Newsletter March 5, 2025

From the Principal

Dear Parents, Staff, Students and Friends of the Our Lady of the Way Community,

Gratitude verses Entitlement: As we enter this season of Lent we are challenged to stop, reflect and look towards strengthening our relationship with God. Are we really understanding of what God wants of us as Christians? Do we feel as though we are entitled to have what we have or are we grateful for all that has been provided for us.
Do we think that we deserve more than we have. When we acknowledge gratitude, we can become aware of its truly transformative power and how it can enrich our lives. Entitlement on the other hand is a mindset that can creep in without us realizing it. It has the power to rob us of our joy, peace, and appreciation for the blessings that God generously pours into our lives.
When we develop a sense of entitlement, we start to believe that we deserve certain things simply because we want them or because we’ve done something we think makes us worthy. It’s an attitude that says, “I deserve this,” or, “This is owed to me.” But entitlement is the enemy of true gratitude because it shifts our focus away from the grace of God and leads us to believe that we somehow earned the blessings we’ve received. When we start thinking we deserve certain things, it’s easy to lose sight of the blessings that are already in our lives. Rather than feeling grateful for what we have, we begin to feel
discontent about what we think we lack. Entitlement whispers that what we have is not enough and that we deserve more, and this robs us of the joy that comes from being content and thankful. Instead of rejoicing in the blessings God gives us, we are left feeling frustrated, envious, or dissatisfied.
St. Paul in his letter to Philippians provides a sharp contrast to the entitled mindset.

Writing from prison, he said:
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength; (Philippians 4 :11-13). Paul understood that true contentment does not come from getting what we think we deserve, but rather from relying on God’s grace and strength. Entitlement blinds us to the blessings that are already present in our lives, while gratitude helps us see and appreciate them.
In this season of Lent in this Year of Jubilee, instead of asking, “What do I deserve?” let’s ask, “How can I be grateful for what God has given me?” Instead of demanding more, let’s thank God for His grace, which gives us far more than we could ever deserve. Let’s break free from entitlement and embrace a life of thankfulness, contentment, and joy.

Best wishes,

Terry Cooney
Principal

YEAR 5 CAMP
The above reflection relates perfectly to our recent Year 5 Camp program. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful staff who were part of the Year 5 Camp experience this year. These 12 staff members who attended made great sacrifices to make the camp happen. They went above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience for the children, supporting and supervising them for 3 days and 2 nights. They gave up their time and spent time away from their own families and friends to look after your children, something I feel they should be commended for. Every student I have asked said they had a great time and each had a specific event that was their favourite.

However, this was not the same sentiment that was relayed to us by parents. The negative responses and feedback we received via email, phone calls and social media was very disappointing. I acknowledge that these responses were from a minority of people, some of whom are not even connected with the school and everyone has the right to give feedback, to have their questions answered or have an issue clarified. All I ask is that it is done in a respectful way. What is also disappointing is the lack of appreciation shown by the majority of families. Are experiences such as camps expected. Do families believe their children are entitled to such experiences rather than grateful for what their children’s teachers, other staff and the school as a whole provide. Staff received very few thank yous, which would have gone a long way. In this case it is apparent to me that a sense of entitlement has become more prominent than a feeling of gratitude.

Camps are becoming a rare experience at schools and this could be the direction that Our Lady of the Way takes. The difficulties to staff the camps, the impact it has on the school during the camp with covering the staff on camp, are all things that will be considered in determining whether or not our camping program continues.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
I thought it was a timely opportunity for us all to remind ourselves of our responsibility as a parent or carer in respect to the Code of Conduct. When you accept an enrolment offer for your child you are also agreeing to upholding the school’s core values at all times.
The Code of Conduct applies to all Our Lady of the Way parents, guardians, carers and visitors to the school and school related places. The code emphasises the principles that everyone at Our Lady of the Way:
 has the right to be safe
 has the right to be treated with respect and to be valued even in disagreement
 is encouraged to be respectful, polite, courteous and considerate of others

A full copy of the code is attached below and I encourage you to look over it. There is also a Student Code of Conduct that is aligned with our PBL Values which are referred to constantly for and by the students. We constantly remind the students of the need to be respectful, responsible, resilient and safe in all places and at all times. This is a work in progress but I feel that the more examples of respectful interactions the children see the quicker they will adopt similar patterns of behaviour.
Thank you for your ongoing support.

