Newsletter - 20 April 2023
From our Principal
Dear Parents,
Welcome back everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the time spent with your family and found the faith experiences of the Easter celebrations to be a special time for you. I also hope that you had the opportunity to reinforce the real meaning of Easter and eggs and the new life and hope they represent. It was wonderful to see the safe return of our students filled with great stories of Easter holiday adventures. I wish everyone in our school community a tremendous term ahead in which we can all live out our motto: “God With Us.”
The Easter message is one of hope; hope amidst cruel injustice. It is this one, small word that will carry us through difficulties that accompany each person’s journey. Our staff express their hope for our students in their own impressive work ethic and positive approach to their jobs. I am encouraged by the people I work with and my hope is that I may make a positive difference to all with whom I work.
Next Tuesday Emmanuel will join with thousands of others throughout Australia in celebrating Anzac Day. While all students are invited to participate in the march, we will particularly be looking to our Year 3, 4, 5, and 6 students to step forward. All students who march will need to wear their formal blue day uniform. Should we experience inclement weather, students will need to bring along a raincoat as protection.
This special day ranks as one of the most widely celebrated in Australian culture because of the place that the brave deeds of many Australians have in our history. Anzac Day is our solemn memorial to honour our Navy, Army and Air Force service personnel who have paid the supreme sacrifice of their lives in the battle to free us from the enemies of our country and to protect the democratic values for which we stand.
The tradition of attendance at ANZAC Day ceremonies and marches has grown in the last decade to now large numbers. I sense (and hope) it is the recognition of sacrifice, the presence of courage and national pride rather than the glorification of war that has brought people back to this ceremony.
As the 108th anniversary of Anzac Day approaches may we remember all those ordinary men and women who have marched out of our lives, leaving in their path a faint echo of music and snatches of laughter and life. A century scored and scarred by war, loss and grief. All so long and yet so short; all so far and yet so near.
It is my prayer that the spirit of Easter may permeate Anzac Day, so that a renewed vigour for peace and goodwill among all our citizens may be rekindled from remembering the sacrifice of so many in times of war. Jesus’ spirit is very much alive, but it can only live on in people. As we begin this term together, may we care for each other, enjoy the gathering times and continue to nurture our own spirit.
Wishing you every blessing for the coming week,
Geraldine Rostirolla
Principal
RE Matters
STARS IN THE WINDOWS – A REFLECTION
During World War I, families with a son fighting in the war would place a star in the window.
One evening a man was out walking with his grandson. The little boy, seeing the stars, asked “Why do all these homes have stars in the windows?” The grandfather explained to him what the star symbolized.
They walked along and every time they passed a home with a star in the window the boy would smile and clap his hands together. Then the boy looked up into the sky and pointed to a star. “Look,” he said. “God must have given his son too!”
Many gave their lives for their country, but God gave his son for the world.
(Unknown)
ANZAC DAY
ANZAC Day is Australia and New Zealand’s National Day of Remembrance for all servicemen and women who have fought and died in wars and conflicts around the world. Every year on 25 April, people in both countries gather for services at dawn, as well as for parades and ceremonies throughout the day.
It is interesting, and perhaps poignant that we commemorate ANZAC Day during the season of Easter. Through the resurrection, we are reminded of the sacrifice of Jesus, just as on ANZAC Day we remember the sacrifice of so many who went to war to defend the values of justice, peace and freedom.
No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:13)
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
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.
A PRAYER OF REMEMBRANCE
We will be remembering ANZAC Day and praying for peace at a special Prayer Celebration in the Marist Centre tomorrow, Friday 21 April at 9:15am. All welcome.
Lest We Forget
CELEBRATING EASTER - ALLELUIA HE IS RISEN
Although Easter Sunday is just one day, the Season of Easter extends over 50 days, beginning on Easter Sunday and continuing through the Ascension of the Lord until Pentecost Sunday.
As we know from the Gospels, Jesus Christ rose from the dead on the third day following his crucifixion. His resurrection marks the triumph of good over evil, sin and death. It is the singular event which proves that those who trust in God and accept Christ will be raised from the dead.
Since Easter represents the fulfillment of God's promises to mankind, it is the most important holiday on the Christian calendar. (https://www.catholic.org/lent/easter.php)
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM
Please continue to pray for our students who are preparing to receive the Sacraments. They will be confirmed by Bishop Michael McCarthy in June and receive Eucharist for the first time in July.
