Newsletter 27th March 2024

From the Principal

As we work through the final couple of days for Term 1, I’d like to thank our parents, staff and students for all of the great work and dedication this term. I’ve been extremely impressed with the level of work and engagement from our students throughout the term. You have all work hard and have gone out of your way to demonstrate our Learning Behaviours of Confidence, Curiosity, Getting Along, Organisation, Persistence and Resilience. Special mention to our fantastic Prep students for completing their first term of school. It has been amazing to see their progression and how quickly they have responded to school routines and eagerly engaging in their learning.

I’d like to congratulate our students on their efforts at the Cross Country last Friday.  We had perfect weather for it and the track was in pristine condition. I was extremely impressed with our students’ sportsmanship, determination, and team spirit. Thank you to our staff for assisting with all the jobs and making the day such as success. Thanks to Mrs Bruggemann for her time in preparing the carnival and for taking the time to provide extra training opportunities through Run club. Congratulations to Julian, Alex Meacham, Mason Long

I wish all of our families a happy and holy Easter season and enjoy some time wonderful family time together.

From the APRE

End of Term Mass

Tomorrow, Thursday the 28th of March, students will attend Mass to give thanks for the wonderful term we have had together, and to recognise The commemoration of St Benedict, for who our founding Sisters, the Sisters of The Good Samaritan, base their values. All parents are welcome to attend. Students who have completed Sacramental program in previous years are also invited to stay after Mass for Reconciliation.

Holy Week Liturgy School Prayer Celebration

As we are approach the end of Lent, we turn our hearts and minds to the most important week in the Church’s year, Holy Week. Holy Week commemorates Jesus’ last week on earth and the events leading up to His resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Yesterday we held our whole school Holy Week liturgy. All of the students did a wonderful job reenacting their part of the story, and listened respectfully to each other.

Term 1 Caritas Fundraising

This term we held a number of fundraisers for Caritas Australia including Pancake Day, Guess the Dream Meal competition and the Water Scavenger Hunt. In total we raised $306.30. Congratulations to all students, staff and families who got involved, and a special thank you to Miss Keleher and the Year 6 Good Samaritan Ministry for leading the school in this mission. This fundraising campaign was a great example of students living our Good Samaritan mission to ‘Go and do likewise’.

Prep- Year 2 Empire Theatre Excursion

Today the Prep to Year 2 students attended the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba to watch the live production of the Smeds and the Smoos, based on the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson. The students all had a wonderful time.

Good Friday Reflection

Easter Blessings

May the promise of Easter, fill your heart with peace and joy.

May the glory of Jesus's resurrection remind us, that with You, nothing is impossible.

May we remember that Easter is our constant symbol of hope, renewal and new life.

Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday with family and friends.

From the Classrooms

Prep

Congratulations on completing your first school term!

What an amazing term it was, filled with lots of learning and fun.  I am so proud of the persistence the students have shown towards their learning and their overall dedication to school life.  We have worked so hard, and it is amazing to see all their hard work pay off. 

Yesterday we went on our first excursion, we were so excited to catch the bus into the Empire Theatre and we all enjoyed the wonderful show. 

Wishing you all a wonderful and safe Easter break, filled with lots of joy, love, laughter and relaxation. 

See you all in Term 2.

Year 1

This fortnight in the Year One classroom, we have learned about the Weather and Seasons across Australia and compared them with countries worldwide in Science and Hass. We have also explored the night sky and learned about the phases of the moon and constellations. Each student designed and named a constellation and made a model using marshmallows and uncooked spaghetti. 
We had a very exciting Term Two in the Year One classroom! I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday and look forward to seeing you for another wonderful term in a couple of weeks.

Year 2

Dear Parents and Friends, 

In English, we are finishing up writing our very own narratives. We have created stories all about sustainability or looking after our environment. We have some great stories, and I can’t wait for them to be done so we can share them with each other.

