The leadership team at Kerry Street Community School is driven by a shared commitment to fostering a supportive, innovative, and student-centred learning environment. Jodi Kerslake, as Principal, and Taylah Griffin, as Associate Principal, work in close partnership to uphold the school’s values of inclusivity, creativity, and community connection. Their leadership ensures that Kerry Street remains a place where students feel seen, heard, and empowered in their learning journey. With a focus on collaboration, wellbeing, and high-quality education, Jodi and Taylah guide the school with vision and dedication, strengthening both staff and student growth while honouring the unique culture of Kerry Street.
Jodi has been involved with small, non-government schools since the 1990s as a teacher, leader, Board member and parent. She was privileged to be a part of Port High School at its inception and was part of the team that established Alia College in Victoria. Joining Treetops Montessori and International Baccalaureate School and then Rockingham Montessori School, she continued her exploration of independent, progressive education systems. She shares Kerry Street’s commitment to joyful, hands-on learning, where curiosity and creativity are welcomed, and children, families, and staff can flourish.
Jodi’s teaching background is in primary and secondary education, specialising in English, History and Drama (which means she has lots of books, too many DVDs, and an excellent dressing-up box). Her teaching focus has always come from following the children’s interests, whether that be supporting children to organise their class excursions, publishing anthologies of student writing, making planter boxes out of scrap materials, or filming a student-performed movie version of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”.
As a school leader in both primary and secondary school contexts, Jodi has been and is in awe of the amazing educators and co-educators she has been fortunate to support. She loves using her paperwork skills to ensure staff can focus on their core responsibilities. Integrity, transparency, and the importance of being a role model are central to Jodi’s approach to leadership.
In her spare time, Jodi likes to walk her dogs, drink peppermint tea, and volunteer at Vinnies. She is thrilled to be working with families, staff, and Board members at Kerry Street as part of a thriving community that genuinely and actively cares for its children.
Taylah Griffin is the Associate Principal at Kerry Street Community School. Since joining the school in 2019, Taylah has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant and supportive community, driving positive change, and ensuring that every decision prioritises the best outcomes for students.
With a Bachelor of Education (Primary) specialising in Special Needs and a Master of Education in Learning Difficulties and Educational Leadership underway, Taylah brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She is deeply committed to creating inclusive, trauma-informed learning environments that prioritise the needs of every student. Her professional background in supporting students with complex needs has endeared her to the school community, making her an empathetic and approachable colleague and friend. Taylah attended a two-day workshop with Ross Greene and is committed to further supporting the school in implementing his Collaborative and Proactive Solutions model.
Taylah is known for her ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the school community. Her intuitive, approachable and empathetic leadership style makes her a trusted figure among staff, students, and parents. She takes pride in being present and visible throughout the school day, actively engaging with families, staff, and students to foster a sense of connection and trust.
Taylah is not only dedicated to her role at Kerry Street but also actively contributes to the wider educational community. She serves as the Vice President of the Australasian Democratic Education Community (ADEC), attending two previous conferences in Tasmania and Victoria, and hosting the 2024 conference at Kerry Street. Through these experiences, Taylah collaborates with educators dedicated to the democratic model, enriching her perspective and contributing to the ongoing improvement of educational practices, and ensuring she is up to date with modern research.
In a heartwarming connection to Kerry Street, Taylah’s daughter also attends the school, reinforcing her commitment to and belief in the unique and holistic educational experience Kerry Street Community School provides.