SUPERVISION TIMES
A reminder to all parents and carers that supervision of children by Our Lady of the Way staff begins from 8:30 each morning. If you need to drop your child off before this time you will need to use the services offered by the OSHC. This also applies for after school supervision which concludes at 3:30pm.

LUNCH ORDERS

Lunch orders are up and running! A reminder that all students need a school insulated bag. They are available to purchase from the office from $12.50 (cash only) or orders can be placed via the CDFPay app. 

Lunch orders are only available on Wednesday and Fridays. 

Lunch orders arrive at approximately 1.15pm. Students still need a fruit snack and a morning tea snack on days that lunch orders are placed. 

LABELLING UNIFORMS

Please ensure all uniform items are clearly labelled with your child’s name. We’ve been receiving uniforms in the office daily without any identifying labels, and unfortunately, these items cannot be returned to the students without proper identification.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep track of all belongings!

IMPORTANT! CONTACT DETAILS:

Please check PAM to ensure we have the most up to date contact details in case we need to contact you for any reason, especially an emergency. We also need to have at least one emergency contact listed in case we are unable to contact parents. 

School times are listed below.

School opens: 8.30am-8.45am (Teacher on duty)
Prayer and Roll: 8.45am-8.55am
Learning time: 8.55am-10.50am
Recess eating time: 10.50am-11.00am
Recess: 11.00am-11.30am
Learning time: 11.35-1.25pm
Lunch eating time: 1.25-1.35pm
Lunch playtime: 1.35-2.05pm
Learning time: 2.10-3.05pm
Packing up : 3.05-3.15pm
School finishes: 3.15pm (Teacher on duty until 3.30pm)

LATE ARRIVALS/EARLY PICK UPS

Please be mindful of the the above times if you need to pick up your child during the day. It is very hard to locate the students during outside play times which sometimes delays the early pick up. It would be beneficial to call or email ahead and advise what time you will be arriving to pick your child up.  

Pilgrims of Hope

Sacraments

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2025

Our Lady of the Way provides opportunities for students baptised in the Catholic Tradition to continue their Sacramental Journey. Sacraments are available in the following years, provided they have completed the previous sacraments:
First Reconciliation ~ Grade 3 and above. Pre-requisit: Baptism 

Sacrament Date: Wednesday 26 March at 5.00pm or 7.00pm (select 1)

First Eucharist ~ Grade 4 and above. Pre-requisit: Baptism and First Reconciliation

Dates: Sunday, 9am during Parish Mass at Our Lady of the Way Church on 1/6/25 or 15/6/25 or 22/6/25 or 29/6/25 (select 1 date)

Confirmation~ Grade 6 and above. Pre-requisite: Baptism, First Reconciliation, and First Eucharist

Friday, September 5- 5.30pm

Families wishing to participate in the Sacramental Program need to complete the survey sent via PAM.

Any concerns please contact:
Nicole Pegler - Faith & Mission Leader; nicole.pegler@ourladywallan.catholic.edu.au

Finance Office

FINANCE NEWS REMINDERS

Families who receive CSEF or Conveyance allowance funding that have a new sibling attending this year, must complete a new application form to add the new child to their application.  Please include all children on the application form.

All families that were approved for the MACS Fee concession in 2024 will need to reapply in 2025 if you think you are still eligible.  The concession is not automatically applied from year to year. Please provide a copy of your current concession card with the application.

Wellbeing Wonderings

Making Community Connections

For the last 12 months we have been building a connection and network with the organisation formally known as ‘TheHub3756,’ who have helped a number of our families with free parental support and access to both online and face to face programs.

This organisation, going forward, is now known as Kids First Australia (https://www.kidsfirstaustralia.org.au/). You may have seen them running fruit stalls within the school, meeting parents and handing out information about their services.

Each fortnight, OLOTW is hoping to facilitate these fruit stalls and they will usually be overseen by Jeanae Trimboli from KidsFirst and/or another staff member. Depending on weather conditions, you will see them near the front gate, alongside the Year 2 rooms. Feel free to drop by, grab some fruit and have a chat.

