No 21. Term 4 Week 9, 6th December 2024
Principal News
As we approach the end of the school year, I welcome you to our second-last newsletter for 2024. With Christmas fast approaching, it’s a time of reflection and gratitude—and also an opportunity to share some important news about staffing changes for the year ahead.
Change is a natural part of life and school and while for some, it can sometimes feel unsettling, it also brings fresh opportunities for growth and renewal. This year, we will be bidding farewell to several staff. In particular, two treasured members of our St. Kevin’s family. Bernadette Dawson, who has dedicated an incredible 25 years to our school and Rebecca Fonseca, with 21 years of loving service, is moving on to new chapters in their lives. Their contributions have shaped generations of students and families and they will always hold a special place in our hearts.
We also acknowledge the departures of teachers Melinda Collard, Natalie Kechichian, Sarah Smith (who has been on parental leave this year) and Kay Robinson. We also say goodbye to Heather Lockhart, our dedicated nurse and Georgie Fitzgerald, one of our LSOs who has been with us for a year. Additionally, we wish Rachael Schendel, another long-term staff member, all the best as she takes a year off to experience the exciting opportunity of living abroad before returning to us in 2026. Each of these wonderful people has enriched our community in unique ways and their impact will be deeply felt.
We also continue to hold Koula Kydas in our prayers as she undergoes treatment. Her strength inspires us and we remain hopeful for her return when the time is right.
Amidst these farewells, we are delighted to introduce the new staff joining us in 2025, as well as some familiar faces returning. We warmly welcome Trent Thiessens and Greg Clement, whose addition will bring the unique benefit of having two more male teachers on our team. Joining them are Anna Mastroianni and Holly Hogan, who will undoubtedly bring fresh ideas and energy to our classrooms. We are also thrilled to welcome back Kristy Sly and Carol Williams in part-time teaching roles, as well as Belinda Rowlands, returning as a Mathematics Intervention teacher, and Erica Talia, who is rejoining us from parental leave. Their combined expertise and dedication will further strengthen our community.
A special note of appreciation goes to Sarah Fry, who has been a valued member of our teaching team over the past two years. To support her in completing further study, Sarah will transition back to her role as an LSO for 2025, continuing her invaluable contribution to our school community.
Naturally, such transitions may stir feelings of worry or uncertainty in some. However, it’s important to remember that change is normal in schools and also invites renewal, creativity, and growth—values at the heart of our mission as a Catholic school.
There is so much to look forward to in 2025 and we can be optimistic, thanks to our ongoing shared commitment to our children’s learning and well-being. The richness of our community will forever shine through every change, and I am confident that the year ahead will bring many blessings.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to ensure the best for our children and school community.
Jason Micallef,
Principal
As part of these preparations, we are excited to host a Transition Day on Monday, December 16. This will be an opportunity for children to meet their 2025 teachers and classmates and welcome new students who will be joining St. Kevin’s in 2025. All our new staff will be coming along too, ready to meet their classes and become familiar with our wonderful community.
Leadership & Management
Introducing Team St Kevin's 2025!
Prep Team
- [PPE] Mrs Petkovic (leader) & Mrs Blake
- [PIB] Mrs Borthwick
- [PNA] Mrs Nasrawi
- [PTA] Mrs Talia
Junior Team (1/2)
- [1LO] Mrs LoRosso
- [1BE] Mrs Belloso
- [1HH] Mrs Hogan
- [2MA] Mrs Mastroianni (leader) & Mrs Sly
- [2HE] Mrs Hettiarachchi & Mrs Eades
- [2WA] Mrs Wallace
Middle Team (3/4)
- [3MB] Mrs Bent
- [3MI] Mrs Micallef
- [3??] TBC
- [4CL] Mr Clement (leader) & Mrs Williams
- [4RU] Miss Rullo
- [4IC] Mrs Iturbe & Mrs Castillo
Senior Team (5/6)
- [5DM] Mrs D'Monte
- [5HI] Mrs Hickcox
- [5TI] Mrs Timothy
- [6KB] Mrs Bennett (leader) & Miss Chong
- [6CR] Mr Crozier
- [6TH] Mr Thiessens
Specialist Teachers
- Physical Education - Mrs Brobyn (P-2) & Mrs Donald (3-6)
- Performing Arts - Mrs Szabo (P-6)
- Visual Arts - Mrs Eades (P-2) & Mrs Galway (3-6)
- Indonesian - Mrs Luna (P-2) & Miss Chong (3-6)
- STEM (Science / Technology / Engineering / Maths) - Mrs Kroenert
- Critical & Creative Thinking - Mrs Bonato (1-6)
- Literacy Intervention - Mrs de Reus, Mrs Murray
- Maths Intervention - Mrs Cardamone, Miss Rowlands
Learning Support Officers
Cressy Morais, Cathy Allender, Elizabeth Daniel, Heloise Lazarus, Lisa Longley, Judie Cachart, Carol Sugirth, Rosie Andronis, Anne Wijeyeratne, Vathsala Thananchayan, Parminder Dhillon, Marissa Marcoulli, Sarah Fry
Education in Faith
- Mrs Hettiarachchi (Faith & Mission Leader)
Learning & Teaching Team
- Mrs Gage (L&T Leader)
- Mrs de Reus (Literacy Coach)
- Mrs McMaster (Numeracy Coach)
- Mrs Bruhin (Diversity & Inclusion Leader)
Wellbeing Team
- Mrs Broadhurst (Student Wellbeing leader)
- Mrs McGookin (Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader)
- Mrs Newstead (Chaplain)
Operations & Administration
- Mr Butler (Operations & Community Engagement)
- Maria-Rosa Vallina (Library Technician)
- Michelle Grayson (Business Manager)
- Trish Cale (Administration Officer)
A message from Julie at After School Care
Dear Friends, Students and Staff
After nearly twenty years of employment with Camp Australia and eighteen and half years of working at St Kevin's, it is time to sit back, relax and enjoy, well maybe not relax, but to travel and fulfil my bucket list. My time at St Kevin's has been a pleasure. The principals and staff have always included me, made me feel welcome and supported me when I needed it.
