Congratulations 

COVID UPDATE 

After yesterday's press briefing by the Premier, things are not much clearer about when we can expect to have children back in the classrooms. And whilst there are still regular exposures in our community we need to adhere to the "stay at home" orders. This means that unless you are an essential worker, your children should be learning from home.

I can understand and hear the frustration some parents are experiencing as their children begin to tire of learning at home and not seeing their friends etc, but its important for the whole community that we continue to stay at home to reach targets set by the NSW Health. With only  1 week before holidays, don't be tempted to push your children too hard. It's best to maintain a loving and caring home for your children to thrive.

RUOK?

It seems a strange question to ask during this time, but it is one that we should be asking quite a bit. COVID has put all of us under a lot of stress. Families are doing it very tough mentally, socially, financially, and more. Yesterday was meant to be a day we ask those around us "Are you OK?" Please check in with your friends and relatives and make sure they are OK. Oh!! and don't forget to ask them again  tomorrow as well -- and maybe the day after that too :)

CHILD PROTECTION WEEK

This week has been Child Protection Week. It is a time when we focus how children can be made to fell safe at home, school and and anywhere they interact with others, including on-line.

One strategy for children to realise who they can trust, is to nominate 5 persons from whom they might seek advice. Get them to outline their hands and list their trusted adults and stick it on their wall.

PERPETUAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE 

One of the saddest periods in our Diocesan story is the terrible abuse suffered by children at the hands of the people trusted by their families.  As part of the healing process for these children and their families the Bishop has instigated a special memorial to recognise the hurt and encourage healing. The Diocesan Perpetual Day of Remembrance is recognised on September 15 and will be the focus of this week's Masses. You might like to use this prayer in your quiet time next week.

Lord Jesus,

May we welcome the kingdom of God

anew into our hearts and lives,

embracing discipleship and openness to others.

You call us to walk with integrity in the service of others.

May our service be filled with kindness,

and respect for all God’s people,

giving special protection to children and the vulnerable.

May we seek the truth,

Listen to those wounded by abuse,

and choose to act with compassion and justice.

Give us the strength,

to serve humbly and faithfully,

and to love one another

as we are so loved by You. Amen

If you are wondering why all the lights are on at school on Wednesday night, it is meant to be a sign of support for the victims and their families on this Perpetual Day of Remembrance.

TELL THEM FROM ME 

Around this time last year, parents, children and staff were invited to participate in a Diocesan wide survey about their experiences with the children's schools. The feedback provided a good base line to compare how thoughts have changed in the year since. Early next term parents and children will be offered the opportunity to express their views once again to assist in planning how we move forward.

During the early weeks of Term 4, students from Years 4 to Year 6 will be given the opportunity and time to participate in this survey during regular school hours. Students who agree to complete the survey will be given a random username and password to access and complete the survey online. Students’ names cannot be linked to their responses which allows it to be completely anonymous. Results will show all student scores combined together – it is not possible to single out individual students in the results.

The survey takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. The survey measures include such topics as emotional and social well-being, physical health, and behaviours and attitudes linked to student success.

Participation in the survey is entirely voluntary. Your child will not take part if either you or your child do not wish to. If, during the survey, your child is uncomfortable answering any question, they should leave it blank and move on to the next one. Your child can stop the survey at any time.

If you do not want your child to take part in the survey, please complete the attached form and return it to school by Friday 17 September. If you would like more information, please contact the school via email at: admin@shortland.catholic.edu.au

This refers only to children in Year 4-6

Normally this survey would take place at school, but due to our COVID situation other arrangements to complete the survey might need to be arranged. More information about any changes will be forwarded to parents when they come to hand.

Student_OPT_OUT.docx

Parents will receive an email early next week explaining how they can participate also in this opportunity to provide feedback.

REMINDER: PUPIL FREE DAY

Don't forget that MONDAY next week, 13 September is a PUPIL FREE DAY. That means that no children should be at school and no-one has to do any school work at home. The teachers will be participating in a WRITING In-Service via ZOOM and will not be onsite.

NAPLAN Results

The results from this year's Yr 3 & 5 NAPLAN are available and the children's report will be available from Tuesday next week. They may be picked up if your child has a work pack for next week otherwise they will be posted to parents at the end of next week. If you do not receive them during the holidays, please contact the office.