IT’S official! Willandra Primary School teacher Tracey Walker has been named Perth’s favourite teacher.
A special presentation ceremony was held for Mrs Walker at the Seville Grove school - where she has taught for 10 years - yesterday.
The honour came after parents, teachers and the wider Perth community were asked to nominate their favourite teacher in a Radio 6PR campaign, sponsored by the Teacher’s Credit Union.
More than 670 nominations were received with nominees in 250 words describing why their favourite teacher deserved to win.
Mrs Walker received several nominations and in one of them a parent claimed she had turned her son’s education completely around.
Ms Walker said it was all about happy kids.
“When kids know that you believe in them and you recognise their efforts they are going to keep doing their best,” she said.
“They believe in themselves and are proud of themselves and that’s what it is all about.
“Acknowledging their strengths and working on their weakness so they can meet their potential is most important.
“Whether they are the brightest kids in the class or not, all kids can achieve.”
Teachers Credit Union WA regional manager Carolyn Murphy said teachers had the power to motivate, inspire and shape the lives of children and it was important they received the recognition they deserved.
One of the comments from a nominee — “ She (Mrs Walker) is the best teacher I have ever known. She never gets angry or raises her voice. She is always calm and always helps whether you are a students or parent — it was a pleasure having her teach my granddaughter.”
The total prize pool for the award was $20,000, Mrs Walker was awarded $10,000, the school $5,000 and one lucky nominator $5,000.