Dear Parents and Carers

COVID Update

As you may be aware there was a positive COVID-19 case reported in Goulburn on 13 July and an exposure site in Cootamundra during the past few days. Thankfully, despite the fact that these locations are located in our Archdiocese, it has not affected the operation of our schools. St Matthew’s has remained a safe place for students and staff during this time. Our Central Office is in close communication with Government health authorities and we have not been advised of any cases in our school communities. Should this change, I will update you regarding any potential temporary closure of our school and provide advice on how this will be managed.

I strongly urge you to keep your child at home if they appear at all unwell. At the moment there is a critical shortage of relief teachers across Canberra. This shortage is resulting in many classes being split (Day Awayed) when we are unable to replace the classroom teacher due to illness. Obviously this method of covering a class is our least favoured option. My experience tells me that the majority of staff illness is passed on via their students so let’s try to keep everyone healthy by limiting transmission.

50th Anniversary Celebrations

I am delighted to report that a committee of parents met (virtually) last night to begin preparations for our school’s 50^th Anniversary Celebrations. The Committee discussed several options to mark the year including a community dinner, a celebration for the children, a Mass including an Open Day and a permanent fixture on the school grounds to mark the occasion.

The Committee will continue to meet on a regular basis to firm up our activities. We will communicate our plans in more length via the newsletter during the next few weeks.

Thank you to our Committee members for their generosity.

Senior Concert

You may be aware that plans are proceeding for a COVID adjusted Senior Concert. Mrs Ellis has been busily rehearsing the cast during lunchtimes in anticipation of a performance on 11^th August. At the moment we are intending to provide parents and carers with virtual access while providing limited attendance for the parents of the children in the cast.

Whilst not ideal, at least it gives our senior students an opportunity to perform in front of a (live) audience. In many respects we should continue to count our blessings!

May God bless you and your families

Graham Pollard

Principal