Meet the
Staff
At the top of the list when measuring the quality of a school has to be the quality of the staff. We are beyond fortunate to have a team truly dedicated to positive outcomes for all children.
Meet our staff members below!
Leadership Team

John Mooney
Principal
I have lived in the Dandenong area since 1976. It has been a joy to be Principal at Emerson School over the last 25 years. The depth and range of programs at Emerson give our students the opportunity to aspire to a greater level of confidence and achievement. I invite you to visit Emerson and see the recipe for success in action.
I started my journey as a teacher in 1966, and some of my interests include gardening, bike riding, music and sport.

Dianne Wright
Campus Principal - Middle School
When I look back on my career in the Victorian Education Department over the last 50 years, I can’t help but be thankful for all the wonderful people I’ve met and or taught during those years. I came to Emerson in 1985 and have witnessed many miracles during my years here. It has been a privilege to be part of a team that changes lives for the better. Students who thought they had no future are suddenly transformed into life-long learners who have taken on the world and succeeded in achieving things that they thought would be impossible. Emerson makes the impossible, possible.

David Walsh
Campus Principal - Junior / Senior School
I have worked in education for 35 years, and 23 of which have been at Emerson. During my teaching career I have taught PE, Woodwork, Art and been a classroom teacher. I really enjoy interacting and building relationships with the students and encouraging them to grow into their full potential. Outside of school I like to spend time with my family, going to markets and travelling .

Sam Silverwood
Assistant Principal
I have worked at Emerson School for the last 16 years and I love it! I can’t imagine working anywhere else! I have worked as a teacher in the Junior and Middle school, as the Junior school coordinator and now work across the whole school as the Assistant Principal focusing on Accountability and Staff Development. We have an amazing team of staff, supportive parents and enthusiastic students, which makes it a really easy and fun place to work! Outside of school, I enjoy going to the Football (to watch the mighty Bombers!), playing Basketball, running and riding.

Jenny La'Brooy
Assistant Principal, Student Services / PSD, Community Liaison
It has been a priviledge to share in the journey of so many students and their families as they come searching for a school and community that will teach and nurture their young person, to realise their dreams and develop skills toward independence. Our school ethos of welcome and connection have been integral in my teaching career.
I started at Emerson school in 1985 and have been part of the teaching and leadership teams in many areas of the Junior and Senior School. More recently my focus has been directed to ensuring students are supported with PSD funding and have access to our allied health services and vocational pathways. Networking with local schools for their funding needs is also important and creates valuable information sharing and communication.
Special highlights of my Emerson commitments have been the VYDP program where we worked with Dandenong Police in a Police Cadet program and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. Our bi-annual Debutante Balls, since 1998, will always hold special memories.
The news of past student achievements continue to reach us almost weekly and it is wonderful to celebrate the broad range of successes.

Lynn Carland
Business Manager
I have been the Business Manager at Emerson School since 1995. I love that each day is different. I love seeing students become more confident with each day they spend here. We have a fantastic group of supportive staff who are ready to go the extra mile for both their colleagues and students, they make it a fantastic place to work. In my free time I love to travel, read and visit with my grandson.

Janet Syer
Executive Assistant
I have been privileged over my 12 years at Emerson School to be part of the Enrolment Team as well as Executive Assistant to our dynamic Principal group. Talking to parents/guardians and allied health professionals about enrolling students and their life journey has been inspiring. Here at Emerson, we believe in unlocking the potential of every student. I have been fortunate to work with an amazing administration team to form the first point of welcome and hospitality for Emerson School; additionally supported by our wonderful teaching and ESO staff to assist student’s along their educational journey. In my spare time, I love to spend time with family, travel, dine with friends, listen to music as well as try cooking some new recipes.
Administration

Mary Khawli
I am very lucky to have been working at Emerson School for 8 years now. Most people will see me at the front desk where I enjoy greeting and welcoming our wonderful students, families and staff. In my own time I love camping, walking and spending time with my family and friends.

Josephine Cheong
My name is Josephine Cheong. I started as a teacher aide in Middle School in May 2004. Since 2006 I have been working in the Junior & Senior School Campus Admin office as an Accounts Officer responsible for student accounts, creditor invoices, school banking and general daily operation of the office.

