St. Michael's Primary School ~ Term 2 Week 2

IMPORTANT DATES

Acting Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope this newsletter finds you well and filled with anticipation for the upcoming term. It's wonderful to see everyone back at school, refreshed and ready for another enriching term of learning and growth.

Before we delve into the excitement of the new term, I want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to Charlene Fenton. Her dedication and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our school community. Charlene, your unwavering commitment to our students' success and well-being has been truly inspiring. As you embark on this new chapter of your life, starting your maternity leave, we extend our warmest wishes for a smooth and joyous journey ahead. We look forward to your return next year.

In the spirit of transitions, it is with great pleasure that I welcome the arrival of Lisa Hitchcock as the new principal of our esteemed institution. Lisa comes to us with a wealth of experience and a passion for education that is truly commendable. Her leadership qualities and innovative approach are sure to guide our school to new heights. Lisa will officially commence her role in Week 4, and I encourage you all to extend a warm welcome to her as she joins our school community.

I am immensely proud to share that several of our students participated in the ANZAC match to pay their respects to Australian and New Zealand's veterans and serving personnel. Their involvement not only showcases their empathy and respect for our nation's heroes but also reflects our school's commitment to instilling values of honor and remembrance. Well done to all those who took part, your dedication is truly commendable.

A reminder to all families, that Monday, 6th May, is a pupil-free day. Our teachers will be utilizing this time to reflect on school data and develop strategic plans to support students in areas of need highlighted by the data. This valuable day of professional development ensures that we can provide the best possible support and guidance to all our students, enhancing their learning experience and promoting their success.

As we embark on this new term together, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, resilience, and excellence that defines our school community. Together, we will continue to create a nurturing environment where every individual can thrive and succeed.

Wishing you all a fulfilling and rewarding term ahead.

Warm regards,

Marsha Ardern  

Acting Principal 

St. Michael’s Primary School is committed to child safety and the inclusion of all children.

New email address - Office Staff 

With the change in office days for staff, a new email address has been created for all office related school communications at:

office@smtallangatta.catholic.edu.au

Principal and teacher emails are still to be addressed directly to the staff member.

From Foundation - Mrs Marsha Ardern

Welcome back to Term 2! We hope you had a wonderful break and are ready for an exciting new term ahead. This term, our focus in writing is on narratives, and we have some engaging activities planned to foster creativity and storytelling skills in our students.

In our Daily 5 sessions, students will have the opportunity to dive into narrative writing through various playful activities. Here's a glimpse of what we have in store:

1. Space Sensory Play: In this area, students will engage in sensory play designed to promote creative thinking in a calm and peaceful environment. Just as writers draw inspiration from their surroundings, students will have the chance to explore imaginative ideas surrounded by a space theme.
2. Build a Zoo Space: Here, students will learn the importance of planning before diving into their creations. Much like how writers outline their stories before putting pen to paper, students will plan and strategise before building their own zoo exhibits, fostering both creativity and organisation skills.
3. Small Table Dramatic Play: These areas will feature two different scenes, a pirate adventure and a pet scenario, where students can immerse themselves in dramatic play and create stories to share. Through role-playing and storytelling, students will develop narrative structures and character development skills.

This term, we're introducing a fun and interactive way for students to engage with mathematics through games with a math buddy. These games are designed to reinforce mathematical concepts while promoting collaboration and enjoyment. Here's a preview of what awaits:

1. Board Games: Students will have the chance to sharpen their math skills through board games that make learning fun and engaging.
2. Pattern Blocks: Through hands-on exploration with pattern blocks, students will develop spatial reasoning and pattern recognition skills.
3. iPad and Touch Screen Games: Interactive games on iPads and smartboards will provide students with a dynamic way to practice math concepts while incorporating technology into their learning.
4. Number Writing: Practicing number writing not only enhances fine motor skills but also reinforces numerical concepts and counting abilities.
5. 'Friends of Ten' Task Cards: These task cards will challenge students to explore different ways of making ten, strengthening their understanding of number relationships and addition strategies.

