As we enter our fourth week of term, we continue to aspire to be better people and more open learners. We need to continue to challenge our thinking, to step outside our comfort zone and to take risks. I am hoping the recent Subject Interviews provided important feedback to help your young person improve their learning and engagement skills. We need to continue to inspire our young people to be their best, to embrace difference and to be open to the unknown. It is our hope and aspiration that each learner is applying themselves to their studies and recognising the gift of education and learning.
I am grateful for the work of our teaching staff who work tirelessly for our community, developing interesting lessons and units of work that foster a genuine curiosity and interest in the world in which we live. Each week l walk through the College and l observe, walk and sit with our students in the classroom. I am always in awe of the relationship our students have with one another and their teachers. Learning occurs when relationships are open and respectful.
On Friday evening the College hosted the Diocesan Catholic Education Week dinner, whereby the Diocesan leaders acknowledged the commitment of people who have graciously provided thirty years of service to Catholic education. I wish to recognise and give thanks to the following staff who celebrated thirty years of vocation to Catholic Education: Hamish McCrum, Judy Vanderkley, Cathy Prunty (and Steven Mifsud, who is too modest to acknowledge himself but trusting enough to let his assistant edit his news articles - Katrina). This year the Diocese introduced a number of Spirit of Education awards and l proud to announce, our very own, Cathy Prunty received an award for Empowering all to flourish and Tony Haintz received the Building Inclusive Catholic Learning Communities award. Congratulations to Cathy and Tony, due recognition for these two exceptional members of our community.
Last week was a deeply proud moment for the College, as our Sustainable Racing Team (SRT) departed to commence the Broken Hill to Ballarat adventure. As a community we farewelled our students and wished them well recognising their spirit of service and humility. Through their action they have modelled a contemporary faith, one of love and grit. I spoke of a different image of our God – one of companion, one of gentle service. The team are raising money to support the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Centre. Please follow this link if you would like to contribute to their cause.
I look forward to hearing the stories of our Year 8’s as they journey on camp next week and our Year 10’s who will commence Work Experience, a Melbourne Experience or faith formation activities.
Deb Hanson will conclude her service at the College on June 9 2024. Deb will continue to take leave until this date. We thank Deb for her extended service to the Damascus community and wish her well in her future endeavours.
With Mother’s Day this weekend, it is important that we pause and celebrate the significant women in our lives. Those who have nurtured us and provided for us. Those who have educated us, and supported us on the right path. Those who have toiled for us and loved us deeply. This Sunday we will take the time to remember all the significant women in our lives, and we will remember and pray for those who grieve for their Mum’s, for those whose nurturing is not for their own children and for those whose family life is not stereo-typical. I look forward to seeing many mothers at our breakfast on Thursday.
Our tradition provides Mary, the mother of Christ, who was the expression of constant love and support. We pray this week with gratitude for all women, for their love and support and for the gift of family life in its many forms. Amen.
With every blessing
Steven