Jade Chivers
I’ve worked at Emerson School for over 10 years. I love that every day is different. Working in the front office, I enjoy getting to know all the students and their families. My hobbies outside of work include sport, travelling and baking.

Julie Wayth
I have worked at Emerson School for over 24 years and have worked in many sections of the school during this time. My current role is Transport Coordinator/Administration Officer and I work from the Middle School campus’ general office. I never intended to stay at Emerson for as long as I have but I love our students, watching their reactions, the pride and smiles that burst from them when they achieve their goals and watching them mature into responsible young adults makes every day working here worthwhile.
Junior School

Leanne Russell
Head of Junior School
I joined the Emerson School community in 1999. Most of my 22 years at Emerson School have been spent teaching in the Junior School. For the last 4 years I have been in the role of Head of Junior School. It is a huge privilege to work with the students, staff and parents of Junior School. It is always an exciting and fun place to be. I enjoy being able to support staff, and oversee the academic, social and emotional wellbeing of our students.
When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love to travel and explore new places.

Janet D'Souza
JSA Teacher
My name is Janet, though my students know me as Mrs. D’Souza. I’ve been a teacher for about 32 years, 18 of which, were dedicated to teaching year 8-10 Maths and Science overseas. I moved to Australia in 2004. Beginning in 2007, I worked for five years as a Casual Relief Teacher at Emerson School. This led to me securing a permanent teaching job there, in 2012.
I have a passion for teaching, and I feel a great sense of joy, knowing that I am making a difference in students’ lives, during their first year of schooling. I’ve had the immense pleasure of watching them learn, laugh and grow. I have high expectations for the children that I teach. While they learn, my goal is to provide them with a challenging, yet fun experience in the classroom.
Emerson school is a great place to work. The staff members here are so welcoming and collaborate well with each other. There has never been a dull moment in our school. Equipped with the continuous support of my team and the parents of my students, my job has been made even more enjoyable. Teaching the wonderful students of JSA, has proved to be my dream job.
Outside school, I love playing with my Grandson, taking my dog for walks and catching up with my family from overseas.

Sunny Sidhu
JSB Teacher
After teaching in India for many years, I immigrated to Australia with my family. I had first taught at Emerson School as a relief teacher, and then started working full time since January 2022. I have received immense professional and personal satisfaction as a teacher here. Emerson school is full of opportunities for both students and the staff. I love colours and am best at creating out of waste! I enjoy nature, hiking and spending time with my two daughters

Matt Gould
JSC Teacher
I started at Emerson School in 2017 as an Education Support Officer and now am in my first year as a teacher in the junior school. I love working at Emerson because of opportunities the school gives to the students to be their best and the friendly and supportive environment that is created by the staff. Outside of school I love watching the footy and playing golf.

Caley Mclean
JSC Teacher
My teaching journey started in NZ in 2016 and I moved to Melbourne in 2017. I have been working outside of teaching for the past 5 years and I started working in JSC in Term 4 of 2022. I love the care and vast educational and extra-curricular opportunities that Emerson School provides the students, as well as the friendly and supportive staff here. My favourite thing about teaching is getting to meet so many wonderful students and striving to have a positive impact on them academically and personally. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my dog, playing touch rugby, and watching rugby league (Lets gone Warriors!).

Jessie Gore
JSD Teacher
I have worked at Emerson as the JSD teacher for two years. The best thing about teaching is seeing the positive changes in students and the pride they feel for their own accomplishments. Outside of school I love drawing and painting, reading and spending time with my family.

Jaynee Carrigg
JSE Teacher
I have been a Home Economics teacher at Emerson’s junior/senior campus for the past ten years, and this year have moved into a classroom role.
I love teaching both junior and senior student’s life skills in the kitchen. Its great seeing students develop a passion learning and pride in their achievements. Outside of school, I play tennis, swim, read and have a passion for history and travel.

Pam Mohan
JSF Teacher
I have been a teacher at Emerson for the past 16 years. Teaching has always been my passion, and Emerson is the perfect environment where I can engage young minds and support them to grow to their full potential. No two days are ever the same, and I still find myself learning continuously in our school community. Outside of school, I love to travel and spending time with my family.

Jack Zhang
JSG Teacher
I have been at Emerson school since 2006. I enjoy creating a holistic learning environment where students are able to unlock their potential within. In my spare time, I like to go bike riding and swimming.

