Leading principals named six of the best

18/12/07
Six finalists have been named in the prestigious 2007 Rotary Principal of the Year award.
The award, now in its 15th year, recognises Western Australia's top public school principals and their important role in the education of students in public schools across the State.
Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan congratulated the finalists on their selection.
"These six finalists are exceptional leaders and display a tremendous dedication to their schools and local communities," Mr McGowan said.
"It is particularly exciting that they come from a diverse range of primary and secondary schools, including regional communities, fledgling metropolitan communities and established suburban communities.
"These finalists represent the excellent standard of education in public schools across Western Australia."
The six finalists were nominated by colleagues, parents and members of the school community.
The Minister will announce the 2007 Rotary Principal of the Year at a breakfast ceremony on Thursday, March 8.
The winner will receive $10,000, a trophy and his or her name included on the perpetual trophy.
The five remaining finalists will each receive $1,000 and a certificate.
The Principal of the Year Award is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Heirisson and supported by the Department of Education and Training.
Rotary Principal of the Year 2007 finalists:
Gail Baker, Chapman Valley Primary School (Geraldton region)
At Chapman Valley Primary School, north of Geraldton, principal Gail Baker's focus is on instilling values in students - in line with the school community's motto of 'Kind to ourselves, kind to others and kind to the environment.'
Ms Baker works tirelessly to involve community members in the school's daily activities, which creates a stronger sense of community throughout the local farming district.
The result is an outstanding list of awards and achievements, fewer behavioural and attendance issues, and an enthusiasm among parents to encourage good behaviour at home.
Ms Baker was nominated by a parent.
Linda Crombie, Babakin Primary School (Wheatbelt region)
Having taught at the school for 24 years, Linda Crombie's dedication to Babakin Primary School, in the Wheatbelt, is unrivalled.
Ms Crombie has overcome challenges at the isolated school in attracting staff and encouraging social interaction among students, their families and neighbouring schools. She organises regular activities for the whole community including daily cups of tea, annual picnics, camps and sports carnivals - creating a school that is also a focal point in the community.
Her teaching methods and use of digital technology have impressed other teachers and schools, and Ms Crombie is regularly called on for advice.
She was nominated by the P&C President.
Rick Firns, Ashdale Primary School (Darch)
Since opening in 2005, Ashdale Primary School has been building a reputation for innovation and excellence - much of which has been attributed to the energy of its foundation principal Rick Firns.
When it opened, the school took in students from 55 different schools across the State, and one-third of students were from non-English speaking backgrounds. In addition to focusing on academic achievements for students, Mr Firns has worked to establish a sense of unity in the fledgling school.
Managing students' behaviour is another area of success for Mr Firns. He has introduced a program which has resulted in excellent behaviour among the school's 686 students.
He was nominated by a colleague.
Russel Hahn, Blackmore Primary School (Girrawheen)
With 30 per cent of Blackmore Primary School's student population born overseas, Russel Hahn leads his school in a constant celebration of cultural diversity and community.
Mr Hahn's focus is showing the whole school community that they can make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate.
A sister school relationship with a school in Cambodia has inspired students to exceed their fundraising targets, while learning about other cultures. Playgroups are hosted to enhance parenting skills and a buddy system encourages senior readers to mentor younger students with learning difficulties.
He was nominated by the P&C President.
Lindsay Hale, Belmont City College (Belmont)
When Lindsay Hale was appointed principal of Belmont City College less than four years ago, he was faced with a school that needed major reforms.
Under his guidance, the college has regained this confidence and is today transformed into a welcoming environment for students, staff and families.
He has forged strong partnerships with business, industry, local government and community groups. The school now scores exceptional academic results in Tertiary Entrance Examinations (TEE) and in Wholly School Assessed/Vocational Education and training (WSA/VET) subjects, and students' behaviour has improved dramatically.
Mr Hale was nominated by a colleague.
Digby Mercer, Coodanup Community College (Mandurah)
Two years ago Digby Mercer was faced with a school with limited academic success and severe problems in student behaviour, staff morale and finances.
Mr Mercer acted swiftly to revitalise Coodanup Community College, involved staff members in important decision-making processes and addressed sensitive issues.
He passionately believes that students from low socioeconomic areas have as much potential as students from more advantaged backgrounds, and he also focuses strongly on teacher development.
Mr Mercer was nominated by the school P&C.
Minister's office - 9222 9111