Newsletter - 6 June 2024

From our Principal

Dear Parents,

Looking for the perfect gift to give your child?  Look no further, for you already have this perfect gift within your power: a happy childhood is one of the best gifts that adults have in their power to bestow upon their children.  If we make a child happy today, we will make the child happy twenty years on by the memory of it.

There is no way that parents can make children happy all the time. Children need to learn how to deal with some distress and to figure out how to cope with it.  Learning how to deal with life’s frustrations and setbacks is essential for future happiness.  A parent’s role in these situations is to help children find solutions, not provide them.  What’s more, children need to know that it’s all right to be unhappy sometimes; it’s part of life.

If we try to eliminate unhappiness, we might be giving the message that it’s wrong to feel sad; children need to experience the whole range of human feelings including sadness.  However, parents can encourage children to be happy about what’s going okay, or what they have, instead of being sad about what’s not going okay or what they don’t have.

Likewise, conflicts and disagreements are a normal part of life and are important in as much as they allow for the statement of differences and the expression of feelings.  However, our behaviour and manner of relating affect those around us profoundly, so, parents need to ensure that differences are reconciled without destroying the differences or the people who hold them.  Maybe St Peter’s words to his community of believers could be a source of inspiration to us:

“And now this word to all of you.  You should be like one happy family, full of sympathy towards one another with tender hearts and humble minds.”  1 Peter 3:8

Most parents can relate to the statement, “Thank heavens, I’ve got some time to myself!”  It is a heavenly feeling not to be at the beck and call of others or on the treadmill of house chores.  And why is it a heavenly feeling?  Because we have time to be with ourselves to simply do nothing or to do something that is relaxing and pleasing to us personally.

Well, children are no different to adults in this regard.  They need to have some scheduled activities which develop social skills or individual talents.  But, like us, they need their own space, their chance to follow their own interests, their time to manage as they choose, their opportunity to build an inner happiness which they will carry on through life.

As parents, we need to keep an eye on the “big picture” of life and set it within a positive and healthy home environment where our children can develop into value-driven, successful and happy people.   If they can develop positive attitudes about themselves, their family and their community, they will be less inclined to be lured by the, often times, seductive messages of popular culture.  They will want to be successful, happy contributing people.  Their happiness will be our happiness.

A tremendous challenge and responsibility for the future.

Wishing you every blessing for the coming week,

Geraldine Rostirolla

Principal  

MASS OF THANKSGIVING FOR LEESA JEFFCOAT AM –  DIOCESAN DIRECTOR CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Bishop Michael McCarthy invites all school communities to attend a Mass of Thanksgiving for Leesa Jeffcoat AM who, after 23 years of faith-filled service, will shortly conclude her time as Diocesan Director of Catholic Education. The Mass will be held in St Joseph’s Cathedral Rockhampton on Wednesday 12 June commencing at 10:30am.

All are welcome at the Mass to thank God for the gift that Leesa has been to the Ministry of Catholic Education in this Diocese and to pray that God will bless her in abundance into the future.  

For those unable to attend in person, the Mass will also be live streamed via the following link: 

SCHOOL FEE ADVICE #3

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please find attached Advice #3, developed to inform our Catholic Education families of the new Federal Government Funding model (Gonski model) and the impact on School Fees for Catholic Schools. Advice #3 outlines the direct nexus between the Federal Government means-tested Capacity to Contribute of each school and School Fees. It also provides the CEDR School Funding Guiding Principles that inform the development of the new CEDR Adapted Cluster School Fee model, that will commence from 2025.

RE Matters

THE REAL GIFT – A REFLECTION

A young man while roaming the desert came across a spring of delicious crystal-clear water. The water was so sweet he filled his leather canteen so he could bring some back to a tribal elder who had been his teacher.

After a four-day journey he presented the water to the old man who took a deep drink, smiled warmly and thanked his student lavishly for the sweet water. The young man returned to his village with a happy heart.

Later, the teacher let another student taste the water. He spat it out, saying it was awful. The water had become stale because of the old leather container.

The student challenged his teacher: "Master, the water was foul. Why did you pretend to like it?"

The teacher replied, "You only tasted the water. I tasted the gift. The water was simply the container for an act of loving-kindness and nothing could be sweeter!”

(Unknown)

WATER BUCKET CHALLENGE – WALK FOR WATER

Did you know that more than 2.2 billion (1 in 3) people around the world, do not have water security – they don’t have access to clean drinking water, water is scarce and/or they need to make long, sometimes treacherous, journeys every day to collect water.

At our Athletics Carnival on Tuesday, we will be having our annual ‘Walk for Water.’ We do this in solidarity with the large number of women and children who walk for water every day. With our focus on water during Lent, this year’s ‘walk’ will be even more meaningful for our students. Our TAPITAS challenge was a wonderful success.

