Pioneer in autism work

A PRIMARY school teacher who has pioneered work in the area of autism in Tasmania and nationally has been awarded a Public Service Medal for outstanding service to education.

Over a career of almost 50 years, Karen Gee has combined her skills in primary school teaching, special education and psychology to provide an insight into the school system to support young people, families and the school communities.

In the area of autism, Mrs Gee has been a Tasmanian and Australian ambassador in the Griffiths Scales of Ch i ld Development – an invaluable tool for psychologists and paediatricians.

Mrs Gee was awarded a Hardie Fellowship in 2009 to study in the US and has worked as a volunteer with Mother Teresa’s Sisters of Charity in Calcutta, India.

She is also a member of the Trustee of the Association of Research in Infant and Child Development, based in the UK, and has conducted developmental assessment and intervention training workshops for psychologists, paediatricians, allied health workers and caregivers.

“I have been privileged to work in an interdisciplinary team to support children and families. If we can respectfully make a difference to the quality of life of people around us, our community will be enriched and strengthened,” Mrs Gee said.