Principal says education should be less politicised

In response to a media question asking if there is anything she would like to see improved in the education or school management sector, Tracey Kopua, the principal of St Mark’s Catholic School in Pakuranga, East Auckland, said, “I’d love to see education in Aotearoa far less politicised”.

“Schools cannot – and should not – be expected to solve every social problem,” Ms Kopua said. 

“Their core mission is to deliver excellent teaching and learning for every child. Achieving this requires world-class education, health and social-welfare systems working together so that a child’s postcode, background or circumstance never limits their opportunity,” she said.

Ms Kopua added: “We need first-class teacher training programmes to attract school leavers into the profession and strong incentives to retain quality educators – far too many are burnt out and demoralised in today’s relentless climate of change.

“Fundamentally, our tamariki (children) should never be ‘guinea pigs’ for fleeting trends, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi must remain central, honouring Aotearoa’s unique bicultural heritage.”

Ms Kopua has been a principal for 12 years, havin joined St Mark’s at the start of 2020, just before the first COVID-19 lockdowns.

“The greatest joy as an educational leader is cultivating a faith-filled, inclusive culture where every learner is truly known, valued and given equitable opportunities to thrive,” she said.

“Seeing students, staff and families grow in confidence is a daily blessing. No two days are ever alike, and I continue to believe that education is one of the most hopeful and life-giving professions there is.”

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Principal in Person, with Tracey Kopua, St Mark’s Catholic School (By Phil Taylor/Eastern Times)