Please click on the link above and explore the wide range of services they can provide. You can also contact them via phone or email with any questions you may have.

Wellbeing quote of the week: “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” – Desmond Tutu

Have a great week,

Daniel Phelan

Mental Health Wellbeing Leader.

Learning and Teaching

Introducing IXL: Our New Online Learning Program

We are excited to announce that all students from Prep to Year 6 now have access to IXL, a new online learning platform! This program replaces Mathletics and Matific, which we have used in the past, as we explore fresh ways to support student learning.

 IXL offers engaging and interactive activities that help students practise and strengthen their skills both at school and at home. Each student will receive a new IXL login and password, and we encourage families to make use of this fantastic resource at home.

Thank you for your support as we introduce this new program. We look forward to seeing how IXL enhances student learning!

NAPLAN 2025 – Important Dates

NAPLAN testing for Years 3 and 5 will take place on the following dates in 2025. 

 Writing

 Year 3: Wednesday 12th March, 9:00 – 10:00 

 Year 5: Wednesday 12th March, 9:00 – 10:00

 Reading

 Year 3: Thursday 13th March, 9:00 – 10:00

 Year 5: Thursday 13th March, 9:00 – 10:00 

Conventions of Learning

 Year 3: Monday 17th March, 9:00 – 10:00

 Year 5: Monday 17th March, 9:00 – 10:00

 Numeracy

 Year 3: Tuesday 18th March, 9:00 – 10:00

 Year 5: Tuesday 18th March, 9:00 – 10:00

 NAPLAN provides valuable insights into student learning and progress. 

Thank you for your support in ensuring students are present and prepared for these important assessments.

Home Learning at Our Lady of the  Way

We value the opportunity for students to reinforce their learning at home and recognise the important role that revision plays in deepening understanding. At the same time, we appreciate the need for balance, ensuring students have time for other activities and the chance to rest and recharge.

Our Home Learning Policy outlines our approach to supporting learning beyond the classroom while considering student well-being. We invite you to read the attached policy and thank you for your ongoing support in fostering a positive learning environment. Please see the Home Learning Policy below. (It can also be found in the side panel where documents are located.)

Maths fun!

MATHS INCURSION

Andrew from "Think Square" came out last week to work with the Year 5 and 6 students as well as the staff!

Andrew will continue to work with us next term focusing on number fluency. 

Year One-Computer buddies for learning

During the past two weeks the Year One students invited the Year Five students into their classrooms as their computer buddies. The thought of using a chromebook for the first time was a little daunting for our Year One students who were comfortable with using ipads in their Foundation year.  This was going to be a hard ask, and our teachers desperately needed some help.
Thanks to the generosity of our Grade Five Classroom Teachers and the Grade Five students they kindly answered the call. Our Year One students had never before used one of the online learning and assessment platforms. With the experience of our Year Five computer buddies, the Grade One students were shown how to navigate this online learning world. 
This was not just a learning exercise for our Grade One students who were shown where to click, type, move, press, answer questions, move to the next question and to submit their answers. The Grade Five students found it equally challenging to explain the process step by step using language that the Grade One students could understand, while trying not to tell them the answer or to take control of the keyboard themselves. The students found a common language, were able to talk with each other, share a joke or two, and help to assist in our learning journey. There were even promises to look out for each other on the playground.
The Grade One students and their teacher would like to thank all of the Grade Five students and teachers for their support. We look forward to you helping us again to further develop our computer skills.

Computer fun

Specialist Teachers

Mitchell Shire District Swimming

Congratulations to the 2025 Our Lady of the Way Swim Squad who competed in the Mitchell District Swimming Championships, held at the Seymour War Memorial Outdoor Pool on Friday the 21st of February. It was the perfect day for a splash in beautiful 28 degree sunshine.

There was a lot of anticipation of whether the school would top its past position of 4th on the scoreboard. Some of our swimmers competed in multiple heats and a lot of our athletes came home with many ribbons which kept the media captains very busy trying to capture the day's highlights. Everyone that attended the event showed great team spirit by cheering the swimmers on. Well done to Mr Stella for pulling such an awesome team together and to Mrs Davidson and Mrs Donnelly for their attendance and help too.

