As the 2022 school year comes to an end, I wish to thank the students for their commitment to their studies and for their understanding and resilience when we needed to make changes to our teaching and co-curricular program. So much has been achieved this year and the students should be very proud of what they have achieved.

Our theme this year, Daring to Live with Courage, was apt as we returned to fulltime onsite learning. The students and staff certainly showed great courage and fortitude as they embraced life back at school. We were very fortunate to be able to provide the students with opportunities to attend camps and sporting events and participate in MMADD Day, Feast Day and a number of musical, visual and performing arts events. Once again, their commitment to looking out for others less fortunate than ourselves was evident in the way that they supported the many social justice initiatives.

There are several staff leaving MSJ and I wish to thank them for their great work and wish them all the very best in whatever the future may hold for them. I do wish to acknowledge the departure of Joanna De Bono, Deputy Principal, Learning and Staff. Joanna has been at MSJ for the past 11 years and has made an enormous contribution to MSJ and has nurtured and supported many students and families.

We have two staff members who are retiring.

Michael Leonard has been at MSJ since 2009. Mick has been very committed to teaching Maths and Religious Education at MSJ and has inspired and supported many students over his long career in Catholic Education.

Kathy Kalfas is retiring after 36 years as a teacher, leader, and mentor. Kathy’s career at MSJ has been very varied and she has made an incredibly positive impact on so many students. We wish Kathy and Mick all the very best in retirement.

Lastly, to all members of our community, I wish you a very Holy Christmas.

May the spirit of Christmas bring you peace,

The gladness of Christmas give you hope,

The warmth of Christmas give you love.

Kate Dishon