Last Thursday there were joyous scenes in St Peter’s Square as Catholics around the world welcomed a new pope, Pope Leo XIV. His first words to all who were gathered in the square and to the world at large were Peace be with you all, the very words with which Jesus greeted his friends and disciples, particularly in the resurrection stories.

Pope Leo is a multilingual canon lawyer and mathematician who ministered for many years in Peru, where he worked tirelessly with communities on the margins. His chosen name reflects a commitment to Catholic social teaching, and his public support for migrants, climate action, and abuse survivors signals a continued focus on key global issues. In his first message, he called the Church to move forward united, without fear, guided by Christ. We pray for Pope Leo. May he lead us with wisdom and compassion.

Traffic Safety on Theodore Street

Over the past few weeks, we have had a number of complaints about unsafe practices by drivers on Theodore Street.

It is very concerning to see drivers stop on the road and call students to run across the road to enter cars. This is both dangerous and illegal. Staff, parents and the crossing supervisor have witnessed a number of near misses where cars coming in the opposite direction have nearly hit a student.

We remind students and families that:

- Stopping on the road and asking students to run across the road is unsafe and illegal.

- It is also illegal to double park on Theodore Street.

- The speed limit around the College and Sacred Heart is 40 kmh.

- Students must use the crossings on Arthur and Theodore Streets.

- Those walking to and from St Albans station can use the safe crossing on the roundabout at the corner of Victoria and Arthur streets.

- Arthur Street provides less congestion and some good pickup points, as do Winfred and Alexina Streets.

- As Theodore Street is the most congested, we suggest that families do not   pick up or drop off in this street.

- I trust that families and students will discuss these suggestions and, where needed, adjust practices to ensure everyone remains safe.

Mothers’ Day Breakfast

We were delighted to welcome mums, grandmothers, carers and students to our annual Mother’s Day breakfast earlier this week. From very humble beginnings with about 15 mums in the library, it is now a very important and enjoyable event on our school calendar.

It was lovely to hear the buzz in the room as we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and some light entertainment. An event such as this is the work of many hands. I would like to thank Ms Laura Cioccia (Family Engagement Leader), our wonderful student leaders, our performers and speakers, and all who helped in the background to ensure that our guests felt spoilt, special and appreciated.

Professional Practice Day: Wednesday 21 May 2025

On Wednesday staff will have a Professional Practice Day. On this day we will learn more about working with neurodiverse students, and on a range of learning area based planning projects.

Students are not required at school on Wednesday.

Youth Road Safety Fact Sheet

Families and students may be interested in the attached information from Victoria Police regarding e-bikes, motorbikes, modified or petrol powered bicycles and e-scooters.

Arrangements for Feast Day

It is now only two weeks until our 2025 Feast Day on Friday 30 May 2025. The Feast Day Planning group are working hard to organise the Feast Day carnival and preparations have begun for the mass and pastoral care activities. It is always a great day. Fingers crossed that the weather is kind to us. School will begin at the normal time of 8.40am and conclude at 3.10pm.

Newsletter Days for Term 2 2025:        

Fridays: 30 May, 11 June, 25 June                         

The newsletter can also be accessed on Friday morning (Day 10) on the College website at http://www.crcstalbans.catholic.edu.au