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Teacher Feature

Kristie Marks

Head of Year 12, Georges River Grammar School

In the bustling corridors of Georges River Grammar School, Kristie Marks stands as a model of unwavering enthusiasm and dedication. For four years, she has served as the Year 12 Head of Year, going above and beyond to cultivate a sense of community among her students. Kristie’s knows each student by name, their parents’ names, their career aspirations, and even their latest assessment marks. With a genuine desire to foster connection, she organises movie nights, pizza parties, and games, ensuring that every student feels valued and supported. There have been difficult times for Kristie, with students experiencing cancer, or a parent passing away, but she has stood by them.

Kristie’s energy is contagious, fuelled not just by her inner drive but also by the occasional Coke Zero. Despite her tireless efforts, she shies away from the spotlight, preferring to focus on her students’ needs rather than seeking recognition. Her ability to engage even the most reluctant students is remarkable, reflecting her deep understanding of their individual needs and interests. Beyond the classroom, Kristie extends her reach, connecting primary students with Year 12 students, with the former offering care packages and prayers. She is also committed to the next generation of educators, offering mentorship to new Heads of Year. Inspired by her own Year 7 PE teacher (the renowned Kim Harker), she believes in the power of genuine care and keeps meticulous records of her interactions, ensuring no student or parent feels overlooked.

For Kristie, a truly fulfilling day is marked by the sight of students arriving at the school gates with beaming smiles and a cheerful “Hi, Miss!”. Her dedication to her role as a teacher extends far beyond academic instruction; she serves as a pillar of support for both students and parents, listening with empathy and respect. With a passion for innovation and a deep love for her students, Kristie embodies the essence of an exceptional educator, exemplifying the three top qualities she holds dear: passion for her work, organisational prowess blended with flexibility, and an unwavering love for her students.

AISNSW and GANE are proud to present Kristie Marks in our series of celebrating teachers. We thank Kristie and Georges River Grammar School for sharing her story with us.

We firmly believe that recognising and paying tribute to exceptional educators is fundamental in nurturing an environment that consistently inspires and encourages the community.

Teacher Feature is a part of the Growing and Nurturing Educators (GANE) initiative. Nominate a dedicated teacher from your school to be featured in a future edition of Education News.

Related Teacher Feature blog posts:

Elizabeth Marret Kindergarten Teacher
Fleur Tropea Head of Secondary School
Danielle Lough Student Engagement Coordinator

Are you inspired by Kristieʼs story? Discover rewarding teaching jobs or leadership positions through our recruitment portal. Whether you’re looking for teaching positions near you or want to advance in education leadership, we can help you find the perfect role.

Kristie Marks