Kaarla Mia or “Fire House” in Nyungar, represents the final years of a student’s journey through our unique school community. Just as fire brings about change and new beginnings, students in Kaarla Mia embrace growth, passion, and leadership as they prepare for the next chapter in their educational journey.
As they embark on these important years, the Kaarla Mia students focus on personal growth, honing their ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and make meaningful contributions to both the classroom and the wider school community. Through inquiry-based learning and leadership opportunities, students engage in experiences that encourage them to take ownership of their learning, while fostering a sense of responsibility and independence.
At the heart of the Kaarla Mia experience is holistic learning, where academic development is intertwined with a focus on emotional and social wellbeing. Guided by their teacher, Mim Day, and supported by Education Assistants MJ Day and Sally Mason, students are encouraged to nurture their individual strengths, develop resilience, and build healthy relationships within the school community. Kaarla Mia fosters a space where students are supported to grow not only as learners but as well-rounded, compassionate individuals.
Melissa Day, known as Mim, is the dedicated Kaarla Mia class teacher at Kerry Street Community School. She earned her Bachelor of Early Childhood Education from Edith Cowan University, showcasing her commitment to fostering holistic learning experiences for young minds.
With extensive experience in education, Mim has played diverse roles, including delivering social and emotional wellbeing programs and organising school holiday camps. Throughout these experiences, she developed a profound passion for addressing educational disparities. Interacting with children from various backgrounds highlighted the unequal opportunities they faced. Motivated by a commitment to equality, Mim strives to bring a holistic approach to education, ensuring children can flourish in all aspects of their development.
Mim firmly believes that fostering a ‘can-do’ attitude in children involves making academic experiences enjoyable and challenging. Her favourite classroom motto, “Mistakes are expected, respected, investigated, and corrected,” underscores her belief in creating a positive learning environment where errors are viewed as opportunities for growth. She designs learning experiences that captivate children’s interests while aligning with the values of the school community.
Mim’s commitment and knowledge extend to Marshall Rosenberg’s Non-Violent Communication model, where she often leads staff and students in sharing feelings and needs and working through the process of NVC in an empathic and productive way. This invaluable skill set enhances the overall emotional intelligence within the school community, fostering open communication and understanding.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Mim has studied Nyungar language and culture. Committed to supporting Kerry Street in achieving its goals outlined in the Reconciliation Action Plan, she actively enables children to appreciate the beauty, strength, spirituality, and resilience of an Aboriginal culture.
“I believe connecting to the culture and language of our first people unlocks the door to understanding, which supports us moving towards reconciliation.”
Mim Stephens
MJ is an Education Assistant in Kaarla Mia, working Monday to Thursday. She began her journey at Kerry Street in 2023 while completing her Cert IV in School Based Education (Special Needs) practical, and she officially joined the staff in 2024.
Beyond her role at Kerry Street, MJ is passionately involved with a youth mental health organisation where she volunteers in her free time. Her commitment to mental health and wellbeing aligns perfectly with the school’s emphasis on student wellbeing and support.
MJ fell in love with the Kerry Street community and immediately knew she wanted to continue her education assistant journey there. She admires the strong sense of community and the school’s dedication to fostering student wellbeing. As an education assistant, MJ supports students in various aspects, including their education, social life, and mental health. She firmly believes that building healthy and positive relationships with students can significantly impact their schooling experience.
Seeing students express their true and authentic selves reminds MJ daily of how grateful she is to be part of the Kerry Street team. Her dedication and passion for supporting students make her an invaluable member of the school community.