Getting to know the HPS teachers is an important part of building strong connections within our school community. By learning more about the people who work closely with your children each day, families can feel more confident and engaged in their child’s learning journey. Strong relationships between teachers, students and families support communication, trust and a positive learning environment for all.

In each newsletter, we will share a little bit about some of our teachers through a Staff Profile. We have asked teachers a range of questions and they have provided their responses. Please enjoy reading about Mrs Scully (Year Six teacher), Mr Smith (Year Five teacher), Ms Costopoulos (Year Four teacher), Mr Politis (Year Four teacher) and Miss Giannis (Year Four teacher) this week.

Mrs Scully

History of employment? (where have you worked)

I have worked at Highvale for 11 years, before that I worked at both Parkmore and Whitehorse Primary Schools. Before becoming a teacher I worked for Melbourne University in a Public Relations/Alumni role in the Faculty of Medicine and before that I worked with Villa Maria Society for the Blind and the international aid organisation - CARE Australia.

When not at school I like to…….

I am an avid reader and always have a novel on the go. Before coming to school every morning I sit outside with a cup of coffee and read, to start my day. I enjoy sewing and crafts. I seem to be always fixing one item of clothing or another for my family but I love to actually make clothes, paint, make jewelry and anything else that takes my fancy. I love to walk along a beach and enjoy it even more if it is wet and windy!

If I wasn’t a teacher I would like to…

Travel the world and explore and experience as many different countries and cultures that I could.

I also dream of travelling Australia and along the way being a fill-in manager at caravan parks and motels while the owners have a holiday themselves.

My family

I have three adult children who still live at home, Zach is 24, Margarita is 22 and Kaelan is 20. My husband, Wil was born in India and works in finance. We all adore our Lab X Border Collie called Nala.

Mr Smith

History of employment? (where have you worked)

Heathmont East - 2015-2021

Park Ridge - 2022

Highvale - 2023-present

Who was your favourite teacher at school and why?

Miss Smith in Year 7 P.E. She just took the time to talk and you felt seen even when the class and cohort was very big.

When not at school I like to…….

Golf, watch AFL, run

My family

My wife, Amruta.

My son, Kiyaan, is 3 years old.

Expecting another baby in August.

My dog, Simba the Golden Retriever who is 6.

Ms Costopoulos

History of Employment

I have been teaching for 17 years and have had the privilege of working at three primary schools throughout my career. Over the years, I have taught across a range of year levels, building strong relationships with students and families and contributing to positive, supportive school communities.

When I’m Not at School…

When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy going to the beach, practising Pilates and yoga, dancing, walking in nature, shopping (especially for fashion!), reading, listening to music, watching movies, cooking, and relaxing with a coffee or acai.

My Family

Family is very important to me. I have a son, Louis (13), a daughter, Zoe (11), and our much-loved dog, Kaya. We love spending time together, especially outdoors and at the beach.

If I Wasn’t a Teacher…

If I wasn’t a teacher, I would love to work in fashion or interior design, as I enjoy creativity, styling, and bringing beautiful ideas to life.

Mr Politis

When not at school I like to…

Watch sports (Soccer/AFL), play Squash, and spend time with family/friends.

What makes HPS a great school to work at?

HPS is a great school to work at because it is genuinely enjoyable. Staff are supportive and collaborative, which creates a positive working environment where ideas are valued.

Who was your favourite teacher at school and why?

Year 11/12 PE, Mr Woolhouse. He made lessons enjoyable and motivating, and he treated students with respect while still pushing us to do our best. His positive attitude and sense of humour made PE something I genuinely looked forward to.

If I wasn’t a teacher I would like to be…

If I wasn’t a teacher, I would’ve liked to go into something like physiotherapy. It combines helping people with movement, recovery, and overall wellbeing.

Miss Tsantlogianis (Giannis)

When not at school I like to…

Travel to new places, read, go for walks and cook/bake (I love trying out new recipes). I love spending time with my friends and family in my spare time.

If I wasn’t a teacher I would like to be…

If I wasn't a teacher, I would’ve gone down the path of design (specifically interior design) or nutrition as I have a passion for both areas.

Who was your favourite teacher at school and why

My grade 5 teacher, Mr Boyle. He made classes so exciting and always motivated us to excel to our best. He always made everyone feel seen in the class.

What makes HPS a great school to work at?

The community at Highvale is so inviting. I have made such great relationships with fellow staff who have been so supportive. The students and teachers make the atmosphere wonderful!

Here are photos of our wonderful teaching team on their first day!

Our Prep Teachers

Our Year 1 & 2 Teachers

Our Year 3 Teachers

Our Year 4 Teachers

Our Year 5 Teachers

Our Year 6 Teachers

Random acts of Kindness Day