Wagga Wagga High School teachers Debra Clark and Samantha Shephard and student Emma Mundy were all recognised at the 2024 Public Education Awards. Photo: Supplied.
The Riverina has been well represented at the 2024 Public Education Awards with four locals recognised for their achievements and contributions to public schools in our region.
The awards were handed out at Sydney Town Hall on Tuesday (6 August), celebrating individuals, school initiatives, community partnerships and contributions to school communities.
Wagga Wagga High School teachers Debra Clark and Samantha Shephard each received a Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and Wagga High student Emma Mundy took home a Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student Achievement.
Ms Clark is widely respected for her work in hospitality education and for the profound impact on the students and teachers she works with.
Ms Shephard was recognised for her wellbeing-based approach to teaching and the positive impact she has had in the classroom and as a member of the school wellbeing team.
Year 12 student Emma Mundy was complimented for being an exemplary student, a genuine all-rounder and for her contribution to the whole school community.
Aunty Joy O’Hara was presented with a Secretary’s Award for Excellent Service to public education by the Secretary of Education Murat Dizdar and former Justice of the High Court, Michael Kirby. Photo: Supplied.
Narrandera High School’s Aboriginal Education Officer, Aunty Joy O’Hara was the fourth Riverina resident to receive an award in recognition of more than two decades as a positive role model in the school and community.
Aunty Joy received a Secretary’s Award for Excellent Service for her commitment to improving the educational, social, emotional, and cultural outcomes for all Indigenous students at Narrandera High.
The event was held during Public Education Week for the first time and Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said she was excited to celebrate achievement under the theme ‘Proud to belong’.
Public Education Week celebrates and acknowledges those who contribute to the educational journey of kids across NSW.
“The Public Education Awards are an important opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the amazing work of our teachers, school communities and other staff who each day work together to bring out the best in our students,” Minister Car said.
“This annual celebration also recognises the academic, cultural, sporting and leadership excellence of our students, as we share in their personal stories and performances.”
Wagga Wagga High School student Emma Mundy with teachers Samantha Shephard and Debra Clark and principal Chris Davies. Photo: Supplied.
Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said the awards were an annual highlight and he was thrilled to see the introduction of a new award – Living Our Values – which centred on accountability, equity, excellence, integrity, service, and trust.
“Through these awards we honour the best of the best in our system and showcase the incredible work of our schools, support staff and parents in giving our students an incredible platform on which to soar,” said the former school principal.
You can read more of the award citations across eight categories on the Public Education Foundation website.
Loading ...
