40 of Rockhampton’s favourite prep teachers |2024
Meet 40 of the region’s outstanding prep teachers who are leading our little minds into the first stage of schooling. Be part of the conversation, vote for your most favourite in our poll.
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The first day of prep can be bittersweet for parents but, through the devotion and care of our prep teachers, you know they are in the best hands.
Many Rockhampton families have shown their gratitude, singing praises for their favourite Prep teachers.
But is there one special teacher that needs a big shout out? Vote now in our favourite Prep teacher poll which will stay open until midnight Sunday, March 3.
Below are 40 outstanding nominees in no particular order.
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
Erin Colquhoun: Mount Archer State School
Mount Archer State School’s Erin Colquhoun received the praises of many Rockhampton families.
“She helped my daughter with ASD settle into mainstream school with ease,” one parent said. “She still visits the classroom on mornings where she can just to say hello and steal a cuddle from Mrs Colquhoun.”
Hayley Williamson: Mount Archer State School
Nominated by Iain Stewart, Rhiannon McGregor and Sherylea Norris, Hayley Williamson has received a lot of love in the comments.
“She is the most bubbly friendly teacher. Always puts the kids first,” Iain Stewart said.
“Other teachers admire her and go to her for advice.”
Deb Cunningham: Park Avenue State School
Park Avenue State School’s Deb Cunningham was nominated by Gail Anne.
“She is always welcoming and a pleasure to work with, and she loves her preppies,” Gail said.
According to Park Avenue State School’s Business Manager Rhonda Collins, Deb Cunningham is very committed to improving student outcomes and provides a very engaging environment for her students.
Emma Murphy: Saint Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Wandal
Saint Joseph’s Emma Murphy received a lot of love, with many thankful parents sharing their admiration for her.
“She’s the pinnacle of amazing and I’m crossing all fingers that we get her again next year,” Meagan Marsh said.
“She is such a special teacher who is so dedicated and provides an amazing start to school for her little Preppies,” Tammy Kennedy added.
Louise Effeney: Saint Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Wandal
Louise Effeney has been nominated by Kirsten Evans for her kindness, caring nature, and approachability.
“She has made our son’s transition into prep very smooth,” Kirsten said.
Amy Tennent: St Peter’s Catholic Primary School Rockhampton
After being nominated by Stacy Geissler, Amy Tennent has showered with love in the reply thread with 17 likes collectively as well as two more shout outs to her amazing work.
“She is such a beautiful soul! She nurtures the little preppies and her students adore her!” Stacy said.
“I couldn’t agree more (with Stacy), Amy is absolutely amazing in every way,” Stephanie Cupitt replied.
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
Carmel Schroeter: The Caves State School
Carmel Schroeter has been nominated by alongside her fellow Caves State School prep teacher Lee Dobson for her dedication, passion and care for her students.
“They are both wonderful teachers who have taught so many children over the years, putting so much time and effort into every child they teach,” Linsey Walsh said.
“Not only do they teach the preppies but they teach a combined prep/1/2 class and have taught all three of my kids (with my eldest being 18) for prep, year one and two.”
“Both women go above and beyond for all their students and their dedication really shows.”
Lee Dobson: The Caves State School
Lee Dobson has been nominated for her dedication, passion and care for her students.
“These ladies have helped begin the education journeys of our little people with incredible dedication, passion and care,” Josephine Rosa Merritt added.
“My children and now my grandchildren have had the opportunity to be taught by these wonderful women.”
Ms Andrea Chamberlain: Crescent Lagoon State School
Teegan Jane holds a very special place in her hearts having taught multiple of their children over the years.
“She was my eldest boy’s prep teacher and now she’s my youngest; I couldn’t be more happier,” Teegan Jane said.
“Andrea is the kindest teacher and so great with the little ones.”
“She is worth her weight in gold.”
Mrs O’Grady: Crescent Lagoon State School
Rebecca Conrad nominated Mrs. O’Grady for her excellence as a teacher at Crescent Lagoon State School, expressing pride having her as their daughter Charlotte’s prep teacher.
Lucy Birgan: Emu Park State School
Natalie Maree Fletcher sung Lucy Birgan’s praises in the comments, saying “I think everyone would have their own favourite prep teacher but I can’t thank Lucy enough for helping my son transition into school life, coming from a school of 8 to an class of 25.”
“We are so thankful for all that she has done for him,” she said.
“She has made an huge impact not only on his school life but his life in general.”
Frenchville State School prep teachers
“We feel incredibly grateful that our parents have nominated us,” Rhonda Busk said, on behalf of the group.
“We enjoy fostering a love of learning in the early years at Frenchville State School.”
“It is a privilege introducing students and their families to the school environment and growing positive partnerships.”
Kylie Fogwell: Frenchville State School
Nominated multiple times with more than a dozen likes, Kylie Fogwell is admired for her approachability and undeniable support for kids and parents.
“My two youngest kids still love her and will run up to say hello and hug her,” Kylie Wilson said.
