Parents, students’ anger over principal departure at Fingal Head Primary School, NSW

A beloved principal at a northern NSW primary school has not had her contract renewed – sending shockwaves through the community and leaving families “collectively devastated”. Here’s what we know.

Parents and children of Fingal Head Primary School, who have been left "collectively devastated" after the school's interim principal was not rehired. Picture: Supplied.

A beloved interim principal at a northern NSW primary school has not had her contract renewed – a decision which sent shockwaves through the community and left families “collectively devastated”.

Furious parents have lashed out and said no adequate reason was given.

But the Department of Education hit back and said the appointment of a permanent principal at the school followed “rigorous guidelines”.

Fingal Head Primary School principal Linda Dawson worked her last shift at the tight-knit school on Friday after four years in the job.

It’s understood the role was not a permanent, ongoing contract.

Mum Rae Salter said Ms Dawson “created a happy, safe and supportive physical and learning environment for all children and parents”.

“Linda is an incredible role model for children, staff and parents alike, with remarkable leadership qualities,” she said.

The tiny school on the NSW North Coast has been rocked by the decision. Picture: Supplied.

“Whatever the reason for Linda’s unsuccessful application – even if she didn’t tick some of the bureaucratic boxes on paper – in reality on a day-to-day basis she has done an incredible job as the principal of this school.”

Ms Salter said the decision to not continue Ms Dawson’s employment “sent a shockwave through the school community” and families were “collectively devastated”.

“This is a small school, with multiple vulnerable children within the school community, including Indigenous children, children with Autism, ADHD, and other disabilities,” she said.

“Linda knows each of the children very well, and has created an environment where everyone is safe, included, respected and valued.

“I am concerned for the disruption that such a big change to the staff will have on the children.”

Ms Salter said her daughter went to a private school before attending Fingal, and went from “hating” school to “excelling” thanks to Ms Dawson’s leadership.

“She is now so engaged and happy that she now refuses to miss a single day of school,” Ms Salter said.

Parent Erin Loveluck told NewsLocal she believed Ms Dawson did not receive an interview for a permanent role and was also told too late in the process to appeal.

“On Thursday, we had Ms Dawson’s goodbye party. At least five children were crying as well as parents,” she said.

Fingal with Tweed Heads in the background.

“If that is not a testament to her work at the school, then I don’t know what is.”

Ms Loveluck said she witnessed Ms Dawson’s “positive impact on the school”

“Her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students is obvious,” she said.

“Linda is regularly on playground duty in the mornings keeping our children safe, she also will step in and teach the older class if the teacher is sick. This says a lot about her leadership qualities.”

“Linda’s efforts in this regard have contributed significantly to our school’s sense of community and belonging.

“Her positive relationships with students, parents, and staff members have strengthened our school community and fostered a culture of mutual respect.”

Ms Loveluck was “puzzled” why Ms Dawson was reportedly not offered an interview.

The NSW Department of Education remained tight-lipped when contacted. A spokesperson could not specify why Ms Dawson was not picked for ongoing employment.

“The appointment of a permanent principal to Fingal Head Public School followed the department’s rigorous merit selection guidelines,” a spokesperson said.

“We encourage parents to bring any concerns they have with school and department decision-making to either the school or the Tweed Coast network office, whichever may be appropriate in the circumstance.”

An online petition was created to try and reverse the department’s decision and it attracted 66 signatures.

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Originally published as Parents, students’ anger over principal departure at Fingal Head Primary School, NSW