A Prayer of Easter Joy

Let us pray to Almighty God…

That the glory
and the promise
of this joyous time of year
bring peace
and happiness to you
and those you hold most dear.

And may Christ,
Our Risen Saviour,
always be there by your side
to bless you
most abundantly
and be your loving guide.

Amen

I am the good shepherd, and I know mine and mine know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I will lay down my life for the sheep John 10:15

In the Church calendar, the fourth Sunday of Easter is known Good Shepard Sunday, and this occurred last Sunday. The Gospel reading for the Mass was taken from the Gospel of John. In this Gospel reading we are reminded that Jesus is the Good Shepard and says that he will lay down his life for his sheep.

On Good Shepherd Sunday, we remember Jesus, our Good Shepherd, who guides and cares for His flock with boundless love. We ask Him to bless our Church with devoted shepherds and faithful servants who will follow His example.

Let's pray for those who are discerning their calling, that they may listen to God's voice amidst life's distractions and respond with courage and openness. May they find clarity and peace in their journey of discernment.

We also lift up our current priests, deacons, and religious sisters and brothers in prayer, asking God to strengthen them in their ministry and fill their hearts with joy and purpose. We can support vocations in practical ways, whether it's through our prayers, encouragement, or creating opportunities for young people to explore their calling.

In the words of Pope Francis, "Vocations are born in prayer and from prayer; and only through prayer can they persevere and bear fruit." Let's join our hearts in prayer, trusting in God's promise to be with us always.

May – The Month of Mary, Mother’s Day and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month

May is traditionally dedicated in a special way to honoring Mary as the Mother of God and Mother of the Church. By our devotion to Mary, we acknowledge how our relationships with women enrich our lives and how we are drawn closer to God through the example of Mary. We give thanks to our grandmothers, mothers, sisters, colleagues and women friends for the special way they bring the virtues of Mary into our world. Mary is the Mother of the Church and therefore the example and inspiration to us all about the way to Jesus.

Mother’s Day and our devotion to Mary also calls us to consider the injustices perpetrated against women in our world. The month of May is also Domestic and Family Violence Awareness. Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is an annual event held each May to raise community awareness of the social and personal impacts of domestic and family violence and the support available for those affected.

Our schools play an important role in the prevention of social problems such as domestic and family violence. As a Catholic school, we want to form active citizens for whom the morality and the long-term impact of their actions, is a major consideration.

We want to produce young adults for whom virtues like love, compassion and justice are not just good manners, but are lifelong values. Knowledge by itself is not enough; proper human formation demands that the acquisition of knowledge be joined to the teachings of the Catholic Church and of developing good values and character.

In the context of Mother’s Day and the month of Mary, we at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs, want to produce good young men and women who are not only good husbands and wives, sons and daughters, fathers and mothers but who are also prepared to take a stand against social problems like domestic violence.

I would like to wish all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday 12 May.

ANZAC DAY

As we come together on to celebrate Anzac Day, we pause to reflect on the profound significance it holds for us as Australians and New Zealanders. Anzac Day, observed on the 25 April each year, commemorates the brave servicemen and women who have served and sacrificed for our nations in times of conflict and peacekeeping missions around the world.

At Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs, we take great pride in instilling values of courage, compassion, and service within our students. Anzac Day provides a poignant opportunity for us to deepen our understanding of these values and honor the legacy of those who have gone before us. Our College Captain and Deputy Captains were actively involved in the Caroline Springs Anzac Day Dawn Service, laying a wreath at the War Memorial site on Lake Caroline. 

As we reflect on the sacrifices made by the Anzacs, we are reminded of the importance of courage in the face of adversity. The courage displayed by these individuals, often in the most harrowing of circumstances, serves as a powerful example for us all. It challenges us to confront our own fears and challenges with resilience and determination.

Moreover, Anzac Day serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and solidarity. The Anzacs demonstrated unwavering compassion for their fellow comrades, risking their own lives to ensure the safety and well-being of others. Their acts of selflessness inspire us to cultivate empathy and compassion within our own lives, reaching out to those in need and standing in solidarity with the marginalized and vulnerable in our communities.

In closing, let us strive to embody the spirit of courage, compassion, and service in all that we do, both within our school community and beyond and pay tribute to the remarkable individuals who have served our nations with bravery and honor.

Lest we forget.