“It was a lovely experience having her as their teacher.”
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
Lynda Johnston: Frenchville State School
Admired by many for her kindness and devotion to her preppies, Lynda Johnston has been nominated for the region’s favourite Prep teacher.
“Ms Johnston made my child feel at ease with his speech impediment and her empathy and teaching methods were outstanding,” Sherrie Shepherd said.
“We’ve had her for two of our daughters and many of our friends also, everyone had such a fantastic introduction to school with her,” Teagan Sinnott added.
Mrs Beth Williams: Frenchville State School
Maggie J Nicholls nominated Beth Williams, describing her as an exceptional teacher who goes above and beyond for her students.
“She is an amazing teacher, who goes out of her way to help my little girl fit in,” Maggie said.
Tricia Mackenzie Williams: Frenchville State School
With more than a dozen nominations, Tricia Mackenzie Williams has been feeling the love after seeing about the outpour of admiration in the comments.
“Mrs Williams is truly an amazing teacher,” Kerry Higgins commented.
“She taught both of my kids for prep and was a beautiful introduction to them for big school.”
“Mrs Williams gave our little girl the best introduction to big school,” Hayley Tracey added.
Rhonda Busk: Frenchville State School
Rhonda Busk was nominated by Mikayla Bradshaw for her unwavering commitment to the wellbeing and education of the prep students at Frenchville State School.
Jodee March: Glenmore State School
Jodee March was nominated by Natasha Jade Dixson, for being a truly amazing teacher.
“I couldn’t be more appreciative of her love and patience with all 3 of my children,” Natasha said.
Abbi Lacy: Glenmore State School
Abbi Lacy has been nominated by Rochelle Lye and Stephanie Huth for her caring nature, and bubbly personality.
“She made the transition to prep so smooth,” Rochelle said.
“Every afternoon after school, all my son talks about all the things he loves about Miss Lacy.”
“She is a great teacher and is great with children with additional needs and inclusion practices,” Stephanie added.
Jordan Holmes: Gracemere State School
Nominated for the region’s favourite teacher, Jordan Holmes has been described by parents Jessica Stapleton, Kate Enright and Lacie N Lee Weeks as an exceptional and dedicated teacher.
“She is amazing, loving and caring & understands there needs of each child,” Jessica said.
“My son has thrived in prep (with her as his teacher),” Kate added.
Lacie also sung her praises saying, “Jordan is creative in her approach to lesson planning to help captivate each child, and took time to support our child to achieve the best she could.”
Naomi Smith: Lighthouse Christian School
With multiple nominations, Lighthouse Christian School’s Naomi Smith has been recognised for her exceptional teaching, kindness, and lasting impact on students.
“My son had her last year and my daughter has Naomi Smith this year,” Bree McDonald said.
She is the most kind hearted soul you will ever meet, and teaches with such love and passion.”
Mrs Magnussen (Miss Janae Carige): Lighthouse Christian School
Mrs Janae Magnussen, also known as Miss Carige, has been nominated for the region’s favourite prep teacher, described by Lorraine Richards as an “absolute dream of an educator.”
“All the schools I’ve had kids in over the years and she is by far the most kind, caring and amazing teacher,” Tina Davis said.
“She gives the kids the best welcome into their school learning years.”
“She is a beautiful person and beautiful teacher,” Linda Wooler added.
Sally Offord: Mount Morgan Central State School
Sally Offord has been nominated by alongside her fellow Mount Morgan Central State School prep teacher Renae Stein for her dedication, passion and care for her students.
“Sally is a dedicated, inspirational, caring teacher, who goes above and beyond for their preppies,” Sonya Cole said.
“She is real pleasure to work with.”
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
Renae Stein: Mount Morgan Central State School
Renae Stein has been nominated by alongside her fellow Mount Morgan Central State School prep teacher Sally Offord for dedication, passion and care for her students.
“Renae is a dedicated, inspirational, caring teacher, who goes above and beyond for their preppies,” Sonya Cole said.
“She is real pleasure to work with.”
Anne Kerley: Parkhurst State School
Nominated by Amanda Pearce, Parkhurst State School’s Anne Kerley has been praised for her attentive care and engagement with her students, dedicated to help them learn and grow into amazing people.
According to Parkhurst State School’s Early Years Leader Lyn O’Farrell, Anne is a kind and dedicated teacher who ensures her students have the best start to their primary school learning.
“She is a wonderful role model to her team of teachers and has excellent rapport with the school and wider community,” Lyn said.
Sally Cross: Port Curtis Road State School
Receiving several nominations and more than 20 likes collectively, Sally Cross has been celebrated as a fantastic teacher for her caring approach and commitment to her students’ wellbeing and learning.
“Mrs Cross has been the best prep teacher for both of our kids and has been very loving and compassionate in her teaching,” Micheala Jayde Loweke said.
“She is the absolute best,” Gill Mooney added.