Marina Visal
JSH Teacher
Teaching for me is about building bridges to the world our students want to create for themselves. I teach them the strategies of learning and expose them to a wide range of topics and ideas.
I started off teaching physical education and science in Victoria, then Queensland and for 18 years in the UK. I started teaching at Emerson in 2021 which complements my teaching philosophy that life is about a balance and being happy with the choices you make . Take pride in your learning, your environment and yourself.

Monika Pubby
JSI Teacher
I have joined Emerson school 15 years ago and have been fortunate and blessed to be teaching in an amazing school that has nurturing, loving environment where children can learn and experience new challenges that help build their confidence. Helping each child progress in all areas of their development, academic and social is a challenge that I am honoured to accept daily. In my free time I enjoy cooking, music, relaxing at the beach, and spending time with family and friends.

Sharon Lee
JSJ Teacher
I started teaching in the Junior School in Term 2 of this year and had previously worked in other schools in both Victoria and Tasmania. Prior to that I had worked for many years in public administration, using my law background, and then I worked for a few years in aged care, whilst completing my teacher training. I have worked in some great schools, but none quite the same as Emerson. I love the friendly, warm, and accepting environment that is such a real and natural part of this school. In my spare time, I enjoy bush walking, fossicking, making jewellery, sewing garments, drinking good coffee, and shopping. I also love animals, especially cats and rabbits.
Junior School Education Support

Leanne Gal
Education Support Officer, Junior School
I have been a Member of the Emerson team for 10 years. My passion is seeing the glowing faces of students when they grasp new ideas and concepts and work hard to experience success in their learning.

Sam Haines
Education Support Officer, Junior School
I am Education Support at Emerson in the junior school. I have been working at Emerson for 3 years. As a education support I seek to provide students with more direct one on one support to help them achieve their best. It is rewarding to see students develop their skills and ability throughout their time at school. Outside of school I enjoy working with computers.

Sue Venkatesh
Education Support Officer, Junior School
I started Emerson School in 2022 as an Education support officer.
I love working at Emerson school because of positive environment and encouragement that school provides to students, staff , and Parents. It is a pleasure to be a part of Emerson team. Outside school hours I also work as Language Teacher at VSL. I love reading books, singing, dancing watching Movies.
Middle School

Debra Hickox
Head of Middle School
I first started teaching at Emerson in 1997, under the name of Debra Dennis. In 2002, I married and my name changed to Debra Hickox. I have 2 sons (Nathan & Lockie) and I have a dog called Peppa. I have taught across all areas of the school and for the past 8 years have been the Head of Middle School.

Kevin Van Twest
MSA Teacher
I have been a teacher for nine years, starting as a graduate teacher at Emerson School back in 2013. In that time, I’ve taught in both middle and senior school and have taken great pride in being a part of our students learning journey. I currently teach MSA. I love the multicultural community our school has and how inclusive we are to all who enter. I have always felt welcomed and valued at Emerson School and work to ensure my students feel the same way. When not at school I love to play sports and spend time with friends and family.

Hisako Hasegawa
MSB Teacher
I have had the pleasure of working at Emerson School for the last 3 years. I am passionate about helping students achieve the best possible learning outcomes through tailored learning activities. It is rewarding to be part of each student’s learning journey and celebrate their successes.

Matter Machar
MSC Teacher
I have been at Emerson School now for over 6 years. I was a science teacher for 2 years (2015 & 2016) and have since moved into a classroom pastoral role at Middle Campus. I am enjoying my time here at Emerson greatly because of the sense of caring, belonging and welcoming nature among the staff and students. When I am not at work, I love spending time with my family, watching sports (NBA, Football and AFL). I support the MIGHTY HAWKS.

Cassandra Searle
MSD Teacher
I have been teaching at Emerson since 1994. Yes, that is a long time, over half my life but I have stayed teaching at Emerson because I love working with the students and staff. I have mostly taught in the Middle School but have also taught Home Economics. I have one daughter, Natalie who is currently in university and I have many pets – a dog named Bundy, two cats – Grace and Squeak and a couple of chickens. I love to walk, especially on the beach and I love traveling.

