Thirty South Australian educators were recognised at the South Australian Public Education Awards last night, with the focus on highlighting those who are contributing to an uplift across the whole state’s education system and delivering world class learning outcomes for students.
Ten winners were carefully selected from a standout list of 30 finalists who were announced in late August this year.
School and preschool-based winners have helped achieve significant improvement in learning outcomes through the innovative use of data, the ability to adapt and develop best practice for their local setting and novel approaches to effectively engage students and families.
Award recipients from outside of the classroom include an individual who has dedicated their professional life to making sure students with disabilities can learn how to swim and a highly trained team that helps sites respond to traumatic incidents.
The 10 winners will receive $10,000 and the 20 runners-up will receive $2,000 to go towards professional development.
Education Minister John Gardner congratulated all the educators who were shortlisted on their exceptional work.
“These individuals and teams are exemplary of the great work happening within South Australia’s education system,” said Minister Gardner.
“The people that have been recognised in this year’s program have made a significant contribution to improving the education outcomes of children and young people across the state.
“Through the Public Education Awards program, we proudly share their achievements with the community and highlight the innovation, passion and expertise they bring to their role, whether it be in a school, preschool, children’s centre or office.”
2019 Public Education Awards Ambassador Eddie Betts was inspired by this year’s winners.
“During my time as ambassador for the awards, I’ve been able to meet so many fantastic people that are making a huge difference in the lives of many children, young people and their families,” said Mr Betts.
“Their dedication and passion for public education is truly inspiring and I’m glad I was able to be part of their recognition journey.”
The 2019 Public Education Award winners are:
Teachers Health Leadership Award
Rebecca Huddy, Principal, Westport Primary School and Preschool
Secondary Teacher of the Year
Justine Fogden, Agriculture teacher, Loxton High School
Credit Union SA Primary Teacher of the Year
Karen Schilling, Year 6/7 teacher, Tintinara Area School
Early Years Teacher of the Year
Sharnie Jamieson, Year 1 teacher, Glenelg Primary School
School and Preschool Support Award
Trent Heneker, Facilities and grounds, Nuriootpa High School
System Excellence Award
Social Work Incident Support Service (SWISS), Flinders Park education office
Community Engagement Award
Lucy Standish, Kilparrin Teaching and Assessment School and Services
Innovation in Practice Award
Student as agents of change, Prospect North Primary School
Aunty Josie Agius Award
Rachel Amos, Early childhood worker, Port Augusta Children’s Centre
Performance Through Values Award
Janet Hughes, Instructor in charge, Water Safety program
To see the full list of winners and watch their videos, visit the 2019 Public Education Awards website.
