MEET THE PRINCIPAL: Making of a leader

Principal Kara Krehlik and Head Girls Hadasshah Akop and Megan Clark

For over 131 years, Rockhampton Girls Grammar School has been led by strong and independent women.

The school has continued to uphold those strong traditions through its cohort of dedicated student leaders and principal Kara Krehlik.

Head Girl and Culture and Community Prefect Megan Clark believed being a good leader meant understanding how to work in a team, communicate effectively, and work alongside your peers to embrace their strengths and weaknesses.

“Being a leader is about being receptive to ideas that aren’t your own and knowing when to ask for help if you need it.”

Megan said past Prefects and Head Girls inspired her to take on the role.

“Seeing their dedication to the school was inspiring, and I hope to continue their passion through my time as a leader,” she said.

Head Girl and Culture and Student Wellbeing Prefect Hadasshah Akop said a good leader ensured everyone felt included and confident.

“I think it is our unity that makes a difference.”

Hadasshah said the Xhosa term, ‘ubuntu’, meaning, ‘I am because we are,’ inspired her.

“It simply is the idea that our potential to achieve our goals collectively is far greater than the potential of an individual.”

Hadasshah said she wanted to take on the leadership opportunity in the hope she would be an inspiration to her younger peers and make sure they all felt “heard and appreciated”.

Both Head Girls said they enjoyed all the events and opportunities the School offered.

“I would love to recover some Girls Grammar events and traditions that had to be stopped because of Covid and maybe even start up some new events,” Megan said.

“I am looking forward to engaging with all the girls as well as the community to expand school spirit, traditions and events.”

Hadasshah said she loved watching fellow students participate in various activities, whether in sports, academics, the arts, or other extracurricular activities.

“I look forward to seeing the girls put in their best efforts to explore new skills they can learn from others and embrace the diversity within our school community,” she said.

Principal Kara Krehlik has been a strong female leader for her students since she joined the school community in January 2021.

She thought a great principal and leader was someone who built foundations based on respectful relationships.

“Trusting and supportive relationships are what makes a school community- the staff, students and parents that are a part of it feel valued, listened to, and connected,” she said.

“Leading by example and active participation in the life of the school is so important and one of the most rewarding aspects of being in the role.”

The school focuses on honouring its rich tradition while embracing a future-focused educational philosophy – ensuring girls are prepared with the strong learning foundations and personal capabilities needed to engage in an increasingly complex world.