Issue 15 - 18 September 2019

Newsletter Articles

VISION STATEMENT

St Rita’s School will be a compassionate and supportive community built on the Gospel of Jesus Christ, specifically incorporating the Mercy Values which are lived out. We will be a values-based community reaching out to and welcoming the wider community. Our strong school spirit will shine. St Rita’s will be a school in which every member is respectful of self and others.

PRINCIPAL’S PEN

Dear Parents,

It has been a very busy term at St Rita’s and we are pleased that we will be spending this week finalising teaching programs for the term. Our last lesson by Miss Sian of ‘Step It Up Crew’ was staged last Thursday. The children were eager participants in the weekly Dance lessons that Sian provided, and the Australian Curriculum outcomes for this strand of The Arts were successfully taught throughout the term’s program. Thank you Sian! We’re looking forward to having you work with us at St Rita’s next year.

In the past fortnight I have been so very happy to not only watch the students in Dance lessons, but dropping into the St Rita’s kitchen to see what learning is taking place has been a real pleasure. The senior class has enjoyed cooking a selection of sweet and savoury recipes this term, with the delicious Pumpkin Scones, topped with melted butter, being a particular favourite. Last week’s Pizza Scrolls were eagerly baked and shared by the students on Friday afternoon. Thank you Mrs Stone for working with the class in the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden gardening and cooking program throughout the term!

There seems to be a special ‘day’ for almost everything nowadays, and I personally believe that Gratitude Day, celebrated annually on 21st September, is one day on our calendar that is worthy of recognition. By celebrating Gratitude Day next Saturday, each of us can reflect on the many facets of our lives that we can be grateful for. I like to make a mental list of all the things I am grateful for on this day and be extra mindful to feel gratitude and appreciation throughout the day. What can you be grateful for this Saturday? Apart from the school holidays starting of course!

The history of World Gratitude Day is quite interesting. The celebration started in 1965 in Hawaii when an international gathering decided that it would be a good idea to have one day per year to formally express gratitude and appreciation for the many wonderful things to be found in the world. Following the meeting in Hawaii, many attendees marked Gratitude Day on 21st September 1966 when back in their own countries. Ever since then, the number of people celebrating Gratitude Day across the world has grown and grown.

How to celebrate World Gratitude Day

The awareness of the benefits of having time in one’s life for gratitude, appreciation and positive reflection have become increasingly apparent. The hope of the founders of Gratitude Day is that by taking time, one day a year, to reflect on the many amazing things we have in our lives, it would positively impact our well-being and make us happier, more contented people.

A very informative article on the impact feelings of gratitude have on our health and wellbeing has been included in the Social Emotional Learning section of this newsletter.

As third term concludes this Friday afternoon, I sincerely thank all families and friends who have contributed to St Rita’s over the past ten weeks. During this term, our school has enjoyed the celebration of many important events as a happy and thriving learning community. We have hosted Catholic Education Week, NAIDOC, Children’s Book Week, Science Fun Day, and National Literacy and Numeracy Week. Most recently, the Father’s Day social evening allowed our families a special time of celebration for our dads. All of these events showcased St Rita’s as being a true place of learning, community and faith.

Plans for next term are well underway, and we have already set dates for our swimming program which will be conducted at the Babinda Pool, the commencement of the ‘Get Set for Prep 2020’ program each Monday, and the school float and display for the Harvest Festival at the end of the first week of term. The monthly meeting of the P & F was held last Monday afternoon and this wonderful group continues to work tirelessly for the benefit of the school. All parents are encouraged to attend these short, productive meetings. Exciting times ahead!

This week, we will be sending home notes requesting your help and support with St Rita’s involvement in the Harvest Festival on Saturday 12th October. The float that the school enters in the street parade is always a success, as staff and parents work together to bring our ‘theme’ alive. With your assistance, the children will be outfitted and parade in your choice of costume. We were also fortunate for our P & F to be allocated the BBQ Canteen at the festival this year. Yes, a ‘big one’ we know, but with all parents and staff contributing a few hours of time to fill the roster, it will be possible. I urge you to support St Rita’s in this major fund-raising venture of the year!