With special acknowledgement to the Grade 3s for competing in their first district swimming competition, the Grade 5s who came straight from their camp in Echuca and the Grade 6s who have competed in their last district swimming event for Our Lady of the Way. All athletes should be proud of themselves because they helped our school achieve our highest placed finish at the Mitchell District Swimming Championships in our short history. With scores tied between Our Lady of the Way and St Patrick’s it came down to the relay races to decide the top two, with Our Lady our Lady coming second. We will get ‘em next year. 

Our Swimming Stars

Clean Up Australia Day

We were very fortunate to have special visitors join the Fire Carrier students for Clean Up Australia Day. Senior Constable Emily Powter and Aboriginal Police Liaison Officer Eric Egan. Eric and Emily joined the students around the Yarning Circle for a chat about the importance of Connecting to Country and Eric shared some information about his childhood and the importance of a positive mentor. Thank you to Eric and Emily and the broader Wallan Police Station for your ongoing support. Keep an eye out for the local paper, where this event will be showcased in the coming weeks!

Year 5 Camp at Billabong Ranch, Echuca

The Year 5 camp at Billabong Ranch in Echuca was an incredible experience for both the students and staff. Set in the stunning natural surroundings of the Australian bush, the camp offered a variety of engaging and challenging activities designed to build teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills.

Throughout the camp, the students participated in a range of activities such as canoeing, orienteering, bush walking, horse grooming and a Stockman’s Show each of which encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones and work collaboratively. It was a joy to watch the students grow in confidence, support one another, and take on new challenges with enthusiasm and determination.

The camp also provided valuable opportunities for students to connect with nature, learn about the environment, and develop a deeper appreciation for sustainability and outdoor life. Beyond the physical activities, the students formed stronger bonds with their peers and developed important social skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Overall, the Year 5 camp at Billabong Ranch was a highly successful and rewarding experience, and it was a pleasure to see the students return home with a sense of pride, accomplishment, and many fond memories.

Camp Fun!

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Sick Bay Information

Asthma Australia has created a five-step checklist for parents of kids with asthma to follow this year to help ensure their child’s asthma is well controlled at the beginning of the school year and beyond:

1. Book an asthma review
Book an appointment with your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your child’s asthma. Your appointment should cover any symptoms you may have observed over the break and what you need to do to get back on track in preparation for return to school. This might include a renewed or updated prescription, a review and discussion about your child’s triggers, and the completion of a comprehensive management plan, which will include their Asthma Action Plan (see next point). A lung function test might also be recommended.

2. Update your child’s Asthma Action Plan
During the asthma review, ensure your healthcare professional has completed and signed a written Asthma Action Plan for your child. Schools and outside-school-hours-care require a current plan for your child at the start of the school year. Asthma Australia offers Asthma Action Plan templates that can be downloaded and taken along. Be sure to fully understand how this plan should be used in case of worsening symptoms. (Remember to keep a copy to follow at home too.)

3. Make contact with your child’s school
Check with the school about their medicine policy and work with the team to find the best way to manage your child’s asthma medicine if they need it at school. Make time to talk with the class teacher and the school nurse about your child’s asthma, their written Asthma Action Plan and their usual triggers, symptoms and medicine. Also talk to your child’s sport coaches and supervisors of other school, and extra-curricular, activities.

4. Check your child’s reliever
Check the expiry date of your child’s reliever medicine and check the dose counter to make sure there is plenty of medicine remaining. Purchase any new medicine needed and buy a new spacer and mask (if age appropriate) for your child to leave at school. Also make sure your pharmacist labels the medicine with your child’s name.

5. Keep your child’s school updated throughout the year
Remember to keep staff up to date with any change to your child’s asthma management. If your child’s asthma management changes during the year, you will need to get their written Asthma Action Plan updated and provide it to the school. Equally, if your child has had an asthma event at school which required treatment, ensure you get a complete explanation from your school and transmit it to your doctor at earliest opportunity.

Most parents and educators have never heard of back-to-school asthma

CEO of Asthma Australia Michele Goldman said “Among children, there is a peak in asthma hospitalisations in February. This is likely related to respiratory infections associated with a return to school and childcare, with lower use of preventer medications during school holidays potentially contributing to this. We have seen similar patterns in Northern Hemisphere countries as well.

