12.00 noon Wednesday 13 December 2023 - Parents are invited and welcome to join us at this time in the Church for our Passing On Ceremony.
- GRADUATION MASS AND CEREMONY: 6:00pm - 8:00pm Wednesday 13 December 2023 - Year 6 Students attend their Graduation Mass with their families.
Semester 2 Reports
Parents will receive the Semester 2 Reports on Wednesday 13 December electronically. At approximately 4:00pm, parents will receive an email with a link to the nForma Parent Portal.
LAST DAY FOR STUDENTS – Friday, December 15
Our last day of the school year for students is on Friday 15 December. The school day will
finish as normal at 3.00pm.
Assessment Days
At the beginning of the 2024 school year we will be conducting two Assessment Days which are
scheduled for Tuesday 30 and Wednesday 31 January. These two days are a significant part of our transition process.
There are no classes on Tuesday 30 and Wednesday 31 January, there are only individual appointments.
This involves each student in the school having a 30 minute appointment with their 2024 teacher just prior to the commencement of the school year. Further information, including the booking Event Code, will be sent out to parents soon, via email.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Watt
From the School Office
Active Kids Vouchers
Applications can be made to the Victorian Government for a $200 "Active Kids Voucher". This voucher provides $200 towards your child's chosen sport or activity.
Visit this link to apply:
https://service.vic.gov.au/services/apply-for-get-active-kids-voucher/home?channel=mobileApplication
Operoo - Student Medical and Contact Details
Please ensure that you have reviewed and updated your child's Operoo profile, carefully checking that all information held about your child and emergency contact details are accurate and up to date.
- Have any of your family or contact details changed?
- Have there been any changes to your child's medical profile?
- Have you uploaded your child's updated Allergy, Asthma or Anaphylaxis plan?
Important Dates
TERM 4
- Thursday 7 December - Christmas Carols Evening
- Friday 8 December - Hot Lunch and Sushi Day
- Wednesday 13 December - Passing On Ceremony
- Wednesday 13 December - Year 6 Graduation (6pm Mass)
- Friday 15 December - Final school day for students
Child Safe Standards: Ministerial Order 1359
St Paul's Primary School is a child safe organisation which welcomes all children, young people, and their families. We are committed to providing environments where our students are safe and feel safe, where their participation is valued, their views respected, and their voices are heard about decisions that affect their lives.
Our child safe policies, strategies and practices are inclusive of the needs of all children and students. We have no tolerance for child abuse and take proactive steps to identify and manage any risks of harm to students in our school environments. We also take proactive steps to identify and manage any risk of harm to students in our school. When child safety concerns are raised or identified, we treat these seriously and respond promptly and thoroughly.
The original Child Safe Standards were implemented in Victoria during 2016. They were developed in response to The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Abuse (2013 - 2017). In 2019 Victoria agreed to adopt the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations. Schools are one example of a Child Safe Organisation.
There are eleven Child Safe Standards:
Child Safe Standard 1 – Organisations establish a culturally safe environment in which the diverse and unique identities and experiences of Aboriginal children and young people are respected and valued.
Child Safe Standard 2 – Child safety and wellbeing is embedded in organisational leadership, governance and culture.
Child Safe Standard 3 – Children and young people are empowered about their rights, participate in decisions affecting them and are taken seriously.
Child Safe Standard 4 – Families and communities are informed and involved in promoting child safety and wellbeing.
Child Safe Standard 5 – Equity is upheld and diverse needs respected in policy and practice.
Child Safe Standard 6 – People working with children and young people are suitable and
supported to reflect child safety and wellbeing values in practice.
Child Safe Standard 7 – Processes for complaints and concerns are child focused.
Child Safe Standard 8 – Staff and volunteers are equipped with the knowledge, skills and awareness to keep children and young people safe through ongoing education and training.
Child Safe Standard 9 – Physical and online environments promote safety and wellbeing while minimising the opportunity for children and young people to be harmed.
Child Safe Standard 10 – Implementation of the Child Safe Standards is regularly reviewed and improved.
Child Safe Standard 11 – Policies and procedures document how the organisation is safe for children and young people.
MACS provides Catholic schools with templates for the required documentation which we are required to adapt to reflect our school community whilst ensuring all legal requirements are met. Below are 3 key documents that we continue to review in light of the new standards:
Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy
Child Safe Standards: Identifying and Responding - Reporting Obligations
Uniform Shop
Ross Haywood Sports - Update:
St Paul's Online Uniform Shop
https://www.rhsports.com.au/product/school_wear/st_pauls_monbulk_ps
For in-store purchases RH Sports are located at 12/100 New St, Ringwood (subject to any COVID restrictions in force at the time).
The store is now a CASHLESS STORE, EFTPOS transactions will be the only acceptable method of purchase. Recent changes to improve the health and safety of staff and customers include perspex screens at the registers and the supply of hand sanitiser. We ask that customers please apply this on entry to the store.
Online ordering continues as normal with all delivery options available including contactless pick up. Please phone the store on 9870 1377 if you have any further queries.
Secondhand Uniform Shop
Our secondhand uniform shop is managed by Kelly Garrett with items being purchased by gold coin donation. If you are looking for items of secondhand uniform please feel free to text Kelly on 0435 810 954 with your wish list. Items will usually be sent home via class tubs or collected from the school office by arrangement.
The secondhand uniform shop welcomes donations of St Paul's current school uniform items which are still in good condition. We do not accept the old St Paul's round neck jumpers, yellow shirts or non-St Paul's items. If you have any current uniform items you no longer need please feel free to leave your donations at the school office.
St Paul's Policies
OSHClub
Out of School Hours Care: OSH Club
Enrolments, Bookings and Enquiries
Parents will need to enrol with OSHClub. Please visit https://www.oshclub.com.au/ and click on "REGISTER". You will need to enrol with the Monbulk Primary School service.
OSH Club News
Community Notices
Monbulk L2P Program
Community Bank Monbulk & District in conjunction with Yarra Ranges Council and Tribe Monbulk Youth are bringing the TAC L2P Program to Monbulk.
L2P is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 years who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence.
Volunteer mentors are an integral and highly valued part of the L2P program, providing a unique opportunity for young people to interact with positive adult role models, gain confidence and move towards social independence. 1 to 2 hours a week can make a big difference.
Note: This program utilizes a vehicle dedicated to the L2P program, you do not need to use your own vehicle.
A free mentor workshop is being run by Yarra Ranges Council at the Monbulk Community Hub, 21 Main Road Monbulk on Saturday 3rd February 9am-3pm.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer mentor and help create the next generation of safe drivers, scan the QR code to register your details or contact the Yarra Ranges Council L2P team on 0417 534 945 L2P@yarraranges.vic.gov.au
Financial Resource Support for Families
Shire of Yarra Ranges - Newsletters
Please click the link below to access latest family news and events from Shire of Yarra Ranges.