Chris Rosentreter farewelled by Sacred Heart school community

First a student at this local school and then the principal, this local educator has said his goodbyes to the school community he loves and has welcomed a new career challenge for 2021.

Farewelling principal Chris Rosentreter (seated) are senior leader Lacey Prior, his father Ron Rosentreter, school captain William Anderson, and the students from Sacred Heart Primary School. Picture: Bev Lacey

Chris Rosentreter’s 10 year innings as principal of Sacred Heart Primary School has come to a close after what has been a challenging year, but his legacy is sure to exist long after he closes the doors for the final time.

Once a student at the school, with his father Ron as headmaster, Mr Rosentreter has become embedded in the school community.

His decision to move on to a new school was not an easy one, but one he said has been “energising”.

“I’m excited to be entering another phase of my career as I move onto high school next year,” he said.

“10 years is a long time to have invested in a school, and a school I was once a student at myself so it’s a very special day.”

The principal was farewelled by his school community with a touching video from parents who thanked him for his service and selflessness over the last decade.

He was also treated to a performance of Thank You for Being a Friend by the school choir.

Mr Rosentreter and his father have between them 35 years of experience leading Sacred Heart, and the school itself is only 51 years old.

The principal said to carry on his father’s legacy was a career highlight, as was the close connections he formed with students and staff.

Acknowledging that a decade of work was an impressive feat, the principal said the community atmosphere is what kept him around for so long.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on the family feel,” Mr Rosentreter said.

“It’s a bit like being part of a big family so it’s been a pleasure to have worked here.”

Mr Rosentreter will be switching roles completely at his new school, Good Samaritan College, where he will be a classroom teacher specialising in English and technology subjects.

He will commence his new role in 2021.