Outstanding staff from local Catholic schools have been recognised for their commitment to Catholic Education across the Diocese of Sale.
A Leadership Eucharist and Awards presentation was held to launch the beginning of Catholic Education Week in the Diocese which runs from 19 May to 26 May, 2023.
Michelle Pereira and Erin McInerney of St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield each received a prestigious Spirit of Catholic Education award.
Ms Pereira who is Deputy Principal received an Inspiring Faith award for work in designing a wellbeing program with direct links to Catholic identity that has guided many staff.
Ms Pereira is described as an inspirational leader with a strength in bringing people along with her. Her love and charity towards helping others is witnessed in her continued involvement with the Berwick Soup Van,
Caritas, and other advocacy and charity campaigns.
Mrs McInerney who is a leader in the Learning Inclusion team at the Officer campus, received an Inspiring Learning award.
Mrs McInerney is recognised for her work in building relationships with local feeder primary schools to ensure students with additional learning needs have a smooth transition to secondary school.
She has also been instrumental in creating supportive learning programs at the Officer campus such as life skills and literacy programs that support students.
Ms Pereira and Mrs McInerney were among 13 people from Catholic schools across the Diocese of Sale to receive awards on the night.
Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Mr Paul Velten, congratulated the award recipients for the wonderful work they do in inspiring faith and learning.
“We are proud to have such exceptional individuals in our Catholic school community, and we are grateful for their leadership, service and excellence.”
The Diocese of Sale covers 38 Catholic primary schools and seven Catholic secondary schools in a geographic area that spans from Melbourne’s outer south eastern suburbs from Narre Warren and Cranbourne, to Phillip Island, and right throughout Gippsland to Orbost in the east.
Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for Catholic Schools to welcome people to attend open days and events and see the activities happening in Catholic schools every day.
Residents can contact their local Catholic school for information.