Please Note:
The 2023/2024 Sacramental Program for students in Year Three and above will begin in Term Three.
For weekly Gospel readings, reflections and meditations go to http://www.prayasyoucan.com.au/
Download this week’s parish bulletin @ https://rok.catholic.net.au/parish/mackay-st-josephs/#
For Parish News, updates and to book for weekend Masses go to the Catholic Parishes of North Mackay and Farleigh Facebook page.
VIRTUE OF THE FORTNIGHT - JOYFULNESS
Joyfulness is an inner sense of peace and happiness that fills us with delight and hope. It allows us to enjoy simple pleasures and to appreciate the gifts that each day brings. Joy can carry us through the hard times, even when we are feeling very sad. Joy gives us wings.
“Joy is the sound of love, the colour of gratitude and the song of hope.” (Mary Davis)
Noeleen Kliese
Assistant Principal Religious Education
Curriculum Corner
PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS
Janine Refalo
Assistant Principal Curriculum
APA News
ANZAC DAY MARCH
Once again, our school has been invited to participate in the Anzac Day march to be held on Tuesday 25 April.
Prep to Year Six students will be required to assemble in The Caneland Central drop-off area along Matsura Drive at 8:00am.
Please note this change of Venue
Either drop your child off in the allocated drop-off area or walk your child to the ground-level car park. Look for the Emmanuel flag and staff members (we will be situated in the carpark opposite the Australia Post Entrance to Canelands). The march will start at 8:35am and will proceed down Victoria and Wellington Streets. Following the march, students can be collected in the usual place, opposite the “Loading Dock” of the MECC in Macalister Street. For more information, please see the relevant maps that show assembly, the parade route and dispersal points.
Emmanuel Year One to Year Six students are to wear their BLUE SCHOOL UNIFORM (school blue dress for girls) correct socks and clean shoes. Prep students wear their usual uniform. The school hat is essential. Students may wear medals of their parents, grandparents and other ancestors on their right breast.
Further important details regarding drop off and dispersal procedures are attached in the link's below:
STUDENT PROTECTION - SCHOOL CONTACTS
At Emmanuel any concerns or reasonable suspicions about a student’s safety and wellbeing or the behaviour of a staff member or volunteer which a student considers to be inappropriate, will continue to be managed in accordance with Rockhampton Catholic Education Student Protection Processes. The Student Protection
Contacts at Emmanuel are:
Geraldine Rostirolla (Principal)
Amanda McDonald (Deputy Principal)
Noeleen Kliese (APRE)
Sharon Martin (School Counsellor)
Jennifer Nicholas (OSHC Co-ordinator)
Further information about Rockhampton Catholic Education's commitment to Student Protection is available here: website: https://www.rok.
STUDENT PROTECTION – USE OF TOILETS
At Emmanuel, we are committed to the safety of all students in our care. It is imperative that students understand the importance of using the toilet facilities at school in an appropriate manner. Classroom teachers regularly remind students of these behaviour expectations, and use the poster below (located in all school toilets) to ensure all students understand these important messages. We ask that you discuss these expectations at home with your children, so that we are all doing our part to keep children safe at school.
DESIGNATED TOILETS FOR PARENTS
At Emmanuel we have lots of volunteers, parents and contractors visiting our school each week. Therefore, it is important that we provide toilet facilities for their use. From a student protection perspective, we ask that parents do not use the student toilets. There are two toilets designated for the use of all parents, toddlers and visitors. These are the disabled toilets which are located at the back of the Library and beside F Block (Year 6 Classrooms and OSHC room) and at the end of R Block (Year 1 Classrooms). There is a yellow sign on the doors of these toilets advising parents that they are welcome to use this facility. Hope this helps you to not be ‘caught short’!
SCHOOL DISCO
Parents must use the Contractor toilet (pictured above), as the Assembly Shed toilets are for Emmanuel students only.
STUDENT COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES
Congratulations to the following students who have been elected by their peers as Student Representatives for Term Two.
6K: Talia Kirby and Tristan Trannore
6SG: Maya Webb and Jaxon Mills
6T: Isabella Baretta and Flynn Coyte
Term 2 Student Council badges will be presented at Week 2 Assembly on Friday 28 April at 8:50am.