I hope you have a relaxing school holiday beginning on Friday, and enjoy the time you spend with family and friends in this wonderful weather we are having. I thank you for being an active part of your child’s education and I hope to continue seeing parents around the classrooms, in the tuckshop and at assemblies next term. I believe that what we do, and how much we achieve at St Rita’s, is the result of our strength as a successful school community.

Have a restful and happy holiday!

Regards and blessings,
Judy Billiau

APRE THOUGHTS

Creation Mass

In Australia, the month of September heralds the season of Spring and, in the Catholic Church, September is a month of prayer for the care of Creation. This term, both the Year 3 and 4 classes have been looking closely at the Creation story, which is the very first piece of Scripture in the Bible. Taken from the book of Genesis, it is a fascinating piece of text! We have opened up the layers of meaning embedded within, and thought about the text in terms of the days’ culture and its language features. Our investigations have led to a real mind-shift in the way we can understand this text.

You may be quite surprised to know that it is written in the style of a literary poem; it was a creation story for the Hebrew people, and is not considered an historical account or scientific treatise by scripture scholars. Filled with cleverly-written patterns of language and sequences of repetition, it emphasises some important biblical truths for Christians, namely, that out of God’s abundant love for us, God is our Creator. Further to this, it emphasises humankind’s role in honouring the gift of Creation through careful stewardship of the earth’s resources and protection of the environment.

This scriptural passage was the focus for our whole school mass last week, where we were most fortunate to have Father Mathew and Father Emmanuel co-celebrate the event for us. Prior to the mass, Fathers Mathew and Emmanuel visited our classrooms. I felt very proud of our students as they confidently shared their learnings on this piece of Scripture, and asked some very interesting questions! This was also remarked upon by Father Mathew. Thank you to our bright little students for their inquisitiveness, as it add a little spark to our day. And thanks also for the uplifting singing and wonderful participation in our mass. It was a happy occasion to celebrate our wonderful gift of Creation.

Holiday Blessings

Parents and friends of St Rita’s, thank you most sincerely for your continued support of our staff and students, for it is in even the smallest acts of kindness, care and friendliness that our school community becomes so alive with joy of Christian living! Looking forward to the two week holiday ahead, may I wish all staff, children and their families a wonderful holiday break. I hope that it is a refreshing and rejuvenating experience for you all, whatever your plans! Take care, stay safe and enjoy!

O Father of goodness,
We thank you each one
For happiness, healthiness,
Friendship and fun,
For good things we think of
And good things we do,
And all that is beautiful,
Loving and true.

Blessings,
Maureen Gaul
Assistant Principal (Religious Education)

CASTING THE NET

RUOK? Am I OK?

Many years ago I heard an image presented that describes how many (dare I so most of us – definitely me) react when life throws one of those lumps of …manure at them. Instead of dealing with the issue they throw it behind them. But the problem is that it doesn’t go away. It lands in the backpack we all have for ‘things I am avoiding’. At first, it may not cause us too much trouble – it doesn’t weigh much and as the smell is around all the time we may not notice it too much. Trust me, our family, friends and work colleagues do. (But they love us and we all have to put up with irksome qualities in each other.) Life goes on, more …manure comes our way till one day, the backpack is too heavy, the smell too overbearing and we fall under the load. Overwhelmed, ashamed and paralysed, we too often see no way out of our problems.

Then what? We cannot save ourselves. We need others. We have to take the hard, scary step and speak to others of how we feel, of our failure, of our fears. And we have to accept that it will take time to work through these messes we have ignored. Our best hope lies in someone who can listen. Yes, that is what we need at first – not solutions but the care of a listening person.

And what of us who have seen our spouse, our friend, our workmate fall? We can feel overwhelmed and think, ‘What can I do, I am not an expert?’ No, but you are a human being who can listen. You don’t have to give advice. We cannot underestimate the power of a listening person to someone in a dark and difficult place. A person simply being there for another has such a power to heal.

Loving God, we each have our dark and difficult places. When I am in need give me the humility and strength to seek the care of another. When another calls out for care, let me listen in love knowing that you are working in both of us. We ask this in Jesus’ name, confident that you will hear us.

Sr Kym Harris osb

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Current research in Positive Psychology indicates that choosing gratitude over self-pity, for example, can transform one’s life. Gratitude is the virtue that makes us more fully realise and be appreciative of the gifts we receive each day. Amy Morin, in ‘7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude’, explores the positive results that being grateful can have in our emotional wellbeing.