Margot Murphy
MSE Teacher
I first came to Emerson School in 2000. I have always taught in the Upper Primary or Middle School section. I have also taught in mainstream secondary schools in Victoria and Queensland and in late 2003/early 2004 I taught Mathematics in two schools in Surrey, England. I love my cats.

Lisa Ryan
MSF Teacher
This is my 16th year teaching in the Middle section at Emerson. I love working with the students to make a difference in their lives. I have 2 dogs named Casper & Tux who love coming to school and the students love it even more. Here’s hoping to be here for the next 16 years! Cheers!

Stefan Kotzamanis
MSG Teacher
I first started teaching at Emerson as a CRT when I returned from teaching history in London in 2016. I fell in love with Emerson and decided that it was the only school I wanted to work at and have now taught at the Middle Campus for 5 years! I love basketball and sneakers as well as looking after my 2 dogs Eve and Mia.

Lisa Mouncer
MSI Teacher
My name is Mrs Mouncer. I have been teaching for 25 years and I have been teaching at Emerson School for 17 years. I have missed a bit of time in those years as I have had three children during my time here at Emerson. I work part time and I teach Cybersafety to all Middles School students one day a week, Home Economics one day a week and Junior School ICT on my other two days. I love working at Emerson School as no day is ever the same. I am constantly inspired by my students and all of the things they are able to achieve. When I am not at work I love spending time with my family and going on holidays with my husband and my three daughters. I also enjoy taking my two dogs for walks on the beach, and playing basketball and coaching all three of my girls basketball teams.

Ric Marczenko
MSL Teacher
I have worked at Emerson for the past 11 years. My journey here started out as educational support officer, working with students in the Senior and Middle School. I am currently the Graduate teacher of MSL. I also organise the Middle School inter school basketball competition and the Cowan house program. Our Middle School basketball teams compete with 17 other schools across a variety of ability levels at Casey basketball stadium each Friday in terms 2,3 and 4. My favourite part about Emerson is engaging with all students and seeing them develop and find their passions as they work through senior school.
Middle School Education Support

Jack Gaze
Education Support Officer, Middle School
I started working at Emerson in 2016. I enjoy working here every day. I love playing sports and watching sports. I have 2 Alaskan dogs. I’m very easy going, I enjoy going shopping. My family is everything to me.

Sugi Wignesan
Education Support Officer, Middle School
I have enjoyed being a part of the Emerson family at both juniors and middles as an ES staff member for over 13 years. It’s been a great joy with never a dull moment.
I love the students like my own.
Being true to self is very important to me.
I enjoy cooking, gardening , nature, bush walking, sport and music most of all.

Pasan Rathnayaka
Education Support Officer, Middle School
I have been an education support officer at Emerson now for 3 years and the time has flown by! I enjoy travelling around the world exploring new places and meeting people. I have a German shepherd called Stella and a little rabbit called Bun who are best friends.

Diane De Giorgio
Education Support Officer, Middle School
I have been an Education Support Officer for 9 months. I am currently working at Emerson Middle School. I enjoy my role because of the diversity I experience workingeveryday with the teachers and students at Emerson. I can assist teachers to support each students individual learning needs and wellbeing. I enjoy watching the students build on their self- esteem and self- confidence to become successful independent learners. I love to go camping and travel around Australia with my family. I have an indoor pet bunny who loves to watch T.V. My favourite football team is Collingwood.

Smitha Padavarat
Education Support Officer, Middle School
I have been an Education Support officer at Emerson for 9 months. I love reading, dancing and listening to music. I have four little fishes.

Lanka Gunawardana
Education Support Officer, Middle School
I have been at Emerson for 9 months as an education support officer. I love to travel around Australia with my husband.

Reyan Bol
Education Support Officer, Middle School
My name is Reyan and I’m an education support worker. I have been working at the middle school for five years, and really enjoy it. The highlights of my role are the good rapport with the students and helping them through their tasks. I enjoy listening to music and spending time with my daughter. I go for St.Kilda and the Melbourne Renegades.
Senior School

Jerome Jacobs
Head of Senior School
My life’s aim is to teach children. To me, this is more than simply a job. All children are precious in my eyes, but I’m especially drawn to supporting those who need it the most, especially children with developmental or cognitive impairment who require someone who cares deeply about them and is invested in their development and academic achievement.
I’ve been teaching since 1989 and have extensive expertise teaching in a variety of specialized settings. For twelve years, I taught visually impaired students in Cape Town, South Africa. I then taught pupils with hearing impairment in Christchurch, New Zealand, before accepting a teaching position at Emerson School in 2007. I’ve been the Head of Senior School/VCAL Coordinator at Emerson School for the past three years, after leaving the classroom.
I am an avid sportsperson who has had the honour of playing sport at an elite level in cricket and rugby, as well as being crowned triple champion in table tennis at college level. Currently, I’m enjoying the outdoors via four-wheel driving, fishing, and camping.