Students will be responsible for the setup and pack away of these games. This provides independence and responsibility. 

We're excited to announce that we've revamped our Early Finishing corner to include small fine motor and sensory activities. This corner will provide students with engaging and stimulating activities to explore independently when they complete their tasks ahead of schedule. From fine motor activities that strengthen hand muscles to sensory experiences that promote relaxation and focus, our early finishing corner offers a diverse range of options to cater to every child's interests and promote focus to complete assigned learning tasks. 

Mental Health Wellbeing Leader Mr Joe Quinn

The Victorian Government has provided schools with the Mental Health in Primary Schools program.  This is supported by the Murdoch Children’s Institute of Research and Melbourne  University. 

There are three main parts to the Mental Health Wellbeing Leaders role. 

1. Work with Leadership of the school to implement learning and teaching programs that support the Mental Health Wellbeing of the students.

2. Build the capability and confidence of teachers to better identify and support students with mental health concerns.

3. Develop a clear pathway for referrals for students identified as requiring further support within the school and to regional and external community-based services.

While my role is not a teaching role, I spend some time in each class every week to build relationships with students and to support the teachers. It is important that we work together to destigmatise mental health issues.

I also provide support for families who may seek assistance from time to time. I may be able to link you and your family to existing services at the times you feel you need some extra support. 

Updates via School Newsletter and Dojo. 

I will be providing support resources on the school Dojo page from time to time and in the school newsletter.

Contact: 

You can contact me through the school office on 02 60712386 or directly by email at jquinn@smtallangatta.catholic.edu.au.  I work at  St Michael's on Monday and Tuesday. I also work at Sacred Heart PS in Corryong on Wednesday and Thursday.  I will respond to urgent emails from Monday - Thursday. 

Joe Quinn

ANZAC Day Parade

Thank you to all our students and families who attended the ANZAC service yesterday. We are proud of the way you represented our school and displayed your respect for Australian and New Zealand's veterans and serving personnel.

Lest We Forget

Wodonga Catholic Parish News

What's on

Lunch Order  List 2024

Neighbourhood House - Tallangatta

Perfect Pastry Cooking Class

Mary G is back with another fabulous adult cooking class!  If your weakness is pastry then this one is for you!  You will learn everything you need to know to make three delicious varieties of pastry from scratch and will leave with a container full of sweet & savoury pastry treats to share with your family – or keep it a secret and eat them all yourself!  The workshop will be held at the Anglican Church Hall on Sunday 5 May from 11am to 3pm.  If you miss out on a spot be sure to put your name on the waiting list on Eventbrite as we may be able to schedule more sessions. See How to Book below.

#Stuff4Teens – Sculpting Mythical Creatures

A four-week series of after-school workshops just for teens aged 13-17!  Teens are invited to join Kylie from Art Starts Here for another fantastic hands-on creative art experience.  Over four Mondays (6, 13, 20 & 27 May) from 4pm to 5.30pm, teens will design and sculpt a mythical creature which could be a dragon, loch ness monster, mermaid, werewolf, unicorn etc……… OR let imaginations run wild and create a totally new and unique mythical creature never seen before!   *If the cost of this workshop is prohibitive to attendance please get in touch with me as we may be able to assist. 

Beginners Sewing Class for Adults

In this introduction to sewing you will learn everything you need to know to be able to use a sewing machine.  Retired home economics teacher, Mary Grant, will then help you apply your newly acquired skills to make a beautiful potholder and cushion cover.   The workshop will take place over two weeks on Wednesday 8 & 15 May from 7pm to 9pm.  Attendees of this workshop will be invited to extend their skills in a follow-up workshop if there is interest.  There are only 6 places available so book quickly!