1. Gratitude opens the door to more relationships. Not only does saying “thank you” constitute good manners, but showing appreciation can help you win new friends, according to a 2014 study published in Emotion. The study found that thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to seek an ongoing relationship. So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or send a thank-you note to that colleague who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities.
2. Gratitude improves physical health. Grateful people experience fewer aches and pains and report feeling healthier than other people, according to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences. Not surprisingly, grateful people are also more likely to attend regular check-ups, which is likely to contribute to further longevity.
3. Gratitude improves psychological health. Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.
4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression. Grateful people are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even when others behave less kindly, according to a 2012 study by the University of Kentucky. Study participants who ranked higher on gratitude scales were less likely to retaliate against others, even when given negative feedback. They experienced more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and a decreased desire to seek revenge.
5. Grateful people sleep better. Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.
6. Grateful improves self-esteem. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that gratitude increased athletes’ self-esteem, an essential component to optimal performance. Other studies have shown that gratitude reduces social comparisons. Rather than becoming resentful towards people who have more money or better jobs - a major factor in reduced self-esteem – grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
7. Gratitude increases mental strength. For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress, but it may also play a major role in overcoming trauma. A 2006 study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy found that Vietnam War veterans with higher levels of gratitude experienced lower rates of post-traumatic stress disorder. A 2003 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that gratitude was a major contributor to resilience following the terrorist attacks of September 11. Recognizing all that you have to be thankful for - even during the worst times - fosters resilience.

We all have the ability and opportunity to cultivate gratitude. Rather than complain about the things you think you deserve, take a few moments to focus on all that you have. Developing an “attitude of gratitude” is one of the simplest ways to improve your satisfaction with life.

CURRICULUM CORNER

NAPLAN TESTING 2019

As you are aware, the individual results for the Years 3 and 5 NAPLAN Testing have been received at St Rita’s and distributed to parents. Across all areas of Reading, Writing, Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation and Numeracy, St Rita’s students in Year 3 performed strongly. We are pleased to announce proudly that our school’s average scores are all higher than mean scores across State levels, with the exception of Grammar and Punctuation, which was equivalent. Likewise, the St Rita’s Year 5 average results in Reading, Writing, Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation and Numeracy were all considerably higher than the corresponding State levels.

Altogether, St Rita’s congratulates our Years 3 and 5 students who have achieved such solid results in this year’s NAPLAN Tests. For the first year, our school completed, with the exception of the Year 3 Writing task, the testing ‘online’. The students had been well-prepared for this testing mode, as everyone has his or her own Chromebook in Years 2 - 6, and uses these devices for lessons in the classroom every day. To further support online testing, our school plans for the development of keyboarding skills, using the online ‘Typing Tournament’ program, across all year levels.

With the SAIP (School Annual Improvement Plan) 2019 curriculum goal of the development of Writing skills for all students, further analysis of the progress made in the elements of Writing will be conducted early next term. The four elements we are specifically targeting this year are Audience, Text Structure, Vocabulary and Sentence Structure. Looking forward to 2020, NAPLAN data will be used to develop a comprehensive Literacy & Numeracy Action Plan to maximise student learning, and to continue providing a quality education within our multi-age setting.

Congratulations to all staff and students for their commitment to teaching and learning at St Rita’s!

Judy Billiau

AROUND THE CLASSROOMS

SURF LIFESAVERS’ VISIT

At school, we learnt how lifesavers save people and how flags at the beach warn you that there can be danger out there. There can be dangerous currents, or even dangerous things in the sea. They have signs like ‘blue bottle jellyfish’, ‘waves’ and ‘crocodiles’ that mean you can’t swim there. Flags mean different things. You should swim between the red and yellow flags, so you won’t be in danger, and the lifeguard can see that you are okay. Black and white flags means you can surf. Yellow means ‘be careful and follow instructions’ and the last one is the red flag. This means ‘danger do not swim’ and that’s when the current is too strong.

You must watch out for the waves because they can push you back. You must remember you have to have an adult with you at all times to be safe. If you get stuck in a strong current, don’t panic and don’t paddle back. If you’re in trouble wave your arms and call for help. You should use the flags and signs otherwise you might have to get saved by the lifesavers.