In Maths, we have just finished learning all about calendars. We really enjoyed this topic! We had the opportunity to make our own calendars for March and write down key events for this term.

In Science/HASS, we have been learning all about Earth’s Resources. It is so interesting learning where things come from. We never knew the earth made so many amazing things!

In Religion, we have been learning how to be stewards of creation and look after our environments. Last week we drew a map of our classroom and identified the areas we need to look after a little bit better.

I can’t believe how amazing the Year Two’s did at cross country last week! They showed so much resilience and persistence and continued to run and work hard. Congratulations to all that competed and congratulations to Kokoda who won the carnival.

Until next time,

Lauren Grant

Year 3

This week we bid farewell to Mrs Ah Quay as she focuses on her family’s new arrival. It is wonderful to be in Year 3 and working with your children on their educational journey. Students have been continuing lessons in all subject areas this week. We have also been working on special Easter activities.

Year 4A

The students, in 4A, have done a marvellous job at writing their own chapter of ‘The Twits”. I have enjoyed reading their chapters and how well they have linked their chapters to the original book.

Thank you to everyone for supporting our Caritas challenge. As of Monday, we collected $79.55 for those less fortunate than us. That’s $5.68 per student, well done 4A! The students have been encouraged to bring in what they can for the remainder of the term.

Thank you to the parents who met with me for a parent teacher interview. I enjoyed talking to you about your child’s progress.

I wish you all a safe and happy Easter break and look forward to seeing everyone back on Tuesday 16 April, for the start of Term 2.

God Bless

Year 4M

Welcome to Week 10!

What a fantastic end to Term 1. The growth that has been demonstrated by the students both academically and socially/emotionally has been amazing. Persistence and resilience have increased and everyone is happy to 'have a go' at challenges. We have completed assessments and are now investigating Holy Week. 

Have a wonderful Easter break and we will see you back on the 16^th of April.

Year 5B

I was so proud of all the students' efforts at the Cross Country last Friday - it was certainly a great display of persistence and resilience. Congratulations to our 5B Age Champions Mason and Lil. As we come to the end of Term 1, I would like to commend the 5B students on their hard work and dedication. It has been a fantastic term, filled with learning, growth and memorable moments. Thank you parents for your ongoing support. I would like to wish everyone all the very best for a relaxing and enjoyable Easter break. May it be a time of rest, rejuvenation and quality time spent with family and friends. We look forward to welcoming the students back after the holidays for what will be an exciting Term 2.

Year 5R

As we bid farewell to a bustling Term 1, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all parents for their warm welcome and unwavering support. Your involvement has truly made a difference in our classroom community.

With Term 2 on the horizon, I anticipate another whirlwind of events and activities. As cooler months approach, I kindly remind everyone to ensure students come prepared with warm clothing to stay cozy during outdoor activities.

As we look forward to the Easter Break, let's prioritise safety and cherish the joyous moments spent with family. It's a time to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories.

Thank you once again for your continuous support and cooperation. Together, we will make Term 2 just as enriching and eventful as the last.

Wishing you all a wonderful Easter Break filled with love, laughter, and precious family time.

Warm regards, Mrs. Brenda Roberts and 5R

Year 6

How we got here so fast I do not know.  I have the pleasure of teaching in Grade 6 every Thursday this year (while Miss Keleher teaches Digital Technology) and we have had some amazing learning already! On Thursdays, we focus on Science, Reading Groups, Math (Data and Statistics) and Health.  This term in Science, we have been learning about how our environment impacts living things.  We have looked at adaptations and evolution while also learning about scientific procedures like how to conduct a fair test, variables and using controls in testing.  The Grade 6’s conducted several experiments including observing mould growth on bread that had different variables changed; e.g cold, dark, moist and wet bread. This linked beautifully with our Math learning on data in which students have been learning how to record data, interpret data and display data.  We also went into a deep dive of mode, mean, median and range; wow, that was hard to say every lesson and quite tricky, but students have grown in great confidence using these terms accurately.  It has been lovely to watch the growth of this class over the term and I can not wait for Term 2 where we get to do it all again.  If you would ever like to have a chat with me, please feel free to pop in on a Thursday afternoon, or email me on: vicki.nauschutz@twb.catholic.edu.au

From the Library

From Music & LOTE

Choir students are looking forward to attending Sing Out in week 8 of next term (Wednesday 5^th June).  Parents of students in Choir - please mark this date on the calendar as our school will be singing at the Empire Theatre that night!  More details to come as the event gets closer.

