Dear St Monica’s families and friends,

After 40 years of outstanding service to St Monica’s Primary School, Mrs Anne Hodgkin has announced that she will be retiring from teaching at the end of this term.

I know that many of you will join me congratulating Anne on her dedication and service as an educator. A vocation that has been lived out with care, respect and interest in all the families involved within a number of ACT Catholic Primary School communities. We warmly invite all families, former students, former colleagues and Anne’s family to her farewell celebration next Thursday 29 June at 3.45pm.

Please share this invite far and wide, to give Anne a most memorable send off into retirement.

Rostrum Finalist - Congratulations to Lily H (6 Blue) who represented St Monica’s in one of last night’s ACT Rostrum quarter finals. Lily presented her speech ‘Going Backwards’ with great confidence and humour and whilst she will not be progressing to the Semi-Finals, feedback given to Lily was that she was definitely an audience favourite! Lily will present her speech at tomorrow morning's Star Awards Assembly.

Semester 1 reports - Tomorrow afternoon you will be receiving your child’s Semester One report. When sitting with your child to reflect or review their report it is important to create a supportive and encouraging environment.

If you wish to go through your child’s report with them you may like to:

• Choose a comfortable and calm setting, a quiet place you can sit together without distractions. This will allow you to focus on your child’s learning and have a meaningful conversation.
• Ensure you have a positive mindset, express your interest and excitement in reviewing their report with them. Emphasise the report explains how they are going and how they can be supported with their learning.
• Celebrate achievements, begin by acknowledging your child’s accomplishments. Highlight those areas where they have excelled and praise their efforts and hard work.
• Gently address areas for improvement and focus on constructive comments rather than criticism. Encourage your child to reflect on their performance and consider strategies to overcome challenges. Assure them they have yours and their teacher’s support and assistance where needed.
• Work with your child to set some realistic goals. What did they think they did really well in at school this semester, what would they like to get better at next term? Review the goals regularly to help your child stay motivated and focused on their progress at school.
• Communicate with your child’s teacher if you have any concerns or questions about the report. Maintaining open lines of communication between home and school will help to address any issues and provide additional guidance.
• Use words of praise and encouragement throughout the discussion with your child! Remind them that their report is just one measure of their progress and their efforts and personal growth are equally as important.
• Finally, tell them that you love them, you are here for them and you are a partner in their learning. As long as they are truly working their hardest and trying their best that is all that we can ask of them!

Welcome - A very warm welcome to following families who have joined the St Monica's community. Wishing Alfonso's and Litchfield's a long and happy associated with our community!