Chronic teacher shortages, underfunding and troubled students are increasing the pressure on an overextended workforce, so the 2024 Hobsons Bay Rotary Education Awards, organised by Rotary Altona City, have never been more timely. These awards honour those who go beyond their remit to make a difference to the lives of students and colleagues.The awards program focuses on the outstanding work of experienced and early career stage teachers, both individually and in teams. According to Rotarian Julie Mason, former school principal and founder of the awards program, teachers are more likely to stay if they feel valued.
“Schools will suffer if we don’t hang onto new teachers. In Victoria, there’s a significant gap between the number of teachers required and those being trained. The awards provide a deep affirmation as awardees are nominated by their school leadership team and recognised publicly at the awards dinner.”
Individual achievement awards this year were presented to physical education teacher Rhett Dadswell from Altona P-12 College who’s supported thousands of students in developing a love for healthy active living. Teacher Greta Aranha, from Emmanuel College Notre Dame Campus, fosters a positive and inclusive learning environment in technology, and demonstrates transformative leadership. Year 11 and 12 teacher Marc Nicolas from Emmanuel College St Paul’s Campus delivered a range of awareness building and outreach programs.
Team awards highlight groups of teachers or educational support staff who collaborated effectively to address important challenges or new initiatives. At Bayside College the New Metrics Lead Team piloted a program that seeks improvement in teaching, assessment and reporting to help students thrive in school and beyond. Williamstown High School librarians were recognised for creating a welcoming, engaging space for all students and a resource that extends beyond providing books.
Julie Mason and Rotary Altona City encourage more Rotary clubs to get involved. The program fosters relationships and provides an opportunity to demonstrate the varied ways Rotary can support schools, whether through leadership development, establishing Rotoract and Interact programs, or supporting education funding. Clubs can work with their catchment schools to tailor the awards. The 2024 awards were proudly presented by Rotary District Governor, Michael Lapina.
