A jogging enthusiast has taken up the baton as Yenda Public School's principal, as Gary Workman steps up to fill the shoes of former principal Bel Wallace.
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Mr Workman is known around town as a passionate runner and an even more passionate teacher who has taught at schools all around Griffith for the past 13 years.
"There are many areas of the teaching career that are so rewarding," Mr Workman said.
"As a teacher you can make a real positive change for your students."
Mr Workman said it's an especially exciting year to start work at Yenda Public School, which is currently going into overdrive in preparation for their 100th anniversary celebrations in October.
Mr Workman has already started working alongside the teachers, students, and parents to make this year's centenary one to remember.
"It's an exciting year for Yenda," he said.
"This year we're also going to focus on quality teaching and learning, particularly in English and Mathematics."
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Mr Workman got his first teaching gig at Griffith Public School where, like his namesake suggests, he got a reputation for being a hard worker who always gave it his all.
He then went on to become the assistant principal at Hanwood Public School, where learnt the finer points of leadership from principal Monica St Baker.
Ms St Baker said she was proud to see Mr Workman moving up in the world, but sad to see him go.
"I knew one day I would lose him, but I didn't anticipate losing him so soon," she said.
"At least I'm losing him to a local school, because he's an asset to the whole community."
Ms St Baker was Mr Workman's mentor back in the days when they both worked at Griffith Public School, and Ms St Baker said he was a fast learner and an inspiring protege.
"He's always been an amazing teacher and an exemplary practitioner even as a young teacher," Mrs St Baker said.
"I'm just really proud of him and his growth, and to be a small part of his journey has been absolutely outstanding."
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