By Haley Geary and Latoya Ambrum
Year 2/3/4

LIBRARY LINKS

There are many excited faces around the school with holidays just around the corner! Some are busily planning for an adventure filled break, while others are looking forward to a more restful, restorative holiday. Perhaps you may even be able to sneak in a little reading time together; great fun can be had sharing a good book. Whatever your pleasure, enjoy this special time with your family.

Week 2 of Term 4 will see our Book Fair arriving, sure to delight as it always does. This year Book Fair will take place in the library, over five (5) days, Monday 14th October to Friday 18th October. For your convenience, the library opening hours will be as follows:

8:00 am – 8:30 am and 3:00 pm – 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday

I would love to see each of our families visit at some time during Book Fair week. If you are hoping to find some inspiration for Christmas gifts, and would like to keep your purchases a surprise, I would be happy to help. Don’t hesitate to contact me in person or via our Admin office; it would be my pleasure to assist in any way.

Happy holidays and happy reading,

Lisa Calcagno
Library Assistant

DATE CLAIMERS

MERCY SPIRIT AWARD

At Assembly on Monday 16th September, Edith Polzin was awarded the ‘Mercy Spirit Award’ for showing kindness and concern for others, demonstrating compassion and consistently showing consideration to everyone. Thank you for acting in the service of others and congratulations Edith!

The Mercy Value of ‘Service’

Service of God and of Jesus Christ through service of others is at the heart of the originating Mercy story. “It is Jesus Christ you love and serve with your whole heart,” wrote Catherine McAuley. For Catherine and for those who joined her in 19th century Dublin, living and witnessing to the mystery of the cross meant pooling their resources and seeking out the most vulnerable.

Theirs was to be a willing service: “It is God’s will that everyone called to (God’s) service should be happy.”

Veronica Lawson RSM
Mercy Education

THE CAIRNS POST ‘INSPIRE’ AWARDS

St Rita’s congratulates Havana Postic (Year 3) on her article published in the Cairns Post ‘Inspire’ section on Tuesday 3rd September 2019. Havana wrote about our recent Children’s Book Week costume parade. Congratulations Havana!

ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

We congratulate Robert Freeman, Joseph Geary and Hunter Bell (Prep/Year 1) for completing different levels of the M100W high frequency words. Robert successfully completed Orange and Green levels, Joseph completed Blue and Red levels, and Hunter completed Gold level in the M100W word lists. Robert, Joseph and Hunter were presented with their M100W Certificates at Assembly on Monday. Well done Hunter, Robert and Joseph!

BIRTHDAY CONGRATULATIONS

St Rita’s wishes Robert Freeman and Mrs Carrigan all the very best for their recently celebrated birthdays. We hope you had wonderful birthday celebrations Robert and Mrs Carrigan!

P & F News

Dear Parents,

The Harvest Festival Parade is being held on Saturday 12th October at 3:30pm. Every year, St. Rita’s students participate in the Harvest Festival parade by entering a school float. This year’s theme is Flora and Fauna. To also tie into the theme of ‘harvest’, we will be showcasing the importance of sugarcane in our local area. The P&F Committee is hoping to organise a flat top truck to decorate with sugarcane and the children can dress as animals found near and around cane fields. We would greatly appreciate your support by organising a simple costume for your child/ren.

On another note, St Rita’s P&F has been granted the main kiosk at the Festival which means we can sell some very popular items such as steak sandwiches, sausages, nuggets, hot chips, soft drinks and bottled water. With the food stall, we hope to make a good profit for our school. We would appreciate your support, and are requesting your assistance please, in order for our school to operate this fundraiser.

To manage the stall successfully, we require a minimum of five helpers rostered on in each two hour block. Our stall will begin at 4:00pm and the final shift is scheduled to end at 10:00pm. Most of the food preparation and stocking of the canteen is planned to occur on the morning of the event.

A short meeting to finalise details and allocate tasks will be held at the next P&F Meeting on Tuesday 8th October in the school library. We urge you to join us for this short meeting.

Thank you everyone.

Maryjane Masina
P&F Secretary

THOUGHT OF THE WEEK

COMMUNITY NEWS

ST RITA’S TRIVIA NIGHT