2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year
Kim Diegutis
Nominated by: Deputy Principal, Sarah Quinn and Prep Teacher, Josie Fagan
Congratulations to Kim Diegutis, a Teacher Aide at Middlemount Community School, who is the 2024 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year.
Kim is an integral part of the Middlemount Community School team. She demonstrates exceptional dedication and professionalism through her provision of targeted literacy, numeracy and wellbeing support for prep students, including those diagnosed with additional needs.
Kim has implemented a 4-week graphophonic intervention program that has had significant, measurable improvements in students' literacy outcomes. Her data-driven approach and hands-on, age-appropriate teaching methods have notably enhanced student learning and wellbeing.
Nominators Sarah Quinn and Josie Fagan said “Kim’s proficiency in delivering this evidence-based literacy intervention, aligned to the Science of Reading, has not only ensured a great reading foundation for early years students, but also improved students’ confidence, capability and participation in other Key Learning Areas.”
Kim’s commitment to student learning and wellbeing is evident through her systematic reading and numeracy interventions, differentiated instruction, and social-emotional guidance. Her ability to monitor and adapt to student needs has led to remarkable progress, particularly in literacy, where she has significantly improved student graphophonic skills.
Kim’s nominators said that “Kim truly makes a difference.”
Kim’s approach to collaboration is characterised by her proactive communication, evidence-based practices, and critical reflection. She works closely with teachers to develop and implement targeted interventions while maintaining detailed records that support student progress and instructional adjustments.
Kim regularly meets with teachers to discuss student learning goals and progress, ensuring timely and effective communication. Her diligent record-keeping reduces teacher workload and provides valuable data for NCCD compliance and personalised learning records.
Kim fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collective efficacy among her colleagues. She actively participates in teacher aide meetings, shares best practices, and engages in peer observations and mentoring, which has significantly contributed to the professional growth of her team.
“Kim’s professionalism and reliability provides stability, certainty and consistency for the students and staff she works with. The positive, collegial relationships and collaboration between Kim and her colleagues is evidenced daily,” said Sarah Quinn and Josie Fagan.
Kim is committed to professional development, consistently seeking opportunities to enhance her skills and knowledge. She reflects on her practice, identifies areas for improvement, and implements changes with fidelity.
Kim played a pivotal role in developing and enacting the MCS Collegial Engagement Framework, involving peer observations and feedback. Her proactive engagement in professional development, both within and outside school has established a strong professional learning culture at Middlemount Community School.
Kim's continuous professional growth and commitment to sharing her knowledge have positively impacted student and staff outcomes. Her effective and explicit instruction has been invaluable, particularly in a setting with a high percentage of early career teachers.
To conclude, Kim’s nominators said that “the result of Kim’s continual knowledge and skill development has resulted in a highly skilled and knowledgeable teacher aide who has positively impacted the growth and knowledge of students and peers.”
