PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
Dear Parents
Last Thursday an announcement from the Director of Schools, Mr Peter Hill was sent to you all, informing you that I have accepted the position of Principal at St Joseph the Worker, Auburn South. Therefore the process to find a new principal will begin shortly, starting with a community consultation process that you are warmly invited to attend on Thursday 23 November at 5pm.
I would like the community to know that the move to Sydney Catholic Schools was a personal decision for me that I prayed on and discerned for some time. I am very blessed and privileged to hold the role of Principal at St Patrick’s and leaving will be very sad for me. I am grateful for the time I have had with you all, look forward to all that we still have to share together this year, and find comfort knowing your children will always be in good hands thanks to the amazing staff at St Patrick’s.
Farewell Mass for Miss Glen Marie Phillips
I invite you to attend our Farewell Mass for Miss Phillips next Thursday 23 November at 9:30am. At 11.30am there will be a school presentation in the hall to continue the celebrations. Miss Phillips has devoted more than 40 years to Catholic Education, more than 20 of them here at St Patrick’s, Port Kembla. Most recently Miss Phillips has taught Creative Arts to the students, however, she previously held the role of Religious Education Coordinator at the school. Her passion and commitment for teaching is nothing short of commendable and we thank her and wish her all the best for her retirement. All are welcome to join us on Thursday.
Afternoon Dismissal Reminders
It has come to our attention that a small number of students have been meeting parents and grandparents outside the school on O’Donnell Street. Can we please remind you that for the safety of all students we ask that you come into the school grounds to meet your child rather than have them come out to you.
There have also been a rise in complaints recently about the number of cars double-parked on Kembla Street, waiting to pull into the pick up zone in the afternoon. This is resulting in blocking traffic, not only on Kembla Street, but on Church Street as well. Cars are only permitted to wait in a pick up zone for 2 mins, therefore cars should not be parked in this zone prior to 2.53pm. Can I ask you to please be considerate of others, and not arrive prior to this time. Waiting until 3 or 3.05pm will reduce the traffic and allow a much smoother flow of traffic.
Year 6 2024 School and House Captains
Following a consultation process with staff, students and parents, we have made the decision to have 2 School Captains and 8 House Captains (2 per house), next year. The 8 House Captains will encompass the roles previously held by the Vice Captains, Faith Leaders, Community Leaders, Environment Leaders and House (Sports) Captains. Year 5 students will submit nominations for these roles this week and present a 1-2 minute speech next Wednesday 22 November at 11.30am. All parents are welcome to attend the speeches if they wish. Following the speeches students from Years 4-6, along with the staff will vote, however, greater weighting will be placed on the Year 5 students and the staff.
Carols on the Green
