Welcome back to the start of Term 2.  Our focus as a Catholic community of late has been on the Easter season, where we celebrate the great mystery of Jesus’ resurrection.

Easter gives us hope!  We are Easter people, a people of hope. Hope is not wishing, hope is not dreaming; hope is our serene confidence that God will always be there.  Hope is at the heart of our faith, and Easter marks the greatest hope for all humanity.

As we enter Week 2 of Term 2, the reality of school has certainly set in; here are some tips that may help as we begin another term:

• Manage your own anxiety: Avoid questions that may convey your worries eg “Do you like your teacher?” Instead, focus on positive action eg “Tell me about the best thing you learned today; Who did you help today?”
• Be open to what your child is feeling eg “I see you are feeling sad, that’s okay”.
• Listen: you don’t have to solve everything.
• Meet other parents: Show your child you are part of the St Joseph’s community.
• Go to bed early, get up early and be organised: It is hard for a child to focus and participate all day if they are tired or have had a frazzled morning.
• Work with the teacher: Parent/Teacher interviews are a great time to share concerns and discuss successes. Remember that you may contact your teacher to make an appointment anytime throughout the year.
• Be realistic: Each child is unique and special. What works for one, may not work for another. In all aspects of their learning- academically, physically, socially and emotionally - children will vary. Embrace the difference!

ANZAC DAY

Thank you to the students, parents and staff who represented St Joseph’s School at the ANZAC Day march. It was inspiring to see such a commitment from so many from our community as they took part representing our school in the wider community of Atherton.

P & F MEETING– WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL @ 5:00pm

Our next P&F Meeting will be held tomorrow (Wednesday 30 April) at 5:00pm in the staffroom. Please come along, meet new friends and play an active role in your child/ren’s school. 

APRE APPRAISAL – Wednesday, 7 May

Thank you for all who were able to participate in the survey as part of Mrs Mary MacCallum’s Performance Review.  The next stage in the process involves interviews with community members including parents, staff and students.  These interviews will allow the Review Panel to talk directly with members of St Joseph’s School Community.  If you’d like to be part of this process, please reach out to me ASAP.  Thank you to those who have already volunteered to be part of these interviews.

2026 PREP ENROLMENTS

We have commenced the enrolment process for our 2026 Prep classes. As existing families with Prep age children receive priority placement, I urge existing family to ensure they have lodged their enrolment form. I would also ask for your assistance in informing new families who may be considering enrolling their child here at St Joseph’s in any grade to make contact with the school as soon as possible.

Word of mouth is always the best form of communication and I am always thankful for the positive feedback I hear from new enrolments and I am most appreciative of those of you who spread the “good news” about our great school.

MOTHER'S DAY

On Sunday, 11^th May we celebrate our mother on Mother’s Day. This is a special day of reflecting, sharing, giving and appreciating our own mothers and their importance in our lives. The role of motherhood is indeed a role of sacrifice – a role where time, energy, commitment and love are generously given unconditionally and without question. We are very fortunate to have this day on which we can show our mother how much we appreciate their love for us.

My prayer is that we all recognise and acknowledge the significance of mothers in our own lives, and that Sunday, 11^th May be a special time when we thank our mothers for who they are and for all that they have done.

DATE CLAIMER:

Mother’s Day Bingo Night: Wednesday, 14 May (5:30 – 7:00pm)

VALE POPE FRANCIS 

Pope Francis now rests in peace, but his spirit walks on with us. A shepherd who led with mercy, joy and courage, he reminded us that faith is lived in action, and hope is our mission. As we continue the journey into the Jubilee Year, we carry his legacy forward—not in mourning, but in movement, as Pilgrims of Hope.

May his prayers for peace come to life.

Rita Petersen