Victoria’s Longest-Serving Educators Recognised

More than 400 teachers and staff from the Department of Education and Training are being recognised for their long careers dedicated to public education, at a ceremony for employees who have reached 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service in 2019.

Minister for Education, James Merlino, congratulated teachers, principals, school administrative and department staff at the Department of Education and Training’s Recognition of Service ceremony at the Grand Hyatt in Melbourne.

Among those being recognised today are:

• Allan Robinson, principal at Montmorency Secondary College who is being recognised for 50 years of service. During his time at this school Allan established a basketball club that saw many students compete at state level championships.
• Maureen Spencer-Gardner, sporting careers counsellor at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy, who is being recognised for 50 years of service. Maureen taught at four Victorian public secondary schools over five decades, working with students who have gone on to be Olympians.
• Adele Meren, a teacher-librarian at Elwood Primary School, who is being recognised for 50 years of service.

The total of 408 recipients have devoted more than 17,000 combined years to teaching. During this time, they have led progress in education and helped young people to thrive through learning and educational opportunities.

We are building a world-class education system with exceptional teachers, principals, education support staff and departmental staff.

The Andrews Labor Government is investing $30.9 million in our teachers including their professional development, learning and other initiatives, to ensure that teachers are supported to have great careers in the Education State.A full list of recipients is available here: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/awards/Pages/service.aspx

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“Everyone remembers an inspiring teacher, educator or principal who inspired passions or offered support to reach their full potential.”

“These award recipients have dedicated their careers to public education, helping thousands of students and multiple generations of Victorians, over many decades.”