Bill Vermulst
VCAL Building & Construction Studies Teacher
In 2009 I came to Emerson school to teach Woodwork. Then in 2013 I became the VCAL Building and Construction teacher in Senior school. As a carpenter by trade, I bring a wealth of professional knowledge and experience to my class. In SSB, I prioritise experiential learning to develop students’ capacity to work in the building and construction field. Outside of school time, I enjoy spending time with my family and playing the odd game of golf with my Senior School professional learning team.

Darren Junkeer
VCAL Child & Aged Care Teacher
After completing my teaching rounds in senior school at Emerson, I taught as a C.R.T, teaching throughout the school before joining the junior school team for the last 10 years. This year I am returning to senior school to teach age care and childcare studies. What has been most rewarding is to see junior students blossom in middle school and senior school, truly justifying the impact made by all staff. Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my family, playing cricket, watching the footy and dabbling in the performing arts.

John Taylor
VCAL Horticultural Studies Teacher
I have worked at Emerson School for 5 years, teaching a horticulture themed VCAL class. I think the best thing about this school is the flexibility of learning environments and the common understanding that there is more than one way to learn something. The most enjoyable part of my job is seeing students faces light up when they master a new skill. Outside of school I love fishing and spending time with family.

Rod Hodgson
VCAL Merchandising Teacher & Tutor
I have had a wonderful and diverse career. I commenced in a one teacher school in a rural district between Portland and the South Australian border. The school had no electricity but twenty six wonderful students across eight grades. I then had a break of two years conscripted into the army. On my return I variously taught at Bayswater Boys Home, Pentridge Prison, Winlaton Youth Training Centre before returning to primary schools. I then qualified as a psychologist and worked within the Education Department in that role before becoming an Assistant Principal and the Principal at Upwey and Wattleview Primary Schools. I took a break to work on Southbank ferries before returning to education firstly as a psychologist in Catholic Education and the last few years here at Emerson. Interests outside of school – we have a beautiful yacht that I will eventually live on for a few months each year.

David Kemp
VCAL Sport & Recreation Studies Teacher
My name is David Kemp. I have been a staff member at Emerson School since 2008. I began working as an Education Support staff member in the PE department. I have since completed my teaching degree and now have a role in the Senior School teaching the VCAL Sport and Recreation class.
I have a passion for teaching Physical Education and live an active lifestyle away from the classroom.

Adam Storti
VCAL Sport & Recreation Teacher
I have been involved in teaching for 9 years, having worked at Emerson for 6.
I teach in the Senior School, running the Industry and Enterprise classroom.
I enjoy seeing the student’s confidence grow over the years and help them prepare for life after high school.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends

Jacqueline Malanga
VCAL Visual Arts Teacher
Originally from New York City, where I taught high school fine arts and graphic design for eight years, my first job (and only job) working for the Department of Education has been at Emerson School, where I have worked since 2016. This speaks volumes. What I love most about teaching Senior VCAL Visual arts is the enthusiasm and joy the students bring to the classroom and how the entire staff embraces the whole student, allowing for flexible and qualitative learning. I truly cherish the inspiration that comes from working with a wonderful team and value deeply the efforts that students bring to their learning.
Senior School Education Support

Vanessa McMullen
Education Support Officer, Junior School
I have worked as an E.S at Emerson for 6 years. How time flies when there is so much joy in watching the children learn and discover things about life and about themselves. It is a pleasure to be able to work in the many classrooms and getting to know all the students. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, camping, and spending time with my family.

