Our Staff

Bella Mona

Bella joined Bindi-Bindi Mia in 2024, bringing a strong background in community-based and early childhood education. She has taught across several progressive settings including Bold Park Community School and Como Children, where Reggio Emilia principles shaped her reflective, creative, and deeply relational teaching practice. Bella is inspired by children’s natural curiosity and sees the learning environment as a “third teacher.”

“In early childhood education, we plant the seeds of curiosity, water them with wonder, and watch as the blossoms of knowledge and resilience bloom. It’s a profound journey of co-discovery, where every child’s story becomes a vibrant chapter in the book of lifelong learning.”
Bella

Grace Atwell

Grace brings extensive experience in Early Childhood education, having led play-based and inquiry-focused classrooms across independent schools and remote Aboriginal communities. Her teaching is grounded in strong relational practice, calm guidance, and thoughtfully designed learning environments that honour children’s individuality and natural curiosity.

During her years teaching in Punmu on Martu Country, Grace integrated Learning on Country, language, and cultural knowledge into daily learning — a practice that continues to shape her approach today. She is deeply committed to cultural responsiveness, outdoor learning, and creating meaningful experiences that empower young children to feel capable, connected, and confident in their world.

Jacey Long

Jacey is an experienced early childhood and primary teacher who blends the Arts with inquiry-based learning, creating classrooms that are playful, creative, and full of student voice. Since joining Kerry Street in 2019 as the Music and Drama Specialist and later Yonga Mia teacher, she has helped shape the school’s inquiry model now used across all classes.

With deep knowledge of Kerry Street’s philosophy, Jacey plays a key role in guiding and supporting colleagues in inquiry-based practice. She has a strong interest in neurodiversity and inclusive education, working closely with families and therapists to create learning spaces that are responsive, regulated, and affirming. Jacey is passionate about helping children understand their brains and bodies, and she draws on approaches such as Marshall Rosenberg’s Non-Violent Communication, and Ross Greene’s Collaborative and Proactive Solutions to help students see themselves as capable, thoughtful contributors to their community.

Tamara Travia

Tamara brings over two decades of experience in independent and public education, offering a calm, thoughtful, and community-focused approach to teaching. She values inquiry, hands-on learning, and strong relationships, balancing these with clear, structured instruction to support student growth.

Her philosophy centres on nurturing connection—to self, to others, and to place—while helping students build confidence, curiosity, and ownership of their learning. Tamara’s warm, grounded presence makes her a deeply respected part of the Kerry Street community. On her first visit, she was greeted by a student waving from a treetop— a moment that captured the spirit of the school and affirmed her sense of belonging here.

Mim Day

Mim is an experienced early childhood and primary teacher whose practice is grounded in wellbeing, inclusion, and strong advocacy for children. With a background in delivering social–emotional programs and community education, she brings deep expertise in supporting students to navigate learning, identity, and relationships with confidence.

She plays an important leadership role at Kerry Street, guiding staff in Non-Violent Communication, supporting whole-school wellbeing approaches, and contributing to key initiatives in reconciliation, sustainability, and outdoor learning. Mim is known for creating calm, relational, and academically challenging learning environments where mistakes are embraced as opportunities and every child is empowered to feel capable and valued.

Meredith Korczynskyj

Meredith brings a wealth of experience from many years working in small independent and community schools, where relationships, sustainability, and connection to place sit at the heart of learning. At Kerry Street she works across classes providing DOTT cover and relief, valued for her calm presence, adaptability, and the trust staff place in her to step into any learning environment with confidence.

Alongside her classroom work, Meredith teaches in Kings Park’s education programs, weaving outdoor learning, environmental science, and connection to Country into rich hands-on experiences. She brings this same philosophy into Kerry Street, fostering curiosity, deep thinking, and a strong relationship with the natural world.

Meredith brings her authentic self to her work each day and is deeply aligned with the school’s values and purpose.

Tom Francas

Tom has been part of Kerry Street since 1997 and is one of our most loved and long-standing team members. With a deep belief in play-based learning, Tom brings games, imagination, and the outdoor environment into every day. He is a steady, nurturing presence for new families and a familiar favourite for generations of Kerry Street kids.

When asked “What has been your favourite memory at Kerry Street so far?”

“I don’t know about “favourite” moment (too many of those to list) but definitely the weirdest was the WHOLE school wearing Tom masks as part of my 25th year at KS celebration.”
Tom

Sally Mason

Sally brings warmth, initiative, and a calm, relational approach to her work with children. She is often found playing chasey, joining fitness games, and supporting students in the Wild Space—always encouraging curiosity, connection, and confidence.

