Dear Carmel College Community,

Despite only having three school days last week, Term 2 has started in fine fast fashion.  With Cross Country, ANZAC Day commemoration, excursions, Student Parent Teacher Conferences all occurring alongside the back to class learning.  Carmel continues to be a vibrant and exciting place.

Over the weekend, we witnessed the spectacle of the commemoration of the life of Pope Francis.  I think that true testament to his life can be found in the commonality of opinion from people across the world about his humility, care, and compassion.  This sentiment comes from all people – politicians, non-Christian, Christian, poor, rich, influential and unknown.  Pope Francis’ ability to reach and influence all corners of the world speaks to the power of his message and mission.  In simple terms, I think that he called for us all to treat each other well.   As we go about our day, week and year ahead, maybe we can try to live this out a little bit – just to simply be kind to each other.

PARENT LEVY

Last year during our strategic planning consultation, parents strongly identified air conditioning as an important item in the college’s development.  I am pleased to report that we are now at 95% of classrooms fully air conditioned.  We are in the process of assessing capacity and feasibility to air condition more problematic spaces such as kitchens. 

The Parent Levy has also funded additional shade umbrellas in the Eruditio courtyard and treatment of the oval edge with synthetic turf.

STAFFING

We are pleased to welcome to the Carmel Family Ms Britnee McDermott and Ms Hannah Delaney to the Learning Enhancement Team and Ms Rocio Espinoza as Science Aide. 

We also take great pleasure in congratulating Mr Ben Deak who started his teaching career 50 years ago this term.  Mr Deak is a wonderful teacher and great example of servanthood.  He has made an incredible contribution to education over the last 50 years and we thoroughly congratulate him for his commitment and dedication. 

ATTENDANCE

We continue to focus on attendance and work towards our goal of 80% of students being here for 90% of the time.  I remind all parents that you can check your child’s attendance level by having them log in to the Student Data app in the portal.  There are many students whose attendance is just below 90% and with some consistent effort in the next few weeks they easily get over the line.  There is a direct correlation between attendance and achievement. 

Have a wonderful fortnight.