It seems like only yesterday that I began a newsletter piece with the words welcome to Phoenix P-12 Community College for 2021 and now I am reflecting on another incredible year – one that we could never have predicted.
2021 Reflections
My reflections of the 2021 school year really centre on two things:
- Ongoing gratitude: to our students who perpetually did their best despite seven bouts of flexible and remote learning. To our wonderful staff who showed incredible ability to adapt and adapt again. Our Parents – who have played a remarkable role in the education of our students again this year.
- The importance of learning: we all have the opportunity to grow and be a better version of ourselves when we keep learning and improving. This year as a school, although we have encountered considerable challenges, learning has remained at the forefront.
‘In Knowledge There is Opportunity’
Retirements
Last week, I was proud to acknowledge the contribution of five staff members who have given the school a combined 171 years of service. What an amazing effort! I would like to publicly thank the following staff for their amazing contributions to the Phoenix community. It is impossible to quantify their impact to so many students over the years. We wish them all the very best on their new adventures.
Further, I would like to acknowledge the considerable leadership contribution of Angela Quinn who has been the Assistant Principal for Years 9 and 10. Her leadership has left an indelible mark on the school and so many lives and I feel especially lucky that Angela, although not continuing as an Assistant Principal, will remain with us as a teacher.
Important Welcomes
I would like to welcome Scott Logan to the position of Assistant Principal for Years 9 and 10. He is joining us from Hoppers Crossing Secondary College and has considerable experience. He will be a welcome addition to the team.
I would also like to welcome Paige Gibson to the position of Assistant Principal for Grades Prep-6. She is making the move from Ararat North Primary School; we look forward to her leadership.
Orientation Day
On Tuesday 7th December, we welcomed 59 excited prep students and 222 Year 7 students to Phoenix. Importantly this is the time we introduce these students to our College values:
Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Cooperation and Excellence.
Our values give definition to what it means to be a member of the Phoenix Community. They govern strong relationships with our students and families. Relationships are at the core of our work and are a vital aspect of ensuring that every student has the ability to achieve their personal best.
Duxes
I would like to extend my congratulations to all of our Year 12 students – your achievements are exemplary. And a special congratulations to our duxes: Isolde Kieni-Judd (VCE Dux) and Jayde Jones-Birse (VCAL Dux).
Year 12
The completion of Year 12 is a major milestone; it symbolises the completion of thirteen years of formal education and we should recognise the rich learning that has taken place throughout those years. This year our Year 12’s have left an indelible mark on our school and community. They have been mindful role models, always careful to set a positive example for their younger peers and have been incredibly respectful and inclusive of one another as a group. At no point have they been defined by COVID 19.
As the College Principal, I have been most impressed with our students’ endeavour to improve their outcomes as the year has passed. They have worked incredibly hard to achieve their best. We wish each and every one of our students the very best as they embark on their next journey.
To all of our families we wish you a very happy Christmas and New Year. We hope that you have an enjoyable and restful holiday break.
Karen Snibson
Principal
