For 25 years, Jon Rogers has read out the names at Hornby High School’s prize-givings. It was the deputy principal’s job, and one he has taken pride in doing.

But last week’s event was different. It was Mr Rogers’ last prize-giving. The 66-year-old is stepping down, and will hand over the deputy role that he has made his own over the past two decades. His work was so appreciated, that Hornby High School students and staff gave him a standing ovation at last week’s special assembly. “All the staff and people in the audience standing up and I thought goodness. It was a very, very special moment and meant an enormous amount to me” Mr Rogers said. 

Born in Katikati, Bay of Plenty, Mr Rogers grew up in Auckland. Prior to joining Hornby High School in 1994, he taught social studies and history at Penrose High School in Auckland, where he started his career in 1975.

Over the years, he has seen plenty of change at Hornby High School. Mr Rogers has worked with six principals, hundreds of teachers and thousands of students in those years. “When I first arrived, I think the school did lack confidence in itself. It had started 20 years before and the roll grew and then fell” Mr Rogers said. “The school was decreasing [in size], and losing teachers. So, there was a lack of confidence at the school, but it’s not evident now" he said. 

That confidence has grown with the school rebuild, something he has played a key role in overseeing. Mr Rogers said the physical changes to the school did not make him feel old. “I’m quite invigorated and excited by everything I see here and with a certain amount of regret that I’m helping to establish it all . . . but it’s going to be for others to carry on the good work.” 

He said he was happy with being deputy for 25 years instead of moving on or taking up the principal’s position. “There have been other [job] opportunities, over the time but in all honesty I’ve been most comfortable in the deputy’s role” Mr Rogers said. He said the most memorable thing about the school are the students and teachers. “They’re friendly, work hard and they’re just good honest straight up kids” Mr Rogers said. “I occasionally wish that they would have more confidence in their own abilities but that’s what we’re here for, to make them realise their potential” he said. Working with an “amazing and dedicated bunch” of teachers is something that will be missed, Mr Rogers said. He will help with managing the rebuild of Hornby High School in a part-time role for another year, before looking at travelling with his wife. Mr Rogers will be replaced by Lincoln High School teacher Jack Goodfellow.

By Anan Zaki - Western News