If you are here on Tuesday, be sure to encourage those taking part in the ‘walk’ and feel free to add a donation to their buckets. Coins and notes gratefully accepted.  All monies raised will be added to our TAPITAS total and forwarded to CARITAS, who work in communities around the world, where water continues to be a life and death issue.

For more information, visit the link below:

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM

Congratulations to the students who were Confirmed and received Communion for the first time at parish Masses last weekend! It was wonderful to have Bishop Michael McCarthy and Archbishop Charles Balvo (Apostolic Nuncio to Australia) here to lead these celebrations.

‘Lord, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.’ 

Confirmation, the second of the Sacraments of Initiation, completes Baptism. Through the Laying on of Hands, renewal of Baptismal Promises and the Anointing with Chrism, candidates are sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit and called to become involved in the life and mission of the Church.

‘Take and eat, this is my body.  Take and drink, this is my blood.’

Eucharist is the third Sacrament of Initiation and completes the initiation process. Catholics now express the fullness of belonging to the body of Christ, the Church, by receiving the Body of Christ in communion with the whole Church.

A big THANK YOU to Fr Andrew, the parents and families of these students and the Sacramental Team for guiding and supporting them throughout their preparation.

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ANOINTING MASS

Our Parish of North Mackay and Farleigh has a monthly Eucharistic Celebration to administer the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick to those who are unwell and/or elderly in the community.  On Wednesday, students from Year 4S and Year 4M attended the June Mass and participated in the ministries. They read and sang beautifully and had a lovely chat with some of the parishioners at the morning tea which followed the Mass.

A big thank you to Fr Andrew who lead the celebration and made it so special for our students and all who participated.

TINNIES FOR VINNIES - FAMILIES HELPING FAMILIES

Each year Vinnies supports individuals and families in our community who are in need. Unfortunately, with an increasing number of people seeking assistance, their stock of tinned and non-perishable foods is running very low. They have asked for our help.

If you are able to assist Vinnies in their valuable work by contributing some of the needed food items, it would be very much appreciated. Donations can be dropped into the school office.  They will be collected and distributed in the coming weeks.  Many thanks for your prayers and to those who have already provided items.

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 – PURPOSEFULNESS

Being purposeful is having a clear focus, instead of being unsure of what you are doing or why you are doing it. You are acting purposefully when you have a goal you are working toward. You concentrate your mind and your efforts to achieve your goal. You have a positive attitude and don’t let obstacles stop you from doing what is important. Some people just let things happen. A purposeful person makes things happen.

“ If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there. ” (Lewis B Carrol)

Noeleen Kliese

Assistant Principal Religious Education

Curriculum Corner

SEMESTER ONE REPORT CARDS

A reminder to parents to please check that you can sign into Parent Lounge prior to reports being released in Week 10. If you have any queries, please contact our school office.

Report cards will once again be available through Parent Lounge from 4:00pm on Friday, 21 June.

1. To access Parent Lounge, open your internet browser and type in the URL for Emmanuel Catholic Primary School website: ecps.qld.edu.au
2. Click on Parent Lounge under Quick Links.
3. Click on the Parent Lounge icon.
4. Login with your unique ID number and the password remains the same as previously used.

The goal of the reporting process is to support student learning progress by providing parents and carers with clear, individualised information about:

• the learning expectations for the student
• the student’s achievement against expected standards
• how well the student is engaging with expected learning
• progress that has been made since the last reporting period
• strengths that the student has demonstrated and areas of challenge that may require more attention
• ‘next steps’ that will help the student improve.

The semester report is one part of a feedback loop, along with regular and consistent written and verbal communication such as on-going feedback on tasks, parent-teacher interviews, and daily opportunities for parents to discuss questions and concerns with teachers. The report reflects an on-balance judgement about the quality of student learning, based on evidence collected during the reporting period.

Janine Refalo

Assistant Principal Curriculum

APA News

Amanda McDonald

Assistant Princiapl Administration

Strategic Priorities 2024

SchoolTV

INTERNET ADDICTION / USE OF DEVICES:

A reminder that many students who are on devices have a great deal of difficulty navigating the digital world at a primary school age.  Dr Michael Carr-Gregg has some wise words in regards to internet addiction, and all parents of students who currently allow digital devices are strongly encouraged to view the episode from the School TV site.

There are lots of amazing resources available on SCHOOLTV to support and empower parents to better deal with the challenges of raising happy, well and resilient young people.  For short video clips, articles and fact sheets, from leading specialists and key wellbeing organisations, check out the ‘ALL TOPICS’ tab via the link below or on our school website.

Sporting News

ATHLETICS TRIALS

Final trials for field events will take place tomorrow Friday 7 June. Trials for 200m and 1500m have now be completed.

