No 11. Term 2 Week 11, 28th June 2024
Principal's News
As we reach the end of another exciting term, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our wonderful accomplishments over the past 11 weeks. To our dedicated staff, hardworking students, and supportive families—thank you for your relentless efforts and commitment.
With the two-week break upon us, I encourage families to explore the fantastic activities our local community has to offer. It's so easy to fall into the clutches of Melbourne's winter hibernation, but getting out and about can be a great way to minimise screen time and stay active, which is great for mental health and family relationships.
The City of Casey is hosting several family-friendly events, such as the Frosted Winter Spectacular at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, which runs until July 21. This event offers attractions like an inflatable Snow Land playground, live circus performances, and an icy toboggan slide (Time Out Worldwide) (Secret Melbourne).
For those who wish to venture into Melbourne, there are plenty of engaging activities. The Firelight Labyrinth at Docklands promises a mythical journey through light and sound from June 29 to July 14 (What's On - City of Melbourne). The Eynesbury Winter Festival from June 23 to July 9 transforms Eynesbury into a winter wonderland with ice skating, magic shows, and workshops (Secret Melbourne).
Additionally, free events include:
- Library Cinema at The Dock: Watch contemporary, classic, and documentary films on the big screen
- Top Arts at NGV: Features the work of VCE students and is free to visit until July 14
- Teddy Bears' Picnic: Enjoy a delightful picnic at North Melbourne Library on July 4
- Art of the Brick: An immersive LEGO brick art experience, free for children under a certain age
- Bunjil Place: Hosting various free events and activities throughout the holidays (Casey.vic.gov.au)
Engaging in these types of family outings offers numerous benefits to children's learning and development. They also strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories. Additionally, participating in diverse activities enhances children's language and vocabulary development as they encounter new environments and concepts. These outings provide hands-on learning opportunities that are both educational and enjoyable.
I encourage everyone to take advantage of these events to reduce screen time and engage in enriching experiences. Who knows, maybe I will run into some of you at some of these great events.
Remember, we return to school on Monday, July 15. Have a safe, enjoyable break, and I look forward to seeing you all refreshed and ready for another term of learning and growth.
God bless,
Jason Micallef,
Principal
From SZ-App to SIMON Everywhere
We are excited to announce a significant upgrade in our communication platform. Starting Friday, July 26, we will transition from our current SZApp to the new and improved SIMON Everywhere app.
Key Dates:
- Now until July 26: Communication will be available through both SZApp and SIMON Everywhere to give families time to transition.
- After July 26: SZApp will no longer be used, and all communications will be exclusively through SIMON Everywhere.
Why SIMON Everywhere? SIMON Everywhere integrates seamlessly with our Parent Access Module (PAM), providing you with a comprehensive and user-friendly platform. Here are some of the benefits:
- Instant Notifications: Receive timely updates and alerts directly to your mobile device.
- Attendance Tracking: Easily monitor your child’s attendance.
- Access to Reports: View your child's school reports at any time.
- Absence Notifications: Notify the school of your child's absence quickly and efficiently.
- Event Updates: Stay informed about upcoming school events.
- NAPLAN Results: Access your child’s NAPLAN results conveniently.
Getting Started:
- Create a PAM account (See instructions below)
- Download the App: SIMON Everywhere is available for free on the App Store and Google Play.
- Set Up: Verify your mobile number to enable push notifications. Use your usual PAM email address and password to log in.
We are committed to making this transition as smooth as possible. If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the school office once we return in term 3.
Carpark Safety: A Top Priority
The safety of our students is always our top priority. Over the past few weeks, we have had several near misses in the carpark where children were almost hit by cars. These incidents highlight the need for increased vigilance and adherence to our carpark safety rules.
Important Reminders for Carpark Safety:
- Walk with Your Children: Always accompany your children through the carpark. Do not allow them to walk alone.
- No Running Ahead: Ensure that children do not run ahead. They should stay close to you at all times.
- Use the Crossing: Always use the designated crossing points. They are there to ensure everyone’s safety.
By following these guidelines, we can work together to keep our carpark safe for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation and attention to this critical matter.
Education in Faith
This Week's Gospel Reflection
Last Sunday’s Gospel (Mark 4:35-41) recounts how Jesus and His disciples encountered the raging storm when they were crossing over to the other side of the sea on their boat.
In this passage, Jesus and His disciples set out across the Sea of Galilee. As they sail, a fierce storm arises, causing the disciples to panic. Meanwhile, Jesus is asleep in the boat. The terrified disciples wake Him, pleading for help. Jesus responds by rebuking the wind and calming the sea with the words, "Peace! Be still!" Instantly, the storm subsides, and there is a great calm. Jesus then questions the disciples' fear and lack of faith. The disciples are left in awe, wondering about the true nature of Jesus, whom even the wind and sea obey.
Reflection on its Meaning and Message
This powerful story demonstrates Jesus' divine authority over nature and His ability to bring peace amidst chaos. It reminds us that, even in the midst of life's storms, Jesus is present and capable of restoring calm. The disciples' fear and subsequent amazement reflect our human tendency to doubt and be overwhelmed by circumstances, yet it also shows the transformative power of faith. This passage encourages us to trust in Jesus' presence and His power to bring peace, no matter how turbulent our lives may become.
