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<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">Principal of Dapto High School, Andrew FitzSimons and Albion Park Rail Public School deputy principal, Romina Maione have both won an Award for <i>Powering Potential</i> from the <em>National Excellence in Teaching Awards</em> (NEiTA) in partnership with The Smith Family.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">This new accolade recognises the extraordinary contribution educators make to students experiencing disadvantage.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">Andrew has fostered a range of innovative partnerships with local community groups and organisations like The Smith Family, to ensure children from low socioeconomic backgrounds are supported in their education.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">A teacher since 1976, Andrew said his passion for the profession has not waned.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“Our work is real, authentic and valuable. If Dapto High School is a good school, then our community is safer, more creative, resilient, and productive,” said Andrew.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“The role of principal gives me extraordinary opportunities and responsibilities, and while these can sometimes seem overwhelming, I love it.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“When I need a lift, I walk the school and my interactions with students inspires and energises me.”</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">At Albion Park Rail Public School, deputy principal Romina Maione refers children who need extra support for their education to The Smith Family’s <i>Learning for Life </i>program. In partnership with The Smith Family the school has launched an after-school Learning Club staffed by volunteers to give students who need additional educational support a hand up. </p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">An inspiring educator, Romina is committed to improving students’ wellbeing and said her passion for education is just as strong today as it was when she started teaching two decades ago. </p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“The greatest accomplishments are seeing students master a skill like learning to read or write, but most of all seeing them fall in love with learning,” Romina said. </p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“I have so many wonderful memories of the schools I have worked in, the students I have taught, the staff I have worked with and the families I have gotten to know.”</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">Romina said receiving a NEiTA Award is a career highlight.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“I feel very honoured to be receiving such an award, especially considering the number of outstanding educators in Australia,” Romina said.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">Andrew also said he is quietly “chuffed” about winning a NEiTA Award.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNoSpacing">“In my 18th year as principal of Dapto High School, this accolade is a new experience. I am in the second half of my professional career now and this award has energised and encouraged me,” Andrew said.</p>

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