As an Independent Public School, Kapinara Primary School first established its Board in 2013. Each Board member is an elected representative, selected by the School community. The Kapinara School Board is comprised of 9 members (5 parent representatives and 4 teacher representatives).
It is a Board member’s responsibility to think critically and represent all sectors of the school community and not only one viewpoint or the view of an individual. Board members will take into account the following primary considerations when representing the community:
- The vision, purpose and values of the school
- What is in the best interests of the students
- What will enhance the education provided by the school both current and future
The functions of the Kapinara School Board are prescribed by the School Education Act 1999 and the School Education Regulations 2000 and include both approval and advisory roles. Some of the matters the Board may make decisions on include fees and charges, book lists, sponsorship and dress codes. The Board makes these decisions with the Principal and others who ensure the decisions adhere to legislative and policy requirements.
The Principal will also seek advice of the Board regarding community context to inform themselves before making management decisions. Periodically, the Board will consult the School community to directly contribute community context. Community views are particularly important in relation to operational Policy development/or practice changes, as well as for strategic planning, as part of the School’s three yearly Business Planning cycle.
The Board also provides an oversight and monitoring role, with regular review of school finances, performance data, strategic risk management and the implementation of the Business Plan.
The Kapinara School Board does not intervene in the control or management of the school.
You will find updates on the activities of the Kapinara School Board in the School newsfeed after each meeting, with meeting dates for the year identified in the school calendar. The Board typically holds a minimum of 6 meetings per year.
Resources
Download a copy of our Terms of Reference
Download a copy of our Code of Conduct
Our School Board members
Elizabeth Blackwell: School Representative (Principal)
I have been extremely fortunate to have worked in a number of different educational settings, but I remain most passionate about the teaching and learning process, young children’s development and the wellbeing of staff, children and their families.
I wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember, and what I miss most as a Principal, is working directly with children. I enjoyed ‘teaching’ everything – from tutoring Year 12 Maths while studying, to teaching multi-age classes in the South-West and 34 Year One children in the northern suburbs (although Wanneroo is no longer really a ‘northern suburb’). I worked in district (now regional) offices, providing support to schools in the metropolitan area in the area of early childhood education, and in our Department’s Central Office with more of a focus on early childhood policy and strategic planning. During these years my two children were born, and I spent 12 months at Edith Cowan University with the Centre for Child Health Promotion Research. Then it was back to schools, where I was a Deputy Principal and a few years later became a Principal. I am still fascinated by the whole teaching and learning process, and have become increasingly interested in children’s brain development and mental health and wellbeing, and the range of ways in which these impact children’s learning and behaviour. I can’t imagine a day where I’m not motivated to read and learn something new, or a time when I’m not excited about a new book.
David Watson: School Representative (Teacher)
Lauren Tsironis: School Representative (Teacher)
Aleisha Niebieszczanski: Deputy Principal
Kylie Lund: Teacher
My name is Kylie Lund and I have been at Kapinara Primary School since 2020. I also have a daughter in Year Five at the school. I currently teach Year 6 and this is my fourth year of teaching. Teaching is a second career for me, having worked within varying Administration and Management roles within the Financial Services industry, prior to commencing my teaching degree in 2016. Whilst completing my degree, I worked as a special-needs education assistant within a high school setting.
I have an interest in the literacy, having specialised in this whilst studying. I particularly enjoying teaching students in the upper primary years and developing the students need to become increasingly independent.
When I am not at work, I am usually balancing my time with the demands of parenting, however I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and spending as much time down at the beach as I possibly can.
Suzie Richards: Parent Representative
Steve Hendry: Parent Representative
I am the father of two children that have attended Kapinara PS, Charlotte is currently in Year 5. Both kids commenced their experience with the school though Kindy.
I am a Director, owner and adviser of a successful wealth management business, Redwood Wealth Alliance. I am a Responsible Manager (6 years) for our Australian Financial Services License, running our own license for over the last 20 years. We employ over 20 staff. I have a strong financial background and experience operating a business that has tight regulation and compliance requirements.
I have previously been involved with Collegians Amateur Football Club as a player, coach as well as acting as Secretary for 4 years. I have more recently been involved with the Wembley Downs Junior Football Club as an Auskick coach.
Gavin Bennett: Parent Representative
Bronwyn Grieve: Parent Representative
Felicity Maher: Parent Representative
I am the mother of Leo, Year 4, and Jessica, Year 2. I am a barrister and university lecturer. I come from a long line of educators and believe passionately in the importance of education. Kapinara is blessed to have such an engaged and supportive school community. I am keen to make a contribution to that community, and the continued success of our school, by serving on the school board. With my legal background, I will bring problem-solving skills and decision-making experience, as well as familiarity with the responsibilities of board members. With my education background, I will bring a real interest in and concern for providing the students of our school with the best opportunities to thrive.