A Sisterly Legacy at Holy Family Primary School
The story of sisters Rebecca Cornish and Libby Freshney (pictured above) at Holy Family Primary School in Indooroopilly showcases the profound impact of dedicated educators, with nearly five decades of combined service to their school.
Rebecca began her teaching career at Holy Family in 1998, followed by Libby in 2003. Their close bond has allowed them to share classrooms at various points, creating an environment rich in laughter and joy.
‘We help each other with anything along the way,’ Libby shared, reflecting on their unique support for one another. Rebecca added, ‘You want to be happy in the classroom, and my sister helps make every day joyous.’
The sisters' connection extends beyond their professional lives; their children have grown up together, all attending Holy Family.
Principal Terese Shephard praised the sisters for their contributions, noting their deep ties to the school as both former students and now parents. ‘We are very blessed to have them on staff at Holy Family,’ she said.
Nurturing Young Minds at Holy Cross School
At Holy Cross School in Wooloowin, educators Kerrie McEwan and Leisa Devereaux (pictured right) emphasise a holistic approach to education. With Kerrie celebrating a decade at the school and Leisa over 12 years, both teachers prioritise creating inclusive and supportive environments for their students.
Kerrie, a Year 4 teacher, highlighted the importance of nurturing skills beyond academics.
‘I come to work every day knowing I am helping to build global citizens who give back to their communities,’ she remarked, referencing initiatives like Mini Vinnies and Project Compassion that foster social awareness.
Leisa, herself Brisbane Catholic Education graduate, is committed to providing her own students with the same caring experience. She emphasised Holy Cross's strong sense of community, where every student is known by name, and their unique needs are understood.
Principal Simon Mahaffy praised Kerrie and Leisa for making learning engaging and fun, stating, ‘Their classrooms radiate curiosity and joy. Together with our school’s values, their dedication creates a nurturing foundation that prepares students not just for secondary school but for life.’
World Teacher's Day, celebrated annually on October 5 and on October 25 in Australia, honours teachers' transformative impact on education. It commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, which establishes benchmarks for their rights, responsibilities, and professional standards. Since 1994, this day has highlighted the importance of supporting teachers.
This year, the UN Secretary General’s High-Level Panel on the Teaching Profession released recommendations to strengthen teachers' roles in transforming education and advancing SDG 4. The emphasis is on valuing teachers' knowledge and participation in decision-making processes.
As you celebrate teachers, take a moment to reflect on their crucial role in shaping a better society and the support needed to enhance their effectiveness in improving child welfare and educational outcomes. Find out more from these UNESCO documents:
Valuing teacher voices: UNESCO concept note for World Teacher's Day
Valuing teacher voices: towards a new social contract for education (UNESCO)
As World Teachers' Day approaches, the stories of these dedicated educators remind us of the vital role teachers play in shaping futures, fostering both knowledge and compassion in the next generation.