Thank you to those parents who were able to attend the Holy Week play.  It was wonderful to see so many students singing & acting confidently and respectfully.  

I am still seeking parent helpers to cook basic Indonesian food (coconut rice/fried rice) for our Indonesian Cultural Day on Tuesday 23^rd April.  Ingredients will be provided.  Students have been involved in brainstorming activities for the Cultural Day and would love to try some Indonesian food.  Please email Kate.Hughes@twb.catholic.edu.au if you can help out.  

Terima kasih banyak!  (That means thanks very much).

Mini Monnie's Playgroup

Be Well at St Monica's

Make it a Wellbeing Holiday

As we come to the end of Term 1, it is nearly time to head off for the holidays. Everyone is no doubt in need of a break and the opportunity to recharge their batteries. There are many activities that families can participate in these holidays that promote wellbeing. Why not try some of these:

• Go for a picnic – pack the picnic basket and camping chairs, head to the park and enjoy some much-needed fresh air.
• Have a family movie night – there are plenty of great movies to choose from – grab a bowl of popcorn and enjoy your favourite flick together.
• Be active for at least an hour a day – go for a bushwalk or a bike ride, have a dance party, play a game of backyard cricket or soccer – the opportunities are endless.
• Read a good book – enjoy one of your own books or head to the Oakey Library to make a selection.

• Play a Board Game – Board Games are great for getting the brain buzzing, boosting language skills and sharpening your focus, so get out the Monopoly, Chess, Yahtzee (or whatever you enjoy) and have a game together.
• Have a craft-a-noon – the whole family can get creative and craft together. Why not get an older family member to teach the kids a new skill.
• Let kids be bored – you don’t have to amuse your kids every minute of the holidays. Experiencing boredom helps kids learn to entertain themselves by become more creative.
• Write a gratitude letter – encourage all members of the family to write a letter of gratitude to someone who deserves their thanks.

• Donate unwanted goods – have a big clean out and donate unwanted items to a charity, eg. St Vincent de Paul or Lifeline. This is a win, win situation – you get to declutter while helping those less fortunate.
• Get kids in the kitchen – teaching kids to cook is a way to encourage healthy eating, whilst building confidence and independence.
• Get talking – put down the phones, turn off the devices and just talk. Discuss a particular topic eg. your next family holiday or encourage everyone to talk about their hopes and dreams and set some goals together.
• Visit the beach – the sounds and smells of the ocean put us in a mild meditative state which is good for both the mind and body.

Happy Holidays!!

In challenging times, help is just a phone call away!  Who can you call 24/7?

Lifeline 131114, Kids Help Line 1800 551800, Beyond Blue 1300 224636

Uniforms

School uniforms are now available at School Locker online theschoollocker.com.au  or Intersport in Ruthven St Toowoomba.

Research has shown that one of the real advantages of an education at a Catholic School is that a special and unique pride is developed. One significant way to foster such pride is the enforcement of strict uniform guidelines.  All children are expected to wear the school uniform as listed below:

School Uniform - Years 1 to 6

Girls – Formal - Monday, Tuesday & Thursday

• St Monica’s School Dress Uniform
• Dress: Pattern, Sutton no 346(B)
• Dress: Fabric, Check 8021
• Collar: Cesarella 1301, Zip: Birch 265 Bottle Green
• St Monica’s School green school bucket hat
• Short white socks – (no ankle socks)
• All black shoes – may be leather or jogger.

