KDS says bye bye to Bernshaw
AFTER nearly 14 years as principal of The King David School (KDS), Michele Bernshaw has announced that she will be retiring when her current contract expires at the end of next year.
AFTER nearly 14 years as principal of The King David School (KDS), Michele Bernshaw has announced that she will be retiring when her current contract expires at the end of next year.
Together with school council president Mark Harrison, Bernshaw informed the KDS staff of her departure last Friday morning.
The outgoing principal told The AJN she leaves the school with a heavy heart, that her 15-year tenure had been fulfilling.
“For the last 13-and-a-half years I have been privileged to lead The King David School and to help develop it into a vibrant and remarkable learning community. It has long been my intention to retire from this role after completing 15 years of service,” she said.
An international search for the next school principal is underway, with the school’s council establishing a Principal Search Committee, comprising members of the council, the parents’ association and a well-regarded educator from the wider community.
The interview process will commence in June and Bernshaw’s successor is likely to be announced later this year or early 2014.
Meanwhile, Bernshaw said until the transition takes place, it will be business as usual at the school. “While this search takes place, the educational direction and energy of the school will continue to be my focus, ensuring that King David continues to deliver an outstanding educational experience for every student and a challenging and fulfilling professional engagement for every member of our teaching and non-teaching teams.”
Harrison praised Bernshaw for her “vision and leadership”.
“It is no understatement to say that when Bernshaw completes her tenure, The King David School will be significantly better off for her tireless commitment, dedication, knowledge and leadership,” he said.
“When the day arrives that Michele formally says goodbye, she will not only have ensured the continuity and development of the legacy started in 1977, but will deserve her own place alongside those pioneers of our great school.”
At KDS, Bernshaw has taught VCE English, in addition to French and history for other year levels, and more recently she has consulted with year 12 students on implementing effective study programs.
TIMNA JACKS
King David School principal Michele Bernshaw.
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