Anne Young has taught Dance for over 50 years to all ages of students. Her passion and dedication to improving dance education has been exemplary providing a role model to young teachers and as a mentor to colleagues. She has introduced innovative programs throughout South Australia and overseas and has influenced many emerging artists providing pathways to success. Ausdance South Australia congratulate Anne Young on her life’s achievements and her continued influence in the Dance community.

Tom was the inaugural Sustainability and Ecology Coordinator at Tenison Woods College in Mt Gambier where he planned, implemented and reviewed curriculum offerings. This had a positive impact on the students, staff and families within a 200km radius of Mt Gambier. Tom both a George Alexander Fellowship and Churchill Fellowship recipient where we researched circular economies. Tom now lectures at UNISA and is Landscapes SA, Limestone Coast Board Member.

Laura’s individualised teaching approach, combined with her skillful use of Auslan and deep understanding of the unique needs of Deaf students, has created a nurturing and empowering environment for Deaf and hard-of-hearing children, giving them the confidence to thrive both in school and beyond.

Jonathon has made a significant impact as Treasurer of the Australian Band and Orchestra Directors Association SA (ABODA SA). He volunteered his time to support the successful South Australian Schools Band and Orchestra Festival, working both on the committee and at the event. In its 21^st year the festival has expanded to four days, involves over 150 ensembles in 14 categories from almost 50 schools. Jonathon has also contributed to many professional learning opportunities for music teachers in South Australia.

The Australian Council for Educational Leaders proudly honours Georgina West for her exceptional leadership in advancing education at the Walford Anglican School for Girls. As Head of Senior School and Chair of the Futures Curriculum Working Party, Georgina has revolutionized the curriculum with a focus on futures thinking and preparing students to excel in a rapidly changing world. Her innovative approach fosters continuous improvement and equips students to be proactive and principled, reflecting a deep commitment to educational excellence and future readiness.

Gunay has significantly contributed to literacy learning as a researcher and educator. Her University of South Australia project enhances young children’s literacy by integrating home languages with English. At Paralowie R-12 School, she introduced innovative methods that empowered high school students to create their own reading lessons, fostering engagement, agency, and higher-order thinking, resulting in improved academic outcomes.

Shaheen was instrumental in helping the Kangaroo Island community heal after the devastating effects of the Bushfires and the pandemic. Her passion resulted in the school becoming a hub for support and healing. Shaheen is also proactive with helping CALD families. She encourages newly arrived families to participate in the community by planning events such as an annual Multicultural Feast that is held at the school.

Alistair is a proactive and active council member of the Australian Society for Music Education SA. He is a strong voice for regional music educators and has embraced many of the representative roles important to a high functioning professional association, including consulting on the SA Curriculum, workshops and information sharing with EDSA.

Margaret has been an active member of BETASA for many years and has provided 20 + years of service to the Committee. She has actively attended the Educators SA Council as the BETASA Rep. Margaret is quietly conscientious in everything she does, is a consistent and diligent communicator which assists us in updating our website and ensures our committee and members are always well informed.

We are pleased to present Ms. Ting Lu with the Outstanding Contribution of the Year Award. Ms. Lu has successfully reorganized the marketing team of the Chinese Language Teachers Association and actively engaged with existing sponsors while securing new ones. Her efforts have been instrumental in raising funds to ensure the smooth execution of our major events for both teachers and students. Her dedication and proactive approach have significantly strengthened our association’s outreach and support network.

Luke Atkinson has prepared professional learning opportunities for the CA3 community on several occasions including leading integrated learning and game design at Clare High School as well as Transitioning limited digital modelling skills into high-end outcomes at Kadina Memorial School. Luke continuously provides digital media, digital technology and game design support to the wider community.

Awarded in recognition of Valerie’s Outstanding Service. For over 30 years, Valerie has been a pillar of support, dedication, and leadership to Drama SA. As one of the founding members of our association and the Drama Liaison Officer to our national body, Drama Australia, Valerie’s passion for drama education has shaped the lives of countless teachers and students alike. Beyond her official roles, Valerie has been a tireless presenter, mentor, and friend. She has always advocated for the importance of drama in education, and her influence can be felt across the community. Valerie has left an indelible mark on Drama SA and all those fortunate enough to work with her.

