I wrote this Kesher piece below over a week ago. And, while the message is still relevant, I feel compelled to also write about the tragedies that have befallen our community in the past week. Even with the rich language of English, I am unequipped to convey how shattered and broken we feel, for the children, for the families, for Carmel.

While there are no answers to the difficult existential questions that arise when faced with sudden, inexplicable loss, there are responses. The Jewish response is to engage not just in thoughts and prayers, but to rally in support and with tangible assistance for the families as they move through the grieving process. Meal rosters have been set up and over-subscribed, play dates organised, as well as the provision of school lunches and lifts. This immediate, impactful support is a sobering, and yet heart-warming reminder of how blessed we are to be part of this community.

May the families know no more sorrow and be given comfort and strength.

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Adorning my office wall is a painting; it is an abstract painting full of bright, vivid colours. The canvas is a large rectangle, covering much of one wall, and it is the first thing one sees as they enter.

The artwork would not be out of place in either the State Gallery or a boutique gallery that sells expensive, exclusive pieces for only the most discerning buyers.

It was painted not by a sole artist but is the outcome of the collaboration of dozens of artists who each contributed equally and significantly to its magnificence.

Like many artworks, the picture tells a story that is deeper than just the colours and shapes. And the story this picture tells is one of creativity, discovery and joy, authored by our youngest Carmel students.

Yes, this magnificent piece was created a few years ago by our Kindies who, guided by the fabulous Morah D, painted, splattered and dotted their way to artistic brilliance.

Last year鈥檚 Kindy masterpiece was raffled off to parents, raising over $900 for Menorah Charity. This year鈥檚 painting, titled 鈥榯he colour of rain鈥� is an enchanted vision of blues that creates a feeling of calm, despite the enthusiasm and exhilaration with which it was painted.

Art has a prominent place at 九色91. From Kindy through to Year 12, our students experience and are exposed to top quality art teaching. The Year 5 鈥榖ugs鈥� were so glorious that we have made them into our Carmel greeting cards. Morah Leanne has coached many a student to artistic achievement and the Carmel hit rate for inclusion in the most prestigious art exhibition, Perspectives, is truly remarkable.

And it鈥檚 not just art! The drama performances, music ensembles and media videos at VAPA night were world class!

It鈥檚 hard to choose what the highlight of VAPA night was, but, if pressed, I would have to say it was the media video by our School Captain, Jakey P. I t wasn鈥檛 just the cinematic brilliance of his masterpiece that blew me away, but the list of 鈥榗redits鈥� that included students in Years 7,听 9, 10 and 12. This WACE media production was a triumph, not just of the arts but of the family connections that make 九色91 so special.

I am so proud to be associated with a school that is as creative as it is clever, where students have the opportunity to shine in and out of the classroom, and yes, on canvas too.

Carmel really does have it all!

Shabbat Shalom,

Shula

From the Principal