Dear Parents and Friends of St Kevin’s

What a difference 2 weeks make!!!!

Life is always changing, and you never know what lies ahead. However, as many have said, we must work through the current situation together to achieve the best outcome. That is why being part of a village school such as St Kevin’s is so valuable. As a village we will support all our families in any way we can. We may have to work differently, think differently, socialise differently and adapt to unplanned changes in routine. How we function within these new parameters will impact greatly on the lives and education of our children. So, as a village let us work together to ensure that our children are kept safe and not over exposed to any anxiety, we as adults may experience. Continue to read to them, play games together, share mealtimes and pray as a family. Treasure all family time and the support of the village.

We have been receiving queries from parents regarding home learning for children being kept at home.  At this stage, schools are open, and teachers are working here at school. In challenging situations children find school their haven, where their learning continues, and friendships opportunities continue to be provided. It is acknowledged that some parents may choose to keep their children at home in the current climate, however as a result of schools being open, we will not provide home learning content. 

Thank you to the parents who have adjusted to our new protocols regarding morning drop off and afternoon pick up. The resilience and tenacity demonstrated by the children has been outstanding as they adapt to hanging up their own bags and unpacking them, meeting teachers in the correct area at home time, washing their hands and promoting good hygiene habits. They are displaying a positive mindset. They are discovering the joys of success when they conquer a hardship or something new. Too often as parents and carers and teachers, we do things for our children because it is quicker and less stressful for us as adults, and the children miss out on learning valuable life skills. However, from what I am observing, the children are coping beautifully and adapting to brilliantly to the changes in the school routines.

With that in mind, we wish to keep school as much fun as possible. Easter is fast approaching and we want to celebrate that.

So, with protocols and social distancing and COVID-19 restrictions we have planned the following.

Holy Week Liturgies

We will engage in the Easter story here on site. Unfortunately, we cannot invite parents and carers to participate this year. However, as teachers we have been thinking outside the box, to ensure that the students get to embrace the Easter story and its importance of being central to our Catholic faith. Each class will act out Palm Sunday in their own space – so send in a tea towel or beach towel and maybe a dressing gown or something similar, for your child to wear on Monday April 6. Props always make learning more fun. 

On Holy Thursday (April 9) we will conduct our own Last Supper via video link for each class, to be followed by the Stations of the Cross. This way we control numbers of students in one place at one time, keeping to the guidelines set out by the Government. Years 3, 4, 5, 6 may like to bring a black t-shirt and black leggings or jeans for the Stations of the Cross.

Out of uniform day Friday March 27. All children to bring an Easter egg or 2 as their contribution for not wearing their school uniform. Just ensure children wear enclosed shoes and no shoe-string shoulder straps for the girls.

Easter egg raffle – Raffle tickets will be sent home over the upcoming week. Prizes will be the Easter eggs they bring into school on the out of uniform day. The raffle will be drawn via a zoom conference on Wednesday April 8. 

Easter hat making and parade – Wednesday April 8. Unfortunately, this year we can’t have parents on site, but we will flood our Facebook page with photos! Please provide hat making materials for your child by Monday April 6.

So, stay clam and know that we are caring for your children, ensuring they continue to have access to high quality teaching and learning opportunities here at St Kevin’s.

A thought for fundraising! Anyone have a spare unopened pack of toilet paper????

Mary-Anne Jennings

Principal