Celebrating Gen Day Online

This year, the Genazzano community celebrated its annual day a little differently – online. On Friday 24 April, students and staff came together remotely for day of fun and engaging student-led activities to celebrate their school spirit and win points for their house.

This year, the day included dance routines, student-teacher debates and the launch of its new student publication, Gen Gazette. Students took part via the GenConnect learning management system and Zoom online conferencing platform.

The day catered for all students from Prep to Year 12 and commenced in the traditional way, with prayer and message from the Principal; followed by a message from the College Captains, launch of the SRC Magazine and the school song.

Staff at the College also prepared a short video for students to help them feel more connected to the College while physically away. This was backed up by a recap of Gen activities over the last few years and an activity focused on the 2020 College theme—ignited by beauty, truth and goodness.

The day wrapped up with a reflection piece where students shared what they miss about the school and their usual way of life, an exciting student-teacher debate and DanceFit session hosted by (2019) Alumna, Ms Bianca Di Mattina.

Over 700 students and staff participated in the day which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

“So great to be back and involved in yet another Gen Day!” Ms Di Mattina said.

“Thanks to all the girls that got online and participated in my DanceFit tutorial”.

An important role model, Principal, Ms Karen Jebb was front and center during Gen Day activities, joining Ms Di Mattina for her dance routine and connecting with the student body.  

“Gen Day is one of my favourite events on the school calendar”, she said.

“It’s great being able to connect with each other and take some time out to have fun in amongst the restrictions we’re all facing”.

“I’m extremely proud of our Gen community and how we are all coming together to embrace a different way of engaging and learning. From our teachers to college prefects, to support staff, everyone is doing their part to ensure we continue to deliver an exceptional experience for our students.

“It’s great to see our core values – Fidelity, Courage and Confidence reflected in all us at this time, it’s an example of our true resilience and passion for life and learning”. 

Similar sentiments were shared by students when they reflected on a typical school day and what Gen means to them.

“I miss my friends, sport and catching up with everyone”.

“I miss GSV sport and all the different opportunities at Gen”.

“Gen has such a great community”.

“I miss seeing my friends, classmates and teachers in person at school”.

It seems Gen Day is a special day on everyone’s calendar, as shared by these students.

“I love watching all the house dances and performances on Gen Day and seeing everyone’s hard work pay off”.

“The whole school stops for a day to celebrate the school and the community we’re part of”.

“It’s great seeing everyone united and their ideas and creativity”.

During this time learning at a distance, the College continues to offer students quality teaching and learning experiences including co-curricular activities. Students are still rehearsing for the Hairspray Jr musical production for Years 7 and 8 and participating in music lessons via Zoom and daily fitness sessions such as live Pilates, run by the sports department.

In addition, the school wellbeing team and Homeroom teachers have developed a Learning at a Distance Framework to keep in touch with students and parents daily and provide ongoing support as needed.

Congratulations to everyone involved in Gen Day, it’s great to see our community spirit alive and well. Plans are in place for Gen Day Take #2 later in the year when school resumes on campus.