School's out for Ian

POPULAR Gympie South State School principal Ian Wenzel has called it a day after 19 years leading the school and is holding a party to celebrate.

POPULAR Gympie South State School principal Ian Wenzel has called it a day after 19 years leading the school and is holding a party for ex-students, parents and friends.

Ian said he was retiring on a high, very content with his decision with no regrets.

“I have had 19 enjoyable years at Gympie South,” he said.

“I have worked with great staff who put in 110 per cent for the kids and met some wonderful students and parents.”

He said the best part of his job was watching students excel academically, musically and on the sporting field, then seeing them grow into productive citizens and who do well in their careers.

“I will really miss the socialisation with staff, parents and children.”

One thing Ian won't miss is the new direction Queensland Education Department is taking schools.

He says the new school ranking system and an “obsessive” focus on literacy and numeracy testing could constrict a teacher's ability to educate children into well-rounded members of society.

“I always thought education was for the development of the whole child,” he said.

“I have always encouraged my staff to give kids extra opportunities they might not get at home.

“Things like sport, music, cultural awareness and citizenship are important to the development of the whole child physically and emotionally, not just literacy and numeracy.”

The now ex-principal said he was pleased Gympie South had been left in good hands.

“Doug Wilson has been appointed principal and Rachael Alexander deputy; they are great people,” he said.

Ian made special mention of his family, wife Lesley two sons Murray and Drew and daughter Leah.

“I acknowledge the sacrifice my family has made, sometimes the job is 24/7 and a lot of times the school came first,” he said.

Ian won't be totally off the scene at Gympie South – he is still involved with the organisation of the Gympie South centenary celebrations planned for next year and is currently planning his own party.

Ian will be holding a retirement function on January 23 at the Hockey Centre and is inviting all past parents, students and friends. Anyone interested in attending can call Gympie South School for details. Cost of the night is $25. RSVP is December 11.

Originally published as School's out for Ian