Newsletter 5th June 2024

From the Principal

Dear Parents,

Yesterday, our school choir had the opportunity to participate in the biannual Sing Out – a three-day choral event that sees schools from around the Toowoomba Region come together to perform. Our choir performed an item that they had been working on at school and then participated in workshops to learn four new songs to be performed as part of the 300 plus student mass choir. After a long day of rehearsals, our choir then backed up their efforts with a final performance last night. It was a wonderful evening, and we were extremely proud of our choir for their individual performance as well as their contribution to the combined choir. Our students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and I’d like to thank Mrs Hughes for her time and dedication in preparing the choir. Thanks also goes to Mrs Malone for lending her conducting talents to the choir, so Mrs Hughes could play the accompanying music.  Our choir is now gearing up for the Dalby Eisteddfod next week.

Next Friday is our annual Athletics Carnival and we are looking forward to a fantastic day of competition and sportsmanship. Mrs Bruggemann will be sending out some final details for the day. I encourage parents and carers to come along and cheer your children on.  It is always a great day out.

For the past couple of weeks, we have been focusing on our learning and behaviour statement of “Getting Along”

One of our focus areas has been about how we as a St Monica’s community – parents, staff and students – can enhance our already positive work towards showing respect, kindness and welcome to all. The staff have been impressed with the way in which many of our students arrive each day, taking the time to say good morning to other students and staff members, showing a welcoming attitude. To get the students thinking about how to show respect and welcome, I have been using the line of “how can you be the best part of someone’s day?” as a challenge to our students about how they can engage with their classmates and other school members.

At the recent P&F meeting, it was great to hear from a number of parents, that they are actively using the School Learning and Behaviour Statements at home as well.  This is great feedback, as this was one of our intents from the development of the statements, that they create a link between school and home.

In week 10, our Semester 1 report cards will be published and circulated to parents. This year, parents will notice a couple of changes to the layout. The main change is in relation to the Social Learning page. Using our Learning and Behaviour Statements as a guide, we have developed a clearer, and connected Learning Behaviour matrix for the teachers to mark against. An example is listed below. It is hoped that it will be a useful table for the students to understand, and engage with, as it is connected to our everyday school language about behaviour and learning.

A number of teachers have already used it as a student self-reflection tool to help students guide and assess their learning efforts and behaviours this semester.

From the APRE

Catholic Education Week Staff Awards

We are thrilled to announce the St Monica’s School staff who have been recognised in the 2024 Toowoomba Catholic Schools Excellence Awards.

Congratulations to the following staff members:

Miss Nicole Hoffman

• nominated for the Spirit of Catholic Education Award.
• nominated and finalist in the Excellence in Teaching and Learning Award, Early Career Teacher Category.

Mrs Sarah Malone

• nominated for the Spirit of Catholic Education Award.
• nominated in the Excellence in Teaching and Learning Award, Primary Expert Teacher Category.

Mrs Lyndell Gillam

• nominated in the Excellence in Education Support, Administration Support.

How lucky we are to have such dedicated and talented staff supporting our students. We will recognise these staff members further in Catholic Education Week next term.

Semester 1 Report Cards 

Over the next few weeks, our teachers will be finalising student report cards. When teachers make a judgement about a child’s progress, they use a variety of methods including work samples, observations, questioning, and discussions.  

Report cards provide an opportunity for parents and children to reflect on the learning and growth that has been achieved over the semester. A reminder that a ‘C’ grade on the report card means that your child is demonstrating the expected level and necessary skills and understandings for that part of the curriculum. As well as considering the grades attained, parents are also encouraged to look for personal progress both academically and behaviourally and recognise the importance of effort and improvement.  

Report Cards will be uploaded to the Parent Portal by Thursday the 20th of June. If you have any trouble accessing the parent portal, please make contact with the front office for assistance. A reminder that if, at any time, you would like to discuss your child’s progress, please email your child’s teacher and arrange a meeting.  

Athletics Carnival 

A reminder that the Athletics Carnival is on Friday the 14th of June from 9am to 3pm. It will be a full day of fun at fitness.  Parents are warmly invited to attend and participate in the annual parents vs teachers vs students relay at the end of the day.   

Class Masses 

Tomorrow, the Year 2 and 3 students will be attending a special Mass on the Theme – Caring for Creation. This aligns with the United Nations World Environment Day, where we are called to honour the environment in which we live. This year’s World Environment Day campaign focuses on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience under the slogan “Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration.”   

Our final Mass for the term is in Week 10 on Thursday the 20th of June. The theme for this Mass is the Nativity of John the Baptist. St John the Baptist was born to Elizabeth, the cousin of Mary. As a baby in the womb, John recognized Jesus’ presence when Mary visited Elizabeth soon after the Annunciation. When John was approx. 30 years old, he began to preach on the banks of the Jordan, calling for repentance and baptizing people in the river waters. When Jesus came to John to be baptized, John recognized Jesus as the Messiah, saying: “It is I who need baptism from you.” Celebrating the birth of St. John the Baptist is a Feast that is relevant today. Just like St. John, Christians accept with joy, their role in announcing Jesus to all the world through following Christ’s example of treating others with kindness, compassion and understanding. 