“Her thoughtfulness and empathetic approach to supporting children to learn and grow as students and as little people is unparalleled.”
Mrs Corinne Shaw: Rockhampton Girls Grammar School
Described as a thoughtful and inspirational teacher, who is dedicated to shaping young minds and fostering confidence of the girls at Rockhampton Girls Grammar School, Mrs Corrine Shaw is among the nominee’s for the region’s favourite teacher.
“Both my daughters were very lucky to have been taught by her,” Jenni Cousens said.
Rebecca Drew also sung her praising saying “when we think of Mrs Shaw I think of Ms Honey from Matilda; she’s truly one of a kind.”
Natalie Spence: Rockhampton Girls Grammar School
Natalie Spence was nominated for the region’s favourite teacher by Shantelle March.
“She’s been amazing with our eldest,” Annalyce Lawrence replied in the comment thread.
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
Kyria Busby: St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School
St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School prep teacher Kyria Busby was nominated by Hanna McBryde, praising her for the work she has done helping Hanna’s daughter.
“She (Kyria) made my daughter’s prep transition and year amazing with her kindness, caring attitude and had an absolute heart of gold,” Hannah said.
Jodi Gray Keogh: St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School
Nominated by Jo Harris, St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School’s Jodi Gray Keogh is a loyal and hardworking prep teachers assistant, who will put everyone first before herself.
“Her zest for life is unmatched,” Jo said.
Amanda Sutton: St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Rockhampton
An enthusiastic teacher who goes above and beyond to give her students the best start in life, is how Laura Otto described St Mary’s prep teacher Amanda Sutton.
“Smoothest start to school with her love of teaching, nurturing fun nature and the best communication to families,” Lydia Ahmann added.
Gemma Nicholson also sung her praises, saying, “she’s incredible, we couldn’t have started our schooling journey with anyone better.”
Amanda Cullen: St Mary’s Catholic Primary School Rockhampton
Prep Assistant to Mrs Sutton, Amanda Cullen has been nominated by Megan Lloyd for her determination to get dressed up each week and give the kids her 110%.
She is amazing,” Meggie Kenny replied in the comment thread.
Kealie May: St Peter’s Catholic Primary School Rockhampton
St Peter’s Kealie May has been nominated by Jennifer Butler-Sommerfeld for her hard work and encouragement for each child to be their best.
Miss Pollett: St Peter’s Catholic Primary School Rockhampton
St Peter’s Miss Pollett has received some love in the comments after being nominated by parent Kylie Hoare.
“She was one of our teacher’s last year and she is just beautiful,” Kylie said.
Sandra Nankivill (Mrs Nank): The Hall State School
The Hall State School’s Sandra Nankivill, better known as Mrs Nank has been nominated by Angelia Stone-Tolcher for putting in the extra mile her in helping her son thrive in his first year of schooling,
Melanie O’Keefe: The Hall State School
Melanie O’Keefe was nominated by Cindy McKenzie for her dedication to her students, saying “she is so dedicated and her methods are proven to be second to none.
Amanda Jones: The Rockhampton Grammar School
Nominated by Rockhampton Grammar School’s Communications and Development Officer, Mrs Rachael McDonald, while Amanda Jones for her unwavering commitment to the wellbeing and education of the school’s prep students.
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
Nicole Kennedy: The Rockhampton Grammar School
Going above and beyond her duties to make sure the young children have an incredible first year of learning, Nicole Kennedy has been nominated multiple times for the region’s favourite prep teacher, receiving more than a dozen likes (collectively).
“My son could not be happier to have started Prep,” Jess Williams said.
“If only everyone in the world had Mrs Nicole Kennedy (RGS) as their prep teacher, the world would be a different place by now,” Lynn Ey Byun.
“I’m forever grateful for her, she made a huge positive impact on my kids learning.”
Adair Mehlhose-Shore: The Rockhampton Grammar School
Arguably the most nominated prep teacher in the region, Adair Mehlhose-Shore has captured the hearts of many children, parents and fellow teachers across the region.
Amber Munster described her as an earth angel, saying “she has been absolutely, without a doubt, the most perfect prep teacher for my daughters growth as a strong, intelligent, independent, caring, kind, respectful person.”
“Adair’s dedication and guidance is beyond remarkable,” Amber said.
“Both my children had Adair Mehlhose-Shore, they still love her to this day and they are 20 and 18 now,” Bron Latcham added.
Mrs Monique Langman: The Rockhampton Grammar School
In Benjamin Thomas’ eyes, Mrs Monique Langman is a wonderful teacher worthy of being nominated for region’s favourite prep teacher.
“My daughter has special needs and Mrs Langman goes out of her way to make her feel included and welcome,” Benjamin said.
Kat Stahl: Waraburra State School
Waraburra State School’s Kat Stahl was nominated by Kristi Cooper for her unwavering dedication, always going the extra mile for their son, disabilities included.
HOW TO VOTE:
Click on the drop down menu, vote for your favourite and hit submit. Remember, you can only vote once.
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