Introducing OPS’s new principal
Iam delighted to be able to write this as the new principal of Ōmokoroa Point School. I want to acknowledge the work Vicki Knell has done over her tenure at OPS, and I wish her the best for her future endeavours.
I started my new role with a pōwhiri on Monday. Ōmokoroa Point School gave a warm welcome to my family, the staff, Board of Trustees and student representatives from Maungatapu School and myself. I have found everyone to be very helpful; I am enjoying getting to know you all.
I am joining Ōmokoroa Point School having spent the past seven years as Deputy Principal at Maungatapu School. Previously, I have been Deputy Principal and Principal, a Resource Teacher of Behaviour and Learning Cluster Manager, and a teacher of all primary levels from year New Entrant to Year 8 at a variety of schools in Rotorua and Tauranga area. I completed my Bachelor of Education and Diploma of Teaching at Waikato University, returning to complete my Master of Educational Leadership in 2015.
I am a Waikato girl, having grown up on a dairy farm just out of Morrinsville. My parents moved to Morrinsville on retirement, so I still visit there often. I live with my husband Trevor in The Lakes in Tauranga. I enjoy running, walking and doing Pilates to keep fit, although at times the mind is more willing than the body.
I believe in creating a platform of excellence for students, setting high expectations for learning and behaviour through developing and delivering a responsive and relevant curriculum. I prioritise establishing a positive school culture based on shared values and a commitment to bicultural partnerships.
As a person and a leader, I take pride in getting to know people and building relationships that are genuine and authentic. I look forward to meeting you all and working alongside you to continue the great work I have heard and read about from Vicki and the Board of Trustees.
Ngā mihi nui.