Each month we will be learning and teaching about Catholic values.  This month the value is joy.   Joy is mentioned many times throughout the Bible.  God’s Word is overflowing with verses which show us the positive impact that being joyful has on our lives and the lives of those around us.   There are many times in the Bible that speak about deep suffering, sickness, loneliness and as we prepare for Easter we know that Jesus made a great sacrifice for us to have eternal joy.

Happiness and joy are often addressed as the same thing, however, happiness and joy are vastly different.  Happiness is a more fleeting emotion, often sparked by a particular moment or event. Joy, on the other hand, is a more long-lasting state of being, characterised by contentment and satisfaction with life overall.  

In assembly this week we will speak about Joy. We will think about what joy looks like and the choices we have when things are hard. We get to choose joy.  That is God’s gift to us that comes from the Spirit. We feel joy when we

• Rejoice
• Trust
• Encourage
• serve

How do we help young people find the joy in their lives?

• Explore what they are good at

• Doing acts of kindness
• Being grateful

At St Joseph's this year, we are committing to connect with the community and give our time by learning more about how to give to others.  The act of volunteering ourselves and using our time for others is an act of kindness.  This term our classes have been cooking for Vinnies and the community morning tea that will be held later in the month.  We are hopeful that our students will experience joy in knowing that what we spend time doing is a valuable and appreciated act of kindness for our community.

Clubs

This year we are endeavouring to cater for a range of activities for students in our break times. We are excited to provide/trial alternative activities to outside play for every lunch break.  If your child finds the outside play difficult please talk with them and encourage them to try the alternate option.

Recess

Library open every day- craft, colour in, reading, board games 

Monday- Library

Tuesday- Music 

Wednesday- Chess/Board games

Thursday- Japanese (poster making)

Friday- Vinnies 

Uniform reminders

Last year our board spent time updating some of our policies.  This included the hair and jewelry policy and the uniform policy.  

A few reminders

Sock colour- should be no brand black or white socks.

Hair expectations- Any person's (boy/girl) hair that touches their collar needs to be tied back .  If this is required school colour ribbons, clips etc. should be used.

Short/Trackpants -need to be plain black.  They should not be bike shorts or tights and be mid thigh in  length.  These items should not have brand names that are visible.

Shoes- should be mostly black

All of these items are available from our uniform shop.

Teachers have been asked to follow up with parents if they notice that a child is not in the correct uniform.  We will also remind the children of our expectations.  If families need support in this area please contact the office.

With Kindness

Teresa

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved! FOREVER