As experienced in so many schools across Canberra, Mother Teresa School is also noting an increase in the level of absences of students and staff. The absences are due to individuals testing either positive for Covid or in quarantine due to being a close contact with a family member. I want to express my sincere thanks to the staff for their incredible commitment to ensuring the children are still engaging in their learning, despite facing increased class numbers which is due to the limited availability of relief staff; everyone has had to cover extra playground duties and miss valuable planning time. Despite the increasing workload the teachers have continued to provide time to respond to parents via email, phone call, or conduct MS Teams meetings. 

Critical Reminders 

Road Safety -Yesterday I reminded the children of the importance of using the Mappleton Avenue crossing; when they need to cross the road. We are fortunate to have someone monitoring the crossing before and after school. This reminder is a follow-up to members of the local public reporting several children were putting themselves at risk when trying to cross the road in other locations.

Car Park Etiquette - This week I have been out and about observing the parking arrangements on the courts. This was in response to a concern raised that people were blocking others from leaving as they were waiting for their children. I understand the difficulties however patience is what is required. I have noted the car park is cleared within 10 - 15 minutes.

Masks in Schools - Masks are still required to be worn when parents and visitors enter the school grounds. This is a health directive to keep infection levels down across the school. The teachers make every effort to wear their mask all day; your cooperation is appreciated to keep our school safe. 

Refurbishment Update

In case you missed the Facebook post, our building project is progressing.  At this stage, we are not due to move into the new area until midway through next term. Part of the delay in starting was waiting for the massive steel beams required for the project.

Students absent for 25 Days or More

Families electing to take holidays for more than 25 school days must complete an "Application for Exemption from Attendance or Enrolment" form, which is available from the office and seek formal permission from the Principal.  This is a legal requirement as parents are required to carry the letter of authority when travelling.

Compass Updates

There has been a recent update to the Compass Parent Portal which has resulted in some families being unable to locate the "Absentee Note" when needing to complete this for a student who is not at school.  You can now find the absentee note through the "Shortcuts" button located in the middle at the bottom of the home screen.

Working With Vulnerable People Cards

A reminder that any visitor or volunteer (when we are able to have volunteers back on site) must carry a valid ACT Working With Vulnerable People Card.  This is available from Access Canberra and is free for all volunteers.  It is also a reminder for those who have a card to check the expiry date and action a renewal if needed. A copy of cards must be maintained at the front office. Both sides of the card must be provided. 

The canteen will be open for online lunch orders in Week 9.  Please note that students from Years 4 to 6 will collect their lunch orders at 10:20am, while Kindergarten to Year 3 will collect theirs from 11:00am. 

There are still no over-the-counter sales at this stage.

Planning for Term 2

• Students return to school on Wednesday 27th April.  
• Students are to wear their winter uniform.

God Bless

Carmel Maguire