From the Principal

An amazing journey ends but a new one begins

A guide, leader and passionate special educationalist will soon say farewell to a place she has loved and helped build for many years. For more than 25 years Sophia has been educating young minds with a particular passion for those in a special education setting. Sophia has been a guide not only for her students but those who raise them. Often recounting experiences and achievements with families, Sophia has supported and enabled many with good will, kindness and wise reflection.

I have been very fortunate to have spent amazing times learning and wondering with Sophia. In school reviews (2014 and 2018) and over three years of immersed research, planning and consultation, together we have learnt what a new building could be, using the money available. Sophia is very proud of this milestone and was extremely proud of the Early Years facility. It’s only one of the shining achievements that Sophia is very proud of. You see, Sophia has achieved so much. From being an acting principal, to being an Assistant Principal for almost ten years. From being an early education teacher and generalist teacher early in her career. From contributing to state conferences and building the amazing playground spaces that our school has cherished. In fact, building the spaces for children has been one of her great passions and Sophia would always be heard chatting up the playground builder to get the best deal.

Sophia often shares with me the days when she was a classroom teacher at Yarrabah. “We had eleven students and only 1 ES”, Sophia would share. The breaks were infrequent but the expectations were high. It’s this history that has helped guide her understandings, expectations, possibilities and values of staff at Yarrabah.

Sophia has made many close friends along the journey. Sophia’s family is also very important. Her children and grandchildren play a central role in Sophia’s life. But Sophia has other plans, and its these you might find out about over this week, when you take time to thank her personally for the contribution to education and special needs in our state.

We will miss Sophia as will those who have been mentored by her passionate and directing guidance. This Tuesday from 2.00pm onwards, families and students pay their regards and thank Sophia for the amazing contribution to our school. Once students and families leave for home, we encourage all staff to celebrate together in the life skills area, thanking Sophia for her years of service.

Junior School building modifications

Building is a challenging task as some of you know, not always one that yields everything you might wish for.

I have requested modifications from the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA). We will continue to modify the buildings as we occupy them by negotiating individually. Like the EEP, the new building will be adjusted and we will modify it to fit our purpose. 

We are really looking forward to seeing our children come to their new school and learn in a building that is just for them. We have the lasting chance to make something truly amazing for these children. 

Landscaping, internal improvements and storage are all items have been discussed with me. Many of these were not included in the build. We will plan for these inclusions as well as the equipment, desks, fences, playground equipment and comforts of making this a really wonderful learning space. 

A furniture grant will be provided next term. I requested it earlier, however, we will get it when it’s delivered, not upon request. 

Looking forward to taking occupation of the Primary School. It’s been 4 years in the making and we are now about to embark on a new stage in the teaching and learning environments of young people at Yarrabah School.