From the Principal's Desk

Dear Families

Welcome to Week 9 of Term 4.

As I write my last piece for the Newsletter in 2020, I write with a deep sense of pride and gratitude for all we have accomplished this year. As in previous years, we began the school year with great enthusiasm and excitement as we gathered as a Liwara community and no one could have predicted the challenges that lay ahead of us.

The impact of COVID-19 was felt at every level across our school and indeed, the whole world.  What was once certain and comfortable in our lives became unpredictable and unfamiliar.  As we continue to navigate our way though the disruptions and restrictions associated with COVID-19, we must celebrate our coming together as a Liwara Catholic Primary School community to support and strengthen not only our children but also one another throughout the pandemic.

Throughout the early days of uncertainty, the staff continued to provide engaging learning opportunities for our students, whether online or in the classroom.  The adaptability demonstrated by all Liwara community members has allowed students to remain immersed in learning throughout a time unlike any we have experienced before.

As Principal, I have never been prouder of our staff team who grouped together and navigated their way through the year in what can only be described as extraordinary.  They always go above and beyond but never more so than this year whilst balancing considerations for their own family and personal needs.  We all owe them a huge debt of gratitude.

As we draw close to the end of the school year I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge all the work and support of the School Board and P&F Committee who have worked tirelessly to support our school and families.  I extend a special vote of thanks and appreciation to the Liwara P&F Executive for the amazing work they have undertaken in 2020 to raise funds and build community.

Thank you to our Liwara parents and caregiver for supporting our children.  You are amazing!  I thank all those who help in whatever way they can.  Liwara is very much a community school and many people help to build our community.  To all our families leaving Liwara, thank you for being part of this beautiful school and for the many contributions you have made during your time here.  I wish you all the very best.

Congratulations to our Year Six leaders whom we are extremely proud of and who were celebrated at the Thanksgiving Mass on Tuesday night.  I spoke about their individual and shared achievements and I congratulated them on their perseverance and determination in achieving their personal goals.  Congratulation go to our two Christian Leadership Award recipients, Eva Conroy and Amelia Jones.

I have included the names of the Classroom teachers and Education Assistants for 2021 in this edition.  Please keep in mind that this is the Staffing List as of Friday 11 December and to be aware that any unforeseen circumstances may occur between now and the beginning of the 2021 school year which may affect the current list.  The 2021 Class Lists will be posted on the classroom doors and on boards in the undercover area on the first day of Term One.  It is my wish that students and families begin the year with fresh eyes, hopes and expectations.

Teachers will be available for parent meetings to discuss student reports on Tuesday 15 December between 11.00 – 12.30.  Please email your child’s class teacher to schedule a time.

The road travelled this year has certainly been challenging. Without doubt, the year has seen the Liwara community at its strongest, rallying together and supporting one another to stay connected during a time of physical disconnection – a time of cancellations, postponements and restricted access to school. As Principal, I continue to be incredibly proud to lead this great school and feel so very grateful to do so alongside our wonderful students, staff, parents, caregivers and community members. As the year draws to a close, I extend blessings to all and wish you all a joyous, safe and holy Christmas.

Wishing you God’s blessing.

Andrea Millar