A music and drama teacher at Mt Barker Community College, Rhianna Reynolds, has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious Western Australia (WA) Education Awards in the newly established minister’s teacher of the year category. Reynolds is one of four finalists competing for the title, which comes with a $20,000 award for the individual winner and an equal amount for their school.
Reynolds expressed her surprise at being nominated, stating she was “gobsmacked” when the announcement was made by Leanne Prior, the college principal, during a primary schools’ music festival at the Albany Entertainment Centre last week. “I was absolutely gobsmacked and overwhelmed,” Reynolds recalled, describing the moment as a shock to her and the audience.
The nomination reflects Reynolds’ diverse teaching portfolio, which includes music, drama, and languages. She has played a significant role in coordinating the primary school festival for 14 schools in the region. Initially a primary school and French language teacher, Reynolds transitioned into music education after a previous head teacher encouraged her to leverage her experience playing in a band.
Rhianna Reynolds was set to travel to Indonesia as part of the Bridge Program, which aims to strengthen educational connections between Australia and Indonesia through Asialink Education at the University of Melbourne. The trip was cancelled at the last minute, leaving her disappointed until the nomination news provided a welcome distraction. “It has been a real roller-coaster,” she acknowledged.
As part of her recognition, Reynolds is guaranteed $5,000 for personal development opportunities. She is hopeful that this funding could enable her to attend a music education conference in Chicago in 2026, where she hopes to learn from a prominent American music educator she follows.
Reynolds credits the supportive environment at Mt Barker Community College for her success. “I am so fortunate because when I have an idea, my colleagues just roll their eyes and support me,” she said, emphasizing her passion for teaching.
Principal Leanne Prior nominated Reynolds for the award, highlighting her exceptional qualities as an educator. “She is an exceptional teacher and leader; innovative and dedicated,” Prior noted. “She consistently brings her passion and energy to various activities that positively impact students, families, and colleagues.”
The minister’s teacher of the year category has attracted significant attention this year, with a record of 171 teachers nominated. The winner will be revealed on November 17, 2023. Reynolds competes against fellow finalists Christopher Lambe from Grandis Primary School, Emmily Deering from North Tom Price Primary School, and Patricia Levitzke-Gray from the Shenton College Deaf Education Centre.
Sabine Winton, the Education Minister, remarked on the significance of the awards, stating that they celebrate the inspiring work of teachers throughout WA. “This year’s record number of nominations is testament to how many great schools and outstanding teachers we have in WA,” she said. The awards aim to highlight those educators who are making a lasting impact on their students and guiding them towards future success.