Glen Peters
Education Support Officer, Senior School
Ive been at Emerson School since 2002, and my primary role is maintenance. My role is to perform routine maintenance around the school to ensure that the buildings are in perfect working order. I also attend the gardens to ensure that the school is well presented to the community.
I enjoy my job and spending time with my colleagues. Emerson School is a welcoming envorinment, and the pupils are exceptionally nice. aside from school, i like to travel and spend time with my family. I am a dog enthusiast and have had several dogs throughout the years.

Vicki Owen
Education Support Officer, Senior School
Hi everyone, my name is Vicki Owen and I have worked at Emerson for 9 years. I started in the Middle school in 2013 and 6 months later transferred to Junior/Senior Campus. I help in the Senior classes as a support to Teachers.
The students make your day here at Emerson, there is always something going on in every class.
Hobbies are definately travelling, reading (crime thrillers) and playing games on computers.
My big passion is footy as I am a big Tiger supporter, having been born in Richmond and married a player, just makes sense to me. I am married, have 2 grown up daughters and one beautiful grandson and a fur baby called Vinnie.

Navoda Narangoda
Education Support Officer, Senior School
I really enjoy my time at Emerson as a Education support staff.This is my second year with these lovely kids and staff.I always love to support kids as much as I can and it is pleasure to see them smiling everyday.

James Davidson
Education Support Officer, Senior School
Working at Emerson School as an ES is such a rewarding experience. I have been working at Emerson since the start of 2021 and each day I look forward to working with and getting to know the students and staff. Outside of school I like spending time with family, friends and enjoying some time off.
Learning Specialists

Jocelyn Cowley
Literacy Specialist & VCAL Merchandising Teacher
I have worked at Emerson for 12 years in Junior, Middles and Senior School. Currently, I work in Senior School as the Life Skills Teacher. I really enjoy teaching my students how to be independent, solve problems and become confident in themselves. It is the best part of my job! Outside of school I love taking my golden retriever Lui for walks along the beach.

Kate Harding
Numeracy Specialist
I started at Emerson in 2004 as an ESO in the Junior School. As a result of this positive experience, I undertook my teaching degree and became a classroom teacher in Middle School in 2009. Here I spent many wonderful years working with the students in MSD. Since returning from my second round of maternity leave in 2020, I have taken on a new role as a Literacy and Numeracy coach. I have two daughters and a cat named Simon.
Specialist Teachers – PE

Marc Peduto
PE Teacher
I’m a Physical Education teacher at Emerson School and I’ve been working here for the past 5 years. I love teaching at Emerson and believe the staff and student rapport is very special. It fills me with great encouragement when I see students having fun and learning new skills in my class. Outside of school I really enjoy playing football and catching up with my mates.

Sam Lambden-Grant
PE Teacher
I started at Emerson 8 years ago, and its my first job working for the Department of Education. I work in the PE department as Education Support and I enjoy being able to take the senior students to interschool sport on Friday afternoons, the kids love it and we always have heaps of students participate each term which is fantastic! Outside of school I enjoy working out at the gym, and having a hit of golf.

Daina Carlson
Education Support Officer - PE
I’ve been at Emerson in the PE department for nearly 8 yrs. This has given me the opportunity to work with children and their development in sports which has been a passion of mine for many years. I have found it rewarding when I’ve witnessed students achieving something they thought they couldn’t do.
Music & Arts Department

Lincoln Bowen
Head of Music Department
I’ve worked at Emerson School for 14 years now, and I love playing in bands with students and other teachers. It inspires me to see people develop their music skills and share them through concerts and productions. I like vintage music gear and tinkering in the yard at home. I donate blood regularly and enjoy the free snacks afterwards.

Margaret Allen
Music Teacher
Music has always been my passion. It brings people together.
As a teacher it is a real privilege to be able to share that passion and I love to see how talented and responsive our students are.
As an opera singer I have been lucky enough to perform in some beautiful Opera Houses but nothing is more rewarding than teaching in an Emerson classroom.
Emerson is truly a special place.

Emily Cheong
Music Teacher
I really enjoy teaching at Emerson School because of the fantastic students and staff. The Emerson community feels like a home away from home. I teach music across the whole school. Every day I experience a sense of wonder at our student’s incredible gifts and talents. Outside of school I enjoy hiking and reading.

