engage in our programs: I rode a bike on part of the journey from Corryong to Carey, I walked for a week along the Great Ocean Road track, I slept under the stars at Toonallook and I climbed the infamous Mt B with Year 9 students. Contact with students is the lifeblood of an educator; however, I am equally proud of the work completed with the support of the Board and the School Management Team to establish a clear strategic direction This included overseeing some major strategic projects such as the Centre for Learning and Innovation and the soon-to-be-completed Middle School redevelopment. Although not as widely known as the building development, there are myriad other activities taking place that are vital to the functioning of a thriving school, and to my role as Principal. Whether that be the Monday morning Donvale assemblies, meeting and
reading to each Prep class at the start of the year, lunches with Year 12 students, the amazing Year 3 Kitchen Garden program and the numerous concerts, musicals and APS sporting matches – these are integral to a cohesive school community. I am grateful for the collegial input and shared ownership of our united school direction. There are two moments that capture what Carey is to me, and will remain part of my personal narrative that I will hold close. One was the day Revd Gerry Riviere and I sat in tears in my office after awarding one of our Humanitarian Scholarships to a worthy recipient. The other was the day in November 2018 when I had the privilege to represent the collective Carey voice at the Senate Enquiry to support anti-discrimination legislation. It was a significant moment that affirmed who we are as a diverse and inclusive community and one that is not inward looking.
The Principal at any school is in a position of privilege, commissioned with many roles, including the important task of shaping culture. When we came to Carey as a family, we quickly understood the focus on service as part of the Carey DNA. I had the opportunity to immerse myself within this culture, and to further enhance it together with the community as the Carey story progressed. Nothing great can be achieved without great people. I feel incredibly honoured to have worked with our wonderful students, and I am appreciative for the sensational support from my School Management Team, teachers, professional support staff, parents, alumni and volunteers. Thank you. I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude to have led this great school – it has been an honour and an experience that has shaped who I am and who I will be going into the future.
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