Farewell from Mrs Heatley

(sent via Compass on Wednesday 11th Dec) 

To the Karoo Primary School Community,

It is with a mix of emotions that I write to share some personal news. After five and a half wonderful years at Karoo Primary School, three of those as Principal, I will be moving into a new role in Term 2 2025 and beyond. I have been appointed to a new position, presenting a significant and unique opportunity. While I’m unable to share specific details just yet, I look forward to sharing more in the coming weeks. While this is an exciting opportunity, it also comes with sadness as I prepare to leave the incredible Karoo community.

Leading Karoo Primary School has been an honour and privilege. Working with our exceptional staff, inspiring students, and supportive families has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. Reflecting on my time at Karoo, I feel immense gratitude for the memories and connections I have built. Karoo’s strength lies in its people—the heart and soul of our community. 

The staff at Karoo are some of the most dedicated and talented educators I have had the privilege to work alongside. Their unwavering commitment to providing high-quality learning experiences and nurturing each student is remarkable and can sometimes go under the radar. Our students are so fortunate to have our teachers, education support staff and leaders, providing them access to a range of enriching programs and opportunities.

To our parents and caregivers, thank you for your trust, collaboration, and support. Your involvement has ensured that Karoo remains a vibrant and inclusive school community. I am deeply grateful for the partnerships we have formed and for the collective commitment to our students' success.

Over my years as Principal, we have celebrated many milestones and changes at Karoo, always with the goal of creating a school that continues to improve and supports every child to thrive. Some of these wonderful event memories will be the 30 Year carnival, appointing student leaders, termly community events, colour runs, PEPS nights, Book Week, the Outdoor Garden, the new Turf and Futsal Court just to name a few.  The people (staff, students and parents) hold the dearest memories though.  The support shown for each other, learning and leading together.  The way we all lift each other up and are each other’s cheerleaders.  From the successes of the classroom to the support of our School Council and KPA, every effort has been a team effort, and I am so proud of what we have achieved together.

I will be at school for the first day of Term 1 2025 after which I will be taking leave for the remainder of the term. During this time, Mrs. Courtney Hoffmann will step in as Acting Principal. The Department of Education will begin the process of appointing a substantive Principal to commence in Term 2, 2025.

Thank you for your support, trust, and kindness over the past five and half years. It has been a privilege to serve as Principal of Karoo Primary School.

Danielle Heatley

The Very Proud Principal of Karoo PS