Raylene Burgess-Heald – staff trustee

My name is Raylene Burgess-Heald and I am the staff trustee on the Otatara School Board of Trustees.  

I am very committed to the improvement of student learning and achievement.  I believe as a school we are well on our way to achieving our vision for developing confident, connected, actively involved, life long learners through the leadership of our management team and the commitment of staff who support them.  

I am married to Viv (who is an exceptional cook) and have three fantastic children of whom I am very proud.  Bianca is at Otago University completing a Batchelor of Fine Arts degree and Zhivanna and Jonty are both at James Hargest Senior College.

Brett Lucas

Justin Reid - Chairperson  justin.reid@hm.org.nz

As a father of two daughters (Elizabeth  and Jemima) I understand the important role that school plays in their academic, cultural,

social and sporting development and that of other children. I have pride in the school and an interest in its continued good

performance and on-going self review. I’m am please to be able to serve the school community in a governance role on the Board

of Trustees.

As a Civil Engineer I have been involved with a wide range of infrastructure projects and leadership roles for communities and

understand the importance of good planning and strategic direction has in achieving successful outcomes. I enjoy ski-ing and am

involved in a clubs such as Toastmasters and Tap Dancing.  

If any parents, children or teachers of the Otatara School have any suggestions or feedback for the board I’d like to hear from you. 

Sharon Livingstone- Principal

I joined Otatara School as Principal in 2008, having previously worked at the University of Otago College of Education as a teacher educator and adviser for a number of years. 

I am committed to working towards the realization of the school’s vision of ‘confident, connected, actively involved lifelong learners striving for excellence’, and consider this important both for students and staff.

My husband Shane and I have two sons, one at secondary and the other studying Engineering at Canterbury University.

Simon Tierney

My name is Simon Tierney, married to Megan who is a Registered Nurse and we have three daughters, Lily aged 9, Isabella aged 5 and

Ruby aged 3, with our eldest two children attending Otatara School.

I am a director and manager of Jubilee Budget Advisory Service Ltd, which is a local, non profit community organisation offering

advice

and education by working with individuals and families, sharing skills and knowledge regarding their personal finances. I am also a

trustee

for the Jubilee Christian Charitable Trust, The Southland Food bank Charitable Trust, Disability Resource Centre Charitable Trust and a

member of the Rotary club of Invercargill East. I have a background in sales and finance after working a number of years in both the

motor trade and then as a share broker / investment advisor.

As a family person and actively involved in a number of community organisations and projects,  I believe it is important to contribute to those around you, using your skills and talents to help build strong families and provide a positive impact to the community we live in.

I am looking forward to working with all those involved with Otatara School and welcome any feedback.

Craig Thompson

I have been actively involved with Otatara School since 2004 when our daughter Cathy joined the roll, son Jack following 2 years later.

I coach various sports teams representing the School, and my wife Karen and I give our time freely in support of the Otatara School

Parent Support Group and their various fundraising activities, (including those monthly sausage sizzles!).  I help with various classroom

activities and thoroughly enjoyed the 2010 Year 6 School Camp as a parent helper.

I am proud to be associated with Otatara School and I am fully committed to bringing the skills I have gained to the Board of Trustees

as a Parent Representative.   

My career as a Land Surveyor has helped to develop skills including people management and a practical and analytical approach to

address future challenges the School will no doubt face.  I anticipate the role of Board member to be a challenging one, but I assure you my focus will primarily be on the progress and achievement of all students, and in partnership with our School Principal, ensure all Otatara School children are given every opportunity to succeed.

I enjoy spending my leisure time with family and friends.