The families I have had the privilege of meeting and watching over their children from prep to grade six have been many. I will miss my chats with the mums and dads when coming and going.
The children l will miss the most and the laughter we shared. The artwork created, the countless games of Uno, Sorry and Trouble but not Chess, after all these years of the children trying to teach me, I still can't grasp the rules. As l leave here today I am taking many of you with me, I will always remember the fun we had.
Two of the hardest things to say in life are Hello for the first time and Goodbye for the last.
Thank You All
Congratulations Mrs Smith!
We are delighted to share the wonderful news of the arrival of Jade and Brenton’s beautiful baby girl, Charlie-Rose. What a precious blessing for their family! We look forward to meeting Charlie-Rose and welcoming her into the St Kevin’s community. Congratulations to the proud parents on this exciting new chapter in their lives!
BALIK BAYAN BOXES TO CEBU - PHILIPPINES
If you are new to our school community, you may have wondered why (in term 3) we had our Philippines Fundraiser - by selling the ever-popular milkshakes, delicious fairy bread, amazing chocolate drizzled marshmallows and Prima (drink) and popcorn. Our goal was to raise funds for our friendship school, Campanga Elementary School, in Cebu, Philippines. Through the amazing work of Kadasig Aid and Development, we had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you for supporting this wonderful cause!
The great news is that with donations received, we have just completed filling up three boxes to send to Campanga Elementary School with teacher and student literacy and maths resources, story books, stationery and games. The fourth box goes out to the community, filled with donations of toiletries, cans of tuna, corned beef, clothes and shoes.
These boxes will reach Cebu in early 2025. As we send these much-needed resources, we pray that the Compagna Elementary School and community will be blessed, keeping in mind our 2025 theme:
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen on you.
Don't Forget!
- Carols by Sunlight #1 - Monday December 9 at 9:15am
- Senior Student Do it for Dignity Market - Monday Dec 9 at 3:00pm
- Student Achievement Reports Published - Tuesday Dec 10
- Carols by Sunlight #2 - Wednesday Dec 11 at 9:15am
- Grade 6 Graduation Mass and Awards Ceremony - Wednesday Dec 11 at 5:30pm
- Grade 6 Graduation Fun Day - Thursday Dec 12
- Last Day for canteen - Friday Dec 13
- Prep Nativity Play - Friday Dec 13 at 9:15am
- Mass to end the school year - Friday Dec 13 at 11:45am
- Parish Carols by Candlelight - Sunday Dec 15
- Farewell Assembly - Monday Dec 16 at 2:30pm
- Last day for students - Tuesday Dec 17 at midday
- Last newsletter for 2024 - Wednesday Dec 18
Education in Faith
This week's Gospel Reflection
This week’s Gospel, Luke 3:1-6, introduces John the Baptist as he proclaims a message of preparation and repentance. John calls us to “Prepare the way of the Lord,” urging us to clear obstacles in our lives that may prevent us from welcoming Jesus fully. His call resonates deeply in Advent, a season of hope and preparation as we await the birth of Christ.
The Gospel reminds us to focus on spiritual readiness and consider how we can make space for God’s love in our hearts and homes. It encourages us to reflect on our actions and choices, seek forgiveness, and embrace kindness.
Suggestions for Families at Home:
- Talk About Preparation: Share what it means to prepare for something important. Compare preparing for Christmas to preparing for Jesus in our lives—through kindness, forgiveness, and love.
- Acts of Kindness: As a family, perform one act of kindness each day. This could be as simple as helping a sibling, writing a thank-you note, or donating to those in need.
- Prayer Together: Light your Advent candle and pray as a family, asking God to help you prepare your hearts for Jesus.
- Repentance and Forgiveness: Encourage open conversations about forgiveness. Share a time when you’ve asked for or given forgiveness, and explore how it feels to make things right.
- Creative Reflection: Draw or write about what “preparing the way” means to your child. They could design a path leading to a manger, symbolising how they’re making room for Jesus.
