Good morning, students, staff, families, and members of the Coorparoo community,
As I reflect on this year and my journey as Principal of CSS since 2015, I am overwhelmed with pride. Over these years, I have had the privilege of witnessing Coorparoo grow, develop, and thrive in ways that continue to inspire me. This is a school like no other, with a culture that embodies collaboration, values, and heart.
Each year, when I welcome our new Prep families, I speak about the idea that “it takes a village to raise a child." It's a truth that underpins everything we do at Coorparoo. The success of our school lies in the collective effort of our staff, students, and families working together. But what truly makes us extraordinary is the “something special" we've created and nurtured—a school culture that sets us apart.
This culture is built on clearly defined values that guide our decisions every day. It's rooted in our understanding of the immense history of Coorparoo State School, our place within that history, and our shared responsibility to shape graduates who don't just achieve great things but who are great people.
Our connection with families is central to this. Visible leadership- being present in the playgrounds and classrooms, and sharing in your children's daily lives are some of the most rewarding aspects of my role. There is nothing better than greeting our students each morning and saying goodbye to them at the end of each day! I enjoy speaking with families and the excitement of watching the younger siblings grow and eventually join our school.
To our students—you are the reason we do what we do. Whether you've been here for one year or many, you've brought your energy, curiosity, and unique gifts to our school community. To our graduating students, this is your final Christmas assembly as part of this school family. While it's hard to say goodbye, know that you carry with you the lessons, friendships, and memories from here as you step boldly into the next chapter of your lives.
This year, 2024, has been an extraordinary one, marked by achievements that have lifted us to new heights:
• Academics: Our teachers embraced innovative methods of teaching reading, resulting in remarkable growth in literacy among our Prep students. These achievements will have a lasting impact on their futures.
• Math Academy: Led by Mr Will Windsor, this program continues to cultivate problem solvers with a love for mathematics. His work with the Year 5 Hybrid Math Team and Raceview State School was so outstanding that he presented at the World Math Conference in Sydney. Last week, we welcomed students from both schools for a Math Team Challenge, highlighting the power of collaboration and excellence.
Sporting Excellence:
• Our Netball Academy, under the leadership Mrs. Elliot and Clare Ferguson, flourished this year. Clare, a parent, a professional player and coach, generously gave her time to co-coach and nurture our teams. She even took on the role of taking a team to State titles in Bundaberg. Brooke Carnes who joined the team to help manage students and learnt about the love of the game, thanks.
• The Touch Football Academy, led by Simon Fairbairn, created incredible opportunities and memories for our students. Kirsty Muir for her ongoing support and assistance is appreciated.
• Our new AFL Academy, established by Mrs. Brooke Van Der Kamp and supported by coaches Tom Griffiths and Noah Harron, made an impressive debut in Brisbane competitions, fostering a love of AFL.
• The tireless efforts of our PE department—Megan Lopez, Monique Elliott, Tara Morgan, and Karlie Sandavar—ensured countless sporting opportunities. A special thank you to Riccardo Magalhaes, a dedicated parent who coached our track team to success at the Lytton District events.
• The Arts: A highlight of the year was our school musical, Mary Poppins Jnr. This production exemplified the power of community. Back in December 2023, George and Christine Lignos approached me with the dream of creating a school musical. This dream became a reality thanks to the incredible dedication of our parents, staff, and community members.
• Eliza Smith stepped in as our producer, Marina took the helm as director, Christina led the music, George ensured seamless sound, and Monica brought the costumes and props to life.
• With a vision to upgrade our theatre to create something special for our students, we installed new curtains, enhanced digital lighting capabilities, and introduced cutting-edge projection technology. My thanks to Dean Watkins for his extraordinary work on digital sets and lighting design, which brought the production to life. The result was a breathtaking experience for everyone involved—a true testament to what we can achieve when we dream big together.
Our Music department and the teachers from across the school who also give their time to support the arts at Coorparoo deserve great thanks. Nicole, Sam, Alicia Margo & Leanne, Kirsty, Matt and the huge group of supporters who come and assist at events. You make music happen at Coorparoo.
Liz Deluca this year worked as an artist in residence and together with the Student Council created our new mosaic art work.
Our Ground staff and cleaners you do an amazing job! Your work is appreciated.
• Community and Cultural Events: From Diwali celebrations to the Colour Run, our music concerts, and the Celebration of Early Childhood, this year has been filled with opportunities to come together and celebrate what makes our school so special.
Our P&C's work has been instrumental in fostering this sense of belonging, creating events that bring our community closer such as the welcome BBQ, Spellathon with Captain Spellalot, Families Week, Bush Dance, World Teachers Day, and the disco. A special thanks to Nat Killips for her work for Arbour Day and of Course the colour run over the last few years.
I'd like to acknowledge those who have achieved outstanding academic results this year—you've set the bar high and shown what's possible with determination and effort. But remember, success isn't just measured by grades. It's about the journey of learning together, embracing challenges, and growing into people who lead with empathy and kindness.
As we close the chapter on 2024, I want to thank every member of our community—students, staff, and families. Your dedication, passion, and support make Coorparoo the extraordinary place it is. Together, we are shaping the future, one child at a time.
Looking to 2025 some staff will leave us as their lives takes them in new directions, I thank each of you for your commitment and efforts to make a difference for children, we wish you the very best, but remember you were part of this great school. Please join me in thanking, Grace Kearney, Jess Gounder, & Alison Morris. Finally, we farewell for now perhaps longer Tori Dobson from our admin team. You will all be missed.
I want to thank those students leaving CSS this year and ask them stand.
Here's to another year of learning, growth, and success. Thank you for the privilege of leading this incredible school.
Warm regards,
Dean Murphy