Introducing Our New Teachers for 2023

Port Lincoln High School has welcomed twelve new teachers to the main site staff for our centenary year. Pictured here are…

We asked all twelve to complete a brief profile in order to introduce themselves to our school community – we thank them all for sharing their details below (listed in photo caption order).

BACK ROW (L-R):

* My name is Mr. Jack Opolski and I have recently moved to Port Lincoln from Adelaide. For the past few years, I’ve taught Year 6 at Grange Primary School. In 2023, I’ll be teaching Maths and Science. When I’m not working, I love diving, camping and spoiling my red heeler, Patch.

* My name is インガ .アキラ, also known as Inger Sensei (Mr. Akira Inger). My role at PLHS this year is to teach Middle School Japanese and Music. Last year I was travelling in Israel, participating in experimental medical trials, and was striving to find the secret recipe for the perfect cup of hot chocolate. When I’m not at school, I like to learn Russian, go out on bird photography trips, rollerblade, and write amateur almanacs about flowers.

* My name is Mrs. Natalie van Riet. My role at PLHS in 2023 is teaching Mathematics. Last year, I was a Local Relief Teacher around Port Lincoln and surrounding schools which included PLHS. When I’m not at school, I enjoy kickboxing, boxing, sailing and cooking.

* My name is Miss Marlee Hounsell. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach English and HASS. Last year, I was working at Orroroo Area School. When I’m not at school, I like to go on driving adventures, swim and listen to music.

* My name is Mr. Sam Lewis. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach English and HASS. Last year, I was on long service leave and travelling around Australia in a caravan. Prior to that I taught at Whyalla High School. When I’m not at school, I like to go camping with my family, fishing in my boat and playing cricket (Go, Southern Eyre South!).

FRONT ROW (L-R):

* My name is Ms. Anissa Hofen. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach EAL/D and HASS. Last year, I was finishing my studies in Adelaide whilst working as an SSO. When I’m not at school, I like to cook and bake, and get outside!

* My name is Miss Stacey Baker. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach Year 7 English, Maths and Science. Last year, I was working at Emmanuel College in Warrnambool in Victoria, teaching English and Psychology. When I’m not at school, I like to run, play netball and read.

* My name is Miss Abbey Degner. For 2023, I will be joining the team as a Middle School Health & Physical Education and English teacher. Last year I was working as a Special Education/Inclusion officer at Cummins Area School, and studying a Master of Teaching online; in Term 4, I completed my placement at PLHS. When I am not at school, I like to spend time outside with my puppy Franky, paint and play netball.

* My name is Miss Grace Nicolson. My role at PLHS this year is to teach Science and English. Last year, I was finishing off my degree at Flinders University and completing my final teaching practical at PLHS. When I’m not at school, I like to be doing absolutely anything that involves the beach. You’ll either find me moving my body in some way or in a horizontal position watching a movie; there’s no in between.

* My name is Ms. Kate Simons. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach English and HASS. Last year, I was working in a Queensland school. When I’m not at school, I like to play sports, paint and go on adventures.

* My name is Mr. Sam Kewen. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach Science and Maths. Last year, I was working at Murray Bridge High School. When I’m not at school, I like to watch basketball, go for runs and watch the latest Netflix series.

* My name is Ms. Jemima McLachlan. My role at PLHS in 2023 is to teach Design & Technology (Wood, Metal, CAD/CAM and Digital Technology). Last year, I was working at Cowell Area School. When I’m not at school, I like to go for walks, ride my bike and hang out with friends and family.

Please join us in welcoming these new educators to our school and wider community.