Science Week

Over the last week we have been celebrating Science Week. This year's theme Destination Moon: more missions, more science is a way for teachers and students to discover past missions to the Moon and space programs that have solved some of the seemingly unsolvable problems—and current and future space programs, operations and missions. Many of these use big picture thinking in science to solve problems, and technology, engineering and mathematics to design new solutions. This will help forge our future paths in the areas of space operations, space science, Earth observations, positioning systems and communication.

We have passionate teachers in the Science area at St Michael's and many different projects on the go at the moment. We were lucky enough to have a visit on Friday by JollyBops. This was a Science Show for all classes with an Aboriginal Perspective. Our Year 5/6 RoboCup team are busily preparing during lunch times and after school to compete in the upcoming RoboCup championships. All our Year 5/6 students will be preparing for and entering in the 'Robots in Space' competition, a STEM initiative for ACT Primary Schools. Lots happening to engage and promote problem solving and creative thinking at St Michael's. 

Staffing

As we move through the second half of the year, we begin to plan for 2020. I would like to annouce that Jo Krippner will be officially stepping down from her role as Assistant Principal at the end of the year. As you would be aware, Damien Webb is currently in this role and has been temporarily acting in the role in Jo's absence. Jo will remain with us as Classroom Support Teacher moving forward. The permanent position of Assistant Principal has recently been advertised and we will confirm the news of the successful applicant in due time. 

As the community would be aware, Yvette Whalan has continued on leave this term from her classroom teacher role in 1/2W. Yvette wil continue her leave in Term 4 to continue to recover and recharge. Nastaha Kapantais will continue as the classroom teacher in 1/2W. Natasha is a passionate and dedicated teacher and we are fortunate to have Natasha continue with us to ensure consistency and a smooth end of the year for the students in that class. 

Book Week

Next week we will celebrate Book Week. A fun week planned. Thanks to Erin Hardwicke for your preparation behind the scenes. I wonder what staff will wear on Tuesday for the Dress Up. 

Giant Book Swap

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation is an organisation close to my heart. I have been an Ambassador for them in the past and published my book 'Ready for School' through them a few years back. An amazing organisation who work tirelessly to support Indigenous children right around the country. Having worked in an Aboriginal community for 6 years, I have seen firsthand the work this organisation does to improve literacy levels in young children. Please support the Giant Book Swap by dropping off an 'in good condition' book and bring a gold coin to donate. 

SFX Performance of Grease

On Wednesday, Year 5/6 students have been invited to attend the Saint Francis Xavier Performance of Grease. This will be a great opportunity to see a quality student performance. Next year, we will again look into a musical performance for our students to participate in. 

Belconnen Athletics

I wish all the students well who will be competing in the Belconnen Athletics on Monday. I am sure you will do yourself and the school proud. 

Family Move Night

Don't forget to come along to our Family Movie Night this Friday night. A great community event to connect with someone new. 

Feast of the Assumption of Mary

Tomorrow we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. This image 'Feast Day of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary'. 2008 by Stephen B. Whatley, really captures for me this special occassion. The colours, calmness and peace displayed through this artwork, reflects my image of Mary. A special day of prayer. As a school community we will join the Parish community at St Michael's at Mass on Thursday. 

Enjoy the week ahead.

Regards,

Pat Ellis 

Principal