Thursday this week marked the Feast day of St Mary MacKillop.  Her Feast day it is an opportune time to reflect on her extraordinary legacy and how here at St Clare's High School we continue to uphold her mission.  Mary MacKillop, Australia's first saint, was a trailblazer in education, breaking through the prejudices of the early 19^th century to ensure that all children, regardless of gender, race, faith, or wealth, received quality education.  She ministered to the vulnerable with compassion, and she and the Sisters of St Joseph dedicated their lives to serving those in the greatest need. 

Mary MacKillop's impact on Australian education was profound.  She was a passionate advocate for underprivileged children and those in remote areas, opening doors of hope for countless families.  Her pioneering spirit and dedication laid the foundation for an inclusive educational system that continues to inspire us today. 

At St Clare's High School Taree, we are proud to carry forward Mary MacKillop's mission.  Our commitment to ensuring education for all, providing a quality education, and serving others is evident in our daily practices and initiatives.  We strive to build the Kingdom of God through our actions, embodying the spirit of service and compassion that Mary exemplified. 

One of the ways we live out this mission is through our volunteer work at the Community Kitchen, where students and staff come together to serve meals to those in need.  This hands-on experience not only helps our community but also instils a sense of empathy and social responsibility in our students.  Additionally, we hold regular fundraisers to support various causes, promoting social justice and demonstrating our commitment to "never see a need without doing something about it." 

This year, the Feast day theme is "Be Fierce for Fair," a call to action for our entire school community.  Being "fierce" in this context means standing up for what is right, advocating for fairness, and being relentless in our efforts to ensure equity and justice for all.  It is about fostering an environment where every student feels valued and empowered to make a difference. 

The Sisters of St Joseph, founded by Mary MacKillop, continue to inspire us with their legacy of selfless service and dedication to education.  These remarkable women gave up everything to live and teach amongst the people they served, going wherever the need was greatest.  At St Clare's, we honour the legacy of our founders by striving to be a community that not only provides excellent education but also nurtures a spirit of service and compassion. 

Tanille Gardner
Leader of Learning - Religious Education