Students who have been successful in the trial process over the past few weeks will be competing in the 200m finals on Tuesday and field event finals on Monday and Tuesday. 

ATHLETICS CARNIVAL - NEXT WEEK

Athletics events will be held over two days - half day field events on Monday 10 June and Full Day carnival Tuesday 11 June. Parents and friends are most welcome to attend the carnival, and we appreciate your support. Parents will have a designated area on the oval and at field events whereby they may view the day’s proceedings.  We ask that all parents please observe our WPH&S requirements and refrain from calling children from their house area to cross the track to the parent area. Students have been instructed that they are to remain in their house areas when not competing.  Also, for the smooth-running of the carnival, and safety of all, parents are asked to not walk across the running tracks or enter the roped-off field event areas. Thank you for your ongoing support. 

Monday - Half Day Field Event Years 3-6 Programme below:

Tuesday - Athletics Carnival P-6 Programme below:

BADGES, BADGES, BADGES!

Support your house and help others at the same time. Carroll, Castles, Wallace and McBride badges will be on sale on Monday. Badges will be $1.00 each and all monies raised will be added to our Water Bucket Challenge donations. Many thanks for your support and for cheering on your team.

CASH payment is preferred

JOHN PAAP

We are thrilled to announce that our Emmanuel boys have shown outstanding performance and determination, making it to the semi-finals of the John Paap Football Competition! This is a significant achievement, and we couldn't be prouder of their hard work and dedication.

The time and date of this final will be published on our Facebook page as soon as it is released. We would love lots of support for our boys!

GRANT ROVELLI - REMINDER

Reminder that all notes need to be returned ASAP to Mrs Tomkinson. Gala Day will be held Friday the last day of Term Two (21 June). 

EMMANUEL SPORT SELECTION PROCESS

Lisa Bottcher

HPE Teacher

From Our Counsellor

Hayley Francis

School Counsellor

Around the School

Our school disco is being held tomorrow night Friday 7 June 6:00-7:30pm (outside the Drama Room). The theme is 'COME DRESSED IN YOUR FAVOURITE COLOUR'. 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 for those who have ordered through the trybooking link. 

CONGRATULATIONS KEIRA

Keira (6K) has been acknowledged for her dedication and resilience after earning a reputable Grey Wolf Award for Banksia Scout Group. Well done Keira!

Awards

Congratulations to the students pictured below who received a Virtue Voucher in Week 7.

School Choir

Finance

TERM 2 SCHOOL FEES - OVERDUE

Term 2 School Fee Statements were emailed on Monday 22 April and fees are now OVERDUE. You can also view your statements by logging into your Parent Lounge account. If you have not received your account, please contact the Finance Office immediately.

Tuckshop News

Please Note: It is imperative that volunteers DO NOT attend tuckshop if they are unwell or have anyone at home who is unwell.

Vacation Care

Please see below Vacation Care Plan for the June / July School Holidays.

Notices

CASH ONLY - Please remember to bring small change when purchasing from the Uniform Shop.

SAFETY ISSUE – MACKAY BUCASIA ROAD

Parents who park in the parkland along Baxter Drive (ie: the grassed area opposite the Emmanuel Bus Stop) are asked to ensure they DO NOT enter or exit this area via Mackay Bucasia Road. We have been advised by Queensland Department of Transport that this is a significant safety issue and we ask that this practice does not continue. Mackay City Council have advised us that this area should not be utilised for parking in the morning or afternoon and that all vehicles need to park within the designated areas assigned for parking purposes outside Emmanuel Catholic Primary School and Holy Spirit College.

We appreciate and understand that there are considerable parking issues across both campuses, but would like to take this opportunity to remind parents that the preferred drop-off / pick-up site for Emmanuel students is the STOP, DROP, GO area, and parents are strongly encouraged to use this facility. Students are supervised until 3.30pm allowing for parents to delay pick-up of students so as to ensure a smooth flow of traffic within a timely manner. We thankyou for your assistance and cooperation in ensuring all members of our school community experience a safe and stress-free arrival to and departure from school.

SCHOOL APP

Hi parents/guardians!

I am Chelsea Jansen, Instrumental Strings Tutor, teaching Violin and also teach the Cello. I would love for you to consider your child learning strings at Emmanuel with me and help us grow a string community at the school. I have 10 years teaching experience at local Catholic Education schools, conducting school string ensembles, am a performer with extensive performance experience and studying at the Conservatorium of Music. I provide my students with a tailored-approach learning experience and expose students to a wide variety of music with a passion for developing their music skills whether for specific goals or purely fun and enjoyment. I offer both private and group lesson options (groups only subject to availability). For enquiries and further information, please contact me on 040 223 1740 or email chelsea.jansen@outlook.com. As soon as an instrument is organised (I will help you with this), students can have an immediate start!