Top principal still learning

By Lia Bichel
HE HAS been teaching for almost half a century, but Kevin Mackay said he, too, learns something new every day.
The Cranbourne resident and Dandenong North Primary School principal recently received the Principals Australia John Laing Professional Development Award for his exceptional contribution to school leadership and to the professional development of peers.
“I am very proud and honoured to be recognised by my peers across the state and the country,” he said.
In his 46-year career, Mr Mackay has worked at several schools including Dandenong North Primary School where he spent 26 years – 24 as principal. His wife Jenny is assistant principal at the school.
He said his passion for the job and his love of the community had been the reason behind his 26-year stay at the school. “I love the community and the children and staff at Dandenong North. It’s a fantastic school and we get good student outcomes,” he said. “I love the variations of my job – the unpredictability of the things that occur every day. I enjoy dealing with people and the facilities.”
Mr Mackay said he continued to learn new things from the students every day, especially in the areas of technology – the area of biggest change during his career.
He said other major changes include school resources and policies.
“There once was a time we had very large classes. My first class was about 45 students, when the strap was still being used. We also had very few resources. Now we have student engagement policy and different ways of making sure students are interested and connected with their school,” he said.
“One of the biggest turning points came in 1990, when the programs Schools For The Future came in and schools started to selected their own staff. That was the biggest effective change that I can remember and it’s been fantastic.
“We have attracted a team of people who really want to work together. Many of them used to be students at this school.”
Mr Mackay said he was proud of the work he had done at the school and had no plans to retire anytime soon.