Dear Parent and Carers,

The last few weeks of any school year are an extremely busy time for the staff as they finalise the school reports ready to be sent home with students on Friday and finalise the class lists for 2022, and this year is no exception. Add to that the organisation of end of year masses, liturgies, graduations, assemblies and fun days, all under the banner of COVID. A huge thank you to all the staff for the extra hours they are putting into finishing off the year on such a high note and after such a challenging year.

Last night the School Board held their final meeting for the school year. I would like to offer my thanks once again for the commitment of time and energy to the school by the School Board for 2021. It has been a challenging year that has been constricting for both the School Board and the school community. I thank the School Board for the support you have shown our school community, particularly our staff. As a School Board they have strived to continue to be a welcoming and caring community, whilst ensuring the school continues to function despite the challenges COVID presents us with.

Staffing

Congratulations to Miss Breena Walshe who has been successful in gaining a position at Evelyn Scott School, Denman Prospect from 2022 as Classroom Teacher. Whilst at St Benedict’s Ms Walshe has held a variety of roles such as classroom teacher and Sport’s Coordinator. During her 5 years at St Benedict’s Miss Walshe has contributed positively to our strong St Benedict’s identity, the community life of the school and Parish. We wish Miss Walshe well in her new position and know that the Evelyn Scott community will be richer for having her join their staff.

Congratulations to Miss Samantha Slocomb who will be joining Giralang Primary School next year. We thank her for her enthusiasm and care for her classes over the last two years. We wish Miss Slocomb the very best for her exciting year ahead.

Following interviews, I am very pleased to announce that Ms Melissa Taglieri was successful in gaining a permanent teaching position at St Benedict’s beginning 2022. Ms Taglieri is currently a teacher at Marist College Canberra and prior to that taught as a relief teacher with Catholic Education in the ACT. I know you will join with me in welcoming Ms Taglieri into our community.

Miss Kaitlin Reedy, one of our current 5/6 teachers, was successful in gaining a permanent part time position at St Benedict’s beginning 2022. Ms Danelle Chan Tie was also successful in gaining a permanent part time position at St Benedict’s beginning in 2022. Ms Chan Tie, one of our regular relief staff, has been employed two days a week as a relief teacher. Congratulations to both Miss Reedy and Ms Chan Tie. We are very lucky to have you both join permanent staff.

I hope to be able to announce classes and teachers shortly.

Stay safe and healthy.

God bless.

Rachel Smith

Principal