“Asthma Australia surveyed parents of school-aged children with asthma and 80 per cent said that they had not heard of back-to-school asthma. A similar percentage of teachers and educators were also unaware of the asthma risk for kids in late summer.

“That’s why it’s important for us to let parents know about their child’s potential back-to-school asthma risk and outline the five very actionable steps they can take to support their health at this time of year.

“We encourage parents to book an asthma review with a healthcare professional, make sure their child’s Asthma Action Plan is up-to-date, touch base with their school, check and update their child’s asthma medication and keep their child’s school informed of any changes to their Asthma Action Plan as the year progresses.”

How controlled is your asthma? Take the Asthma Control Questionnaire: https://asthma.org.au/asthma-control-questionnaire/

French words

Help Needed!

New Library Books!
We are excited to share that our library has received a fresh batch of books! If you are available to help cover some of these new additions, please stop by the office to collect a bag with the materials. Your support in keeping our library resources in great condition is much appreciated!

Parents and Friends

It is that time of year again! Our Colour Fun is on. It will be on Thursday, April 3. 

The fundraising details below as well as the colouring competition sheet!

As well as the individual prize incentives available, the following extra prizes can be worked towards:

The class with the Highest amount fundraised -Movie afternoon with popcorn.

The highest fundraiser from each class gets a PBL ticket. 

Class with the most online profiles - Free icy pole for each member of the class

Top 3 fundraisers- Colour bomb a mystery staff member

Top 10 fundraisers- Slime fest - (water guns) 

COLOURING COMPETITION-Ends of April 3rd

The colouring competition sheet is attached below! There will be prizes for the following categories:

Category: Foundation to Grade 2

Category: Year 3 to Year 6

Each winner will receive a $20 voucher for the upcoming Book Fair in July/August.

Safety around schools

Open Evening-Assumption College, Kilmore

Join Us for Open Evening at Assumption College
Assumption College is thrilled to announce our annual Open Evening, set to take place on March 17. This event is a wonderful opportunity for prospective students, families, and the community to explore what makes our College a beacon of
excellence in education.

From 3.45pm to 6:30pm, our gates will be open to welcome you into our vibrant campus. Visitors will have the chance to tour our state-of-the-art facilities, meet our dedicated faculty teams, and learn about the diverse learning domains and co-
curricular activities on offer. Whether you are interested in our outstanding academic curriculum, our active arts programs, or our competitive sports teams, there is something for everyone at Assumption College.

Our Open Evening is not just about showcasing our achievements; it is about engaging with our community and fostering a sense of belonging. We believe that education is a partnership between the College, students, and their families, and this
event is a perfect opportunity to build these connections.

We invite you to join us on March 17 to experience firsthand the supportive and inclusive environment that defines Assumption College. Come and see why our students thrive academically, socially, and personally. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any questions you may have about our College. 

Mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired. Assumption College's Open Evening promises to be an informative and enjoyable event for all. We look forward to seeing you there!

*Please note that the last student-led tour will depart at 6:00pm

Music Lessons

Before and After School Care

Community Events

ASPIRE EARLY CHILDHOOD AND KINDERGARTEN

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming community event at Beveridge on Saturday, 15th March, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. It will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow community members, enjoy fun activities, and learn more about what's happening in our area.We would be thrilled to have you join us for this special event. 

Kilmore Kookaburra Girl Guides
Thursdays 4.30 – 6.00pm

Kilmore Girl Guides is looking for new Girls to join, to have fun and make new friends. Girls develop confidence, self-reliance, learn team building and leadership skills while participating in Girl Guide activities. Girl Guides learn by doing.
There’s a lot of on offer; local unit, Region, State and even International communities and activities - something for everybody. We’re connected globally to over 10 million members in 150 countries.
For over 100 years Girl Guides Victoria has been providing fantastic opportunities for Girls aged 5-18 years to meet personal challenges. As part of the largest volunteer organisation for Girls and Women in Australia our team is proud to be helping to develop a cleaner, brighter, better world around us.
Your daughter is welcome to attend three meetings for free to see if she would like to join us!
Please contact:
Carolyn: 0400 578 103 or Kristy: 0422 138 908 or Carolyn.atkinson@guidesvic.org.au