Dear Parents and Families,

We look forward to welcoming all our staff and students back to school on Monday, 24 October 2022.

It’s really important we work together to re-establish learning routines that were so abruptly interrupted by the floods.

If your child can’t safely get to school, teachers are maintaining the google classroom and will post details and digital resources for each timetabled class. Students are asked to do what they can and keep in touch with their teachers.  All student absences should be advised by either emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phoning the College.

Our bus companies expect to operate all services as normal. However, they have advised:

• If your usual bus stop remains impacted by floodwaters or a road closure, please go to your next closest stop.
• There may be traffic delays in some areas, including the causeway linking Mooroopna and Shepparton.
• If students are worried about making a connection to another service, they should alert the bus driver.

The floods have seen an increase in mosquito activity at both Knight Street and Emmaus campus so we highly recommend you bring roll on or cream based repellent to protect yourself for the journey and during recess and lunch time.  You will be permitted to wear you long PE tracksuit pants or winter trousers without infringement.

Teachers are working hard to adjust and modify learning programs given the loss to class time in the lead up to the whole school Early Commencement Programme starting on the 28 November.

VCAA exams have arrived, and we are busy preparing for exams commencing with English this Wednesday 26 October. Please note:

• Students are encouraged to do their best and complete their exams if they can safely get to school.
• The exam timetable has not changed.
• Notre Dame will apply for a DES: Derived Examination Score for all students for all their exams. The DES is a backup for students – if students can’t attend or due to recent circumstances they don’t perform to their expected level. The highest score, either your exam or DES, will be used to calculate your Study Score.

For the current Year 10 and Year 11 students, the College is determining the next steps regarding their end of year exams and we will have more information about this in the coming days.

We are extremely grateful and proud of the efforts of our amazing community; staff, students and families assisting others. Special shoutout to Rosie – the College wellbeing dog who has been working hard to support Mrs Reynoldson’s property during the floods.

It is important to recognise and acknowledge that a critical incident is rarely ‘over’ when the initial days are complete. For some, the impact will be enduring and require ongoing support. Ongoing recovery is critical to the overall wellbeing of students, staff and the community.  Be reassured that anyone requiring support, we’re here to help.

Parents and students should keep in contact with your Pastoral Group Leaders, Heads of House and Community and the Wellbeing Team should they feel they need to.

Best wishes and stay safe for the weekend we look forward to seeing you Monday.

Yours sincerely,

 

John Cortese
Principal