As a Wellbeing Team we strive to set high standards when it comes to a number of areas such as behaviour, uniform, lateness and attendance. We understand that at times, young people are going to make mistakes and test boundaries and our priority is to work through these concerns and ultimately move forward. Building positive relationships with our students underpins all that we do at the College and through our use of policies and processes we want to be consistent in how we work with students and families.

At times, students do need to take responsibility for their actions and through our restorative practices we discuss the impact our actions can have on ourselves and others. Through these discussions our students also come to understand that their actions result in certain consequences. Our Recall and Points system is a process that is followed when it comes to infringements concerning uniform, behaviour and lateness. Behaviour can obviously involve a variety of different concerns such as child safety, bullying, disrespect, damage to school property etc. The Student Management Grid below hopefully provides a better understanding as to how we do manage behaviour and expectations here at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs.

Wellbeing Leaders always appreciate the support of our families regarding college processes with student management and value your open communication and respect when following up any matters concerning your child.

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Kindly be reminded of the following policies enforced by the College: 

Extended Holiday Absence Policy

Whilst the College does not endorse taking students out of school for holidays, we do respect your right to make decisions regarding your child’s attendance. Our experience suggests that any time away from class will impact on student learning as most learning is sequential.

Please note the following points and discuss them with your child:

• Course outlines are available to students via SEQTA, and students are encouraged to keep up to date where possible.
• Teaching staff will not be able to provide specific work to students while absent for extended periods.
• Assignment-type assessments may be submitted before the given deadline, that is, prior to departure, or submitted electronically during the student’s absence.
• Assessments will not be accepted after the due date.
• Assessments in the form of tests and exams will not be rescheduled to accommodate student absence, and thus will be graded with a score of zero.
• Where a student has received a score of zero (either due to a non-submission of an assignment by the due date or being absent from a test or exam), this will contribute to their overall score for the Semester.

The Academic success

I would like to remind our school community of the Academic Code of Integrity. This code plays a vital role in upholding the values and standards of our institution.
Please take the time to review and discuss this code with your child. As we strive for academic excellence, it is important for our students to understand the importance of ethical behavior.

Thank you for your cooperation and support in these matters.

Feel free to contact the College if you have any questions or concerns. 

Dear Parent/Carer,

2024 Whole School Photos are being held on Thursday 6 June and Friday 7 June.

For the above date, students will have their individual portrait taken, as well as take a traditional group photo with their homeroom class.

In Term 3, we will have our Specialty Group Photos where students will take a group photograph with their extra-curricular school group and/or sport teams. Information about Specialty Group Photos will be published closer to the date.

Parents will receive an email from MSP Photography with our online ordering process leading up the day. Please note, students will not receive a hard copy form to order photos.

For Thursday 6 June and Friday 7 June, students are required to wear the full CRCCS Winter Uniform with their blazer on their allocated photo day.

Uniform reminders:

Boys:

• CRC monogrammed navy long pants or shorts,
• CRC monogrammed long-sleeved white shirt, tucked in,
• CRCCS tie,
• No jumper
• CRC blazer,
• CRC navy formal sock with stripe,
• Polished, black, hard-leather school shoes.

Girls:

• CRC tartan kilt, worn at knee length and/or, monogrammed navy pinstripe shorts or long pants,
• CRC monogrammed; long-sleeved white shirt, tucked in,
• CRCCS tie,
• No jumper
• CRC blazer,
• CRC navy formal sock with stripe/navy tights,
• Polished, black, hard-leather school shoes.

Expectations

• Male students are to be clean shaven (Boys)
• Long hair is to be kept behind the shoulders (Boys and Girls)
• Students are not to wear make-up, jewellery or nails (Girls)

Students that do not adhere to the expectations above will not have their photo taken.

A photo schedule will be made available to students on Monday 3 June via SEQTA notices with further instructions. This will inform students of the day they are to wear their full winter uniform.

Students will be required to wear their winter uniform on their scheduled photo day, even if parents/carers choose not to purchase a photo pack, as these photographs will be taken for the 2023 College Yearbook.

Broadway Beats: Year 9 Musical Theatre

In a classroom where Broadway comes to life, Year 9 Musical Theatre Students have recently delved deep into the world of Musical Theatre.

To begin our Term, students have participated in a series of ‘Triple Threat Workshops’ where each student has been invited to story tell through melodies, step through dance routines, and sculpt their emotions through acting.

Most recently, our students leaped, spun, and gestured their way through the dynamic world of Broadway Jazz.

