Principal's Message
Coronavirus Update
Thank you to all families for your support as we navigate our way through very uncertain times. We feel we are well planned and prepared in the event of any school closures, and to continue our support for students who are required to self-isolate for various reasons. At this stage our schools remain low-risk environments, based on the advice from the Victorian Chief Health Officer. I have included a letter here, from the Chief Health Officer, received yesterday, outlining some of the reasons schools are currently remaining open.
I understand that some families have decided to keep their daughters at home at this time. I ask that you keep your communication with the College open. If you decide to keep your daughter at home, please ensure that you notify the College. In addition, if you had previously let us know that you were keeping your daughter at home, and decide on a return to school, please inform the College of this change.
Staff Changes
It is with sadness that we will farewell Irene Wloch at the end of this term. Irene has been a long-standing staff member of St Columba’s, and has made tremendous contributions over time at the College in various roles. Irene started her work at the College leading the Special Needs Department, ensuring an inclusive learning environment for all students. In recent years, Irene has worked as a Mathematics teacher. Her gentle and encouraging manner has instilled a sense of confidence and a love of learning in her students. We are grateful for all that Irene has contributed during her time at St Columba’s and we wish her well.
In times of perceived scarcity
These uncertain times have led to a perception of scarcity, and in some instances a lack of generosity and solidarity with our neighbours. I am wondering if we can call on the generosity and graciousness of our St Columba’s College community and ask for donations of those items and groceries that are getting harder to source. If they are hard to find for communities like ours that are generally well-resourced, imagine those who are most vulnerable and living on the margins. Donations can be left with College Reception and we will organise for these to be delivered to a local St Vincent de Paul chapter for distribution. As businesses close or limit their activities, and job lay-offs increase, there will be an increased demand on organisations such as St Vincent de Paul to be providing support to those in need. Thank you in anticipation.