Reflecting on an Incredible Journey: Farewell from Damascus College
As I approach my final days as Assistant Principal for Learning and Teaching at Damascus College, it is with immense gratitude and pride that I reflect on this extraordinary journey that began in 2017. Grounded in our Mercy values of compassion, justice, hospitality, courage, service, and respect, my mission was clear, to nurture a cohesive community dedicated to supporting every student's potential. As I prepare to say goodbye, I am deeply moved by how far we've journeyed together, always guided by these enduring principles.
From the very beginning, it was evident that the strength of Damascus College lay in its people, dedicated practitioners committed to fostering academic excellence and holistic growth. It was a privilege to collaborate with inspiring colleagues such as Jen Henderson, whose passion and courageous leadership significantly shaped ESTEEM, our vibrant STEM program, and our instructional model. Jen, alongside her instructional coaches, championed excellence in teaching, creating a dynamic culture of continuous improvement and innovation, illuminating pathways of exploration and compassionate learning for countless students.
Equally remarkable was the partnership with Belinda Dwyer, whose steadfast leadership and hospitality strengthened and expanded the Vocational Major (VM) pathway. Belinda’s unwavering commitment engaged not only our school community but also resonated within the broader community, highlighting the incredible opportunities our VM program offers.
Rod Mathews' exceptional work in data analytics played a crucial role in informing our strategic decisions, ensuring evidence-based approaches were applied with justice and integrity to improve student outcomes. Additionally, Sharon Hayes' inspiring efforts in the reading program, particularly, cultivated a deep love of reading among our junior students, embodying the Mercy value of service. The resilience and determination demonstrated by Matthew Hallowell and the Student Growth and Engagement Team reflected courage and compassion, especially evident in their innovative English intervention at Year 7, a calculated risk strongly grounded in evidence-based research.
The unexpected challenges brought by the COVID pandemic tested our resolve, courage, and resilience. Through these trying years, collaboration with Adam Ratcliffe, Head of ICT, ensured our students and staff were equipped with innovative technology. This sustained and enriched our connections with students and families, emphasising the critical importance of relationships and hospitality during times of unprecedented change.
The introduction of the Hands on Learning Program (HoLP), a joint initiative between Student Growth and Engagement and Applied Learning, was another milestone, effectively bridging Year 10 students into pathways that ignited intrinsic motivation through practical, hands-on experiences, demonstrating respect for individual learning styles.
Curriculum enhancement became an enduring legacy, driven by Naomi Olthof and our dedicated Learning Area Leaders. Their exceptional efforts embedded consistency, rigour, and excellence across all teaching practices, exemplifying justice and integrity. This solid foundation was complemented by Caroline Nolan, whose dedicated leadership at VCE significantly raised academic expectations and achievements. Georgia Shillito revitalised our career education model, transforming our approach to careers education following our formal review.
The establishment of the St Brendan’s Program under Karen Goonan was a testament to collaboration, service, and community spirit. This groundbreaking initiative brought together an amazing team and an engaged community, amplifying the voice and heritage of Dunnstown while paving new paths for educational innovation.
Behind every achievement was invaluable support from dedicated individuals like Maree Lawlor, whose tireless administrative guidance and compassionate service kept our Learning and Teaching operations thriving. The ICT, admin, and maintenance teams, along with the supportive leadership team, continually entrusted and empowered us with respect and courage to pursue ambitious educational improvements, ensuring the seamless daily operation of our College. Special thanks to the admin team, whose smiles, cheerful greetings each morning, and tireless efforts to support my numerous requests never went unnoticed; they, alongside our Learning Support Officers (LSOs), truly are our silent heroes.
The unwavering support from the Executive Leadership Team, led by Principal Steven Mifsud, demonstrated hospitality and respect, allowing me the autonomy to drive strategic initiatives and innovative educational practices. This support was integral to our achievements.
My sincere gratitude extends to our parent community for their steadfast support and active engagement, which has consistently enabled us to enhance our students’ educational journey.
I am also leaving incredible leaders who embody our Mercy values, fully understand the brief, and will courageously step up and continue driving what makes Damascus College the school of choice.
Most importantly, my deepest appreciation goes to our remarkable teachers, the heartbeat of Damascus College. Their adaptability, honesty, courage, and relentless dedication grounded my leadership and reminded me daily of our core purpose, nurturing every student's growth and potential.
I leave Damascus College enriched by the experiences and memories we've shared. My heart is full of gratitude, and I am forever blessed by this remarkable community, guided always by our Mercy values. Thank you for being part of this incredible chapter. Our collective legacy of learning, innovation, compassion, and community spirit will surely continue to flourish.
Take Care Everyone,
Ashwin Pillai