Elizabeth Ralph
Dance & Performing Arts Teacher
I have been teaching Dance Education at Emerson School for the last fourteen years. I feel extremely lucky to be able to share my knowledge and passion of Dance (my favourite subject) every day. I love that I have to opportunity to know and work with students from across the whole school, and enjoy helping them develop their skills and confidence over their school years. Outside of school I participate in dance and yoga classes. I love the adventure and experience of travel. Most weekends I relax by spending time in nature. I especially enjoy being by the coast.

Kristen Adriaan
Dance & Performing Arts Teacher
Kristen Adriaan (Ms A) has been fortunate enough to have travelled all over the world, providing her opportunities to learn, teach and perform in many different countries. She has worked as an actress, singer and dancer. Beginning her time at Emerson School in 2018, Kristen worked as a relief teacher for two years at Emerson before taking on the role of Science teacher. After a year of teaching science, Kristen was appointed to the Performing arts team at Emerson as the Drama teacher. Kristen is a fun and enthusiastic teacher who loves teaching students at Emerson and outside of school Kristen continues to perform in the community.

Ash Davies
Instrumental Music Teacher
I have been teaching drums at Emerson School for nearly 20 years. It is so great when the student grasps the principles of drumming and learns to play thier first beat and drumfill and then can go on to play music either with thier class band or to records and cd’s. They get so much enjoyment from it as well learning other thought practices and focusing that helps with thier other studies. The care and nurturing that is given to the students and which is instilled throughout the whole faculty of Emerson School makes for the perfect environment for teaching. I enjoy performing and writing music as well as going to the beach and reading biographies and history.

Shirley Innes
Visual Arts Teacher
I am a teacher of studio art, visual communication design, film, and photography. I have had the pleasure of teaching Middle School Art at Emerson for a few years now. I enjoy teaching because of the students and their art. We have so much fun exploring and celebrating the weird and wonderful. Outside of school I mostly enjoy reading, gardening, and camping.
Science & Sustainability

Shannon Burnett
Science & Sustainability Teacher
I am the specialist science teacher at Emerson School. I commenced at Emerson School at the beginning of 2021. I have been a teacher in special education for a total of 4 years. My background is in environmental science and geology, and I have previously taught in universities. I enjoy my role as science teacher and undertaking interesting experiments and investigations with the students each day. Outside of work, I have recently developed an interest in cooking. I love to try new recipes and my favourite cuisines are Italian, Indian and Mexican.
Food Studies

Hillary Corlett
Home Economics Teacher
I am one of the long-standing teachers at Emerson having started the same day that Mr. Mooney took over as principal. I have worked in a number of roles across the school and am currently teaching Home Economics in Middle School. I provide a safe and supportive environment where the students can develop their independent living skills and experience a range of familiar and new recipes. I love seeing the students at Middle School mature and become confident young adults. After a busy term I go to my cabin at Eildon where I sit by a log fire, read books and feed the native birds including colourful parrots and kookaburras.

Siobhan Liddy
Home Economics Teacher
Allow me to introduce myself! My name is Siobhan Liddy. I have worked in the field of disabilities for 16 years and I have taught at Emerson school for 13 years. I worked in the Middle School then moved across to the Junior School, and now I teach Home Economics. I have a gorgeous British blue cat named Koby and ironically, I barrack for the MIGHTY CATS!
I have particular interests in ballroom dancing and science. The best thing about working at Emerson School is the fun atmosphere we create for our students to learn.

Ria Yearwood
Home Economics, SSE and SSF Teacher
I started at Emerson School in 2014 as a classroom teacher in Middle School, I then taught Science for 3 years. I then moved to teach a Junior School class and now I am teaching Home Economics and Senior School. I spent a year teaching in Scotland, and it really made me appreciate how welcoming and supportive Emerson School is. Outside of school I enjoy baking and cooking.

