Inspirational teachers from across South Australia have been recognised at the second SA Public Teaching Awards.
Of the more than 1700 nominations submitted, 69 were named as regional winners in August while seven finalists were revealed on Friday night.
The ceremony was held at the National Wine Centre of Australia.
List of winners and judge's comments:
Inspirational School/Preschool Leader of the Year
Lynne Symons – Mark Oliphant College (B-12), Northern Adelaide Region
Lynne demonstrates very strong leadership. She is consistent, resilient, and produces great community outcomes. She brought three schools together in the creation of Mark Oliphant College, and did it very well. She is innovative and creative in developing new structures and systems.
Inspirational Secondary School Teacher of the Year
Louka Parry – Mimili Anangu School, Far North and Aboriginal Lands Region
Louka goes significantly above and beyond the expectations required of any teacher. He uses IT across the curriculum, linking the past with the present and using (Aboriginal) language. He demonstrates vision and passion, and is the kind of teacher everyone wants for their child.
Inspirational Primary School Teacher of the Year
Natalie Gherardin – Naracoorte South Primary School, Limestone Coast Region
Natalie has an innovative approach to the profession. She steps out of her classroom, reaches out to parents and establishes links with children and parents.
Inspirational Preschool Teacher of the Year
Angela Plisko – Barbara Kiker Memorial Kindergarten, Western Adelaide Region
Angela demonstrates professional leadership in curriculum, and among her peers. She has a concern for the whole child, helping them to ‘blossom into confident little people’. She is a good role model for anyone considering a career in a pre-school.
Inspirational Early Career Teacher of the Year
Esther Dudley – Victor Harbor High School, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island Region
Esther has a warmth and passion for students. She has taken on leadership roles early in her career and is focussed on practice development.
Excellent School/Preschool Support Staff Member of the Year
Belinda Pringle – Wasleys Primary School, Barossa Region
Belinda works as the school finance officer, runs the school library and also provides regular classroom support. She shows initiative well beyond the expected role, and has an impact throughout the whole community. She encourages students into charitable activities and in doing so extends their self-esteem and pride in their school community.
Innovative School/Preschool Engagement with Business and the Community
Andamooka Primary School Community Development Team – Far North and Aboriginal Lands Region
The community development team at Andamooka invites parents in to learn with the students. The school is leading the community in challenging times.
Praise for public schools
Minister for Education Grace Portolesi said each state award winner will receive a scholarship of up to $20,000 towards their professional development.
"They are a great asset to their school community," she said.
"They are passionate about what they do and go above and beyond to improve the learning experiences of their students."
