If there’s one person who has worn many hats at Manning Valley Anglican College (MVAC), it would be Mrs Karen Brown.
Karen has dedicated almost 20 years of service to the college, beginning her journey in a casual teaching position in 2004.
She has always been at the forefront of shaping the educational learning experiences for the students.
Her passion for lifelong learning has taken her across a broad spectrum of roles within the college from classroom teacher, K – 2 Coordinator and Head of Primary School.
It was in her executive role that Karen rediscovered her calling and passion for classroom teaching.
“My passion has always been working with the kids,” she said.
Karen’s love of learning led to her current role as she closes in on the finish line of her third degree – a Masters of Inclusive Education.
Now, Karen leads the Prep-12 Learning Support department.
Over the years, she has seen student enrolments, colleagues, and school facilities grow.
Due to this growth, there was a need to expand the support unit.
With such a vast wealth of knowledge stemming from early Childhood to Vocational education, Karen is the perfect person to lead a Prep-12 Learning Support Unit.
She’s excited to take on the challenge.
“Throughout my teaching career, I have always had a passion for working with more vulnerable students, whether they be our young learners, or those with disability or learning differences.”
Karen Brown
Working within a Christian environment has been a source of comfort, creating a nurturing environment where students not only feel supported academically, but also emotionally and spiritually.
“It is immensely rewarding to watch a child flourish after a learning breakthrough or as they realise that they are unique and just as God intended them to be,” Karen added.
Karen is not just an advocate for all things Inclusive Learning.
There’s another super skill Karen holds – collecting and accessorising quirky broaches and earrings, which brings a smile to everyone.
It happens every day and is done to perfection. Cats, strawberries, rainbows – you never know what the theme will be.
“It brightens me up. Hopefully it brightens up the students too,” Karen says.
It certainly does.
In fact, Karen’s warmth, kindness, inclusive activism, and all-round genuine love of learning is infectious.
It is easy to let your light shine around people like Mrs Karen Brown.
