This week as a community, we have experienced the deepest of sadness as we heard the news of the death of one of our beloved Year 12 students. This type of news always strikes at the heart of any community, but it can have a far deeper impact on a school community. These events encourage us to consider what we might do to support one another and to respond to the needs of those around us. As a Catholic community, we return to the comfort of our faith and the support of Jesus as our protector. At assemblies over the past few years, I have reminded students that we are a people of hope and that no matter how sad we may become, the belief in the resurrection and our connection to Jesus leads us to eternal life. We take comfort in the knowledge that at our darkest moments, Jesus wraps His arms around us and often does this through our family and friends. 

 “And know that I am with you always; yes, to the end of time” (Matthew 28:20)

May we keep all our families who are suffering and experiencing grief in their lives within our hearts and prayers and may our dearly departed rest in the peace of Christ.

Over the past few months, we have been trying to get more parent volunteers to assist with the running of the College canteen. We have made a number of requests through the College newsletter, emails and phone calls directly to those who had shown an interest. As you would be aware, the difficulty in sourcing volunteers has meant that we have not been able to open the canteen regularly to the students. This has meant that despite the incredible efforts of our canteen staff and the volunteers that did attend, we could only guarantee lunch orders. This is not ideal for students. We have therefore, taken the difficult decision that we need to look at outsourcing the canteen from the start of 2023. This will mean several changes but should guarantee a continuous service for students. I thank our current staff and we will relocate them to other areas in the College. When we confirm a canteen provider, I will notify the community.

Next Wednesday evening, we will be hosting our Year 8 students and some Year 9s for their Stage 5 information evening. This evening is designed to give students information around choosing their electives subjects. I encourage all Year 8 parents to attend to gain this information and I thank the staff who will be present in the evening to provide this advice.

Unfortunately, I have been informed that only one of the Parents and Friend’s executive are available for the meeting scheduled for next Tuesday evening. As this would mean there is no quorum, we have taken the decision to cancel this evening and move any agenda items to the meeting in term 4. If any parent would like to raise any concerns or questions, as always, I encourage you to contact the College directly either through the front office phone number (9603 3000) or through the info email (info@mcccdow.catholic.edu.au)

Ite in Veritate