Merella Pouki
Education Support Officer - Home Economics
I have been at Emerson school for 16 years, I have enjoyed working here as an Education support, Library Technician and now in the home economics room. I have 2 sons Andrew and Nicholas, my husband Sam. Also, I’m a grandmother to 3 grandchildren Harper, Xavier and Phoenix, they are my world. I have 2 dogs, Juddy a Jack Russell and Monty a terrier.
Wood Technology
Library

Judy Moutsakis
Library Technician
I love seeing all the happy faces of our students every day! I have been at Emerson for 12 years, and with the department for 18 years. I work in the Library, mainly with Junior School. My job can be challenging, but it is very rewarding to see our students working hard and achieving their goals.
In my spare time, I also do cake decorating. It’s a great way for me to unwind, after a busy week!
Cyber Safety
Student Wellbeing

Emma Missen
Engagement & Wellbeing Coordinator
I began at Emerson in 2008. While I have been lucky to have worked in multiple departments over the years I’m now fortunate to work as the Wellbeing and Engagement Officer at the Junior/Senior Campus. I love coming into school each day and enjoy the many visitors to my office! Being in wellbeing I feel fortunate as I have been able to get to know more students around the school. Outside of school I like to spend time with my family going bike riding and seeing friends.

Adam Shaw
Engagement & Wellbeing Coordinator
Working as a Wellbeing & Engagement Officer at Emerson for the last 6 years has been one of the best and most rewarding roles I have had! I am married and have 4 amazing children, and also a little dog called Banjo. I also enjoy most sports and traveling to interesting places around the world.

Fiona Collins
Meditation & Wellbeing
I have been running the Meditation and Wellbeing program at Emerson School for the last 6 years. Teaching the importance of mindfulness through breathing exercises and guided meditation is my passion. It is rewarding to see how much the students benefit from the program and how they incorporate the acquired techniques into their everyday lives.
Vocational Pathways

Nancy Ishak
Vocational Pathways Educator
I am very fortunate to be the Vocational Pathways teacher of such a wonderful school, working alongside such dedicated staff. I am passionate about providing workplace opportunities such as work experiences, School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships to help students understand the different work environments and explore possible career options. There’s something extremely heart-warming about seeing a student gain increased self-understanding, maturity, independence and confidence after the completion of their placement.
Student Services

Emma Kuhnell
Occupational Therapist
My favourite part about being Emerson’s occupational therapist is connecting with the students. I love helping them engage, develop and grow throughout their school experience. I am particularly passionate about assisting the development of social-emotional skills, and encouraging a positive, safe and supportive learning community. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing board games and travelling.

Daisy Bendle
Speech Pathologist
I have worked as a speech pathologist at Emerson for 5 years. I love being part of the Emerson community because it is such a fun, welcoming and diverse place to be. I love being able to work with students from all areas of the school and watch them grow and develop into the best version of themselves.
Outside of work I love travelling, going to the gym and dancing.

Christine McEvoy
Student Services
I have worked at Emerson School for 3 years. I work in Student Services and help with the application for funding for the Program for Students with Disabilities. I love the diversity of the Emerson Community and watching the many talents of the students during our whole school assemblies. In my free time I like to camp, hike, read, doing yoga and various home improvement projects.

May Keegel
Student Services
I have been working at Emerson School for 12 years. I am part of the student services team, assisting with student in Out of Home Care and doing VASS administration. I enjoy building relationships with the students and their families. I like exploring new places and spending time with family and friends.

Jolyn Jacobs
Student Services

Georgina Georgalli
English as an Additional Language (EAL) Teacher
I have been teaching for over thirty years in many settings and across all curriculum areas and ages, from Foundation to adults. My passion though is in EAL (English as an Additional Language) and watching students with a very basic grasp of English flourish and grow into excitable communicators who seek you out to share an experience or story. I have been at Emerson since 2018 and it is a very surreal feeling to walk the grounds that were once my primary school, Greenslopes. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my two boys, reading and holidaying at the beach.

Jenni Hoffner
Mental Health Practitioner
My name is Jenni Hoffner and I am the newest recruit to the amazing Emerson team. I have a social work background and was previously working for the NDIS as a Senior Planner at the NDIA Dandenong Office. I am currently employed as a mental Health Practitioner at Emerson. The Mental health practitioner is a school-based role and I will be working flexibly, based on the needs and priorities of the school and students. The mental health practitioner role provides an additional resource to the school’s existing wellbeing team and includes: contributing to whole-school approaches to mental health prevention and promotion, and coordination of supports for students with more complex needs.
Publicity & Promotion

Justin Carland
Publications & Publicity Officer
I started at Emerson in April of 2020, and this is my first job in the Education Department. I am in the office within a small team working towards increasing awareness of Emerson School in the community. What I enjoy most is getting involved in the school activities and seeing how much enjoyment the students get out of their time here.

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