Margo Stone was also taught by Mr Fox at Griffith High. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
Verity Christian College interim principal Margo Stone is keen to build on the “compassion” legacy of veteran educator David Fox, who retired at the end of Term 3.
Mr Fox became the inaugural leader at Griffith’s first non-Catholic Christian school, which opened its doors for 16 students in 2018.
His protege Ms Stone has now been tasked with leading a school that has 140 pupils and continuing its expansion.
Region caught up with her to find out about her new job, the school, her background, inspirations and plans for 2026.
What’s it like to be a school principal?
I love it. You never know what you’re going to get in a day. You might have to deal with a blocked toilet, a student problem, a staff issue or you’re handling government or funding. You’re facing a myriad of things, it never stops, it’s the best job ever.
What did you learn from David Fox?
He’s a great person to learn from, with almost 50 years of education experience.
I learned about his compassion for the kids and the way he set up the school so beautifully to make sure the families felt connected – that’s why it’s like a community.
David Fox always had time for the pupils. Photo: Verity Christian College.
As a school, what makes Verity Christian College different?
Faith is foundational to our whole belief system. We start with a chapel service every day.
Our teachers are incredibly caring about their students. Whether they’re struggling or thriving we’ve got the extra support to take kids in the right direction.
We also tend to have smaller class sizes. We aim for 15 students per class, some are a bit bigger, some are smaller.
We are affiliated with LifeSource church but welcome all Christian denominations.
Tell me about your background
I’m born and bred in Griffith. I went to Griffith North Public School and then Griffith High, where David Fox was my teacher.
My parents went over to Vanuatu as missionaries and we lived there for a while when I was a child. It was two of the best years of my life. The people were beautiful and I enjoyed the lifestyle of beach, coconuts and jungle.
My husband Jonathan is a pastor and we have four children. We ran chicken farms for six years, growing them for Bartter’s Enterprises.
Your career in education?
My first job was at West Wyalong Public School as a teacher’s aide.
I came to Verity when we started in 2018, initially to answer phones and do accounts and then became the business manager.
What were you like as a student?
Chatty. Maths was my favourite subject.
Who were some teachers who inspired you?
Gary Bell. He was a good, strict maths teacher who made sure you always got your homework done.
Stephen Baird. He was a Christian, he taught English and History. He could make a subject come alive.
Who have been your mentors in life?
My husband Jonathan taught me a lot about leadership. Steve Rand is an excellent leader. David Fox, of course, taught me all about what a school needs to do. I also learned a lot from my brother.
A famous person you most admire?
Jesus. He’s just the best.
Plans for 2026?
We are changing our structure. We previously had primary, middle school and secondary. Now we’re going to have just a primary (K to 6) and high school (7 to 12).
We currently have a waiting list so we are also looking for more land so we can grow our numbers.