Advent is a special time to focus on what truly matters: love, generosity, and faith. Let’s walk this journey together, preparing our hearts to welcome Christ this Christmas.
Children’s Christmas Party
Sunday, 8th December 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Face painting starts at 2:00 PM) in the School Hall
Children's Catechism and Junior Youth Formation
December 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd from 12.15-1.00pm
2025 Sacramental Dates
Parents of children eligible to receive a Sacrament in 2025, should take note of the following dates. Sacraments play a significant role in the spiritual journey of our students:
Dates for Sacraments are:
- Grade 2 will receive First Reconciliation in Term 4 on Thursday, 20th November 2025.
- Grade 3 will receive First Eucharist in Term 2 on Saturday, 21st June 2025.
- Grade 6 will receive Confirmation – Term 3 on Saturday, 6th September 2025.
If you have any further questions regarding your child receiving these Sacraments, please contact our Faith and Mission Leader, Mrs Anne Hettiarachchi (ahettiarachchi@skhamptonpark.catholic.edu.au)
Learning & Teaching
A Journey Through Time
Our Grade 5/6s Experience A Christmas Carol
Last week, our senior students had an unforgettable learning experience that brought literature to life. As part of their focus on becoming more capable readers and interpreters of media, the children delved into Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. This timeless story of transformation and generosity provided a rich foundation for critical thinking and creative exploration.
The highlight of their studies was attending a live performance of A Christmas Carol in the city. For many of our students, this was their first opportunity to see a professional theatre production, and the excitement was palpable. The journey itself—catching the train into Melbourne—added to the sense of adventure and gave students a real-world experience of confidently navigating their environment.
The performance was captivating, with stunning costumes, heartfelt acting and an atmosphere that brought Victorian England to life. Watching the characters of Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come was a powerful way for students to connect with the themes of compassion, redemption, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Back in the classroom, students reflected on their experience, discussing how Dickens’ message of generosity and selflessness is still relevant today. They compared the written text to the live performance, analysing how the story was adapted for the stage.
This excursion wasn’t just about literature or theatre; it was about inspiring our students to engage with new ideas, cultural experiences, and the joy of shared learning. We’re so proud of their enthusiasm and grateful to have been part of such a special moment in their educational journey.
Here’s to more adventures that spark curiosity and deepen understanding!
Preparing Our Hearts for Advent: A Junior Class Reflection
As we embrace the season of Advent, our junior students have been busy exploring its meaning and significance. Advent, a time of waiting and preparation, invites us to focus on hope, peace, joy, and love as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas.
In their classrooms, the juniors have been reflecting on how we can welcome Jesus into our lives. Through stories, discussions, and creative activities, the children have deepened their understanding of Advent as a season of promise and renewal. They’ve learned about the Advent wreath, the importance of prayer, and the small but meaningful actions that can help us prepare our hearts for Christ.
One of the highlights of their learning was making Advent promises. These promises, crafted with care and thoughtfulness, reflect each child’s personal commitment to bring light into the lives of others. From practising kindness and sharing with others to spending more time in prayer, these promises are small yet powerful steps toward living the true spirit of Advent.
This special time of reflection and preparation has helped our juniors see Advent not just as a countdown to Christmas but as an opportunity to grow in faith, love, and generosity. We are so proud of how they’ve embraced the message of this sacred season.
Families, we encourage you to ask your children about their Advent promises and discuss ways to support them at home. Together, let’s make this Advent season a time of joyful anticipation and meaningful preparation.
Student Wellbeing
Our Value Focus: Love for Community
At St. Kevin’s, we are focusing on Love this fortnight, with a specific action focus on Love for Community. In the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget that love extends beyond our immediate family or friendships—it includes our neighbours, classmates, and the wider community.
This focus encourages us to look at how we can actively build a stronger, more connected community through simple, meaningful actions. By showing care, generosity, and unity, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and included.
How We Can Show Love for Our Community:
- Volunteer and/or Donate: Giving our time or resources to help others is a powerful way to show love. Families could volunteer at a local charity, participate in a school initiative, or contribute to a cause close to their hearts.
- Stand Up for Shared Values: Encourage your children to be courageous in standing up for kindness, fairness, and inclusion. These values make our community stronger.
- Celebrate Together: Take time to acknowledge the special moments in each other’s lives. Whether it’s a birthday, a school achievement, or a shared tradition, celebrating together builds connection.
- Stay Connected: Reach out to others in the community, especially those who might be feeling isolated. A simple conversation, a handwritten card, or an invitation to spend time together can make a big difference.
- Keep Everyone Safe: Love is also about protecting and nurturing our community. This might mean offering help to someone in need, advocating for safety, or being mindful of how we treat others.
As we journey through Advent, this is a wonderful time to practise love for our community in tangible ways. Together, let’s take inspiration from the Gospel and build a school environment where love for one another is at the heart of everything we do.
Let’s encourage our children—and ourselves—to live out this focus and make a lasting difference in the lives of those around us.
Community