St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal Donations

Last week we launched the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. The Winter Vinnies Appeal aims to provide emergency relief to people at risk and experiencing homelessness. We ask that students continue to bring in donations of socks, gloves, beanies, scarves, blankets and non-perishable foods until the end of Term 2. St Vinnies representatives will be attending our final Term 2 Assembly to collect all donations. This is a great opportunity for our students to be people of compassion and charity and help those less fortunate than ourselves.

Sacramental Program 2024 – Reconciliation.

A reminder that preparation for children wishing to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation at St Monica’s Parish in 2024 will take place in Term 3. To be eligible to receive this Sacrament, candidates must already have been baptised.  If your child is not baptised, but you would like them to be, please see Mrs McGregor as soon as possible. All participation slips need to be returned to the front office by this Friday.   

From the Classrooms

Prep

It’s been a busy 2 weeks in Prep, with lots of learning and fun.  Last Friday we welcomed winter with our pyjama day.  It was wonderful to see everyone getting involved.  A reminder we are still collecting, non-perishable foods and warm items for those less fortunate in our community. 

This Friday we say a short goodbye to Mrs Byers, who is off on an overseas holiday.  We wish her all the best and look forward to seeing her in Term 3.  We look forward to having Mrs McGrath in our classroom during this time. 

A reminder of the importance of daily sight word revision, this will assist students with reading and writing.  Sight word books can be located in the student’s homework folders. 

Looking forward to another fun filled fortnight in Prep!

Year 1

This fortnight in the Year One classroom, the students have been busy planning their 'Most Magnificent Creations' for our English/Design/Science unit. Everyone has begun bringing in materials that they will be able to manipulate to make their creations. Our next steps are to write a procedure to follow and get creating! Everyone is very excited about the task ahead.

In Maths we have been learning about collecting data by asking appropriate questions. The students then recorded their findings using tally marks and picture graphs.

Year 2

What a crazy two weeks we have had in Year 2. This last fortnight has been full of wonderful learning and assessment. The Year 2’s have impressed me so much with their knowledge and dedication to learning, putting in 110% effort in everything they did!

Last week we finished our English unit focused on poetry. Some of us wrote some amazing ABCB rhyming patterns and rhyming couplets. We have started our new English unit which is about procedures. We started our unit by writing a recipe and making fairy bread! It was so fun and we can’t wait to write more procedures and hopefully make some more yummy things!

In Maths we have been focusing on reading and making time on an analog clock. We have mainly been focusing on o’clock, half past and quarter past times. They have all been doing a fabulous job at this and sharing their knowledge with others.

The Year 2’s have tried so hard over these last two weeks and you should all be very proud of the effort your children have put in!

Until next time,

Lauren Grant

Year 3

Congratulations to all students on their presentation of the National Reconciliation Week liturgy at assembly on Friday.

Students have been busy with consolidating their knowledge and understanding of concepts covered this term. During Mathematics lessons, they have been exploring standard and non-standard units of length in the quad area and working on speed and accuracy of single digit operations.

Students are focusing on locating the main idea, identifying details and sequencing events during reading activities.

During Science lessons, we are exploring heat energy, and how it is measured.

Students are continuing to practice track and field events for the upcoming athletics carnival.

We are looking forward to the High School Musical excursion next week.

Year 4A

This week we have been consolidating the concepts we have learnt throughout the term and have been completing assessment tasks. I congratulate the students on the effort they have put into these tasks.  I have been pleased to see the progression in their knowledge and understanding in each of the Key Learning Areas (KLA’s).

God Bless and have a great week.

Mrs Anderson

Year 4M

In our classroom we have been assessing the concepts taught this term for our report cards. We are nearly there and the children have demonstrated great persistence with this!

Congratulations to the students who participated in Sing Out yesterday. It was amazing to see all the schools come together and sing as a mass choir. These students will be participating in the Dalby Eisteddfod next week.

Next week we will be going to the musical and on Friday we have the athletics carnival. I am looking forward to seeing all students try their best at the athletics carnival next week. It is so important for children to be out of their comfort zone in a safe environment and this is a perfect chance to do this.

Have a great week

Year 5B

The term is certainly flying by and it is hard to believe we have just over two weeks left of Semester 1. It has been a busy time of late with Reconciliation Week activities, a visit from author Sarah Todman, PJ Day and Sing Out.

The students have enjoyed completing the athletics rotations as extra practice for next week's Athletics Carnival.

Also in Week 9, we are off to see St Ursula's production of High School Musical. 