Joan has provided an outstanding and ongoing commitment to Early Childhood Australia SA Branch and the early childhood sector. Her ongoing dedication to children, families and educators is inspiring. CaFE Enfield and ECA SA have benefitted from Joan’s ongoing leadership and contribution over many years. Her previous and current voluntary and paid contribution to the sector, is to be commended.

Ngutu College is an independent, not-for-profit, socially-just college on Kaurna Country. They believe meaningful and long-lasting learning happens when learning brings together the emotional, physical, social, cultural, spiritual, creative and cognitive selves in connected ways. Their Madlurta and Kurlana learning groups celebrate the whole child and promote playful, thought provoking environments which cultivate rich learning and joy.

Colleen is an outstanding educator who facilitates environments where students are empowered to experience and create using immersive technologies like AR/VR and XR. She pairs outdoor education with these kinds of technologies so that students can capture their outdoor experiences and allow them to tell stories in new ways and enable viewers to see the world from their perspective. This kind of work transforms learning using new and emerging technologies and allows students to become critical creators rather than passive consumers of technologies.

Olivia has made an outstanding contribution to Humanities education through her design and promotion of Humanities and Social Sciences Association Australia professional learning activities. Her reliability and commitment to developing materials to support the promotion of HAA has been of the highest standard. Olivia has developed quality and creative visual products and very effective social media to promote the association. Olivia has exhibited leadership and initiative through the development of original ideas to market the association to educators in South Australia.

Outstanding long-term commitment to presenting at professional development sessions for the History Teachers’ Association of SA as well as being a mentor to all whom ask. His love of history and the teaching of it is infectious with a clear focus on innovative lesson and task design.  Simon also provides much needed guidance and support to our Ancient Studies teachers and pre-service teachers. An outstanding educator who we should all aspire to be like.

Natalie is an exceptional multitasking Home Economics professional. Alongside teaching five SACE classes and junior Home Economics, she runs a staff coffee program, supports the local Mother’s group and Balaklava Kindergym, and manages various catering events. A loyal Home Economics Institute of Australia SA member, Natalie regularly attends professional development events and generously shares resources. We congratulate her on over 20 years of dedicated service to Home Economics.

David is a visionary educator who places students at the heart of their learning experience, tailoring education to meet individual needs while fostering resilience and mental well-being. His commitment to real-world, hands-on learning, especially in environmental education, exemplifies his dedication to preparing students for the 21st century. David’s leadership and passion for lifelong learning are evident in his innovative teaching methods and active engagement in both local and broader educational communities.

Blake has worked tiredlessly as the President of the Indonesian Teachers Association, collaborating with the committee, organising professional learning events to cater to a diverse range of teachers and pre-service teachers, and creating social events to build community and encourage networking. Her hard work, facilitation and passion for Indonesian language, culture, teaching and learning has consistently promoted the important work of the profession and supported Indonesian Teachers across South Australia.

For over 33 years, Keiko has been a dedicated leader in Japanese education in South Australia, inspiring students and building successful programs. Her passion for the language and culture has motivated countless students to pursue Japanese studies, including organizing immersive trips to Japan. Through her work with the Japanese Language Teachers’ Association of SA (JLTASA), Keiko has shared her expertise with fellow educators. She is a deserving recipient of the 2024 Hiroshi Haga Teacher Recognition Award.

Rita Carey has served on the Kodály SA Committee as Secretary for the past two years. She has dedicated her time and energy into documenting everything involving Kodály SA. Rita gives so much behind the scenes for all state conferences and workshop days and we are very thankful for her outstanding voluntary service.

Rianne Wright has been a dedicated member of the Laboratory Managers Association of SA since its inception in 1994, holding numerous key positions, including Treasurer and Public Officer. Her exceptional financial management, organization of conferences, and mentorship have been invaluable. She has played a vital role in developing the Membership Gateway, contributing to the association’s success for over 30 years. Rianne’s commitment and leadership have earned her Life Membership in 2024.

