Assistant 

Principal News Flash 

                                                         Dan Moloney & Ellen Paterson

Welcome back to all staff and students for the 2025 school year!

Welcome Ellen!

I would like to formally introduce myself; Ellen Paterson Acting Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning. I have been teaching in special education settings for the last 15 years both in Victoria and New Zealand. Most recently at Glenroy Specialist School as the Leading Teacher of Accountability but having also worked at Western Autistic School, Heatherwood School and Port Phillip Specialist School. I love working collaboratively with staff, students and families to help each child grow and thrive in their schooling journey. 

When I'm not at school I am running after my 2 boys aged 2 and 4, our American Staffy - Tua and my Kiwi husband. We love getting out on weekends, exploring new playgrounds and spending time together as a family.

I am looking forward to being part of the JSA school community and introducing myself to everyone in the coming weeks during SSGs as you meet with your child's 2025 teacher and setting their learning goals for the year.

Attendance Reminder

As our department often say, 'Everyday Counts: School is better when you're here.'

We remind our students and their families that, to improve and grow in your learning, we need you at school as often as possible. We are committed to sustaining a positive partnership with families; understanding any challenges you face and do what we can to support your needs that help your child/ren come to school.

We ask that you sustain regular communication with your child's teacher both day to day and during scheduled SSG meetings so that you can work together to maximise your child's attendance and ongoing learning needs throughout the year. 

Beyond occasional non-attendance, a range of school-based, tailored supports are there for these families. Members of our leadership team, may make contact with families to provide more intensive supports, to overcome specific barriers to your child's attendance.

Dan Moloney, our AP (Wellbeing and Inclusion) oversees the Wellbeing Team that select, implement and monitor progress appropriate supports for each family.