The final days of Term 1 2024 have come quickly as we complete a short but extremely productive term at John Paul College.
Many will have seen the recent media reports in reference to the concerning findings of the recently released Australian Principal Occupational Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Survey. This survey sheds light on the well-being of educational leaders across the country and revealed the multitude of challenges principals and other educators face in their roles. This data mirrors other recent Australian reports that sadly highlight the challenges in schools for teachers and other staff in dealing with inappropriate parent behaviour and a deterioration in the status of the teaching profession in general.
As a school community, it's imperative that we take these findings seriously. Our educators play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of our students, and their well-being directly impacts the quality of education they deliver. We must prioritise the health and well-being of our staff, providing them with the support and resources they need to thrive in their roles.
At John Paul College Frankston, we are committed to creating a culture of support and collaboration.
I am very pleased to note, that the vast majority of our families engage in a positive and constructive manner as we strive together to create a nurturing environment where our educators, along with our students, feel valued and supported. However, it is always good to remind ourselves of the importance of our expectations and the values on which they are based. This is especially important in times of disagreement or when emotions are high.
Values and Expectations at John Paul College Frankston:
At John Paul College Frankston, we embrace a set of values that form the foundation of our community, shaping our interactions and decisions. Our commitment to our Mission Statement calls us to be a people who live following the example of Jesus Christ.
Our Mission Statement has the key values of respecting the dignity of every person and fostering inclusivity, compassion, justice, and forgiveness which must permeate every aspect of our school culture.
Respecting the Dignity of Every Person: Central to our ethos is the belief that every individual deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. We recognise the inherent worth and value of each member of our community, regardless of their background, abilities, or beliefs.
Inclusivity: We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive community where diversity is celebrated and embraced. Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond mere tolerance to genuine acceptance and appreciation of differences.
Compassion: Compassion lies at the heart of our community, guiding our interactions and relationships. We believe in extending empathy, kindness, and support to those in need, fostering a culture of care and solidarity.
Justice: Upholding principles of justice is fundamental to maintaining a fair and equitable community. We are committed to promoting fairness, accountability, and integrity in all our actions and decisions.
Forgiveness: We recognise that forgiveness is a powerful tool for healing and reconciliation. As a community guided by Christian principles, we embrace the value of forgiveness, understanding that mistakes are an inevitable part of the human experience.
Parent/Guardian/Carer Code of Conduct Policy:
Our school's Parent/Guardian/Carer Code of Conduct Policy outlines the expectations for parents, guardians, and carers within our school community. It serves as a guide for fostering positive relationships and maintaining a supportive learning environment.
Among the key principles outlined in the policy are:
We encourage all parents, guardians, and carers to familiarise themselves with the Parent/Guardian/Carer Code of Conduct Policy and to actively participate in our school community in accordance with these guidelines.
Student Code of Conduct:
Similarly, our Student Code of Conduct sets clear expectations for student behaviour and outlines the consequences for violations. This policy aims to promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive.
Key components of the Student Code of Conduct include:
We encourage students to take ownership of their conduct and to uphold the values of our school in their interactions with others.
In conclusion, as we commence our holiday break and prepare for the celebration of Easter, let us recommit ourselves to our shared values and expectations. We must work together to continue to grow a culture of respect, integrity, resilience, and compassion in all that we do. Together, we can create a vibrant and nurturing learning community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
I thank you for your continued support and partnership in the education of the young people families entrust to our care and I wish you every blessing this Easter season.