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Newsletter Term 2 Week 7

Principal's Message

Dear Parents and Families,

Spare a thought for our teachers this week who are currently working hard at writing Semester 1 student reports. This is a great time of the year as we celebrate our students' growth and learning and we look forward to sharing this with families when reports are mailed out during the last week of June.

This week is National Reconciliation Week which highlights an opportunity for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation with First Nations people in Australia. This week our students will have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of this significant week on our nation's calendar.

Flying Start
We have had a very positive response to our recent Open Days and school tours with many new families taking the opportunity to look at all we have to offer at our school and book into Flying Start.

Enrolments have been steady for Flying Start and places are filling fast, especially in the 9.30am session, so don’t forget to contact the school to confirm a place for your preschooler.

They love the chance to experience sessions of Science, Music, Italian, PE, Art, and Technology and to meet many of our teachers along the way.Flying Start starts on Thursday, June 13th, and runs on Thursday or Friday mornings (repeat sessions) for all interested families. Ring our friendly office on 50332541 for more information.

Message Sticks at St Mary’s this week
To mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of the Catholic Diocese of Ballarat, five AboriginalMessage Sticks were gifted to carry the message to “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12). They are making their way around all 64 schools in the diocese and are onsite this week. They have a special significance for us as they were made locally by artist Vicki Clark and her Husband Trevor. Vicki is a proud Mutthi Mutthi Wamba Wamba woman, member of the DOBCEL board, and grandmother of Inalah in Foundation Green. There is a special liturgy planned to honour the presence of these message sticks, onsite before we hand them over to MacKillop College.

SRC Casual Dress Day - Friday 31st May
This month our casual theme is wearing red with all money raised going to support MS. To get into the spirit of things and support the Multiple Sclerosis Fundraiser, The May 50K is designed to encourage people to clock up 50 kms over the month, staff and students will be walking laps from 10.30 am-11.00 am on Friday. There will also be red jelly for sale by the SRC for 50c per cup.

Junior Cross Country
Oh this was a LOT of fun! Well done to Miss Clark for her organisation of the Junior Cross Country. There was a terrific atmosphere on Thursday, with friends, family and our older students all encouraging our runners and celebrating their efforts.

First Communion
This weekend many of our Year 4’s will make their First Communion at one of our parish Masses.

Student Broadband Initiative
The Australian Government provides a School Student Broadband Initiative through the NBN. This free initiative has been extended until December 2025. If you have already registered your access will automatically be rolled over. If you haven’t registered, check your eligibility via the QR code, or call the number provided.

School Facebook Page and Instagram
Would you like to keep up to date with school events and see photos of our staff and students in action? YES! Then make sure you like our St. Mary’s Facebook page or follow us on Instagram by using the links below.

St Mary's Primary School Swan Hill

https://www.instagram.com/stmarysswanhill/?hl=en

Winter Uniform
All students should now be in winter uniform. Students do have the option of wearing shorts instead of winter pants on regular school days and shorts instead of track pants on PE days. Please make sure your child is in the correct uniform each day and only wearing PE uniform on the days they have PE and level sports.

Have a terrific week and I look forward to seeing many of you at assembly hosted by 4P on Friday or as we celebrate the Year 4 children making their first Holy Communion over the weekend at our Parish Masses.

Kate

"We have much for which to be thankful"
St Mary MacKillop 1875

Key Dates

Tuesday May 28th
Regional Cross Country
Wednesday May 29th
Year 4 Level Liturgy - 2pm
Friday May 31st
Assembly 4P - 12.25pm
Casual Dress Day
Saturday June 1st & Sunday June 2nd
Year 4 Eucharist Masses
Thursday June 6th
Year 5 Level Liturgy - 11.30am
Year 6 Level Litrugy - 10.15am
Friday June 7th
Assembly Foundation Orange - 12.25pm
Monday June 10th
King's Birthday Public Holiday

Wellbeing with Mr Prockter

Balancing Act: Limiting Kids' Screen Time After School and Safely Navigating Technology
In today's digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives, permeating every aspect of society, including education and entertainment. As beneficial as technology can be, excessive screen time can pose significant challenges, particularly for children. Striking a healthy balance between technology usage and other activities is crucial for their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this article, we'll explore the importance of limiting kids' screen time after school and provide practical tips on how to safely use technology.

Understanding the Impact of Screen Time:
Research has shown that excessive screen time can have adverse effects on children's development. Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to issues such as reduced attention span, sleep disturbances, obesity, and even social and emotional difficulties. Moreover, excessive screen time can hinder children from engaging in physical activities, creative play, and face-to-face interactions, essential for their overall growth.

Setting Realistic Screen Time Limits:
As parents or guardians, it is crucial to establish reasonable and age-appropriate screen time limits for children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following guidelines:

Toddlers (18-24 months): Avoid digital media use, except for video chatting.

Preschoolers (2-5 years): Limit screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming, preferably co-viewed with parents to facilitate learning and comprehension.

School-age children (6 years and older): Establish consistent limits on the time spent on screens, ensuring ample time for physical activities, homework, and social interactions.

Implementing Technology-Free Zones:
Designate certain areas in the house as technology-free zones, such as the dining area and bedrooms. These zones will encourage family members to disconnect from screens during meals and bedtime, fostering healthier communication and more restful sleep patterns.

