Finalists in this category, from L to R: Stuart Kelly, Marlene Monahan, Trevor Buchanan, Susan Tolhurst, David Adams, Karen Blanchfield, Lee Musumeci and Liz Wallace
Finalists
Liz Wallace, Isabella Plains Early Childhood School, ACT
Susan Tolhurst, Windang Public School, NSW
Karen Blanchfield, Ross Park Primary School, NT
Trevor Buchanan, Mount Mee State School, QLD
David Adams, Westbourne Park Primary School, SA
Stuart Kelly, Sacred Heart Catholic School, TAS
Marlene Monahan, Bethany Catholic School, VIC
Lee Musumeci, Challis Early Childhood Education Centre, WA
Winner of the 2011 Australian Primary Principal of the Year
Lee receiving her certificate from Minister Garrett, with AITSL Chair, Anthony Mackay
Video of Lee shown at the 2011 AITSL Awards
Video of Lee transcript 35KB RTF
Lee Musumeci, Challis Early Childhood Education Centre, WA
Lee Musumeci is an outstanding principal and visionary early childhood leader who has led exceptional improvements in student learning outcomes, attendance and wellbeing at Challis Early Childhood Education Centre.
Lee has introduced a number of initiatives characterised by effective use of data and research, particularly in Indigenous education, successful collaboration with staff and community partners, exemplary management skills and an underpinning commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students, to achieve this success. One example is the introduction of an Indigenous class for Kindergarten to Year 1 students, where siblings and cousins come together. This strategy has increased attendance from 69 percent to 93 per cent in a three-year period.
Highly motivated and dedicated, Lee works with tireless dedication to develop relationships with parents, the local community, business community, research institutions and politicians to enhance the learning for her students.