The PCA – Fostering connections The Parent Community Association (PCA) continued with its mission to build a constructive and positive relationship between families and the School by fostering a vibrant St Michael’s community, despite the ongoing challenges that were faced. This was evidenced by the activities that continued throughout Semester 2, and the many end of year events organised by the Year Level Representatives to re-connect families as we emerged from a lengthy period of lockdown. The PCA Virtual ‘Chill and Chat’ sessions held on 15 October, provided a wonderful opportunity for new and current parents to connect during Melbourne’s lockdown utilising the successful format of virtual chat rooms held online. Five simultaneous virtual chat rooms were arranged (Kindergarten, Prep-2, Years 3-6, Years 7-9 and Years 10-12) for a Friday afternoon 30-minute timeslot. Many parents joined each of the rooms and there was a real buzz and genuine connection felt by all. Whilst events such as the Father’s Day lunch and the Trivia Night were unable to go ahead despite the many efforts to reschedule, The PCA proceeded with its annual ‘Staff and Teachers Thank You’ morning tea held in gratitude for all staff 50 | The Crest Issue 6 2021
and their tireless dedication, creativity and enthusiasm shown throughout the year. Although the event was held to mark World Teachers’ Day (scheduled in Australia for 29 October), it was held over until 8 November to celebrate the return of all staff and teachers back to on campus learning. The theme for the event was “Thank you for giving us the zest of learning” with citrus themed decorations and morning tea picnic boxes gifted to the staff. Over 1000 lemons were squeezed by the PCA volunteer team to make lemon cordial which was also gifted in individual bottles along with a voucher for a hot drink at Dolly’s Cafe. The Kitchen Garden Working Bee was also unable to go ahead, instead a mini newsletter for garden enthusiasts was launched. Please contact Mary Wood on pcavpevents@stmichaels.vic.edu.au if you would like to be included on the distribution list. The PCA has continued throughout the year with its Grant process and was very pleased to announce the approval of two grants. A major grant for an outdoor chess set for the Junior School was approved as well as an ad hoc grant for matched funding by the PCA for the next Giving Day to be held in 2022. This grant will help to build the Scholarship fund to
