Kalinda School welcomes a new Principal today, Angela Sampson, who shares with us a little about herself and her plans in Griffith.
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Where were you before and what were you doing?
Before moving to Griffith I lived in Wollongong, where I was an Assistant Principal at Warilla Public School.
I started there in 2008, and in 2015, we moved to Moulamein where I was the Relieving Principal for nearly a year and on New Years Eve in 2015 we moved to Griffith where I would commence the role of Relieving Principal at Tharbogang Public School (12 month contract) and began 2017 at Griffith High School as the Instructional Leader, Deputy Principal.
What brings you to Griffith specifically?
The position for Principal at Kalinda School was advertised and I did not hesitate to apply for the position.
I was lucky enough to be the successful applicant through the Merit Selection process.
Born and bred in Wollongong, I never saw myself leaving, that was until I got married and my husband and I wanted a tree change.
I am one very lucky lady, as my husband supports my passion for teaching and was very happy to move away from Wollongong.
Griffith itself was never a place we had considered to move to, honestly, I didn't really know where it was.
The opportunity for work came up and we decided to take the plunge.
I believe when one door closes another door opens, and always for the better, and this journey has been no different.
What are you most excited about doing at Kalinda?
The most exciting part about being at Kalinda School is working closely with students, staff and families to support students with such specific and special needs.
As a teacher we have such strong influences on student lives, and I am privileged to be able to do this on a daily basis, as I love my job and I could never imagine doing anything else.
Is there anything in particular you would like to achieve?
My goal for Kalinda School is to provide opportunities for all students to engage in meaningful learning and prepare them for life beyond school, and for every student, family member and member of staff to feel valued and that their role is invaluable as we work together to benefit all students.
It is a beautiful school with dedicated staff who are here to support the academic, social, emotional and communication needs of the students.
Every student has their own Individual Learning Plan, where we work together with families and outside agencies to achieve their goals.
We are looking forward to holding an 'Open Day' later in the term, where all of Griffith will be invited to come along and see the outstanding facilities and resources Kalinda School has to offer, including it's own Hydrotherapy pool.
So far, what stands out about Griffith that you like?
The thing that stands out most to me about Griffith is the amazing community feel.
Everyone is there to help each other out, whether it is the neighbors bringing your bin in for you to raising money for community groups, there is always something wonderful and exciting going on here in Griffith.
About Kalinda
Kalinda School is an educational setting that caters for students from Kindergarten to Year 12 who have been identified as having a moderate to severe intellectual or physical disability.
There are currently 36 students enrolled at the school, however, can cater for many more with class sizes considerably smaller than mainstream class settings.
Each class consists of a classroom teacher and a Student Learning Support Officer.
Kalinda School services all of Griffith and the surrounding suburbs.
Assisted travel is available for students to be able to access school here.