Local communities say thanks to inspirational teachers

A dozen of the finest teachers who have made an impact in their local communities in New South Wales have been honoured with ASG National Excellence in Teaching Awards (ASG NEiTA).

They are among the 60 state and territory recipients to be awarded the prestigious honour— selected from almost 1450 community nominations.

Now in its 23rd year, ASG NEiTA gives parents, grandparents, school boards and councils and committees of management the opportunity to formally thank and recognise outstanding and dedicated teachers, who are passionate about driving a world class education system and encouraging students to reach their full potential.

ASG NEiTA Chief Executive Officer, John Velegrinis says these educators recognise that ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ which is testament to their dedication and the impact they have on the lives of those they serve in local communities.

“In many respects, teaching is about giving, not only to children and students but to their families and the community networks around them. Some of the ASG NEiTA recipients come from very small towns and do represent the heartbeat of these communities.”

Teacher Marianne Wein from St Joseph’s Primary School, East Maitland, has been nominated for the State and Territory National Excellence in Teaching Awards.

From the age of six, Marianne dreamed of becoming a teacher. From a family of educators, both her parents were teachers. For Marianne, teaching is a passion, not just a profession. Teaching in a Catholic school means building a community of faith, justice and integrity by responding to student's academic, spiritual, social and emotional needs.

Marianne’s innovative techniques include allowing students the opportunity to make choices about, and be responsible for their individual learning – where they can choose to stand, lay or sit to complete tasks. She encourages structured and levelled reading groups, teaches a spelling program called ‘Words Their Way’ and works collaboratively in Professional Learning Teams.

Through the Mini Vinnies program – a student based extension of the St Vincent De Paul Society - her students are educated in an understanding of homelessness in the East Maitland community.

Marianne feels privilege and inspired when she sees her students enjoying their learning.

ASG NEiTA will announce the national award recipients in March 2018.

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