05 Feb 2025
Welcome back to another exciting year at Oberon High School. I hope that everyone had a restful and enjoyable break. My name is Kelly Overhall and I have the pleasure of stepping into your community as the acting Principal of Oberon High School. I am excited to meet the returning students of Oberon, and I would like to warmly welcome our new students, staff, and families who are joining this wonderful school community in 2025.
Firstly, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our outgoing Relieving Principal, Fiona Abbott, for her outstanding leadership throughout 2024. Fiona has done an amazing job in guiding our school with dedication and care, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation she has set. Fiona will be returning to her role as Deputy Principal where she will continue to be an integral part of the team, and I really look forward to continuing to work with Fiona.
I am a proud Wiradjuri woman, born and raised in Parkes, NSW, with deep connections to my culture. I am passionate about ensuring that we reduce gaps in student outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. My commitment to equity in education is grounded in my belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or location.
I bring to Oberon High School my experience as a Principal Education Officer in Literacy and Numeracy, where I was based in the Dubbo Education Office. Through this role, I have worked extensively across the Far West, Western Plains, and Mitchell Networks, leading professional learning and guiding Principals on initiatives focused on improving literacy and numeracy outcomes for students. I have collaborated with school leaders, teachers, and communities to implement evidence-based strategies that drive student success. This experience has strengthened my commitment to ensuring that every student receives high-quality instruction tailored to their learning needs.
I am deeply passionate about equity in rural education. My aspiration is for all students, regardless of their location, to receive the same quality education as their peers in metropolitan areas. Every child deserves access to outstanding learning experiences, and I am committed to ensuring that our students at Oberon High School have the same opportunities, resources, and support as students in city schools.
To our students - whether you are stepping into Year 7 for the first time or entering your final year - this year is full of opportunities for growth, learning, and achievement. Our goal at Oberon High School is to ensure that every student is supported to reach their full potential. Through our first Strategic Direction, Student Growth and Attainment, we are committed to equipping you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. We will continue to set high expectations and work with you to achieve your personal best.
To our dedicated teachers and staff, welcome back. Your passion, commitment, and expertise are the heart of our school. This year, under our second Strategic Direction, Know Every Student, we will continue to strengthen our understanding of each individual learner. By building strong relationships and using evidence-based approaches, we will ensure that every student feels valued, challenged, and supported in their educational journey.
Our third Strategic Direction, High Impact Teaching, is a reminder of our collective focus on refining our teaching practices to deliver the highest quality education. Through collaboration, professional learning, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we will create engaging and dynamic classrooms that inspire a love of learning in all students.
To our parents, carers, and the wider Oberon community, your partnership is vital in supporting the success of our students. I encourage you to be actively involved in school life, and I warmly welcome the opportunity to meet with you. If you would like to discuss your child’s learning or any other aspect of the school, please don’t hesitate to make an appointment through the school office. In the coming weeks, I will be sending out an invitation for all parents, carers, and community members to come to the school, meet our wonderful staff, and see for yourself the exceptional learning environment that Oberon High School has to offer.
I look forward to continuing to work with our dedicated staff and executive team to ensure that all students are known, valued, and cared for. Through a culture of high expectations, we will ensure that every student reaches their full potential.
As we embark on this new school year, let’s approach it with enthusiasm, determination, and a shared commitment to excellence. I am confident that 2025 will be a year of achievement, growth, and success for all members of our school community.
Thank you, and let’s make it a fantastic year ahead!
Kelly Overhall
Acting Principal