Maxine’s 4,000 children: Staff celebrate 40 years at Griffith Preschool Kindergarten Inc.

On Thursday, Ms Wynne celebrated 40 years as a full-time teacher at Griffith Preschool Kindergarten Inc. During that time, she has taught over 4,000 Griffith children – spanning three generations of MIA families. 

The tributes from her current students flowed thick and fast. 

“She’s the best teacher in the world,” Lola said

“She’s wonderful… I love her,” Eliza said

“I love cuddling her,” Greta said. 

Ms Wynne started teaching when she was just 18.

“When you do something you love to do, it’s easy to do,” she said.

“I love coming her everyday… now let’s cut some cake and open some presents,” Ms Wynne told the crowd of staff, students, former students and friends. 

A plaque celebrating her 40 years presented to her by the preschool staff calculated more than 21 million minutes spent as a teacher.

“I’ll be here to celebrate my half century if they let me teach until I’m 68,” she said.

There to celebrate her big day were son Dean, his wife Julie-ann and their daughter Joanie, who have all been taught by Ms Wynne. 

Heather Gowing, Director of Griffith Preschool Kindergarten Inc, said she would have educated most of the community. 

“Over the years, teachers have come and go, but Maxine is always there”.

“The incredible thing about her is that she has worked full-time, five days a week for the full 40 years”. 

Ms Gowing said she’s always been a great support to the younger staff. 

“If anyone needs anything, they always go to Maxine”.

Ms Wynne started teaching in 1977. Griffith Preschool Kindergarten Inc.has been providing early childhood education since 1954.