St Patrick's Primary School Stratford eNewsletter

We are not in the same boat: A poem about COVID-19

I heard that we are in the same boat.

But it’s not like that.

We are in the same storm, but not in the same boat.

Your ship can be shipwrecked and mine might not be.

Or vice versa.

For some, quarantine is optimal: a moment of reflection, of re-connection.

For others, this is a desperate crisis.

For others it is facing loneliness.

For some, a peace, rest time, vacation.

Yet for others, Torture: How am I going to pay my bills?

Some were concerned about a brand of chocolate for Easter.

Others were concerned about the bread for the weekend, or if the noodles would last for a few more days.

Some were in their “home office”.

Others are looking through trash to survive.

Some have experienced the near death of the virus, some have already lost someone from it, some are not sure their loved ones are going to make it, and some don’t even believe this is a big deal.

Some of us who are well now may end up experiencing it, and some believe they are infallible and will be blown away if or when this hits someone they know.

So, friends, we are not in the same boat.

We are going through a time when our perceptions and needs are completely different.

And each one will emerge, in his own way, from that storm.

Some with a tan from their pool.

Others with scars on the soul (for invisible reasons).

It is very important to see beyond what is seen at first glance.

Not just looking. More than looking…Seeing.

See beyond the political party, beyond religion, beyond the nose on your face.

Do not underestimate the pain of others if you do not feel it.

Do not judge the good life of the other, do not condemn the bad life of the other.

Don’t be a judge.

Let us not judge the one who lacks, as well as the one who exceeds.

We are different ships looking to survive.

Let everyone navigate their route with respect, empathy and responsibility.

Dear Families,

Congratulations to everyone for your incredible work and support over the past six weeks. Despite the challenges of Stage 3 restrictions, our students have continued to learn thanks to the amazing work of staff and great support of families. I hope all families and staff have a well earnt break over the next couple of weeks.

I am thrilled to be able to confirm that students and staff will return to face to face learning on the first day of next term, Monday 5th October. There will be a range of safety protocols in place as part of our COVID Safety Plan, a number of which are outlined later in the newsletter. These potocols are important for all members of the school community to know and follow. Please take the time to familiarise you and your family with these.

Jenni Collings has informed me that she will be finishing up at the end of the 2020 school year. Jenni has made a wonderful contribution to St. Patrick's during her time with us as a classroom and specialist teacher.

We have had a number of families and staff who have experienced the loss of loved ones over the past few weeks. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Finally, I want to finish by offering my sincerest thanks to all students, staff and families for your unwavering support of the students and one and other over the past two terms.

Take care and stay well.

Nick

All families are asked to return resources to St. Patrick's this Friday 18th September between 1.15 - 3pm or Saturday 19th September between 8 - 10am.

This includes: computers, iPads, books, tubs etc.

Physical Distancing will see adjustments to:

- school gatherings (eg Assembly, Gospel, morning line up)

- student line up

- drop off and pick up routines

- staffroom arrangements

Hygiene

- increased environmental cleaning with an emphasis on high touch surfaces

- regular washing of hands

- students bring a water bottle for refilling

Quick Response to signs or symptoms

- students and staff who are unwell with any COVID symptoms ~ stay home and get tested

- children with symptoms (even the mildest) will go home

Symptoms include fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose and/or loss of sense of smell. In certain circumstances headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also be considered.

Face Coverings/Masks

- worn by all adults

- children may choose to

Temperature Testing

- student temperatures will be checked each morning on entry to the school grounds.

- a student who has a reading of 37.5 or higher will be isolated and parents will be contacted to pick the child up.

School Access

- only students, staff and authorised visitors will be permitted onsite

Safety Reminders

Merrick Street: Families are asked to only park on the school side of Merrick Street at the front of the school. This is for the safety of students and adults.

Speed Limit: The speed limit around school at drop off and pick up times in 40kmh. Please slow down.

Drop off & Pick up Zones

Front of School ~ Merrick Street: Prep and Year 6 students (and siblings)

Main Gate ~ Dixon Street: All other students

Bus gate: ~ Blackburn Street: Bus travellers

School fee rebates and credits have been processed and families should have received an updated account in the last week or so. For some families with direct debit arrangements these rebates may mean you are now in credit. If you wish to stop direct debits for the reaminder of 2020, please contact Sharon via email: scunningham@stpstratford.catholic.edu.au

A reminder that there are fee concessions available for any family who has or is being impacted financially by COVID-19. Please don't hestitate to contact Sharon or Nick about this.

School bus runs will commence on Monday 5th October for students. Please note children aged 12 years old are required to wear a face covering (mask) on the bus.