Dee takes the helm at Hurlyvale Primary

The NEWS met with Dee Schoultz, who was recently appointed Hurlyvale Primary School’s new principal, to learn about her passion for teaching and her journey.

On September 1, Dee was appointed principal of the school after being an acting principal since January after former principal Trevor Thom retired.

Dee, a Primrose resident, described teaching as a calling and something she is extremely passionate about.

She said for as long as she could remember, she has always wanted to teach.

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After completing her studies, Dee became a teacher and taught for a year before deciding to try her hand at various other industries.

“I was bored stiff,” explained Dee.

After returning to the world of teaching, Dee knew there was a reason for her return.

“If God had not wanted me to be a teacher he wouldn’t have brought me back to be an influence on those in need.”

After joining the Hurlyvale family 15 years ago, Dee started as a Grade Four teacher and then became a Grade Six teacher.

After putting in hard work and effort, Dee became head of department, deputy principal and is now a principal of the school.

She said what she most enjoys about being a teacher is seeing the development of the learners.

“I enjoy seeing the change in the children and seeing the growth in all spheres of the child.

“Even when a learner leaves us, the growth never ends.”

Dee fondly remembered one occasion while walking in East Rand Mall when somebody called out to her.

“The learner whom I had taught in primary school was now a grown woman and a pilot,” said Dee.

Dee said when learners come to the school they are often innocent Grade Ones.

“Seeing the achievements of children is rewarding as an educator.”

As a teacher, Dee said her job is more than educating children and imparting knowledge.

She highlighted that it is about building a better future.

Although the school continues to do its best to build a better future, Dee said the impact of the pandemic has not made it any easier.

The principal highlighted that although the school is on track with its academic syllabus, learners have been affected by the lack of social interaction.

“Children can’t hug each other and that’s taking a big toll on them.”

Dee said although the school is on track, some teachers have found that certain learners lack specific skills that should already be developed.

She said this is also believed to be caused by the pandemic and the time learners spent away from school.

Although Dee and the school’s management have several projects planned for the school, she said the plan is to keep Hurlyvale Primary the successful school that Trevor Thom created.

“We want to ensure the school is a healthy, safe place, especially during Covid-19,” said Dee.

“We want the Hurlyvale family to know we are here to protect, care and love them.

“Our ethos is we are family, and that is true; we are one big family. We want parents to know we are here for them too.”

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