Dear Parents and Carers,
Last Thursday I joined 150 CEO's including 5 other Catholic school principals at the Vinnies Sleep Out in Canberra. It was a wet evening with continual rain slowly soaking everything. I was very fortunate in that I missed the Tuesday morning temperature of feeling like -10. While it was an uncomfortable night for me, it was a one off and unfortunately for people in our community this is an every night occurrence.
Students will have the opportunity to wear their pyjamas to school on Friday for a gold coin donation. Teachers will also lead classes in a discussion about homelessness and what we can practically do as a school community.
Jesus gives us guidance on how to support others like in Matthews, (25:35-40) Gospel.
35 for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? 38 And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? 39 And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ 40 And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’
Thank you for all those in the St. Bedes community who have donated and sent me messages of support. If you are able to donate by follow the link https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/markchifley/act
As the term draws to a close there have been changes in staffing at St Bedes. Next term Marylou will return as Principal and I will return to the Assistant Principal. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Louise Grant who stepped in as Assistant Principal and has brought enthusiasm and experience to the role. We wish her all the best in her new role as Principal at St. Josephs Grenfell. There will be other staff changes that I will confirm tomorrow and inform the community.
Building update
The building continues with the goal of having the k - 2 classrooms and Administration Block completed by the start of term 4. Work also started today on the new sports shed. I believe the new shed is an orange and black design.
As we go on our school break we are mindful of the security of the school over the holidays. If you are about can I please ask that you keep an eye on the school. If you do see something that is out of place or broken please email me on mark.chifley@cg.catholic.edu.au
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support as I have acted as Principal over the last 3 months. It has been a pleasure to serve such a wonderful community.
As always if you have any concerns please contact your child's classroom teacher or myself to have a conversation and listen to your concerns.
Kind Regards
Mark Chifley
Acting Principal