Accolades for long-serving teachers
Teachers and education administrators across the Wimmera and southern Mallee are among recipients of long-service awards as part of a statewide recognition program.
The State Government has recognised 342 staff members for more than 40 years of service to the Victorian education sector, acknowledging dedication, hard work and persistence over many decades.
Recipients include Leonie Clarke, Rainbow P-12 College, and Joylene Boehm, Murtoa College, for 45 years of service.
Others acknowledged for 40 years of service include Heather Hutchins and Michelle Ismay, Rainbow P-12 College, Peter Mcdonald, Nhill College, Peter Clayton, Warracknabeal Special Development School principal, Dale Mcrae, Horsham College and Susan Tyler, Rupanyup Primary School.
Education Minister James Merlino congratulated recipients, acknowledged through a Recognition of Service to Victorian Education program.
The breakdown of recipients included 174 teachers and staff recognised for 40 years of service, 119 staff for 45 years of service, 40 staff for 50 years of service, and nine staff for 55 years of service.
Mr Merlino said the awards reflected many years of provision of ‘fantastic’ education to Victorian students.
“I know all Victorians are with me when we thank them for their decades of dedication,” he said.
“Whether they work in the classroom or in an office supporting schools, everyone receiving recognition for their service to Victorian education has made a huge contribution to our Education State.”
Mr Clayton said he had taught at the same school since 1981 and agreed he ‘wouldn’t swap it for quids’.
“I do what I love. When I get up in the morning I know I’m going to work to do something I really enjoy,” he said.
“I get to do what our core business is – to make the kids the best possible people they can be by the time they finish their time with us.
“That’s what I enjoy – seeing the change and growth in the kids.
“Some of the first kids I taught would be in their mid-50s now.
“How we go about teaching of kids with additional needs has completely changed.
“We’re more in line with mainstream schools.”