How well do you
know our staff?
This week we learn a little about Laura, Sarah and Monica.
Laura Dimogerondas
How long have you been teaching/working in schools?
I have been teaching for a long, long time…. I began teaching at St. Mark’s then moved to St. Dominic’s. Both schools were in the northern suburbs of Melbourne and both were multicultural schools. After nine years of teaching I decided to meander down the coast to the Mornington Peninsula for a sea change, where I got a position at St. Joseph’s. Yes, that’s right, ‘I’m back!’ When I began, I taught Italian and shared a 3/4 class. Over my seventeen years at the school I held many
positions of leadership. In 2010 I moved to St. Thomas More’s in Mt. Eliza, where
I taught Years 1/2 and 3/4. By June 2012 my calling to teach came from Singapore.
I spent seven happy years teaching in an International School expanding my experiences. I was given the opportunity to be Head of the Pre-School Department. I was also lucky enough to be sent to Reggio Emilia in Italy to study the Reggio Emilia Approach to teaching and learning.
Current roles and responsibilities?
I am currently working as a classroom teacher, part-time, in the 3/4 learning space.
What do you love about working at St Joseph’s?
I have always loved the community feel of the school and the connectedness to the families. It is surreal to now be teaching the children of my past students. I am also extremely lucky to work with a group of very dedicated and passionate teachers who care about the students.
Areas of school you are passionate about/involved in?
I am passionate about teaching all areas to the students, but above all I love English. I love talking about books. I enjoy reading many different stories that lead to real life discussions and sharing experiences. I also love immersing the students in all different types of writing from poetry to narratives.
Interests/passions outside of school?
Listening to music.
Reading.
Travelling to warm places.
Going for long walks.
Family
I have been married for 39 fabulous years to my husband Christos. I have two nieces, Alicia and Vanessa and two nephews, Jason and Luke, who I treasure dearly. I now live with and care for my elderly parents, whom I love.
Sarah Byrne
How long have you been teaching/working in schools?
My first teaching job was at St Joseph’s in 2010. I taught a Prep/1 class in a classroom that is now part of the 1/2 learning space.
Current roles and responsibilities?
I am in Prep Wednesdays and Thursdays and another day I do different assessments and planning around the school.
What do you love about working at St Joseph’s?
We are always looking at ways we can be better teachers and to do the best for all the students. It is a great school, with very hard working teachers. I love working in teams and having great friends, we are always laughing. The small community is really nice, I feel I can get to know all the students and their families.
Interests/passions outside of school?
On the weekends my children and I catch up with friends and family.
Family
My family is Grace who is 4 in September, Ollie who is 16 months old and my dog Albi who is 5.
Monica Caddy
How long have you been teaching/working in schools?
I have been teaching for 11 years. I moved to the Peninsula last year and began teaching at St. Joseph’s this year.
Current roles and responsibilities?
I am currently teaching in the 1/2 learning space.
What do you love about working at St Joseph’s?
I love the community at St. Joseph’s. Walking in each day and seeing the excitement on the students' faces and knowing that we have the opportunity to create a lasting love for learning, is what makes St. Joseph's an amazing place. Our students are curious, brave and inspire us everyday. In the 1/2 learning space we are constantly collaborating and learning from each other, everyday is different.
Interests/passions outside of school?
Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I love walking my dog Max, shopping and travelling.
Family
I am the youngest in my family.
My parents and siblings all live in Melbourne.
My husband Sam and I live with our two year old Beagle Max.