After more than 16 years leading schools in the Illawarra and a teaching career spanning three decades, Coniston Public School principal Rhonda Morton has bid a final farewell to her students.
A Career Built on Kindness and Calm
On her last official day, Friday, December 19, 2025, Mrs Morton participated in the school's traditional Year 6 farewell tunnel, marking the end of her full-time tenure. The retiring educator, who began her teaching journey with a three-week stint at the end of 1992, said the core of her approach was simple: "Always be calm."
Her first permanent position commenced at Woonona Public School in 1995. She quickly learned that university could not fully prepare her for the reality of the classroom. "I was very fortunate to have very experienced and nurturing people around me," she reflected, crediting mentors with helping her develop her own style, which became known for its kindness.
Navigating Change from Macs to Smartboards
Mrs Morton's career has witnessed profound technological shifts in education. From early days teaching typing on old Mac computers to now overseeing a school with a one-to-one laptop program and smartboards in every classroom, she has seen it all.
She emphasises that technology is a tool, not a replacement for teachers. "We have to be very careful about the way that we use technology in the classroom, that we don't just hand the children over to a piece of online software," she advised. Our job is to still teach and use software to support.
The Daily Rituals and Lasting Connections
Even on her final day, Mrs Morton was excited for recess duty, a daily ritual she maintained to connect with students and parents. She made a point of being in the morning playground every day to welcome children and gauge the tone of the school.
This consistent presence forged strong bonds. When students recently gave her a farewell card, many wrote notes saying, "I love the way you say good morning to me every morning," and "I love the way you check up on me when I'm feeling a little bit sad."
"I don't see myself as the principal, as the top of the tree, I see myself as a part of the team," she said of her leadership philosophy.
Looking Ahead: A Return to Passion
The main emotion on her last day was the realisation that she wouldn't be there to welcome students back in the new year. "I'm in teaching because of the children... I won't be here to see their smiles, and watch them grow and develop," she said, noting she would also miss supporting her staff.
However, retirement doesn't mean leaving the profession entirely. Mrs Morton is excited to return to casual teaching. "I want to go back to what I truly, truly loved... that was where my passion started, and that's where I'd actually really like to finish," she stated, eager to directly influence young lives in the classroom once more.
