Dear Parents

I welcome you to Term Four. It is great to have all of the children and staff back on site at St Mary’s. It has been a challenging time for everyone both in learning and with those we love. What has come to be very clear though is the determination, support and hard work we all showed has enabled us to keep smiling and try our best in whatever we do. So, a big thank you to families and staff for looking out for one another during this time of COVID-19.

As we all return to school we have ensured that safety measures have been taken to maintain high cleaning standards and communicate with children regularly about washing hands, keeping distance from others and to let us know if they are unwell. Temperature checks will continue until further notice and staff will keep wearing masks both inside and outside where required.

As already communicated 'Stobies Land and Surf' have taken over the responsibility of supplying the school uniform from this term. We ask you to be patient as they wait for some of the items to arrive in stock. Parents wanting to purchase any second hand uniform are asked to be in contact with the office and we may be able to assist.

Our building refurbishment continues to progress. It is pleasing to see that the children are so happy in their new environment. By the end of October we anticipate that the third POD will be open to Grade 2, 3 and 4. I have had many questions as to when parents can have a look inside the building. Hopefully, when approval is given an open afternoon will be organised to facilitate this.

We have some school closure days coming up at St Mary’s. Please note the following;

Friday, 23rd October - Grand Final Eve Public Holiday - school closed

Monday, 2nd November - Report Writing Day - school closed

Tuesday, 3rd November - Melbourne Cup Public Holiday - school closed

Next week it is the 2020 Book Week celebration. This year the theme is ‘Curious Creatures, Wild Minds’. As we are having a football colours day next Thursday, 22nd October, we will have a Book Week celebration and dress up on Thursday, 29th October. Children can come to school in a costume from a favourite book or movie and at the start of the day participate in a parade. A note outlining the requirements will be sent home early next week.

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend.

Jason