John F. Kennedy Primary School would like to congratulate our Governor Educator of the Year Award Winner, Mrs. Maria Caiola, and our Educational Services Professional, Mrs. Janet Kessler.
It is with great pride and admiration that we recognise Maria Caiola as the 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year for John F. Kennedy Primary School. Maria has taught for over 10 years, beginning her career at Eisenhower School before transitioning to John F. Kennedy School. Maria has been a dedicated member of the JFK community for many years, and her impact on students, families, and colleagues is both profound and enduring.
From the moment you step into Maria’s classroom, it becomes immediately clear why she is so deserving of this honor. Her enthusiasm for teaching is infectious, her expectations are high, and her belief in the potential of every child is unwavering. Maria creates an environment where students feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Her classroom is a place where curiosity thrives, and children are encouraged to take risks, persevere, and celebrate their own growth.
Maria is not only an exceptional educator but also a truly wonderful person. Her kindness and compassion set a standard for all of us. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom as well. Maria is deeply invested in the well-being of her students and the families we serve. She communicates openly with parents, partners with them to ensure their children flourish, and always goes the extra mile to make sure every child feels included and supported. Her dedication to fostering meaningful relationships with families strengthens the bond between home and school and reflects her belief that education is a collective effort.
John F. Kennedy Primary School is a better place because of Maria Caiola. Her passion, her integrity, and her genuine love for her students make her an extraordinary educator and an invaluable member of our community. We are honored to celebrate her contributions and grateful for the difference she makes in the lives of so many.
Congratulations to Maria Caiola, our Teacher of the Year for John F. Kennedy School.
It is with tremendous pride that we recognise Janet Kessler as the 2025–2026 Educational Support Professional of the Year for John F. Kennedy Primary School. Janet began her career as a cafeteria assistant at Crim School before transitioning to a full-time instructional assistant at John F. Kennedy School. Janet embodies the very best of what it means to support students, staff, and the wider school community. Her commitment to children, her deep sense of responsibility, and her compassionate approach to her work make her an invaluable member of our school.
Throughout her years at JFK, Janet has served in multiple capacities, both as a one-to-one paraprofessional and as a classroom paraprofessional. In every role, she brings patience, empathy, and unwavering dedication. Janet understands that her presence and support can transform a child’s school experience, and she takes that to heart. Whether she is helping a student regulate their emotions, supporting academic tasks, encouraging independence, or providing comfort during difficult moments, Janet works with the perfect balance of care and firmness. Her students feel safe with her, and they trust her deeply, a testament to her consistency, her kindness, and her genuine connection with children.
Janet also brings warmth and steadiness to our school community. She leads by example through her kindness, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to students. Her presence has a calming effect on both children and adults. Janet can even be found attending her student’s sporting events.
John F. Kennedy Primary School is fortunate to have someone as devoted and compassionate as Janet Kessler. She makes a difference every single day, often behind the scenes, without seeking recognition, and always with the best interests of students in mind.
Congratulations to Janet Kessler, our Educational Support Professional of the Year for the John F. Kennedy School.