Her gentle presence helps students feel safe, understood, and ready to explore new challenges both indoors and outdoors.

When asked “How would you describe Kerry Street to someone who’s never been here?”

“Kerry Street is a wonderful corner of the world where students belong, explore, build, learn, and stay connected to nature.”
Sally

Lora Guarino

Lora brings a calm, supportive presence to the early years and has a strong background in inclusive education. Working closely with students, she helps them feel confident in learning and play, nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a sense of belonging.

She values Kerry Street’s warm, collaborative culture and loves being part of a community where children are encouraged to explore, discover, and express themselves in meaningful ways.

When asked “If you could bottle one thing about this school, what would it be?”

“The sense of belonging and connection. There’s a warmth and care that makes every child, family, and staff member feel valued, supported, and inspired.”
Lora

Hayley Dayne

Hayley is a dedicated Education Assistant who brings a unique blend of creativity, cultural awareness, and relational care to her work with students. With a formal teaching degree and a background in design, she approaches learning with a strong sense of curiosity, aesthetics, and hands-on creativity.

Hayley also contributes her teaching expertise across different classes at Kerry Street, offering support, relief, and learning experiences that honour the individuality of each child. Her strength lies in understanding the whole child and nurturing their confidence through connection, storytelling, and gentle guidance.

When asked “What’s something about Kerry Street you wish more people knew?”

Kerry street reaches beyond the constructs of a school. It embodies a community that consciously strives to promote social equity, personal growth, non-violent communication and intentionality amongst our learners. We are genuinely committed to caring for Country and sharing compassion and knowledge with our community of learners to pave the way for a brighter future. This is something I truly admire about our school. Kerry Street thrives through a collective voice.
Hayley

Belinda Allen

Belinda joined Kerry Street in 2021 and is known for her warm, steady, and caring approach. With experience supporting students with a wide range of needs, she plays a vital role in creating inclusive, supportive learning environments.

She partners closely with teachers to run small intervention and extension groups and supports students in building confidence, regulation, and strong learning habits. Belinda’s relational, nurturing presence makes her a beloved part of the Kerry Street community.

When asked “What’s one word you’d use to describe the Kerry Street staff?”

“Supportive. The staff work as a team, offering help and checking in on each other so we can make Kerry Street a safe and unique place for children to thrive.”
Belinda

Charly Romaines

Charly began at Kerry Street as a pre-service teacher and loved the community so much that she never left. She now works across classes as a compassionate, steady Education Assistant while completing her teaching degree, supporting students with warmth, patience, and curiosity.

Charly is relational, responsive, and playful in her practice, helping students build confidence in learning and in themselves. Her natural ability to connect with children makes her a trusted, reassuring presence across the school.

When asked “What do you love most about working at Kerry Street?”

I love working at Kerry Street because it fosters an inclusive educational environment where every student is supported and valued. The school’s hands on and community centred approach creates such a positive & rewarding space to work and learn in!
Charly

Carolyn MacDonald

Carolyn is an Education Assistant who brings creativity, care, and a passion for inclusive education to the classroom. She supports students with warmth and patience, helping them feel confident, connected, and capable in their learning.

Beyond the classroom, Carolyn is an artist, storyteller, and published author of Bobby, a children’s book exploring courage and self-discovery. Her vibrant, imaginative approach enriches the learning environment and inspires students to express themselves.

When asked “What do you love most about working with students?”

“Carolyn response coming soon”
Carolyn

Lolah Carwardine

Lolah is a vibrant and relational Education Assistant in middle primary who brings energy, initiative, and a natural ability to connect with students. She supports children with patience, encouragement, and a genuine belief in their strengths.

New to Kerry Street, she has quickly become a valued member of the community, contributing to classrooms with warmth, positivity, and a commitment to helping every child feel safe and supported.

When asked “What’s something you’d bottle about Kerry Street?”

Two things I would bottle about Kerry Street would be our friendly community vibe, and the staff cohort feeling like one big family.
Lolah

MJ Day

MJ is an Education Assistant who brings compassion, calm, and a strong commitment to student wellbeing and promoting being your true self. Beginning her journey at Kerry Street during her Cert IV placement, she instantly connected with the school’s values and community, officially joining the team in 2024.

