I hope everyone enjoyed the recent long weekend. As we move through Reconciliation Week, it is important to remember at the heart of reconciliation is the relationship between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It is for us all to take time to reflect on how we can all foster positive race relations with our relationship grounded in a foundation of truth.

As mentioned last week, I was fortunate to recently attend the HALT (Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher) Summit in Darwin. This is an annual summit that occurs in Australia for all accreditated HALTs to attend, to learn, reflect and network. Presenters at the conference included Professor John Hattie who discussed the 'impact' that we as HALTs have on our school communities, Dr Lyn Sharratt who discussed how we can inspire our school communities to be the best they can and finally Dan Haesler who discussed how we can influence those around us and the importance of focusing on emotional intelligence. A very affirming and challenging two days. I look forward to bringing what I have learnt back into St Michael's as we continue to move forward with our Annual Improvement Plan for 2019. 

Good luck to our Cross Country Team who tomorrow will be competing at Stromlo. Thank you to Erin Hardwicke for her organisation behind the scene and giving her time to assist with morning training. 

A reminder that our K-6 School Disco is on Friday night. Tickets can still be purchased leading up to the night. Looking forward to seeing everyone there. It starts at 5.30pm. Thank you to Rachelle Clark for taking the lead with coordinating this fundraising event. 

On Tuesday we will hold our Athletics Carnival for 2019. I have had recent discussions with various parents as to why we hold this carnival at Kaleen Oval instead of other ovals. The main reason is the ease of the event being so close. It saves significant cost as we don't require buses. It saves time as we can get there quicker and is easier to get equipment and items over there. It is also close to school in case of an emergency and needing access to school facilities. Lastly, in the event of bad weather, we can still run main events and leave younger grades at school without having to cancel buses and bookings. I look forward to Tuesday and seeing the school spirit in action.

Don't forget to book your spot on a table for the upcoming Trivia Night. It will be a great night. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aO1doImU1wc9zZrVx1L-92b8EjeVQfa1gqxL4kQ0RHI/edit?usp=sharing

A reminder that Damien Webb, Laura Frogley and myself are participting in the Rations Challenge. To read more and donate, please visit our page https://my.rationchallenge.org.au/t/stmichaelsstaff

Congratulations to Paul and Kristina on the arrival of Zoe Wati Buckley, stepsister for Xanthia, Stella and Olive.

Enjoy the week ahead.

Regards,

Pat Ellis

Principal