We have completed a number of assessment tasks over the past couple of weeks and it has been pleasing to see the 5B students approaching these with a positive attitude and demonstrating persistence.

Have a great week!

Year 5R

Fabulous Learners - this week, our 5R students have been joyfully engaged in hands on math activities, sharpening their skills through fun and challenging exercises.

We have also been finalising their beautiful clay monsters, demonstrating their creativity and hard work. It's inspiring to see their enthusiasm and dedication in all subject areas.

Signed: A proud Mrs. Roberts

Year 6

Last week the Year 6 students reflected on their learning behaviours and identified areas of strength as well as areas where they need to work on to ensure they are setting themselves up for success both in and out of the classroom. We also discussed the correlation between effort and achievement and how these can greatly impact each other.

As we head into the last few weeks of the semester, students are busily completing assessment tasks to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding. They have been encouraged to start enacting their goals that they identified last week to allow for greater application and success. 

I received confirmation last week that the Wonder Recycling Rewards Program which we usually participate in throughout Term 2/3 will not be running this year. We thank everyone for their contribution to the collection of bread bags over the last 3 years.

From the Library

Sports News

Our annual Athletics Carnival will be held next Friday, 14 June for all students from Prep to Year 6. (Further information has been emailed today).  Please note there will be NO TUCKSHOP on the day. 9–12 year old students will participate in their 800m event next Wednesday, 12 June at 2pm. Parents and spectators are very welcome to attend both days of athletics events.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: (These times are only a guide and are subject to change on the day)

8:50 – Welcome and assemble for sprints

9.00 – 5-8 Years Events

Sprints - 5 Years 60m, 6 Years 60m, 7 Years 80m, 8 Years 80m

9.30 – 9-12 Years Events

100m sprints 9 -12 Years

10.15 – 9-12 Years commence Field Event rotations, 5-8 Years commence modified events

1.00 – 1.30 – Lunch Break 9-12 Year olds

1.30 – 9-12 Year olds 200m Finals

Followed by

- House Relays 9-10 Years, 11-12 Years, Staff/Parent/Year 6

- Clean up and presentation

 TIMETABLE FOR ROTATIONS:

PLEASE NOTE:  These times are only a guide and are subject to change on the day.

From Music & LOTE

18 members of our School Choir got to experience the annual magical event that is Sing Out earlier this week. 

Students from approximately a dozen different schools around the area gathered together with a guest conductor on the Empire Theatre stage to perform pieces they'd been learning in their own schools. The daytime workshop was practical and fun.  The evening concert was amazing to be singing on stage with about 300 students!

Thank you to those parents who were able to be part of the audience.  Mrs Malone and Mrs Hughes were impressed with the way our Choir members represented the school.  Their dedication and persistence is admirable.  

Pictured below:  Our amazing Choir posing backstage at the Empire Theatre

Next term, our year 3 students are welcome to join the School Choir.  We look forward to welcoming a lot more enthusiastic students to Choir!

Mini Monnie's Playgroup

Be Well at St Monica's

As children continue to grow and develop, it is important to think about how, as parents, we can help children build independence. Encouraging independence in our children is crucial for their overall well-being and success in life. Here are some tips on how you can help build your child’s independence:

1. Encourage problem-solving skills: Allow your child to make decisions and solve problems on their own. Instead of providing all the answers, guide them through the process of finding solutions. This will help them develop critical thinking skills and become more self-reliant.

2. Foster responsibility: Give your child age-appropriate tasks and responsibilities at home. This could be anything from setting the table to doing their own laundry. By assigning chores, you are teaching them the importance of taking care of themselves and their surroundings.

3. Teach time management: Help your child learn how to manage their time effectively. Create a daily schedule or routine for them to follow and encourage them to prioritise tasks. By learning how to manage their time, they will become more organised and independent.

4. Encourage decision-making: Allow your child to make decisions for themselves, even if it means they may make mistakes. This will help them develop confidence in their abilities and learn from their experiences.

5. Support their interests: Encourage your child to pursue their interests and passions. Whether it’s a sport, hobby, or academic pursuit, supporting their interests will help them develop a sense of autonomy and independence.

6. Provide guidance and support: While it is important to encourage independence, it is also crucial to provide guidance and support when needed. Be there for your child to offer advice, encouragement, and reassurance as they navigate through challenges.

By helping your child build independence, you are empowering them to become confident, self-sufficient individuals. Remember, it is a gradual process, so be patient and supportive along the way. Together, we can help our children reach their full potential.

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

Next Meeting

The P&F will hold their next meeting on Tuesday 9th of July at 6pm in the Library.   All are welcome to attend.  All agenda items for the next meeting can be emailed to oakpandf@twb.catholic.edu.au

Pie Drive

In Term 3 we will be running our Pie Drive once again.  Keep an eye out for more information about this early next term.

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.

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

Outside School Hours Care

Community News