SAVE THE DATE - SCHOOL PHOTOS 23 - 24 May 2023
School photography day is coming up soon on 23/05/2023-24/05/2023. Group and portrait photographs can be purchased by following the link below.
Or visit: www.advancedlife.com.au
And enter online order code: R78 KWL A81
Students are required to wear BLUE FORMAL UNIFORM. Girls expected to wear dresses. Prep students to wear usual Prep uniform.
Amanda McDonald
Assistant Principal Administration
Strategic Priorities 2023
COVID Update
Sporting News
SPORTS NOMINATION FORMS
In 2023, there are a large number of sports which students will be able to nominate for and compete in. Please discuss the following list of events with your child. It will be crucial students collect and return permission notes before closing dates to ensure they do not miss out on their opportunity. Students will be notified via the morning bulletin when notes become available for collection. These notes will be available from Mr Dodson each day during lunch eating periods.
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me on my school email: luke_dodson@rok.catholic.edu.au
Luke Dodson
HPE Co-Ordinator
From our Counsellor
BODY IMAGE
This week’s topic is the issue of body image and its impact on children. Body image refers to how individuals feel about their physical appearance and can have a significant impact on a child's mental health. The best thing we can do as parents is to promote positivity and acceptance of our bodies; we only get one after all.
To promote positive body image and self-esteem in children:
- Focus on health: Encourage healthy habits such as exercise and a balanced diet.
- Use positive language: Avoid negative comments or criticisms about weight or appearance.
- Challenge media messages: Teach your child to be critical of unrealistic body images portrayed in media.
- Celebrate differences: Help your child embrace their unique qualities and differences.
- Role model healthy behaviours and attitudes towards your own body.
Our school is committed to creating a positive environment that promotes healthy body image and self-esteem. School TV has some great articles if you would like to know more, and if you have any concerns about your young person, please don’t hesitate to call me for some advice.
Kindly,
Sharon Martin BVA, GDLT, MEd
School Counsellor
Around the School
DISCO
Our Term 2 school disco is being held tomorrow Friday 21 April from 6:00-7:30pm. The theme is RAINBOW colours and everyone is invited to dress up and join the fun. Admission is $2.00. The P&F will be cooking and selling sausages on bread. Please preorder by 9:30pm tonight for catering purposes via the TryBooking link below. CASH payment is to be made on the night.
Disco Supervision
Please note, school staff will be supervising students during the disco from 6 – 7.30pm. As such, parents are responsible for the care of their children before / after the disco. Please ensure you are prompt in collecting your children at the end of the night, as students will only be able to leave the school grounds when a parent collects them. No student will be dismissed to walk to a car / waiting vehicle without an adult to accompany them.
WONDER - RECYCLING REWARDS
Help us collect bread bags so we can earn points to redeem on new RHSports equipment. Keep your empty bread bags and send them to school with your child/ren to place them in the Wonder's pink collection box located outside the Front Office, Prep area and Library.
Please ensure all crumbs have been removed from the packet prior to placing in the collection box.
School Choir
Tuckshop News
TUCKSHOP NEWS
Due to rising prices and an increase in transport/delivery costs, the price of some menu items will be increased in the coming weeks (particularly ice-cream range). We try very hard to keep our prices to a minimum for our students and families however in the current climate we can no longer absorb the increases.
Thank you for your understanding,
Angela McGowan & Carly Nicholas
Tuckshop Conveeners
Please Note: It is imperative that volunteers DO NOT attend tuckshop if they are unwell or have anyone at home who is unwell.
Notices
Prep enrolment details for 2024 are NOW required from our existing families. If you have a child due to commence Prep next year - born between July 1 2018 and June 30 2019 – you are asked to complete an ONLINE enrolment form available from the school website – https://enrol.enmrok.catholic.edu.au/primary-school-enrolment/start . It is essential that we have our current families accounted for so as to determine how many positions may be offered to new families seeking enrolment. If you have any queries or concerns in regards to this process, we ask that you contact the office. ALL ENROLMENTS MUST BE COMPLETED ONLINE. Once enrolment applications have been received and processed by our Administration staff, you will be notified of an interview time around Term 3.
SCHOOL APP
Community News
