School honours strong partnership with community

For principal Kay Mack, linking students with the community is one aspect to providing a fulfilling and well-rounded education at Shark Bay School.

Just before Term 4 ended on December 14 Shark Bay School highlighted the importance of its community volunteers with a morning tea to thank the school’s helpers.

Mrs Mack said contributions included community members reading to the children, giving presentations, chaperoning students at camps and helping out at assemblies.

“This morning tea was for people who generously volunteer their time and expertise for students at the school,” she said. “We have Aboriginal members of the community come to us and talk about their culture and their ways.

“People come in to read and show the students how reading is used in their jobs so they realise that reading isn’t just for school or homework and you have to read if you’re a baker or a policeman.

“It shows them the connection between school and life, so we’re not just a little isolated unit.”

With just under 100 students attending the morning tea, the school’s close-knit community of parents and residents were each presented with a medallion in recognition of their services.

“We’re well staffed but a successful school is a strong partnership between students, staff, parents and community members,” Mrs Mack said.

“Education isn’t just about school, it’s about community.

“That’s what makes education fulfilling for students.”

Shark Bay School has 97 students enrolled from kindergarten to Year 12.