Rebecca Mortimer of Cockatoo relaxes at home in her garden after being awarded an Outstanding Parent Award.By Tania Martin
A COCKATOO mother has been awarded for her work with the local primary school, but said working with the school was like having a second family.
Rebecca Mortimer said although she knew about the nomination for the award it was still a surprise to win.
The award was presented as part of Education Week celebrations, and was one of eight Outstanding Parent Awards.
Minister for Education Services Jacinta Allan said the awards recognised parent participation, ideas, hard work and enthusiasm in Victorian schools to benefit not only their own children but all students.
“From parent advocates, reading helpers, parent class representatives, parent associations or school council members – these awards acknowledge and thank the people who give their time, energy, commitment and enthusiasm to the Victorian school community,” she said.
Mrs Mortimer said she first became involved with Cockatoo primary’s school council in 1998 when her oldest daughter, Helen, was in prep.
After two years on the school council, Mrs Mortimer took on the role of president, which she holds until the end of this year.
She said being a part of the school community was a great reward, and the teachers, staff and parents were all great people to work with.
“It’s not a chore to be involved with the school council, but a pleasure to be part of such a dedicated team,” she said.
Mrs Mortimer said one of the highlights of her five years on the school council happened earlier this year when she and her husband Ian hosted an excursion at their wholesale plant farm in Cockatoo.
She said 120 prep and grade one students spent the whole day at the farm, and it was an amazing day.
“We got books and cards from the children of their day on the farm,” she said.
“It was a really rewarding and special thing to do for the children.”
Mrs Mortimer said being the school council president had also set an example for her children.
She said her daughters were proud their mother was taking an interest in their school.
However, Mrs Mortimer said she would have to step down at the end of the year as her youngest child would be going onto high school, but she might stay on the school council as a community member.
“I have a really good relationship with the people at Cockatoo primary and I might just consider helping out,” she said.
“There are also lots of bits and pieces that I can help out with.
“The school is more than just a principal and teachers, but it is like a family and a great team to work with.”
