Spotlight shines on Jabiru teacher

Jabiru Area School’s very own Jim Bailey has been recognised nationally as one of the top 10 inspirational winners across Australia in the annual A Day Made Better Teaching Awards.
A passionate teacher for over 25 years, well-known local Jim has been teaching at Jabiru Area School for around 16 years and currently teaches a variety of different subjects to secondary school students.
Students from the past and present, parents, family, friends, colleagues, as well as principals and school administrators nominated Jim for positively influencing the lives of local Jabiru students in the classroom and beyond.
Now in its seventh year, the 2017 A Day Made Better Teaching Awards received over 50,000 nominations for over 16,000 teachers in a bid to find 10 of Australia’s most inspiring teachers. 
Jabiru Area School pre-school teacher Noelee Mitchell said Jim is an incredible teacher and mentor.
“Jim Bailey is an absolute legend. His dedication to his students is always above and beyond. He has worked with both of my children to ensure that they not only stay on track but also challenges every student to aim high. From pre-schoolers through to Year 12 students, Jim knows how to keep his students engaged, entertained and does it all with a great sense of humour,” she said.
Jabiru Area School Principal Learne Dunne said Jim brings care, kindness and respect to the classroom and inspires and motivates not just the students, but the teachers as well.
Humbled by the award, Jim thanked everyone at Jabiru Area School, particularly the students.
“Every day, the students make the teachers’ day better,” he said.
OfficeMax Sales and Marketing Director, Paul Munkley said they are committed to supporting the education industry and understand the importance of recognising the hard work and commitment teachers bring to the classroom.
“Once again, we’ve been overwhelmed by the number of heart-warming nominations, particularly Jim Bailey. It’s a privilege to be a part of something so inspiring and to see what a difference Jim Bailey is making in his local community.”
Jabiru Area School also received a host of prizes from OfficeMax.