School mourns beloved teacher
THE SACRED Heart College community is mourning the loss of a beloved former maths teacher.
Paul Smith, affectionately known by students as “Dermie”, was a senior maths teacher and Year 12 homeroom teacher from 1991 to 1998.
Principal Anna Negro said Mr Smith began tutoring students when he became a quadriplegic after an accident nearly 20 years ago.
“In 1998, as a result of an accident in his home, he became a quadriplegic. After the accident, Paul continued his work at Sacred Heart tutoring students in maths,” Ms Negro said. “He retired in 2012.” Ms Negro said Mr Smith would be remembered fondly by staff and students.
“Our school community has been saddened by the passing of former staff member Paul Smith, our valued colleague and friend,” Ms Negro said. “Paul is now in God’s care.” Former student Nicole Grotheer said Mr Smith was nick- named “Dermie” after dressing up as Hawthorn player Dermott Bereton. The Hawthornobsessed maths teacher ran an athletics race wearing a blonde mullett wig.
“I remember him running this race and filling us with laughter,” Ms Grotheer said.
“I remember this moment as it was not long after that athletics day that he had that ter- rible accident at home.
“I then admired him so much when he returned from his accident to tutor, I was so proud to see him wheel around the school — such courage and strength. “A truly great man gone.” Ms Negro said the school community’s thoughts were with Mr Smith’s sons Brian and Des, and their families.