The Spring weather and blossoms around the school have brought a brightness to life considering the challenges we have faced with COVID-19 over the last six months. As we formally move into our summer uniforms in Term 4 I encourage families to ensure you are ready. Do not forget that shorts can be worn all year rounds, should your child ask to start wearing shorts to school now.

As mentioned in last weeks newsletter the results of the Annual Parent Satisfaction Survey have been returned. Thank you to 143 parents who contributed to the survey with the following graph indicating the number of parents in each year level who contributed to the survey.

The following table summaries the overall results

As with all surveys we reflect on the results and comments and look for ways we can improve as a school community. As always, we aim for green across all areas. There are a few aspects to note and clarify. Obviously, these surveys are anonymous, so hopefully, I can address several of the key concerns via the newsletter over the coming weeks.

The school report is designed and implemented by Catholic Education across all Archdiocesan school, not just St Monica’s. The changes implemented this year were an attempt to respond to the difficult circumstances experienced by schools due to COVID-19. The teachers reached out to parents via phone calls during remote learning and provided an opportunity for parents to discuss their child’s progress during the mid-term Zoom parent-teacher interviews. I have advised Catholic Education of your many concerns relating to the current school report. 

Many parents once again expressed the need for a fence around the school. I am currently waiting on the results of my recent submission to Catholic Education to extend our oval boundary, as far as possible, and acquire the land on the corner of Copland Drive and Moynihan Street to increase the play area. If approved, we would then formally apply to the ACT Government.

There appears to be a misconception regarding class sizes. We have never had any class groups at 30+. Our current Year 4 cohort is our largest class groups with 29 with all other classes below 26. The number of classes a school is permitted each year is determined by Catholic Education and based on a school’s enrolment numbers. It is then the responsibility of the Principal, in consultation with Catholic Education, to look at the structure of the school which may include multi-age class groupings.

Further comments in next week’s newsletter.

Congratulations to the Thompson family - Charlotte (KCH) on the arrival of her baby sister Frankie, born last Sunday.

Please pray for the Years 6 children who are about to commence their preparation for Confirmation. This is a very special time for the children and their families. 

Continue to stay safe and healthy.