Dear Parents and Caregivers

I would once again like to welcome the St Michael’s community back to Term 2. Due to the changes that have occurred over the last two weeks, I have been in close communication with parents to keep you updated with information from Catholic Education Western Australia and what is happening at St Michael’s.

For those who are unaware, Dr Siobhan Galos is on Long Service Leave for Term 2 and I have stepped into the role as Acting Principal. I would like to thank everyone for the support and kind words over the last week. It is a privilege to serve the school community and guide us through these ever-changing times.  Of course, this can not be done alone, and I am thankful for the support of Mrs Jemima Saunders and staff as we dive into the term.

While the situation may be different to the normal school operations people are used to, we are committed to the same goals- to provide a safe learning environment and a focus on Faith, Compassion, Truth and Service as we live our Mercy values. Currently, students are working from their learning packs whether they are at home or at school. This has provided some interesting learning activities at school. Students have been learning their spelling with shaving cream and classrooms being turned into cubbies. Teachers have set tasks that require serving others and helping the family, just as the students show compassion to help each other at school.

The canteen will remain closed for next week and will open again in Week 3 on Monday 11 May. We are completing the online uniform shop set up. We hope to announce its opening next week along with details about how the uniform shop will operate. The drop-of and pick-up procedures have been working well. I am amazed how the pre-primary students have grown in responsibility and independence when given the chance to walk to class and organise their bag. Thursdays pick-up was very smooth. Surname cards have been created and passed on to students attending school. These cards can be displayed in the window during pick-up which should help improve the pick-up procedure for the future beyond COVID.  

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mumme Family after Rose’s husband, Keith, was recently diagnosed with cancer. Rose will be away the first two weeks of term to support her husband. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the Chisholm Catholic College community after the passing of staff member, Tina Sacino. I’m sure there are many families in our community who have a connection with Chisholm that will be affected by her passing.

Everybody needs hope in these times. We had some magical fairies visit the school before the teachers returned to provide some positivity with some chalk drawings and a beautified staffroom. I encourage you to read the newly created School Social Worker section for messages from Lisa Mueller. Today’s section focusses on hope. 

Have a good weekend everybody. Stay safe and we look forward to seeing more faces at school next week.

Warm regards,

Ryan Powles
Acting Principal

principal@stmichaelsbass.wa.edu.au.

ANZAC  DAY    2020

Age shall not weary them

Nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them.

Lest we forget.