For those of you who would have previously received our newsletters, you may have noticed this edition looks a little different to previous editions. This new look newsletter comes with the launch of our new website, which is full of fresh images and information about all the wonderful learning and extracurricular activities on offer through our College, along with loads of information on our policies and procedures. Our new website is accessible through https://smdeaf.vic.edu.au.
Term 1 is always an exciting time for our school community with new students commencing in many year levels, students transitioning into prep and into year 7 and excitement in reconnecting with friends, teachers and support staff. There are many fabulous programs on offer in term 1 such as swimming programs, camps, retreats, assemblies and athletic carnivals along with science experiments, creative designs and great books to explore. I commend all our students for the way they have participated in all aspects of school life since the start of the year and their positive approach to their learning.
In recognition that so much learning occurs at school through reading, our teachers of the deaf are currently focusing on finding and using the most impactful technique to improve reading in all our students. Reading is globally recognised as challenging for deaf and hard of hearing students and as such, our dedicated staff are determined not to let these difficulties get in the way of our students reaching their full potential. We look forward to sharing with you the learning success and strategies your child has developed in order to improve their reading comprehension over the coming months.
We have also welcomed two new principals to our community of partner schools, Mr Timothy Newcomb (Principal Marymede Catholic College) and Mr Adrian Scutt (Principal Holy Trinity Primary). Both Principals have expressed a commitment and willingness to embrace the partnership with St Mary’s College and a continuation of providing quality and inclusive learning opportunities for our students within their schools. Community is one of the four Pillars of the Dominican Charism, of which the Dominican tradition and our school is founded. The importance of community is one of the things that makes Catholic schools so special.
It is an exciting time for many of our partner schools including Salesian College Sunbury, Thomas Carr College and Marymede Catholic College who are undertaking new building projects which will provide exceptional learning spaces for our students. All schools have worked closely with St Mary’s to ensure optimal listening conditions and sound field equipment are in place in each new building.
Over the past couple of weeks, we also recognised Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. This period is a time of self-reflection, prayer and being mindful of supporting the needs of those who are suffering. For many of us, the people of Ukraine are currently in our minds and hearts as we pray for peace and compassion in our world.
I hope you enjoy our first newsletter for 2022.