Loren Peavey is the first principal for Keelonith Primary School in Greenvale which will open early next year. Having worked in many places including New York, she is excited to start the journey at Keelonith and help shape the lives of many children and the school community. She speaks with Tara Murray.
What’s your teaching background?
I’ve been teaching 32 years. I started in the Macedon Ranges, before taking on some consultation work for the Department of Education and worked right across Victoria. I then worked in New York City and worked in the Bronx. I then come back to Victoria and have been an assistant principal and principal the last five years at Romsey Primary School
What attracted you to the role at Keelonith Primary School?
It’s a supported inclusion school. It’s a brand new type of school and universally designed for every single student. Every child has every opportunity to be the best that they can be. That is the belief for the school. The enrollments allow for up 10 per cent of students who have an intellectual disability. All students learn from each other and there are no labels. It’s based on equality for everyone.
Before taking on this role, did you have much connection with the Greenvale and Hume community?
I was acting principal at Roxburgh Park and decided that I liked the area. It’s the perfect location and perfect that it worked out well.
What impact do you want to leave on not only the school community, but the community as a whole?
I want to set up the culture from the beginning and build from the ground up. The motto of the school is learning without limits. We don’t put any limits. We want everyone to feel comfortable in the school, not just the kids, the staff and parents. Everyone is a learner in our school. There is a lot of talk about inclusion and people are showing apathy to be inclusive. I want to be at the forefront of changing opinions and values.
How’s things looking ahead of the school opening?
We aren’t huge, but it’s a good size. We can build together and get to know each other. I’ve been able to speak or meet every family so far.
What are some things you’re interested in outside teaching?
I love plants and succulents, knitting and I’m into yoga.
