Kylie Johnston

Staff Representative

Room 1 = Te Puawaitanga Year 1 - 2 Auraki (Mainstream)

I was born and bred in Whakatu, Nelson, and married a local Te Kopuru man. After COVID, we moved back to the district so we could be closer to his whānau, and I was lucky enough to secure a job at the local primary school he attended — here at Te Kopuru School.

I believe that strong, respectful relationships are at the heart of effective teaching and learning. Guided by the values of whanaungatanga and manaakitanga, and grounded in our kura values of tika, aroha, and pono, I prioritise building genuine, trusting connections with each child and their whānau. I strive to create a classroom environment where tamariki feel a deep sense of belonging, safety, and confidence — where their identity, language, and culture are seen, heard, and valued.

Through tika, I encourage fairness, integrity, and doing what is right in our learning and relationships. Through aroha, I foster kindness, empathy, and care for one another. Through pono, I model honesty, authenticity, and trust. These values guide how we interact, learn, and grow together each day.

I hold high expectations for all tamariki, believing that every child can achieve and flourish when challenged and supported. By truly knowing my students — their strengths, interests, whakapapa, and aspirations — I can provide meaningful learning experiences that encourage them to take risks, persevere, and grow as confident learners.

Partnership with whānau is important to me. Through open communication and reciprocity, we work together to uplift each child’s mana and support their learning journey. My goal is to foster an environment where every tamaiti can flourish, stand proudly in who they are, and realise their full potential.

Outside of kura, I enjoy being outdoors, fishing, spending time with whānau, connecting with nature, tending to the garden, and simply relaxing.