Engaging Children in Conversation
Here are some simple ideas to help you discuss this gospel with your children:
Storytime Discussion: Read the passage together and then talk about a time when they felt scared. Ask them how it would feel to have Jesus with them in that moment.
Storm in a Jar: Create a simple "storm in a jar" using water, oil, and food colouring to illustrate the storm and the calm. This visual aid can help children understand the concept of Jesus calming the storm.
Faith and Trust: Discuss what it means to have faith and trust in Jesus. Share examples of how trusting in Jesus has brought peace in difficult times.
Prayer Time: Encourage children to pray whenever they feel scared or worried, asking Jesus for peace and calm, just like the disciples did.
Role Play: Act out the story with your children. One can be Jesus, and others can be the disciples. This interactive activity can help them remember the story and its message.
Through these activities, children can learn to trust in Jesus' presence and power, fostering a sense of peace and faith in their daily lives.
Dear Lord,
Just like the disciples on the stormy sea, we sometimes face challenges that leave us feeling afraid and alone. Help us to remember that You are always with us, even in the midst of our troubles. Grant us the faith to trust in Your power and Your love, even when the waves crash around us. Teach us to call upon You in prayer, and to find peace in Your presence. May we navigate through any storm with courage and hope, knowing that You are our anchor. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Learning & Teaching
Phonics: Building a Strong Foundation for Reading!
Many of you may be aware of the Victorian Government's recent announcement regarding a mandated focus on phonics in all government schools from 2025. This initiative aims to ensure a strong foundation in reading skills for all students, and here at St Kevin's, we're thrilled to see it!
The good news is, phonics instruction has been a core part of our reading program for many years. We believe that explicitly teaching the relationships between letters and sounds empowers students to become confident and independent readers.
This approach not only helps them decode new words, but also strengthens their spelling abilities. Our teachers are well-versed in systematic synthetic phonics, ensuring a structured and sequential learning experience for our students.
Thanks to our amazing helpers!
Speaking of strong foundations, a huge shout-out goes to the amazing parents who volunteered their time this week! They played a vital role in creating the Word Work folders for our junior students. These folders will be instrumental in their phonics lessons, providing them with engaging activities to solidify their understanding of letter sounds and blending.
We truly appreciate the dedication of our parent community, especially Karen, Pam, Belinda, Mandy, Chamari, Reeja, Sarah-Jane, Caryn, Natalie, Prafulla, Julieanne, Sarah, Poonam, Jo, Nancy, Carol, Lucien, Lidwin, Sharon, and Ema. Your contribution will undoubtedly make a significant difference in our students' learning journey.
We look forward to continuing to provide our young learners with the best possible start in their reading adventures!
Grade 1 & 2 Learning Showcase
This term, as part of the inquiry unit "Our Sacred Space”, the grade one and two students embarked on a project to create a suburb featuring important landmarks.
On Tuesday, June 18th, the students eagerly shared their incredible suburban creations, crafted from construction boxes, with their peers and families. It was truly wonderful to see their imaginations come to life and to hear them explain the various aspects of the neighborhoods they created. We are extremely proud of their learning journey.
The event was a resounding success, filling the grade 1 and 2 building with fantastic energy. The students' projects showcased a great deal of hard work and creativity.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to the dedicated teachers for their commitment and effort in making this event possible.
We also want to extend our deep appreciation to all the parents who took the time to support their children in their learning. Your involvement was crucial to the event's success and greatly enriched the experience for everyone involved.
Here are some photos from the showcase
Melbourne Demons Football Player Visit
Our Year 5 & 6 students were lucky enough to be visited by five players from the Melbourne Football Club this past Monday afternoon. Our students asked questions around attitude, values, and health and nutrition. The players shared ways they develop and maintain a positive mindset, tips on how to reset and refocus, and showing respect for themselves and their teammates as well as the game itself. They encouraged our students to lean on family, friends, and teachers for support. The players also talked about healthy bodies and minds, with a strong theme of finding your 'why' and developing your passion, being your best and authentic self, and supporting your teammates to be the same. We felt very fortunate to be part of such a valuable experience!
Student Wellbeing
Spreading Respect: The Power of Positive Greetings!
Over the last two weeks, we have been emphasising the importance of respect, especially in how we use our manners. We have encouraged the use of polite phrases like “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in everyday interactions. These small acts of courtesy not only show respect but also build a positive and kind atmosphere within our school. Keep up the great work, everyone!
Congratulations to the following students who have been recognised as trying extra hard to practise using manners to show respect to others:
Ezra. (PJS), Kingston (PKK), Diyon (1LO), Zion (1LO), Galvyn (1HE), Effie (1HE), Ava (1PE), Elijah (1PE), Neron (2DM), Jayden (2DM), Liam (2BR), Joshua (2BR), Eleanor (2KE), Livjot (3FR), Micah (3FR), Tia, (3RO), Jasmine (3RO), Bianca (3SC), Pippa (4NA), Solomona (4NA), Olivia (5RU), Chris (5RU), Sheran (5TI), Gabriel (5TI), Jaden (5TI), Avah (5TI), Bianca (6BE), Mario (6BE), Sunaina (6WA), Vivek (6WA), Jaidah (6CR), Ryu (6CR).
Community
Sign up for Kelly Sports in Term 3!
Great News! Thanks to the success of our Thursday afternoon basketball program, in term 3 Kelly Sports will also offering an after-school sport program on Tuesdays for students interested in refining their soccer skills! See below for details on how to sign up.
