ES Staff in the Spotlight
Of our 186 staff at Wantirna College, we have 111 teaching staff and 75 education support staff (ES). Primarily the role of our ES is to support teachers and students to achieve the best possible educational outcomes for students. Their jobs vary greatly, with some providing direct support to students in the classroom and some focused on maintaining our beautiful grounds and buildings, whilst others are in the General Office ensuring payments for camps, excursions and programs are processed accordingly.
Our school couldn’t operate without the valuable work they do which is often not as visible as the work our teachers do. However, it is just as vital in ensuring we provide the best possible opportunities for our students. This term, our Staff in the Spotlight will shine a light on the valuable work our ES do and the people in these roles who support our students and teachers.
This week we are spotlighting Joanne Montgomery.
Jo is our Library Manager and has done an incredible job over the past 5 years in making it the wonderful and inclusive space it is. Jo is always looking for new ways to connect with students and she is committed to ensuring our students have access to resources that will further support their literacy outcomes. At lunchtimes, our library is a sought after space for students as they engage in clubs, play games, collaborate in small groups or settle in for some quiet reading time. It’s located in the heart of the school and Jo does a mountain of work every day to make it a relevant and vibrant place to be!
How long have you worked at Wantirna College?
10 Years
Briefly describe your role and responsibilities.
I manage all aspects of the Library, the most obvious role being curating the Library collection and helping students develop a love for reading. Behind the scenes, I’m kept busy with running activities and competitions, assisting students and staff with research, creating library promotions, helping with laptop and printing issues, purchasing and cataloguing new materials, budgeting, and in the last few years administering the Compass reporting system. I also keep students amused with a steady stream of 3D printed gadgets.
How does the work you do support students and/or teachers?
I work closely with the English department to help students engage with reading. Research shows reading improves vocabulary, increases empathy, and helps students develop critical thinking skills. These skills are vital for school and beyond, and my goal is to help each student discover what sort of reading they enjoy so they can become lifelong readers and learners.
What is the best thing about Wantirna College?
The people. The staff are fantastic, always ready to help if needed, and so many of them have fascinating interests and hobbies. The students are curious and funny and always have an interesting fact or question for me.
What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
Never having enough time in the day
If you were the boss of Wantirna College and had an unlimited budget to spend, what would you spend it on and why?
Oh, so many things. A bigger Library budget for sure, so I can purchase all the items students ask for. Free printing as many students struggle with printing credit. And because I’m a bit of a nerd, a wall mounted beehive so we can watch the bees at work and collect the honey, and some 3D printers. Oh, and some egg chairs for students who need some quiet time. I’ll stop there 😊
If you hosted a dinner party and had to invite three Wantirna teachers, who would they be and why?
I’m going to cheat and turn it into a picnic at the dog park. So many staff have wonderful dogs and everyone can bring them along.
What’s your ideal holiday destination?
My couch, a pile of books, and someone else to cook dinner! Otherwise, maybe Iceland where I can see an aurora and a puffin or two.