As we approach the September holidays it is a great time to reflect on the contribution of our students, staff members and family members.

While this term our community has experienced some wonderful highlights and some difficult and challenging moments, it is worth looking at the instants that go by, almost without notice, yet are integral to the fabric of our school.

Last Friday and Saturday, the Diocesan Assembly was held in our hall. From as far as Mt. Isa, diocesan representatives and principals gathered to look at the issues for our diocese. A common response from adults who walked from the parish car park to the hall was their acknowledgement of our Year 6 students’ hospitality. At a moment’s notice the students stepped into the role of directing people, making multiple trips (without complaint) to assist visitors to find their way to the hall. 

Last week, the NAPLAN results were distributed. NAPLAN results are just one indicator of a student’s ability. If we reflect on the day of our driving test, we hopefully have significantly improved our driving skills since that day of testing. Students too, will grow in knowledge and skills. As a staff, we will analyse the NAPLAN data and use the information as  a great resource to help us to look at ways to support and improve student learning. 

Our Facebook page captures many of the significant events across Term 3, however, the learning I would like you to consider for your child will not be reflected in one test or on a Facebook page. Has your child’s reading skills improved? How about their independence and ability to regulate their emotions? Do they apologise easily, are they generous? Did they read at a class assembly? Did they overcome a challenge? These are areas of growth which aren’t measured yet are incredibly important. The delight on the faces of our prep students’ faces when they inform me that they walked into school by themselves is priceless.

I hope you have some respite from the routine of school over the next two weeks and a little time to reflect on both the personal and academic growth of your child.

At the end of this year, some staff members have decided to join my journey to retirement. Teachers Mrs Kath Fox and Mrs Cathy Noye and school officer Mrs Millie Gesch will also be retiring. Collectively we have nearly chalked up a couple of centuries (isn’t that frightening?) working in education.

Teachers transferring into Holy Spirit in 2022 are: Alex Benedetto Columba, Charters Towers, Sherry Evans, Good Shepherd Rasmussen and John Roberts, Southern Cross Catholic College, Annandale.

Enjoy the September break and prepare for the ride of Term 4!

God bless,

Geraldine