In all my teaching years, something that’s always stood out is that every member of the teaching community brings with them something unique both to their role as an educator as well as a contributing member of the school community. This has stood out this term in particular as we farewell two unique founding members of staff who leave us at the end of this term to return to their home in Spain.
Sr. Mary and Sr. Theresa have brought a sense of positivity and creativity to the teachers and the students. Their love of people and education was felt throughout the St Luke’s community and their presence will be greatly missed. The Spanish Steps is such a fitting tribute to what they leave behind.
Term Two has always been a busy time in the school calendar. Writing reports and preparing for student-led conferences add to the regular workload but whilst this makes for a hectic time, it is matched with the increased interaction and support between various staff members. The staff room has an air of solidarity and partnership as it is filled with advice and the sharing of learning and challenges.
In the midst of the normal expectations of Term Two at any school, the term for St Luke’s teaching community had more to offer. It began with the excitement of moving into our new Foundations building. The bigger classrooms, the unending storage space, the gentle colour scheme, the big breakout rooms and televisions fitted everywhere you turn is amazing and drew attention far and wide. ABC’s 7:30 Report brought The College to the forefront but along with it came both critiques, to which we were neither shaken nor stirred and encouragement, to which we acknowledged with appreciation. All the while it was business as usual with confidence in what we believe in and what we do. To add to the excitement however, the term rolled out three baby announcements!
So to say that Term Two ends with mixed emotions would be an understatement. Taking on both joys and huddles can leave you drained but without it forging friendships would be more challenging. As I walk through the staff room, the heart of our teaching community, I observe friendships between teachers from the School of Leadership and School of Foundations. I see our Principal painstakingly cooking us lunch as a mid year treat, and hear laughter in the corner. I look forward to the term to come and all that it brings.