The Mathematical Association of South Australia proudly presents the “Outstanding Service to MASA” award to Sharon Kennare. She has been the constant in the MASA equation. Her attention to detail is infinitesimal and support is continuous. Sharon supported changing staff, Competitions, Quiz Nights, PD sessions and conferences and the “Remote and Rural Schools Mathematics Project,”. Sharon has been optimizing our impact, ensuring all requirements are satisfied. Her dedication has been the common denominator. Her attitude is absolutely positive, and her contribution is approaching to infinity.

As a highly accomplished Languages teacher, and active and effervescent committee member of the Modern Language Teachers Association of SA, Jasmine consistently contributes to the delivery of professional learning and events that build networks and foster collaboration across the broader Languages teaching community. Jasmine’s passion for language learning and dedication to teacher development are inspirational in promoting a more connected and supportive professional environment for Languages educators.

Sofie Arhontoulis has shown exceptional leadership and innovation in advancing music education. As President, she has moved MTASA into the digital age, developed problem-solving strategies, and dedicated significant personal time to advocacy on various boards. Her visionary networking has expanded MTASA’s influence, benefiting both members and the broader music education community.

In Nature Play SA’s 10th year, we are acknowledging Melissa as someone who is a long-time advocate of nature play and has been on an outdoor learning journey with Nature Play SA over many years. Melissa has set up a thriving nature-based learning program at Cumberland Kindy.

Susan Marshall has been an active member of the Orff Schulwerk Association of SA for more than 20 years. During this time she has been a Board Member, President, and has represented OSASA on the national ORFF committee. She is a regular presenter at local workshops as well as presenting at Levels Courses, Music Education Strategy courses and National Conferences. Susan co-ordinates and facilitates our leadership courses to train and mentor new ORFF presenters.

Pana Tselekiadis has worked as a director for 43 years and is one of the pioneers in the OSHC sector in South Australia. The humble beginnings of OSHC started in 1981 at the Bowden Brompton Community Centre. OSHC was offered to working families, children were picked up from school in a van and OSHC was operated form the community centre and local parks. The team at Brompton Primary School OSHC have been committed to the community and OSHC SA would like to recognise their continued support of the OSHC SA Association and commitment to supporting children and families.

As Director of Kirton Point Children’s Centre, Pam goes above and beyond her role by championing the needs of all country preschools. She actively engages with State and Federal parliamentarians, the Minister for Education, and the local Mayor to advocate for improvements in early childhood education. Pam is strategic in workforce development, welcoming tertiary students, upskilling local staff, and finding innovative solutions like fly-in fly-out OT support. She also mentors new leaders in nearby preschools and regularly consults with the Preschool Directors Association and DfE, ensuring that country preschools have a strong, influential voice in ensuring equity and excellence in preschools for all children in SA.

Marc and Nick have created an outstanding learning culture in their Year 5/6 learning space at East Torrens PS that is driving learner agency and the development of reflective and powerful learners in Mathematics and beyond. They have been brave and courageous as educators and sought to push their own limits for the benefit of their learners. Their collaborative pedagogical inquiry as a learning team is providing a rich model to others of a pathway forward that is driving the achievement of the Purposes of Public Education.

Cathy Cook has shown exemplary leadership as an Autism Inclusion Teacher at her school, and in support of highly accomplished and lead teachers statewide. Cathy has implemented innovative activities/events to support students on the Autism Spectrum including hosting a neurodiversity day.  She has developed resources which she shares across the education sectors. She has supported SA HALT Network members at Writers’ Workshops, at our annual conference and as a mentor for aspiring HALTs. Cathy has been recognised Australia-wide for her outstanding work in cultivating inclusive practices in schools.

Maria has been instrumental in supporting and giving teachers of Italian in South Australia a voice. She has been the president of the South Australian Association of Teachers of Italian for the past 13 years, forming links with all educational sectors, organizing and supporting professional development for teachers, and keeping them informed.