Students were taught a dance routine to ‘The Greatest Showman’s: Come Alive’, where as an ensemble, the class told a story of passion and ambition. Led by Grace from GJ Productions, students were exposed to the Broadway stage and the magical world of movement.

From high-energy kick lines to grapevines and more, each student immersed themselves within the infectious rhythm and style of musical theatre dance.

As our ‘Triple Threat Workshops’ come to an end, the Year 9 Students emerged not only as triple threats with expertise, but as confident and versatile performers ready to take on their next challenge of the stage.

Students at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs are strongly encouraged to participate in the extensive range of extra and co-curricular activities offered at the College.

Please see the CRCCS Clubs and Groups for Term 2 – 2024. For more information, please feel free to liaise with the key contacts listed for each respective activity.

Thanks
Ms Linda Bracco

THE BIBLE AND SCIENCE

Introduction

Dear CRC Caroline Springs Family,

My name is Jim Talliopoulos. I have the privilege and honour of joining this special community at the start of 2024. I have been a teacher of Science for 35 years and a student of The Bible for 40 years. I once had a student who described to me her fear of losing her faith by studying Science at university. I was very quick to tell her the opposite was actually true; that studying Science would actually strengthen her faith as it has mine. It is my humblest desire to share aspects of two of the great passions of my life with The Bible being a clear first, then Science second. May these reflections help warm your hearts and inspire you as we enter the colder period of the year.

St. Ambrose

Bishop Ambrose of Milan was born in Trier, Germany at around 340 AD (his birth date is unclear from history). He pursued a career as a lawyer and provincial governor before the people of Milan chose him as bishop in 374. He was one of the most influential people of his time acting as an adviser to three Roman Emperors defending the freedom of the church from government interference. “Ambrose of Milan” preached widely and wrote essays promoting Christian ethics and upholding the ideal of virginity. He defended the belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ against the ideas of the Arians, who believed only God the Father was completely divine in “Concerning Faith” published 377. Historians believe that Ambrose popularized the singing of hymns in church. His sermons and piety inspired St. Augustine to convert to Christianity and Ambrose baptised him in 387. Ambrose died on 4 April 397 and his Feast Day is on December 7.

Gregor Mendel

Gregor Johann Mendel was born on July 22 1822 in Heizendorf , Austria (now Hyncice, near Krnov, in the Czech Republic). His parents were peasants. He entered the monastery of St. Thomas in Brunn, Austria (now Brno in the Czech Republic), became a priest in 1847 and then went to study Science and Mathematics at the University of Vienna in 1851 after being sent there by the monastery. Returning to the monastery in 1853, he taught Physics and Biology at a local high school for 14 years. However, it was in the monastery garden that Mendel’s fame grew when he began his study of his now famous pea plants. He realised that what he referred to as “factors” (now genes) were passed on from parent plants to their first generation offspring with some “factors” being dominant and some recessive. In conclusion he discovered the “Law of Segregation” and the “Law of Independent Assortment”. His results were published in some obscure journal and went unnoticed. He died on 6 January 1884. Gregor Mendel displayed gentleness and modesty throughout his life. His results were finally noticed in 1900 when he was then rightfully acknowledged as the “Father of Genetics”.

“And the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are.” (1 Cor 1:28)

Trivia questions

1.What do the Whitsundays in Queensland have to do with Sunday 19 May?

2. (a) Which colour in visible light did Sir Isaac Newton predict existed even though he managed to discover 6 colours?

(b) How was he able to predict one more colour existed?

(c) What is the significance of the colour produced when all 7 colours mix together?

Answers will be shared in the next College Street News. 

A Happy Easter to all our families. I hope the Easter break was one filled with peace and joy.

We often associate the celebration of Easter on one particular day, Sunday. However, the Easter Season begins on Easter Sunday and lasts 50 days, up until Pentecost. A fifty-day celebration, celebrating the joy and hope of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In Pope Francis’ traditional 2024 Easter message (“Urbi et Orbi” To the City and to the World), he used the image of the stone sealing the tomb of Jesus to explain the heavy stones that block the ‘hope of humanity.’

“the stone of war, the stone of humanitarian crises, the stone of human rights violations, the stone of human trafficking, and other stones as well. Like the women disciples of Jesus, we ask one another: “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” (cf. Mk 16:3). The Pope answers this question by reminding us that it is “He (Jesus) alone has the power to roll away the stones that block the path to life. He, the living One, is himself that path. He is the Way: the way that leads to life, the way of peace, reconciliation, and fraternity. He opens that path, humanly impossible, because he alone takes away the sin of the world and forgives us our sins.”

