Educators shine at school network awards

A network of schools located in the Pilbara celebrated its dedicated educators and staff at the annual Karratha Education Network Excellence (KENEx) Awards.

The awards began last year and the 11 schools in the network are invited to nominated staff for six categories.

 Karratha Primary School’s Annalyn Navarrete is the network principal and said it’s important to celebrate the work of school staff. 

“This event allows us to foster collegiality across the network, celebrate achievements of staff members, and promote the quality education we provide to the wider community,” she said. 

“The theme for the 2024 KENEx Awards Gala was ‘Colours of the Pilbara’, which beautifully captured the vibrant kaleidoscope of public school staff members who contribute to our educational landscape. 

“As the network principal, I acknowledge the Karratha Education Network stands connected and proud, with shining examples of excellence amongst us, a network that others aspire and strive to emulate.  

“The best part of the evening was witnessing the positive connection and unity between staff members of different roles, varying experience and across the schools.” 

This year the Outstanding Aboriginal Education award was launched to acknowledge the staff in schools who are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background. 

Chanti McHenry, from Pegs Creek Primary School, was the inaugural winner of the award. Miss McHenry said she was proud to receive it for her hard work in creating a cultural appropriate environment for the school community to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture. 

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education is essential in every school,” she said. 

“It allows students to be mindful of history understand the culture and the cycle of life animals and plants through the views of first nation people. It opens unity and respect for one another. 

“First Nation Education is about reconciliation, identity and keeping the culture strong. It acknowledges the local culture in the community and develops an understanding of sensitive issues.” 

The winners at the awards were: 

• Outstanding School Support - Michelle Saunders, Tambrey Primary School 
• Outstanding Allied Professional - Jodi Koleniuk-Neville, Karratha Senior High School 
• Outstanding Early Career Teacher - Chianna Taylor, Baynton West Primary School 
• Outstanding Teacher - Timothy Okonkwo, Karratha Senior High School 
• Outstanding Aboriginal Education - Chanti McHenry, Pegs Creek Primary School 
• Outstanding School Leadership - Francis Bosman, Tambrey Primary School.