HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Never in our wildest dreams could we have imagined how this first semester would look. It has certainly posed its challenges and we are so proud of our whole school community; students, staff and parents and carers in how they have taken every opportunity to positively address the issues as they have arisen.

These two week holidays are a welcome opportunity to refresh your spirit and take some rest. Have a wonderful holiday break and we look forward to seeing you back at the start of Term 3.

PEACEFUL, JUST RELATIONSHIPS

Over the last couple of weeks we have had a lot of conversations around understanding and appreciating the diversity that everyone brings to our school community. The focus, however, is how we accept the diversity of others and how we contribute personally to racism.

Whilst we would like to think that racism or other forms of social isolation do not exist at St John’s we must honour the fact that we are a large community of people, all with different life experiences.

What is important however is what we learn about ‘right relationships’ and how we work together to ensure that everyone understands the Catholic Social teachings and the ‘Dignity of every human being’.

So how do we address issues of members of our school community exhibiting racist actions or views?

As an educational institution we begin with focussing with absolute positive regard and educating the individual who does not yet understand the value of diversity and dignity of each person.

To enable this to happen it is important that no member of the school community tolerates racism. Whether they are the victim or a bystander, it is essential that it is reported. Only when we know there is a concern can we work to address it.

The school’s peaceful relations policy or the anti-bullying policy has very clear directions on how we build a peaceful community. Each student, whether a victim or bystander, is expected to 

1. Tell them to stop
2. If it persists, report it.

This process is very effective, as it will be dealt with through restorative practices that include 

• education, 
• understanding how our actions affect others 
• Consequences

This process is not only an effective process for managing issues at school, it is a very effective tool for managing ‘right relationships’ in life. 

We have attached a link to the policy below and encourage all parents and carers to work through this with their child and encourage them to never tolerate bullying, racism or any other form of being treated inappropriately. This policy is also available in the school diary. 

Click here to view St John's Anti-bullying Policy

All students have taken time during this week to consider this issue and become proactive to support Peaceful, Just Relationships.

SJE STUDENTS TAKE A STAND AGAINST RACISM