Coffs Coast welcomes new school principals

THE school year has begun with several Coffs Coast public schools welcoming new principals.

The principals and their schools are Mark Peterson, Sawtell Public School; Michael Linet, Narranga Public School; Kristina Stewart, Crossmaglen Public School; and Karen Lane, Dorrigo Public School.

The Department of Education says that 80 new principals across NSW have started meeting staff at school development days to inspire the direction they will set for their new school communities.

Students in the Eastern Division returned on 2 February and the Western Division is set to return on 9 February.

Fifty-one of these principals are taking up leadership roles for the first time, and 29 are principals starting at a new school.

Forty-nine are in regional, rural and remote areas of NSW and 31 across the Sydney metropolitan area.

NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said, “It’s my pleasure to welcome our 80 new principals to their new schools for the start of 2026”.

“Becoming a principal in public education is both a privilege and a profound responsibility.

“Our new principals are stepping into roles where their leadership will shape not only learning outcomes, but the confidence, wellbeing and life chances of thousands of young people and their communities.”

Deputy Secretary, Public Schools, Deb Summerhayes shared his sentiment and said, “As we welcome our incredible staff back for the start of Term 1, 2026, I want to acknowledge the vital role educators play in nurturing every student’s potential.

“I am confident that under the guidance of committed, experienced and passionate school leaders and teachers, this will be a year where potential and talent are recognised, curiosity is encouraged and every learner can thrive.”

Mr Peterson has previously been principal at Moama and Deniliquin North public schools for 15 years before coming to Sawtell.

He said he worked in Wingham for 10 years, was attracted to the coast and finds the area to be fantastic, with people very welcoming.

Mr Peterson said, “As well as being close to family there is a feeling of coming home to the coast”.

“I hope to work with the school and local community so that every student has opportunities to excel, particularly outside the classroom curriculum.”

Mr Linet has had extensive leadership experience at Bonville, Toormina and Sawtell Public Schools, as well as being Director, Educational Leadership for the Coffs Harbour Network.

He attended Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga Public Schools and Woolgoolga High School.

Mr Linet said, “I hope to foster a strong sense of belonging in our school community and strengthen the partnerships between teachers and parents”.

“We are already recognised by School Excellence as a school that is excelling and I hope I can keep us continuing on that journey and promote public education as the first choice for everyone.”

Ms Stewart has been relieving principal at Crossmaglen for two-and-a-half years prior to becoming permanent in the position.

Mr Dizdar said school principals are lifelong learners with a continual focus on teaching and learning, who encourage teachers and support students to be the best they can be.

“Getting the right people into school leadership roles is critical for having the greatest possible impact in our classrooms, which is why it’s so important that our very best teachers step into principalship,” he said.

“When the strongest educators lead our schools, the impact on classrooms is profound, and I know this new cohort will be exemplary leaders.”

By Andrew VIVIAN