Kate Yardley named as Maranoa’s favourite teacher for 2024

The Maranoa’s favourite teacher for 2024 has been named, as overwhelming support for all the region’s teachers flows.

Maranoa's best teacher competition 2024.

Across the Maranoa region, there are countless teachers making a real difference in their student’s lives every single day.

Kate Yardley, prep to year 2 teacher at Injune P-10 State School, was ultimately voted as the region’s favourite teacher.

Ms Yardley said she always knew she wanted to be a teacher.

“I look back on it now and I think that the teachers I had when I went to school swayed that decision,” Ms Yardley said.

“My teaching philosophy centres around my students feeling safe, secure and supported.

“I believe that if I can create an environment that supports this feeling, the learning will come.”

P-2 teacher at Injune P-10 State School, Kate Yardley, was nominated as one of the Maranoa's favourite teachers 2024.

Ms Yardley said she moved to Injune after spending three years at a bigger school up north.

“The sense of community at Injune State School is really the backbone of everything,” she said.

“I love that I am able to be involved in events that support the kids and families. I love that I am able to go and watch my kids at dance concerts, sports games, campdrafts and gymkhanas.

“The students, families, staff and the community really make it an awesome place to work and live.

“As I tell my class every day I have the best class in the whole world and I am so lucky to be their teacher.”

In the wake of being voted as the region’s favourite teacher, Ms Yardley said she was so proud.

“It is always nice to be recognised that I am, in fact, making a difference,” Ms Yardley said.

“I’d just like to say that I am very grateful and honoured to be recognised.

“I am very lucky to be in such an amazing community with supportive leadership, colleagues, families and of course students.”

Ms Yardley with her Injune P-10 State School prep students in 2024.

Community members had ample support to show for Ms Yardley.

Sara Rogers said Ms Yardley “puts her absolute all into teaching”.

“She is creative, patient and selfless.”

Lee-ette Williams said Ms Yardley was a “kind, compassionate and dedicated teacher”.

Jahra Taylor said: “(Ms Yardley) looks after my son very well.”

Geoffrey McMullen also shared his support for Ms Yardley, saying she “gives 100 per cent in her job.”

While only one teacher could be named as the region’s favourite, support for countless other teachers across the region was plentiful and heartwarming.

Erin Thrupp said she voted for Miss Redinger from St John’s School.

“She has been such an amazing teacher to our son in prep and he has come so far with her support,” Ms Thupp said.

Ashley Burgess also voted for Miss Redinger.

“She is beyond dedicated to every student that she teaches,” Mr Burgess said.

“The relationship she builds with each and every student is second to none.

“Miss Redinger ensures her students reach their full potential.”

Terri Radunz shared her gratitude for Miss Nihill from Roma State College.

“We have had the pleasure of Miss Nihill teaching our children for a couple of years now she always supports them in and out of the classroom,” Ms Radunz said.

“She is kind, caring and passionate about her students.”

Aileen Prior said her vote went to Grace Gibbs.

“Grace has been amazing with my daughter this year,” Ms Prior said.

“Grace has helped build her confidence up so much.”

Ashlee See said: “(Mrs Danielle Knayer) always goes above and beyond to support her students and continues to do so even after they are no longer her students.”

Gratitude for Mrs Knayer was shared by Janet Rowling, who said she is “a very dedicated teacher who goes out of her way to help her students and other staff members.”

Janet Rowlings also showed her support for Mrs Knayer.

“A very dedicated teacher who goes out of her way to help her students and other staff members,” Ms Rowlings said.

Donna Putt shared her appreciation for Mrs Lauren Murphy.

“(She is) very supportive of all her children and has been fantastic with our son who at times extra help at times,” Ms Putt said.

“Truly amazing teacher.”

Lauren Murphy from Roma State College was nominated as one of Maranoa's favourite teachers 2024. Photo: Donna Putt

Shannon Crocker said Abby Evans was a great teacher in her son’s first year of prep.

“She did a wonderful job and really encouraged him and developed his love of learning,” Ms Crocker said.

Celeste Mayes said of Miss Evans: “she embodies excellence in her role, her unwavering dedication is truly inspiring”.

“We are fortunate to have her on our team, and Luca’s successful transition to school is a testament to her,” Ms Mayes said.

Danielle McLaren said she voted for Robyn Utschink, who she said goes “above and beyond for her students.”

“Mrs Utschink has also taught many of generations at Mitchell state,” Ms McLaren said.