I am a keen renovator. I love to look at old houses and imagine how they could be transformed, renewed. I am all about the floorplan and the finishes. My husband is all about the foundations and structural integrity. In our first renovation I was ready to paint, tile and primp when my husband discovered that the entire house needed to be re-stumped. The redgum stumps that looked solid had rotted below ground level. Sadly, there is no point in perfecting a house, only to discover cracks appearing because the foundations are not solid.
2020 is a year that has tested our foundations. With ever-changing restrictions, lockdowns, remote learning, financial challenges and emotional stress, this year is throwing everything at us. The pressures that we all feel are shaking us to our core.
Jesus used the metaphor of building a house to talk about foundations. He described the destruction of a house built on sand when hit by waves and wind. He went on to describe a house built on a solid rock that was strong and able to withstand the storm. Jesus challenges us to build our lives firmly on Him, the Rock of Ages.
As we work with each student, we want them to be storm-proof. We want to help each child to find their firm foundation; to shore up their support. By knowing that they are creations of God, known, loved, redeemed, valued, our students have a foundation to experience life. Parents can help build strong foundations and security through giving unconditional love and acceptance, providing consistency and boundaries and handling discipline in a way that promotes learning. At Avondale School our teachers are strategic about looking for ways to help our students belong, be connected, feel accepted and build resilience. All of these things build strong foundations.
When foundations are strong, students are free to flourish, learn and grow. Let’s keep working together to build strong foundations.
"I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me." Psalm 16:8 (NLT)
Mrs Deb Cooper
Principal
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