THE SJ VIBE

Dear Families, Friends and Carers,

“Keep courage whatever you do. The best and strongest trees you know are the slowest growing.” Julian Tennison Woods.

I trust this message finds each and every one of you in good health and high spirits. During these trying times, I wish to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the unwavering support, love, and care that you all have shown.

Our collective journey has indeed been marked by challenges, but your presence has consistently served as a wellspring of strength and solace. Whether it's the warmth of a kind word, the steadying support of a helping hand, or the empathetic ear you lend, your contributions have indelibly impacted the lives of those in your care.

In these moments, as we unite in our shared humanity, I kindly ask that we hold those among us who are grieving the loss of loved ones or battling illness close to our hearts. A passage from Sue and Leo Kane comes to mind: "To be human is to be a pilgrim - and a slow one at that. Patience with our gradual growth is important, for courage is never learned overnight."

This newsletter edition celebrates the importance of Family Engagement. The recent 3 Way conversations beautifully underscored the students' learning and future aspirations for the upcoming semester. The partnership between parents, guardians, and the school is a source of immense pride as we collectively guide our students on their learning journeys.

A special mention is warranted for the delightful Trivia Night that brought joy to all attendees. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the sponsors who generously provided prizes for the event, as well as to Deb Bishop and the dedicated Fundraising Team, whose tireless efforts continue to yield resources that benefit our students.

I urge all of you to join us for the upcoming Father's/Special Person's Liturgy and the engaging Donuts with Dad/Special Person event, both of which promise to be wonderful showcases of our students' talents and our united sense of love and gratitude for beauty and creation. The much-anticipated ART SHOW will not only feature our talented students but also highlight the artistic prowess of our Choir. Your presence and a gold coin entry donation will contribute to a nominated Charity focused on supporting Children's Mental Health – a cause close to our hearts.

Celebrating the achievements of our children is pivotal, for they are the radiant stars destined to illuminate our shared future. As my time at St. Joseph's comes to a close and we await news of a new principal, I want to express my profound appreciation to every staff member, family, and student. The excellence of St. Joseph's is a reflection of each and every one of you.

With the kindest regards,

Shelley

At St Joseph's we value the opportunity to develop strong family-school partnerships. Last week families had the opportunity to discuss their child's learning and participate in a Three Way Conversation that included the student, their parents/carers and the teacher. We invite families to participate in a short survey to give us feedback on how the conversations were for you, with the intention of using this information to inform future planning. Please click on the link below to access the survey. 

https://forms.gle/DnC5wfNpkqxf7HpL7

Your feedback is valued and we appreciate your time.

Thank you for working with us.

A friendly reminder that if you wish to meet with staff, we encourage you to send an email directly to the staff member and you can negotiate a mutually agreed time. You are also welcome to leave your name and number at the office and the staff member can contact you. From 8:30am the staff’s duty of care is to the students, therefore it is important that this time is protected for the safety and wellbeing of our students. Thank you for your understanding.

• Aaravjot from Year 1 Erin welcomed a new baby brother.

• Ivanjot from Year 1 Georgia welcomed a new baby brother, Gurikk.

• Jai from Year 1 Erin welcomed a baby sister, Iylah.

  Another lovely message to share with our community is that Imba from Erin’s class met with her Grandpa for the first time since she was born. Imba’s grandpa lives in Finland and since meeting in person, they have created a beautiful bond. 

CONCESSIONAL FEE APPLICATIONS

Concession Fee Applications have now closed for the year and outcome letters were sent out to families on the 19th June. Thank you to all those families who have been prompt with their forms. It is appreciated. As always, here at St Joseph's Werribee,  we endeavor to look after the welfare of our families where possible. If your family is struggling with Financial Hardship please contact accounts@sjwerribee.catholic.edu.au so we can try to help where possible. 

We thank families for their cooperation and understanding with this.

DIRECT DEBIT PROGRAM

The direct debit program is now well underway. Changes to direct debits can be taken into account with 14 days notice as per the direct debit agreement. If you need to alter or change your direct debits please email the office at the following email address accounts@sjwerribee.catholic.edu.au and we will endeavor to get back to you with your request.

SCHOOL FEES

A gentle reminder to all families who have agreed to manage their own payments that the remainder of all school fees must be paid prior to the end of TERM 3. Thank you to all those families who have committed to this and made payments already.

Monday 18th December 2023             Student Testing Day - Numeracy**

Tuesday 19th December 2023            Student Testing Day - Numeracy**

**By appointment (Booking information to follow in Term 4)