Sandra Torcasio of Casey Grammar School was declared Primary School Teacher of the Year (non-government school) at the annual Australian Education Awards on Friday 12 August in Sydney.
The judges recognised Ms Torcasio’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching, particularly through technology.
As Junior School Head of Teaching and Learning, Ms Torcasio uses her considerable experience to ensure that the curriculum focuses on best practice, while mentoring and supporting new staff.
Ms Torcasio said she felt both honoured and humbled in receiving the prestigious award.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Casey Grammar for your ongoing support and encouragement.
I love what I do and feel privileged to work with such a fantastic team,” she said.
“With passion and hard work, you can achieve anything. In my case, it has allowed me to carve a career of innovation and impact.
“It always comes back to providing the best education I can offer to our students, so that we’re teaching the whole child. My goal is to deliver teaching in ways that engage the students and encourage enthusiasm in their learning.”
The Australian Education Awards, presented by The Educator, reward effective leadership, commitment to the profession, academic achievements, and innovation.
Casey Grammar Principal Fiona Williams said staff and students have long known and appreciated how exceptional their award-winning colleague is.
“Sandra’s passion, creativity, innovation, and capacity for education have seen her achieve incredible outcomes as our Junior School Head of Teaching and Learning,” Ms Williams said.
“We are so proud to see her receive National recognition for this.”
Casey’s Head of Junior School, Melissa Roberton, described Ms Torcasio as a visionary, who is highly effective with her time.
“Everything Sandra does is with students’ best interests at the forefront of her mind,” Ms Roberton said.
“She is a researcher who stays abreast of best practice, sets high expectations for herself, students, and staff, is very well organised, and data driven whilst always being modest and humble.
“Many parents are so grateful that Sandra taught their children.
“She asks after her past students – even once they’ve graduated Casey Grammar.
“To have been taught by Sandra is a privilege.”
