Learning Diversity 

Below communication was sent to families last week:

Dear Parents,

I write to you with the good news that Ms Karlee Agnew has been successful in attaining the Learning Consultant, Diversity role in the Northern Region of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS). This is a significant appointment for Karlee and will allow her to continue her professional advancement with a greater number of Catholic primary schools.

Diversity emcompasses all learners across academic, social, emotional, physical and sensory attributes. Through Karlee's leadership, she has enacted for children an inclusive pedagogy and a commitment to uphold the rights of all to be welcomed, valued, acknowledged and actively engaged in education.  Karlee’s ability to help establish a multidisciplinary approach across all Learning & Teaching and Wellbeing areas is evident in the strong pedagogical practices at St James. 

In the past 5 years, Karlee has proven that she possesses an amazing ability to embrace diversity, enrich learning experiences, provide equity and inclusion for all children. Her relationship with families has been one of compassion and understanding. This role required a sensitivity and an attentive ear with parents, allied health professionals, teachers and Learning Support Officers. Karlee’s growth and development at St James has been exceptional. The opportunities made available to her have ensured that her recent appointment was grounded in the resources and professional growth available at St James. 

We have and will continue to build a culture of high expectations and commitment to excellence with a strong focus on meeting the needs of all students to reach their full potential. 

Whilst we will dearly miss Karlee, we take satisfaction that her appointment was based not only on her potential but also founded by the professional nature at St James. 

Karlee will continue to work closely with staff in the coming weeks to consolidate current support for students at St James. She will commence her Learning Consultant, Diversity role in the Northern Office from March 11th. Karlee will meet with families in the coming weeks during Program Support Group (PSG) meetings to maintain momentum for students receiving support.

I am pleased to announce that Mrs Emma Herbert has been appointed as our Learning Diversity Leader for the next two years. Emma is a member of the Leadership Team as Religious Education Leader, STEM and Sustainability Leader. 

Emma is very familiar with the structures and multidisciplinary approach in place at St James, our children, teachers and parent community. The solid foundation that Karlee has implemented over the past few years will continue through Emma’s leadership.

We are indebted to Karlee and the teams she has established over time, her strong emphasis of thinking beyond the norm and now look forward to Emma continuing to place a strong holistic focus on all of our learners.

Karlee and Emma will work together in the coming weeks to provide a smooth transition of Learning Diversity.

We wish Karlee every success in the next stage of her professional career.

Regards,

Brendan Flanagan

Principal -St James Brighton.