Robina State High School teacher Ross Harris remembered as ‘incredible’, ‘much loved’, after cancer death

A Gold Coast schoolteacher has been remembered as “incredible” and “much loved” after his sudden passing.

A GOLD Coast schoolteacher has been remembered as “incredible” and “much loved” after his death from cancer.

Robina State High School students and colleagues were shocked by the “sudden and tragic loss” of Ross Harris last Thursday.

Mr Harris had been at the school for seven years and before then had taught and been principal at several schools across the country.

He co-taught English and maths as one of the school’s inclusion teachers, helping students who needed extra support.

Head of inclusion Belinda Flesser said Mr Harris was committed to helping students in whatever way he could.

“He just went that extra mile to make sure that these kids were successful at school and also after school,” she said.

Mr Harris has been remembered as an “incredible” man. Photo: Supplied

“He would sit down and personally go through their driver’s licence practice tests in his spare times with kids who needed it.

Mr Harris ran Robina High’s ASDAN program, a curriculum focused on teaching children living and recreational skills.

He also organised several workshops and groups for students who needed an extra hand.

Ms Flesser said Mr Harris did not stop thinking of his classes, even in his final days.

“One of the last things he said (to me) was about work, about the kids,” she said.

“Even on his deathbed he was worried about these students and what needed to be done.”

Former student Christopher Plessius said seeing Mr Harris at his 2018 graduation ceremony was one of his most precious memories.

Support staff will be on hand for students as the school term begins. Picture: Richard Gosling.

“I knew him through the learning development centre,” he said.

“He was our case manager throughout Year 11 and 12.

“He was always there just to help me, even if I just needed help with my school work.

“He was really good to all of us, really understanding and just a really great guy.

“I had no idea he was sick, one of my friends told me and I just broke down because he just meant so much to all of us.

“He was at my graduation and said he was so proud of me for getting as far as I did.

“It’s one of the best memories I’ve got.”

Close friend and industrial design and technologies teacher Andrew Conwell said his absence would be keenly felt as the new term begins.

“He didn’t want to fuss, but behind the scenes he had a gentle spirit and was happy to help anyone,” he said.

Fellow teachers say he was worried about students even in his final days. Photo: Supplied

“No matter what the mood was at work he always had a good story to lighten the mood or enjoy the social side of school.”

Support staff will be on hand at Robina High to assist students and staff as they return from school holidays next week.

Principal Julie Warwick said Mr Harris was “much loved” across the school community.

“Ross was a great champion for inclusive practices and supported many students with challenges in achieving successful outcomes,” she said.

“Ross was known for his affable and warm nature.

“As a school community, we continue to play our part in raising funds to combat the insidious disease that cancer is. This year will be no exception.”

Ross Harris leaves behind partner Dianne, as well as several children and grandchildren.