Kia ora koutou

Earlier this week I announced my resignation from the role of Principal of Otago Girls’ High School to the staff and students of the school. My resignation takes effect from the end of the school year which means that I still have two terms in the role, although I will continue to be seconded to the Teaching Council for Term Three. I will be returning to school in Term Four, ahead of our 150th Jubilee Celebrations, and the busy final term of the school year.

By the end of the year I will have been principal at OGs for nearly 10 years. It has been a challenging and immensely rewarding role in an iconic school, and I feel very proud of all that we have achieved over this time. After 13 years as a principal I feel the time is right for me to step back from the demands of the job and to clear the way for someone new to lead the school into its second 150 years.

My announcement at this time is to allow the Board time to recruit and appoint my replacement in time for the start of the 2022 school year. This work has begun already and it is hoped that the announcement of the new principal will be made at the beginning of Term Four.

I will be saying much more about my time at the school and acknowledge all who have supported me in Term Four. In the meantime, I would like to thank everyone at school who is covering for me so capably as I continue to work for the Teaching Council. In particular I would like to thank Mrs Bridget Davidson, Acting Principal and the rest of the senior leadership team. Despite being away from the school I continue to follow the achievements and activities of the staff and students. As always, I am delighted and amazed by their continued commitment and success.

I wish you all a restful (and warm) holiday break.

Ngā mihi

Linda Miller