Pope Francis - Urbi Et Orbi, 31 March 2024

May we this Easter season reflect on the barriers that hinder peace and fraternity worldwide, so that we can be people of love and compassion.

The Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (the national data collection) is an annual collection that counts the number of school students with disability and the level of reasonable educational adjustment with which they are provided. The national data collection will count students who have been identified as receiving an adjustment to address a disability under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (the DDA). 

College funding in support of learners is determined by this collection and submission of data. 

Further information, in both English and Arabic, are attached for parents/carers.

2024 School Fees

2024 School Fee notice and Fee Payment Agreements were mailed home. If you have not received them or need to update account or credit card details, please contact the finance department or visit the school website. 

If you have changed home address or email details, please also update the school.

2024 Payment arrangements are now due back as commencement of payment for fees was February 2024 and to be finalised by November 2024 unless prior arrangement is in place.

CSEF 2024 (Current health care card holders)

CSEF applications are still being accepted for 2024. Please complete the application form on our website and return the completed signed form along with a copy of the parent/carer current health care card valid until the end of term one 2024 to the College office as soon as possible. CSEF-application-form.pdf (crccs.vic.edu.au)

STEM Immersion USA - 13/09 - 24/09 2024

Payments due dates are 22 April 2024 $1,500.00 and 27 May 2024 $1,100.00

If you wish to discuss any finance concerns, please reach out to us by phone 9217 8000 extension 2 or email accounts@crccs.vic.edu.au

Thank you, 
Finance Office

In 2023, the CRCCS community continued its remarkable journey of compassion and impact, building upon the foundations laid in the previous year. Through our collective generosity and unwavering commitment to our College motto, ‘Live fully, Act Justly,’ we extended our support to the deserving individuals of St. Francis Primary School in Kizinga, Uganda.

The strides made in 2023 were profound. These significant funds brought rays of hope to countless children and families, fostering an environment of security, opportunity, and empowerment. Through education initiatives, the establishment of safe learning spaces, and the implementation of essential food programs, we nurtured the dreams and aspirations of the St. Francis, Kizinga community.

Yet, our journey is far from over. In 2024, we remain steadfast in our commitment to driving meaningful change and addressing ongoing challenges. To this end, our focus turns towards several critical objectives:

- Further Developing a holistic and sustainable food program encompassing breakfast and lunch provisions.
- Implementing sustainable water harvesting solutions, including the installation of advanced water tanks.
- Establishing an outdoor kitchen/cooking area to enhance food preparation facilities.
- Continuing our support for essential building projects and providing necessary furniture for future expansions.

As we embark on this new chapter, our fundraising target for 2024 stands at $30,000. Building upon the spirit of solidarity and compassion that defines our community, we ask in kindness that each student contributes $20 towards this wonderful cause. Families with more than two children are asked to make a family donation of $50.

The collection process remains simple and efficient: students submit their contributions to their homeroom teacher, who will record their names on the class list.

The 2024 St. Francis Kizinga - Uganda Fundraiser will once again take centre stage, serving as a heartfelt reminder of our shared values and collective responsibility. It is an opportunity not only to uphold our Catholic faith but also to reflect on how we can actively embody our college motto in service to others.

In this project, we draw inspiration from the timeless words of Caritas: ‘for all future generations.’ Our commitment to creating a brighter future knows no bounds, and we eagerly anticipate your unconditional love and support as we continue to make a difference in the lives of countless children and families.

Should you have any queries or require further information regarding the 2024 St. Francis Kizinga - Uganda Fundraiser Project, please do not hesitate to contact the College. 

Together, let us journey forward with compassion, purpose, and hope.

Read more about it here.

Last year, the CRCCS community was graced with letters from the St. Francis Kizinga Community. Please take a moment to revisit these touching letters written by the young hearts of Uganda, expressing gratitude for the love you've extended.

Compassion, empathy, and love for others are the guiding principles of our teachings at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs, and we take immense pride in our community's dedication to supporting the Uganda Project.

These letters, carried from Uganda by Fr. Emma, represent the children who directly benefit from the programs and resources made possible by the generosity of our college community, as we live out our college motto – Live fully, Act Justly.

Register your attendance here

PROGRAM: MANCHESTER UNITED - TOP TEN STRIKERS

Date: Wednesday 1 May
Time: 1.10pm
Place: AQ7

All students are cordially invited for a very special treat as we count down to the European Nations Cup (14 June - 14 July) and The Olympics (26 July – 11 August).