Yarn for a Cause

We are very excited to let you know about a new special interest group that will be meeting on Mondays at the House starting next week!  Our new knitting and crochet group will meet for a cuppa and chat whilst knitting beanies for patients of Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre plus other much needed woolen items for the homeless.  If you are keen to come along but don’t know how to knit or crochet we can teach you!  If you are not able to attend but would like to contribute to the cause you can pick up a pack from the House to make at home.  Donations of wool will also be very gratefully accepted!   Come along on a Monday between 10am to 12pm to find out what it is all about or you can call Helen on  0419 571 836 for more information, 

Regular activities reminder:

• Hume Riverina Legal Service’s next free legal advice visit is Wednesday 24 April.  Call 6055 8090 to book your appointment.
• Julie from Wodonga Skills and Jobs Centre’s next visit is Thursday 2 May.  Free one-on-one tailored career advice!  Call the House to book.
• Monthly Games Night - Friday 3 May from 6.30pm – free and no need to book just come along!

The House is Here to Help

Did you know that we have community volunteers here at Neighbourhood House from Monday to Friday between 10am to 2pm to help you however you may need?  If you have a tricky form to fill in or need help using the internet to research or apply for something online, we can help.  If you have something happening in your life that you need support with and you are not sure who to go to, start with us and we will endeavour to point you in the right direction.  Or if you are at a loose end and feel like a cuppa and chat we are here for that too.  No need to book, just drop-in. Please help us spread the word to your family and friends and our community.

HOW TO BOOK!

Book in for all Neighbourhood House presented activities on Eventbrite https://tallangattaneighbourhoodhouse.eventbrite.com.au.  For help with bookings or more information: reply to this email, call us on 0408 573 474 or visit us at 5a Banool Rd from Monday to Friday between 10am and 2pm. 

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Mother's Day High Tea! 

Join us in celebrating the remarkable women in your life this Mother's Day at this special High Tea event!  Indulge in a delightful spread of sophisticated tea stands and bite-sized treats courtesy of Yellow Picket Fence, all while enjoying live music by Chain of Fools.  This event will be held at Tallangatta Memorial Hall on Sunday 12 May from 2pm to 4pm.  The cost is $20 per person and to reserve your spot visit: tinyurl.com/towong-shire-events or call the Towong Shire Customer Service team on 1300 365 222. 

Dust Off Those Racquets!

Tallangatta Squash and Racquetball season has started!  Tuesdays at 6pm at the Ormidale stadium at the Secondary College.  A great way to keep your fitness up over the winter months.  New members are most welcome!  Phone Carol Fisher for more information on 0412 412 739. 

Mystery Dutch Auction

Join the Tallangatta & District Senior Citizens for some fun on Friday 17 May at 1.30pm.  Mystery items will be up for auction and bids will be in 10c increments.  Bring along some loose change and a friend to enjoy a great afternoon at the Seniors Rooms next door to Hub Cottage Crafts.   All ages welcome.  Phone Karla on 0407 078 825 for more information. 

Get on your bikes!

Bonegilla & Tallangatta Rail Trail Advisory Group will host their annual Whistle Stop High Tea on Sunday 19 May.  Join the 24 km ride from Huon to Tallangatta and return, with Sandwiches and Soup in Tallangatta and traditional 1950’s High Tea at Sandy Creek included.  Book asap to avoid disappointment.  Find more information on the attached poster.  https://events.humanitix.com/whistlestop-high-tea-2024

CWA Craft Day

CWA Kurrajong will be hosting their annual craft day on Friday 10 May from 9.30am to 4pm.  The cost is just $30 and includes morning & afternoon tea, lunch and your choice two workshops.  Book yourself in for lovely day of connection and crafting! Text Mary Grant on 0439 712 311 or email littlemg79@gmail.com to book your spot.  See the poster attached for more details.

Promote your Community group or event

As your Neighbourhood House we see it as our role to share information about all activities happening in Tallangatta that might be of interest or benefit to our community.  If you are involved in a local community group or organisation and want to let your community know about your groups regular activities or upcoming event, please email us the information.  There are currently around 600 individual subscribers receiving this email and we have 1,100 followers on Facebook so it is a great way to spread the word!

Neighbourhood House - Tallangatta