Vale Jacob Givogue
Dear parents and carers, students, and the wider school community, It is with deep sadness that I write to inform you of the death of our Assistant Principal, Jacob Givogue, after a long illness. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with Jacob’s family and friends at this difficult time.
As an Assistant Principal and teacher, Jacob was deeply involved in Learning Support Programs and the Tutor Learning Initiative in recent years. Through this important work, he supported a wide range of students and families across the Strathmore school community with great care and commitment. Jacob was also a passionate and dedicated English teacher who loved sharing his enthusiasm for literature and learning with his students. Jacob believed deeply in the capacity of every student to learn and consistently worked to bring out the very best in every learner he taught. He was highly supportive of his colleagues and actively sought opportunities to encourage and nurture their professional growth. Working closely with the student teams, Jacob supported a diverse range of students to reach their potential and navigate the many challenges young people may experience. Above all, Jacob was a wonderful colleague, teacher and leader; known for his integrity, professionalism, and the genuine respect and kindness he showed to everyone around him. Jacob leaves behind a legacy of care and commitment that will not be forgotten.
Hearing the news of Jacob’s passing may result in a distressing time for some of our students, and we want to reassure families that support is available. If you have any concerns about your child’s response to this news, you can request an appointment with our Student Wellbeing Manager, Christina Coldebella, or another member of the wellbeing team by contacting the front office on 9379 7999 or via the school email: strathmore.sc@education.vic.gov.au.
In addition, here is a list of community support organisations:
• Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au • Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au • https://www.grief.org.au/ga/ga/Content/Information-Sheets/Adolescents_and_Grief.aspx• https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/grief-and-loss/
Grief is a personal experience and as such people will react differently – we ask that you be guided by your own child’s needs. If your child is obviously distressed, we would encourage you to listen to them and provide comfort and reassurance where possible. If you feel your child needs more assistance than you can provide, please don’t hesitate to seek further help and a referral from a health professional such as your GP.
Strathmore Secondary College staff were informed of this sad news at a staff briefing, and we are working closely with the Department of Education to provide additional support for staff during this difficult time. Staff have shown great care and compassion for one another as they reflect on their time working alongside their colleague and friend. Jacob would have been deeply touched by the way staff have supported one another, a reflection of the strong relationships and shared values he so greatly valued.
There is no doubt that this news has saddened us all; however, maintaining familiar school routines is important at this time. Every effort is being made to support both students, staff, and families, and we sincerely thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult period. Sincerely,
Susanne ProsenicaPrincipal
As an Assistant Principal and teacher, Jacob was deeply involved in Learning Support Programs and the Tutor Learning Initiative in recent years. Through this important work, he supported a wide range of students and families across the Strathmore school community with great care and commitment. Jacob was also a passionate and dedicated English teacher who loved sharing his enthusiasm for literature and learning with his students. Jacob believed deeply in the capacity of every student to learn and consistently worked to bring out the very best in every learner he taught. He was highly supportive of his colleagues and actively sought opportunities to encourage and nurture their professional growth. Working closely with the student teams, Jacob supported a diverse range of students to reach their potential and navigate the many challenges young people may experience. Above all, Jacob was a wonderful colleague, teacher and leader; known for his integrity, professionalism, and the genuine respect and kindness he showed to everyone around him. Jacob leaves behind a legacy of care and commitment that will not be forgotten.
Hearing the news of Jacob’s passing may result in a distressing time for some of our students, and we want to reassure families that support is available. If you have any concerns about your child’s response to this news, you can request an appointment with our Student Wellbeing Manager, Christina Coldebella, or another member of the wellbeing team by contacting the front office on 9379 7999 or via the school email: strathmore.sc@education.vic.gov.au.
In addition, here is a list of community support organisations:
• Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au • Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au • https://www.grief.org.au/ga/ga/Content/Information-Sheets/Adolescents_and_Grief.aspx• https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/grief-and-loss/
Grief is a personal experience and as such people will react differently – we ask that you be guided by your own child’s needs. If your child is obviously distressed, we would encourage you to listen to them and provide comfort and reassurance where possible. If you feel your child needs more assistance than you can provide, please don’t hesitate to seek further help and a referral from a health professional such as your GP.
Strathmore Secondary College staff were informed of this sad news at a staff briefing, and we are working closely with the Department of Education to provide additional support for staff during this difficult time. Staff have shown great care and compassion for one another as they reflect on their time working alongside their colleague and friend. Jacob would have been deeply touched by the way staff have supported one another, a reflection of the strong relationships and shared values he so greatly valued.
There is no doubt that this news has saddened us all; however, maintaining familiar school routines is important at this time. Every effort is being made to support both students, staff, and families, and we sincerely thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult period. Sincerely,
Susanne ProsenicaPrincipal