Alongside her role at school, MJ volunteers with a youth mental health organisation, bringing valuable insight into emotional support, relationship-building, and student advocacy.

When asked “What do you find most fulfilling about your role?”

I believe that positive, trusting relationships are the foundation of meaningful learning, and I love supporting students to reach their full potential in both their education and their individuality. The best part is seeing students be their true authentic selves.
MJ

Peta Har Paz

Peta is warm, kind, patient, and deeply attuned to the individual needs of the children she supports. She brings a calming presence to every classroom and is dedicated to helping each child feel seen, understood, and celebrated for who they are.

Peta values connection, community, and the gentle, relational approach that makes Kerry Street so unique. She is a steady source of compassion and support for students, staff, and families alike.

When asked “What do you love most about working at Kerry Street?”

“Every child is truly seen and supported as an individual. Each child is given the space, care, and guidance they need to grow into the best version of themselves.”
Peta

Caroline Colliss

Caroline brings a blend of art, language, and culture to our school. As our Visual Arts and Italian Specialist, she creates hands-on, learning experiences that nurture creativity, curiosity, and self-expression.

In the Arts Space, she inspires students to explore diverse artists, techniques, and materials, weaving sustainability into her work through long-standing partnerships such as Remida. As the Italian teacher, she brings language and culture to life through immersive lessons, community connections, and the much-loved annual Italian Lunch—a highlight for students and families.

“Teaching art at Kerry Street has been a lifelong dream come true. The students’ creativity and sense of wonder continually inspire me, revealing new ways of seeing the world.” Caroline

Sarah Weaving

Sarah is Kerry Street’s Learning Enrichment Specialist. She is passionate about inquiry, play-based learning, and creating environments where every child feels safe, connected, and seen.

Her work is grounded in the belief that strong relationships sit at the heart of education. Sarah is deeply involved in nature play and place-based learning, and she delights in sharing children’s literature that sparks curiosity, imagination, and joy.

A committed lifelong learner, she continues to explore self-regulation, the brain–body connection, and inclusive practices, helping create nurturing spaces where all children can thrive.

“I love to learn new things, be reflective in my practice and maintain my curiosity and wonder in the world. It is a privilege to be part of a community and to support the inclusion of all children in their own learning journey.” Sarah

Christie Sessler

Christie brings over 15 years of experience in education, mental health, and psychology to her role as Wellbeing Coordinator at Kerry Street. She is deeply committed to supporting children and families to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

Her approach is holistic and relational—grounded in acceptance, understanding, and meeting children where they are. Christie creates safe, nurturing spaces where students can express themselves, build emotional awareness, and develop the skills they need to navigate challenges with confidence.

Drawing on play, movement, art, and storytelling, Christie supports the whole child. She believes that connection, mutual respect, and compassionate communication form the foundations of genuine wellbeing and help children grow into capable, resilient contributors to their community.

Linda Green

Linda is the heart of Kerry Street’s front office, keeping everything running smoothly with her warmth, humour, and calm presence. Since joining the school in 2020, she has become a trusted support for students, families, and staff—always ready with a solution, a smile, or exactly the right question.

From finances and first aid to maintenance coordination and countless behind-the-scenes tasks, Linda quietly keeps the school moving each day. She loves supporting families, helping staff, and ensuring students feel seen and cared for.

When asked “What do you love most about working at Kerry Street?”

“Linda response coming soon.”
Linda

Giselle Laramee-Jupp

Giselle is Kerry Street’s Business Manager, overseeing the school’s finances and operational systems with clarity, care, and a grounding calm. Working two days a week, she brings deep experience in bookkeeping and financial management, ensuring the school remains stable, sustainable, and future-focused.

Practical, steady, and community-minded, Giselle loves supporting the school behind the scenes and often remarks that she wishes she had known about Kerry Street when her own children were young.

When asked “What makes working at Kerry Street special?”

“I could do finance anywhere, but Kerry Street is special because of the children. Listening to their ideas and perspectives makes this work meaningful.”
Giselle

Gary Allen

Gary has been part of the Kerry Street community for more than 11 years—first as a parent, then as the school’s Treasurer, and now as our much-loved Groundskeeper. He brings enormous heart and dedication to his work, caring for every corner of the school with pride and purpose.

From gardens to play spaces to outdoor learning areas, Gary’s work quietly shapes the beautiful, welcoming environment our children enjoy each day.

When asked “What do you love most about your role?”

“Gary’s response coming soon!”
Gary