Term One Dates

The following outlines changes to the CECG SAFE RETURN TO SCHOOL NSW ROADMAP Term 1, updated 16 February 2022.

Assemblies

School Assemblies may occur.  When bringing together large groups or multiple cohorts of students only (no parents):

• They can only occur outdoors
• Consider seating plans or separated areas to minimise mingling.
• Minimise the length of interaction between cohorts where possible.
• Maintain physical distancing.
• Encourage masks outdoors if physical distancing isn’t possible.
• Provide hygiene supplies (such as sanitiser) and encourage use.
• Only be conducted where it is appropriate given the number of cohorts with positive cases.

Masses and Liturgical Celebrations

As assemblies can only occur outside, this would be the same for whole school masses following the same conditions above. Mass or liturgical celebrations for a single cohort can take place but would not include parents or visitors following that non-essential visitors are still not allowed on school sites.

Dancing

• Choose well-ventilated or outdoor venues.
• Check the attendee numbers for indoor venues support physical distancing and ventilation requirements.
• Maintain student cohorts where possible.
• Consider reducing the period of high energy dancing to less than 30 minutes to minimise transmission risk. Alternatively consider allowing for an exchange of air every 30 minutes.
• Wear masks indoors when not dancing and consider the use of masks if physical distancing is not possible and contact is sustained, such as where dancing in partners.

Drama 

• Choose well-ventilated or outdoor venues.
• Check the attendee numbers for indoor venues support physical distancing and ventilation requirements.
• Maintain student cohorts where possible.
• Some mixing of cohorts will occur as part of ensemble programs.

Excursions

• Excursions, including overnight excursions, are permitted. 
• Excursions, especially overnight, should not be considered when there is evidence of COVID cases within the cohort/school community
• Destinations must be well ventilated or outdoor
• Excursions must be cohort-based
• Sole use of facilities to be maintained or no mixing with groups outside the cohort
• Consider RAT tests to be utilised before departure
• Overnight Excursions:
  • Record attendance of each group in shared cabins/rooms
  • RAT tests to be considered at intervals before and during excursion (eg every 3 days)
  • Anyone displaying symptoms must be tested
  • Contingency plans to be developed prior to departure should a student test positive

Excursion permission notes must now include this clause: I acknowledge that this event/activity is required to be held in accordance with any current NSW Health COVID-19 Public Health Orders and the <insert school> policies and procedures. I acknowledge and accept that there is a risk that my child may be exposed to COVID-19 whilst attending and participating in this event. I confirm that my child will not attend if displaying any symptoms of illness, and/or if directed to isolate under public health orders. I confirm I will collect my child/or make suitable arrangements should it be identified my child has COVID symptoms or tests positive to COVID whilst attending the excursion.

Instruments

• Choose well ventilated or outdoor areas
• Maintain physical distancing and cohorts
• Do not share instruments played with the mouth

Visitors 

• Non-essential visitors are not permitted on school sites.
• Allied health professionals, essential infrastructure workers and maintenance crews are permitted.
• Parents may attend the school to: -
  • Pick up sick children
  • Attend the front office
  • Attend the uniform shop
  • Attend critical meetings with the Principal or staff at the school’s request

Thank you for working with us to ensure the restrictions are followed.

Crookwell Show BBQ

I would like to thank the Parents and Friends Association, Craig and Elise Croker, Brendan and Allison Hewitt, Rechell Naughton, Daniel Walsh and every parent and carer who assisted with the hugely successful Crookwell Show BBQ fundraiser last weekend.  The fundraiser was a massive success with an estimated $3000 profit - what a wonderful achievement!

This fundraising event of the year is the only event that requires all hands on deck. It is a great way for our new families to get to know our existing families and also a wonderful chance for us to support our local community whilst building our school community at the same time. 

The Parents and Friends (P & F) Association AGM and Term One General Meeting will be held next Tuesday evening at 7 pm in the cafe at the Crookwell Services Club, all new and existing families are welcome to attend.

Country Women's Association 

I would like to congratulate the Country Women's Association on their centenary celebrations this year. You may have seen the special tribute that St Mary's offered the CWA in the pavilion at the Crookwell Show. I would like to especially thank Mrs Sue Branson for her work on this poster.

Commonwealth Bank National Teaching Awards

The Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards are open to teachers and school leaders in all Australian schools until 27 March. Nominating an inspirational and dedicated teacher is a great way to recognise and celebrate their efforts. The nomination process is fast and simple and anyone in your community can nominate a teacher or teachers can self-nominate. The Catholic Education Office has encouraged all Principals to share this opportunity with our communities. Further information, including the steps for nomination, can be accessed via https://teachingawards.com.au/#about.

Absence from School

A reminder that any time your child/ren are away from school, you do ONE of the following: fill in the Schoolzine absentee form, send in a note as soon as possible or notify the Office via email or phone 48321592.