19 August 2021
Now more than ever, the pandemic has highlighted the importance of supporting each other as we navigate together through the constantly changing landscape of COVID-19. Recognising the tremendous challenges faced by our school communities, Bishop Anthony Randazzo and Danny Casey, Director of Schools Broken Bay, reached out to our school staff thanking them for their dedication and professionalism.
“Your efforts have not gone unnoticed and are deeply appreciated and we are grateful for the continuing support you have offered your students and families at this time,” said Bishop Anthony.
The letter was closely followed by a care basket delivery from Mr Casey to which Yvette Owens, Principal at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Primary Schools responded, “Thank you so much for the gift hamper. I can’t tell you how much we appreciate the thought behind it! Our teachers are working above and beyond all expectations for their students and it’s great for them to be acknowledged”.
At St Brigid’s Catholic College, Lake Munmorah, staff wanted to ensure the entire College community stayed connected during Home Based Learning so organised for each student to receive a care package of goodies lovingly packed in their own School House Colours bag. The staff also received a home-delivered gift pack with an assortment of treats from coffee to chocolates to help them through the extended lockdown. Principal Adam Murdoch described it as a small token to acknowledge the important role that each teacher plays in keeping our students in good spirits.
St Martin’s Davidson continued to connect with their local preschools despite the lockdown when they delivered some treats for staff to enjoy. The ‘Donut Worry’ deliveries were created to keep St Martins at the forefront of local preschool teachers’ minds while spreading the message that we’re all supporting each other. St Martin’s have had some great feedback from the preschools with some even mentioning the school on their Facebook pages and in newsletters.
“What a lovely surprise we had this morning from Mr Pulley and the incredible teachers and admin staff at St Martin’s Davidson. We feel so incredibly lucky to be part of such a generous and kind community!” commented one local pre-school Director upon receiving a box of donuts!
Meanwhile St Leo’s Catholic College at Wahroonga has now raised $22,170 from their Lockdown Vinnies Winter Sleepout. Principal, Tony Gleeson commenting “we are excited to announce that of the money so generously donated by our St Leo's community $20,000 will go towards the establishment of a Vinnies Van Service in Woy Woy and the balance to the Marian Centre, a local crisis accommodation service for women with children who have experienced domestic/family violence and/or homelessness.”
Along with the many beautiful gifts parents sent in to the teachers and staff at Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School, Pymble was a lovely poem by Hakone, one of their school captains, which we believe captures how we all feel.
Two Words by Hakone
Dear SHP teachers, now where do we start?
Your passion, your nurture, comes straight from the heart.
You're more than essential, I think we all know,
Even on Zoom, our knowledge does grow.
Dedicated and patient, a constant beacon,
Our reliance in you will never weaken.
We're getting the hang of HB Learning,
But face-to-face teaching is what we're all yearning.
These challenging times, throughout the whole nation,
It's time that we share our appreciation.
Our teachers, you help us to stand when we fall,
Our coaches, you are, the best of them all.
Once lockdown is lifted, all will be well,
We miss you so dearly, we hope you can tell.
No gifts can express the extent of our praise,
So, we'll conclude with this powerful phrase.
“Thank You.”