Girls – Sports - Wednesday and Friday

• St Monica’s School Sports Shirt Yr.1 to Yr.5
• St Monica’s School Leader Shirt Year 6
• St Monica’s School Navy Blue Skort
• St Monica’s School green school bucket hat
  
• Short white socks
• White sandshoes/joggers

Winter Variation

• As Above
• St Monica’s School Bottle Green Fleecy Pullover with embroidered crest
• Green fleecy track pants with sports uniform only.
• Navy Blue Tights (optional)
  

Boys – Formal - Monday, Tuesday & Thursday

• St Monica’s School Dress Shirt with tartan collar
• Shirt: Pattern, Simplicity 5581
• Fabric: Bottle Green Poplin 8021
• Shorts: Navy Blue Long Shorts (Ruggers)
• St Monica’s School green school bucket hat
  
• Short navy-blue socks – (no ankle socks)
• All black shoes – May be leather or jogger.

Boys – Sports - Wednesday & Friday

• St Monica’s School Sports Shirt Yr. 1 to Yr. 5
• St Monica’s School Leader Shirt Year 6
• St Monica’s School Navy Blue Shorts (Stubbies)
• St Monica’s School green school bucket hat
  
• Short white socks
• White sandshoes/joggers

Winter Variation

As Above

• St Monica’s school Bottle Green Fleecy pullover with embroidered crest
• Green fleecy track pants with sports uniform only.
• Long navy-blue pants - Ruggers – Formal uniform (optional)
  

It is expected that the correct and clean school uniform will be worn at all times.  A school uniform can help instil in the students a sense of pride and identity. It also signifies unity and equality.

Prep students wear the sports uniform 5 days per week – Monday to Friday

All Students

Hair:             Collar length hair or longer must be tied back with a green band or green ribbon. Natural hair colour is expected. Rat’s tails and tracks are not permitted.

Earrings:             Girls: Sleepers and plain studs are the only acceptable earrings.

                                Boys: No earrings.

Other:                   Clearly mark all clothing with your child’s name.

From the P&F

A big thank you for the school community for supporting the P&F Association in the first Term of 2024.

It was wonderful to see some new parents helping out at the Oakey Show, what a wonderful way to get to know other families in the school and become part of this wonderful community. We look forward to Term 2 and hopefully seeing more new faces at our school functions. Enjoy the holidays!

If you would like to get involved in the P & F, please accept this as a warm invitation and welcome. If you have any questions, please get in touch with the P&F email or see Lyndell in the office. oakpandf@twb.catholic.edu.au

Clothing Pool

The clothing pool is currently located in the OSHC, if you require anything please contact the school office or see Lauren in OSHC room near the Prep Classroom.

Outside School Hours Care

Community News

Easter School Holiday Workshops 

Some great workshops and Holiday Programs are coming up at Queensland Museum Cobb+Co that your families and students may be interested in.

Friendship Bracelet Weaving Workshop

Using Japanese braiding craft a unique friendship bracelet.

Wednesday 3 April 2024, 11am – 12pm
$12 per child (Ages 5 -17 years)
Tickets and more details at Collective Weave - Events | Queensland Museum Cobb+Co

Felted Paperweight Workshop

Craft your own custom paperweight by felting a rock.

Friday 5 April 2024, 11am – 12pm
$12 per child (Ages 5 – 17 years)

Tickets and more details at Collective Weave - Events | Queensland Museum Cobb+Co

Rocket Building Workshop with It's Rocket Science

Friday 5 April 2024, 10am - 12:30pm

Designed for 10 - 17 years

$25 per child

Tickets and more details at Flight School - Events | Queensland Museum Cobb+Co

Flight School Holiday Program

8 - 12 April 2024

9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm daily

Designed for 5 - 12 years

Featuring stations designed by Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport, Qantas Group Pilot Academy, UniSQ and It's Rocket Science.

Tickets and more details at Flight School - Events | Queensland Museum Cobb+Co