Avalon Public School

This year, we are proud to celebrate an extraordinary milestone as Ashlea Simonetti is recognised for 30 years of service in public education.

For 28 of those years, Ashlea has been a valued member of the Avalon Public School community, making a lasting impact on students, families and colleagues through her dedication, expertise and care. She embodies lifelong learning, continually striving to grow and improve while inspiring others to do the same.

A significant achievement in Ashlea’s career was attaining Lead Teacher Accreditation, one of the highest recognitions available to teachers in Australia. This reflects her outstanding classroom practice, leadership and commitment to excellence in education.

In her current role as Assistant Principal, Curriculum and Instruction, Ashlea has had a profound influence on teaching and learning across our school. Through mentoring, coaching and working alongside teachers, she has strengthened classroom practice and supported improved outcomes for students. Her impact can be seen in both student growth and the confidence and capability of the teachers she supports.

As one colleague shared, “Ashlea leads with both heart and dedication, and her commitment to our school community is evident in everything she does.” Another reflected, “The advice and encouragement you have shared with me has genuinely helped me in my classroom practice.”

Whether mentoring teachers, supporting students, leading teams or helping behind the scenes, Ashlea consistently puts others first. Her knowledge, integrity and generosity have helped shape Avalon Public School and the many educators fortunate enough to work alongside her.

Congratulations, Ashlea, on 30 years of outstanding service. Thank you for the difference you have made to generations of students, staff and families. We are incredibly grateful for your contribution to public education and our school community.

APS Alumni Spotlight!

Katja Davis-Raiss | Class of 2003

Founder of , Katja has built one of the Northern Beaches’ most loved dance schools.

How did your time at APS influence or help you discover your passions and interests?
The opportunities afforded to us at Avalon helped foster my passion for dance and leadership, setting the foundation for the work I do today.

What’s your strongest or most vivid memory from your time at the school?
The Year 6 musical. It was such a special experience and one that has stayed with me ever since.

Who were the people (teachers, friends, mentors) that had the biggest impact on you?
Anne Henderson, Rob Richmond and Graham Daley all had a significant impact on me. I’m also lucky enough to still call many of the people I went to school with my closest friends today, including Alice Lovett (Kirby).

What does the school mean to you now, looking back?
APS is a place filled with happy memories, lifelong friendships and experiences that helped shape who I am today. It will always hold a special place in my heart.

Check out

As we celebrate 75 years of Avalon Public School, we’re proud to share the stories of former students whose journeys began right here at APS.

What’s your favourite memory from your time at Avalon Public School? Share it in the comments below!

What’s happening in the Library?

Students engaged with stories that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ histories, cultures and perspectives, using literature as a way to deepen understanding, spark conversations and strengthen connections.

Students explored the power of storytelling to learn, reflect and connect. Reconciliation begins with listening, learning and walking together.

A special thank you to Mrs Hagan for thoughtfully creating these book boxes and curating such a wonderful collection of stories for our students to explore.