Featuring: Sir Bobby Charlton, “The Fifth Beatle” George Best, Eric “The King” Cantona, “The Flying Dutchman” Ruud van Nistelrooy, Dennis Law and more.

“If ever there is a modern-day fairy tale this, is it: Greece are the champions of Europe” – Martin Tyler after Greece upstaged everyone with a memorable victory in 2004.

Impossible is nothing!!!

Dear Parents/Carers,

It is important that we give opportunity for our children to flourish in a positive environment. One of the ways we can do this is to encourage them to participate in fruitful experiences that will contribute to their growth in character.

Ablaze Youth, is a community for High School students (in Years 7-12) to come together in a fun, safe and welcoming environment. It occurs every Friday night from 6-8pm in the College Hall. A wonderful opportunity if you are looking for a place for fellowship, fun and food.

MEDITATIONS IN MAY by JIM TALLIOPOULOS

Over my 35 years as a teacher I have found the months of May and November to be especially busy. To help put us all in a good headspace I thought I would invite the school community to read with me a chapter from the Book of Proverbs every day. Dr. Billy Graham made it a practice to read a chapter from Proverbs every day during his world impacting ministry and I thought we may benefit from this practice also during the busy month of May.

Trivia question: Who wrote Proverbs 31?

Answer will be in the next College Street News

Dear Parents/Carers,

Every Friday of Term staff, students and families are invited to attend 8am (8:00 – 8:25am) Mass at St Catherine of Siena Church. The term "Mass" has its roots in the Latin word 'missa,' signifying 'mission' or 'sending.' This is because its intention is to send out the faithful to share the Good News of Jesus and embody His presence in the world. Additionally, it serves as a moment to express gratitude and praise to God, as reflected in the term 'Eucharist,' meaning thanksgiving.

Engaging in the Eucharistic celebration nourishes, transforms, and bring healing in our spiritual journey. It would be wonderful to have your presence.

Five Minutes with Staff - Meet Bianca Conforti

How long have you worked at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs?
This year is my tenth year at the College. I started in 2014! Time sure does fly...

What is your role at the school?
A Teacher of English and Humanities. I also have a Year 8 Homeroom.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Helping my students grow as English/Humanities learners. Student appreciation, even in the small things (means a lot to us teachers).

What is your ideal way to relax/unwind?
I'd say having a lazy day at home. In saying that, a beach or park walk (something scenic) always does the trick.

When you were little what did you aspire to be?
I always wanted to be a teacher, from very young (when I could write). I even played 'teachers' growing up. However, I did consider becoming a lawyer, my second preference of career.

What was your favourite subject at school?
History. English, second.

What skill would you like to master?
Cooking. I've made some progress, but have to keep at it and practise.

What book/tv series/podcasts are you into at the moment?
I enjoy an audiobook - not that I have gotten into one recently. Perhaps, take this as inspiration to find one!

What would you sing at karaoke night?
I have only ever done Karaoke once - loved it! My song of choice would be 'My Heart Will Go On' by Celine Dion.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This is a tough one. A toss-up between cheese and sushi.

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have?
Teleportation. That way I can travel to many beautiful destinations, with ease. No airplanes/stress needed!

What's your favourite holiday destination?
I have been to Queensland a few times now, I really enjoy it. My next step would be Europe, one day soon. Fingers crossed.

Do you collect anything?
A special coin collection. This originated from my Grandpa, Mum's Dad. I have been doing this for many years now. I'm actually quite proud of it.

What do you do for fun?
Fun to me is outings with my partner/friends for brunch or lunch or dinner or even a coffee (depends what suits). Because with that, there is a catching up to do and I love conversations. I enjoy the cinemas too.

What are your hobbies?
Does shopping classify as a hobby? I am yet to pick up one.

What is something that you’re really passionate about?
Organisation. Anyone who knows me would say that I am super organised. My students know it too, I think...

What is something you could spend hours doing?
Watching Netflix or Disney Plus. I do enjoy a movie marathon, when I find the time to actually do so. Yes, I am a night owl.

What is something you wish you did more often?
Go for my weekly walks (I have let that go this as of late) - great for fitness, health, wellbeing, an all rounder really.

What is a guilty pleasure you enjoy?
Buying a takeaway decaf vanilla latte (or a hot chocolate if I am feeling that) most days of the week.