Holland Street's angel
Angela Roberts was born to be an educator.
And she says she has always known this, but her life’s calling was confirmed when a student walked past her office door.
While this may sound like a commonplace encounter for most principals, it is special memory for Mrs Roberts, who saw a student’s world change as they transitioned from being wheelchair-bound, to walking unassisted.
She reflected on her time as principal of the school, ahead of the move she will make to Mandurah, with her family next month.
“It’s hard for me to pick out a favourite memory or event over the 11 years with the school because I have had so many of them in each week I have worked here,” Mrs Roberts said.
“The staff and students are so dear to my heart and I can think of one memory I hold dearly.
“One student walked passed my office one day, and he had been in wheelchairs or supported since I had known him.
“It seems small but for that family, it means so much and there is such independence for that child.
“So to see this change in him and other students was a true reflection of the school and what they do for children with disabilities and the community— it’s just amazing.”
Holland Street School is a public school specialised for children with a diagnosed intellectual disability.
The school caters to students in kindergarten through to Year 12, and there are currently 41 students.
“I believe this school is at the heart of the community and over time we have seen so many donations and contributions from the people of Geraldton, to help us with facilities, our school bus and other funding needs,” Mrs Roberts said.
“It all adds up and this school is so necessary in our community, so every helping hand we have had has been so valuable.
“Geraldton is such a caring, friendly and welcoming place and I have seen the community embrace more facilities which are inclusive for people with a disability which is great and we could always do with more.”
Mrs Roberts said while her time with the school was drawing to an end, the Geraldton students would always hold a special place in her life.
“The hardest part of leaving is saying goodbye to the students,” she said.
“I am in awe of our students, past and present, who take each day as it comes.
“They don’t look back and they give everything their all.
“Their honesty and drive to do their best is inspirational and I will truly miss all of the people I have had the pleasure of meeting. I take with me many fond memories and I thank you all for the incredible journey.”
Mrs Roberts will finish at the school on Thursday, April 2.