Vicki has made a significant contribution to the adult literacy and numeracy teaching profession for over 30 years. She has shared her expertise and knowledge of the field and given insights into how to assist this learner cohort. Vicki has been a pleasure to work with on the Executive Committee of the South Australian Council for Adult Literacy many years.

Eleni Stamelos is a dedicated English teacher focused on engaging students to enhance their learning outcomes. For the past two years, she has co-convened the South Australian English Teachers Association Early Career Teachers workshops, organizing content and speakers. Eleni also supported the 2024 AATE/ALEA National Conference as a member of the hospitality committee. A presenter at state and national levels, she inspires both early career and experienced teachers to embrace creative, new teaching approaches.

Clémence Semmler is an outstanding French teacher, renowned for her exemplary classroom practices. As a lead practitioner, she has supported Stage 1 and 2 French teachers for many years, offering mentorship through classroom observations, resource sharing, and peer collaboration. Her generosity extends beyond her immediate responsibilities, as she has made significant contributions to the South Australian French Teachers Association by organising events, facilitating professional development, and consistently being a dependable resource for her colleagues. For these reasons, Clémence Semmler is a deserving recipient of the SAFTA French Teacher of the Year award.

Mitchell Neeb has demonstrated exceptional innovation by introducing a highly successful new program at Aldinga Payinthi College. Over the past few years, Mitch has continuously presented at state conferences, sharing his current, innovative and engaging learning practices. His contributions include his role as Co-Vice President of SAGTA, writing curriculum for the Department for Education and representing SAGTA at Language Teachers SA meetings and other events. He is an inspiration to his association and well-deserving of this acknowledgement.

Jarrod ‘s unwavering dedication to science education, exemplified by his 19 years of teaching and leadership at Pulteney Grammar School, has made a lasting impact on students and the broader educational community. His active involvement for the South Australian Science Teachers Association, innovative contributions to educational initiatives, and commitment to professional development through various conferences and events, including the Oliphant Science Awards, highlight his passion for advancing science education. Jarrod’s leadership, expertise, and volunteerism make him a standout candidate for the 2024 Honour Award, recognising his significant contributions to the field.

Jane has been an invaluable contributor to SASTA, bringing her extensive experience as a Laboratory Manager and active member of the LMASA to the forefront. Her thoughtful and consistent participation in the MSRG and PDRG, along with her role in facilitating professional development and supporting science education through the Oliphant Science Awards, highlights her dedication to improving student outcomes and fostering a strong community of science educators in South Australia.

Bobbie is an exceptional Wellbeing Leader. She is highly qualified and experienced in determining the needs of a diverse range of students. She has been a champion of the LGBTIQA+ community and has worked tirelessly to effect the inclusion of all regardless of race, sex or ethnicity. Bobbie uses her skills and talents to improve the wellbeing outcomes for students. She has been the President of the SAWLIS association for the last 4 years advocating passionately for Student Wellbeing Leaders in school, organising training and development and liaising with the Department. We could not think of a more worthy winner.

Flor Rangel’s work on student engagement over the past few years has resulted in excellent retention rates and academic success for her students across various settings. Thus, she was a finalist nominee for the Lumination Secondary Teacher of the Year award in 2022. Flor actively involves her students in their learning by using cultural content as a vehicle for language exploration and application.

We proudly present Noeleen with the Visual Arts Educators of South Australia Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership as President. Her dedication to the Arts community in South Australia has fostered strong relationships and driven innovation within the association. Noeleen’s integrity and advocacy extend beyond her students, influencing educators at all levels in Primary and Secondary education. Her significant contributions enhance teacher development, ultimately benefiting countless students across the state.

We are proud to present the Women’s Studies Teacher Excellence Award to Rachel McLaine for her extraordinary dedication and leadership. Since the association’s inception in 2023, Rachel has tirelessly served as president, fostering strong connections with schools, universities, local government, and businesses. Her passion culminated in the successful launch of the Women’s Studies Teachers Association in 2024. Rachel has also played a key role in the SACE renewal process, making her a deserving award recipient.