Reflection | One Year as Principal at Mother Teresa | Jess Davis
This week, I reflect on my first twelve months as Principal of Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School, Mt Ridley. I am grateful for the welcome, trust, and partnership shown by our community. Over this year, I have seen firsthand the strength of our school: the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the commitment of our parents to walk this educational journey with us.
Together with the executive team, we have led a significant shift in pedagogy, and I am proud to see students thriving through purposeful, high-quality instruction in Literacy and Mathematics. Our recent Grade 5/6 PAT-R results highlight this growth, with many students who were previously well below the Australian norm now meeting or exceeding it. These improvements are echoed across other year levels and in Mathematics. This progress has been made possible through the exceptional leadership of Mrs Naomi Glasby (Literacy Leader) and Ms Conchita Thomas (Mathematics Leader), and the dedicated work of our teachers who have embraced new learning and practice.
Alongside academic growth, our community events have been true highlights: our Welcome Picnic, Book Week Parade, and Celebration of the Arts evening have brought joy and connection to our school. Introducing students to Gen Bryant at our Mother Teresa Feast Day, where she shared the gospel messages of hope and love through song, was a particularly uplifting moment strengthening our Catholic beliefs as people of hope.
The decision in consultation with the MACS infrastructure team to develop a school Masterplan to refurbish and refresh and build new spaces to enhance our school has also been a highlight, as this was an opportunity to hear from all stakeholders about what matters to them in regards to our school and plan for the future. The Masterplan has recently been shared with myself and Darren, I can’t wait to share it with our community in the upcoming weeks.
Finally, I thank you, our Mother Teresa families, for your ongoing support. My first year has been deeply affirming, marked by growth, collaboration, and a shared commitment to helping every child flourish.
God Bless,
Jess
