Term 1 Week 9
From the Principal
As we enter the fourth week of Lent, we are reminded of the powerful themes of God's love, unity, and the promise of eternal life. The Gospel calls us to recognise God's unfailing love for us, to seek positive interactions in our relationships, and to hold onto the hope of the life He promises through Christ.
We pray that this season deepens our faith and draws us closer to one another and to God.
Celebrating the Blessed Carlos Acutis
I’m excited to celebrate that Blessed Carlo Acutis will soon be canonized as a saint! Carlo died in 2006, making him the first millenial saint. He was a computer prodigy who helped spread Roman Catholic teaching online and will be known as a "patron saint of the internet" and a "millennial saint".
Carlo, known for his deep faith, love for the Eucharist, and passion for using technology to spread the Gospel, is a wonderful example of holiness in the modern world. His short life, dedicated to God and service to others, reminds us that we are all called to be saints, no matter our age or the time in which we live.
To help celebrate this moment the Chisholm parish will be recognising this canonisation on the 27th April with a youth Mass at 4:00 at St Bede's College, Chisholm. We have been asked as a school community to be a part of this celebration and I would love to see St John the Baptist students be a part of this parish wide celebration. If your family is able to attend, can I please ask you to complete this interest form or email the front office.
I look forward to celebrating this connonization with you!
ANZAC Day March and recognising servicemen and women
The Maitland ANZAC Day March, held annually on the 25th of April, is an important event that honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers. It is a powerful reminder of the courage and determination displayed by those who served during times of conflict. For students, participating in the march is a great example of community involvement and respect for history. By taking part, they not only pay tribute to the fallen heroes but also gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the day, fostering a sense of national pride and unity as well as highlighting the importance of continuing the tradition of remembrance.
This year we again will join the Maitland community by attending the ANZAC Day march and the ANZAC Day Memorial Service. All SJB students are encouraged to attend. If you are able to attend, please let us know through this link
When: Friday 25th April 2025 at 10:15
Where: Gather at Church Street opposite the Fire Station to commence march at 10:30am.
March to World War 1 Cenotaph in Maitland Park for the ANZAC Day Memorial Service.
Family Connections to ANZAC Day
We would like to take this opportunity to invite families to share if they have any relatives, past or present, who have served or are serving in the armed forces. Recognising the dedication and sacrifices made by these individuals is important to us, and we would love to honour them publicly for their service.
If you have a family member who has served, please let us know through this link (which can be completed multiple times fro multiple family members), so we can ensure they are acknowledged. Their bravery and commitment to our country deserves to be celebrated, and we are grateful for the opportunity to show our appreciation.
Fortnightly Frames
Congratulations to Ethan Martin who has been selected as part of the Maitland Newcastle Diocesan team to participate in the Da Vinci Decathlon. We wish him all the best as he participates in this team with other students from the diocese.
Our school celebrated Harmony day last week and there was a sea of orange. We gathered as a school community just before the rain commenced and were lead in an impromptu dance party lead by the year 6. Later that day year 6 students worked with staff to collaborate with different classes, learning about different cultures and customs.
During Term 1, our support teachers have been working with Year 1 students for the exciting 'Hour of Power' (HOP)! This initiative is an incredible opportunity for targeted, explicit teaching, where a variety of teaching staff come together to provide personalized support and enhance students' learning experiences.
It was lovely to welcome future families to SJB this week. These families were visiting the kindergarten rooms, preparing for Kindergarten in 2026! Enrolments for Kindergarten 2026 close on the 23rd May this year.
Our Gifted Education Mentor, Mrs Kim Dickenson works with our two Virtual Academy students. These stduents collaborate with other students from around the diocease in their learning and will soon showcase their work for all.
Our year 1 classes visited Tocal today - they have had an amazing day! I look forward to hearing more about this soon.
Assistant Principal News
Congratulations to all our students who participated in NAPLAN this year. Their dedication and focus throughout the testing process have been truly impressive. Whether they felt confident or nervous, each student approached the tests with resilience and a positive attitude.
While NAPLAN provides valuable insights into student progress, it’s important to remember that it’s just one piece of the puzzle. It helps identify areas where students may need further support or where they are excelling, but it doesn’t capture the full breadth of their capabilities. At our school, we focus on nurturing the whole child—encouraging creativity, curiosity, and emotional well-being alongside academic achievement.
Our teachers have been instrumental in preparing students for NAPLAN. They’ve not only taught the skills necessary for the test but have also fostered a learning environment where students feel confident and supported. Their commitment ensures that each student is equipped with the tools they need for success, not just in NAPLAN, but in all aspects of learning.
Religious Education News
Lent is a journey of spiritual growth, reminding us to turn our hearts toward God and prepare for the joy of Easter. Lent is a special time in our Catholic faith—a season of reflection, prayer, and preparation as we journey and walk together toward Easter. At St John the Baptist, our students and staff are walking together during this sacred time by raising awareness and funds for Project Compassion. Our Mini Vinnies leaders are doing an amazing job leading this initiative.
Supporting Project Compassion this Lenten Season will enable Caritas Australia to provide life-changing support to vulnerable communities in need. You can support Project Compassion 2025 through the donation boxes found in every classroom and our office.
Class Awards
Congratulations to our class award winners for Week 8 & 9!
Kindergarten: Nicholas G, Kinsley P, Ryder C, Paige P, Harry S, Jackson T
Year 1: Harley C, Olivia L, Niall , William M, Gilbert H, Nate S
Year 2: Phoebe M, Ellie M, Elena T, Mason VH, Luka H, Eli F
Year 3: Georgie, Patrick, Adeline
Year 4: Kaylani D, Sophia H, Meeka S, Leo T, Quinn D
Year 5: Emiera W, Joe M, Poppi K, Alfie B, Ruby B, Madison K, Arwen W
Year 6: Jemimah F, Patrick O, Edie D, Max M, Luca H, Will H