Encouraging Outdoor Activities:
Promote outdoor activities and sports as alternatives to screen time. Encouraging children to engage in physical activities not only keeps them physically fit but also enhances their cognitive abilities and social skills. Organising family outings, sports events, or nature hikes can help build lasting memories and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Modeling Healthy Technology Habits:
Children often imitate the behavior of adults around them. To instill healthy technology habits, parents and caregivers must model responsible screen usage. Demonstrate a balanced approach to technology by avoiding excessive screen time and actively participating in non-tech activities.

Quality Over Quantity:
Not all screen time is equal. Encourage kids to engage with high-quality, educational content that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and learning. Look for age-appropriate apps, games, and websites that encourage skill development and mental growth.

Implementing Parental Controls and Monitoring:
Technology can be a double-edged sword, and the internet may expose children to inappropriate content or risks. Utilize parental control software and settings on devices to filter content and protect them from potential harm. Regularly check their online activities and discuss internet safety to ensure they understand how to navigate the digital world responsibly.

I hope you can all connect to this article as it’s crucial that we understand the power of technology and there are ways to fight against its rapid rise.

Mr Prockter

Curriculum with Mrs Hall

National Simultaneous Storytime NSS: Bowerbird Blues
Last week, our entire school delved into the enchanting world of "Bowerbird Blues” by Aura Parker, and their responses were nothing short of inspiring and reflective. Students and teachers engaged with the book in a variety of creative, reflective, and artistic ways, showcasing the depth of its impact on our community.

Creatively, students in Year 1G along with Mrs Woodburn explored their interpretation through the creation of mandals. Connecting to the storyline how the Bowered Blue would swoop and snatch vibrant treasures for his collection. Their mandala’s sparked creativity, fostered reflection, and deepened students’ appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

Artistically, students in 1F and Miss Jennings participated in a Scavenger hunt, also finding treasures of nature within the school environment. Once they had gathered their materials from outside, they used them to create a collage drawing. Another great learning experience that encouraged creativity and appreciation for the natural world!

RE with Mrs Davies

Eucharist Celebrations - 1st & 2nd June
This weekend we look forward to celebrating with some of our Year 4 children who are celebrating their First Eucharist this weekend at our Parish Masses. All families are more than welcome to attend to support these children during this special time. Masses for the weekend are as follows -
Saturday 1st June - 6pm
Sunday 2nd June - 10.30am

PE with Miss Clark

Junior Cross Country
The Junior Cross Country was held last week on Thursday the 23rd of May. We were very lucky to get a beautiful sunny afternoon which left the conditions perfect for a run. Well done to all the junior students that participated. It was wonderful to see so many children try their best in a fun, encouraging and competitive environment. We are grateful for all the parents, family and friends who came to watch and support the children. A very big thank you to all the staff for their support on the day and especially to the House Captains who all did an amazing job for helping run the event. Students that finished in the top 10 for each race will have certificates presented at the assembly this Friday the 31st of May at 12:30pm.

Regional Cross Country
Following the Division Cross Country for senior students, we have 19 students who have qualified to go on to represent the school at the Regional Cross Country at St Arnaud this Tuesday the 28th of May. We wish all competitors the best of luck and acknowledge what an amazing effort it is to reach this level!

Foundation and Year 1 PMP
The Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) for Foundation and Year One students will start this week. This program will run for 4 weeks during student’s PE class time. The PMP program is a movement-based program that will help students improve their coordination, fitness, balance, locomotion and eye-tracking skills. Thank you to the parent helpers and House Captains who will help run the station activities. Every week there will be four new station activities for the students to practice their motor skills such as balancing, throwing and catching, jumping etc. The students also continue to develop skills such as taking turns, listening to instructions, teamwork and decision making.

@2 Murlong Before & After School Care

The Out of School Hours Care program, @ 2 Murlong, is operating out of the gym hub and provides before and after school care for school age children in the Swan Hill area. Please express your interest via the following link;

https://prodadmin.myxplor.com/enrollment/index/dHdBOThsSW9JeHUxYTEwaHNxZlMrdz0

News from the Office

Working with Children Check
A reminder to bring your Working with Children Check with you if you are coming on to the school grounds for volunteer purposes.

Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF)
Applications for CSEF close on 28th June 2024

If you hold a valid means-tested concession card or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible for CSEF. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child. The annual CSEF amount per student is $150 for primary school students.

HOW TO APPLY:
New applicants should contact the school office to obtain a CSEF application form or download from the CSEF website www.vic.gov.au/camps-sports-and-excursions-fund

If you applied for the CSEF at your child’s school in 2023, you do not need to complete an application form in 2024 unless there has been a change in your family circumstances.

You only need to complete an application form if any of the following changes have occurred:
* New student enrolments; your child has started or changed schools in 2024 or you did not apply in 2023
* Changed family circumstances; such as a change of custody, change of name, concession card number, or new siblings commencing at the school in 2024.
If you are unsure please contact the school office on 50332541.

If you are eligible for CSEF you are also eligible for the Family Fee Assistance Scheme. The FFAS amount for 2024 is $860.00. This amount is credited against your school fee account once your CSEF application has been validated.

School Beanies
With the weather cooling down, now is a great time to purchase a school beanie. Available of CDF Pay for $15.

News from the Canteen

We are looking for volunteers to help in our school canteen during 2024. Volunteer hours at 11.30am - 1.30pm. If you have a Victorian WWCC and would like to assist, please contact the office on 50332541.

Ordering from the canteen:
Recess and lunch orders are placed online only via CDF Pay. The orders close at 9.30am each day, so it is recommended you place your order the night before. Our canteen is a very busy, so late orders will be offered limited options. Please contact the office if you need help with CDF Pay.

https://smswanhill.cdfpay.org.au

Just a reminder to sign in at the office when you are on canteen duty