Two familiar and well-loved faces at Mulwala Preschool, Elizabeth Jessup, fondly known as Liz and Maree House have notched up great milestones in recent weeks.
Liz just notched up 25 years of service at Mulwala Preschool, where she has nurtured the early childhood learning of countless children in the community.
Liz came to the preschool from Rutherglen in 1995 when she and her husband Wayne settled in Mulwala to raise their two children, Tegan and Kyle.
Liz has a diploma of teaching – Primary, a graduate diploma in special education as well as a Diploma of Teaching in Early Childhood which she has used to contribute outstanding early childhood learning at Mulwala Preschool.
Her greatest joy is seeing the children ready and capable to transition to school each year and into the world.
“I was drawn to children and really liked my school years,” Liz said.
“My mum Joyce Fagan finished her working career as a preschool assistant, so the preschool was a big part of our lives.”
In that time Liz has seen many little faces grow up to be aspiring adults with many funny moments and memories along the way.
“Every day is filled with a funny memory.
This is not so much a memory but I love the pride the community has for our preschool,” Liz said.
“I also love our new nature playground.
“We are so lucky to live in our small community, where we can say hello to our preschoolers and watch the fine young men and women they become.”
Liz was joined by Maree who is also celebrating 30 years of service.
Maree moved here from Doris Blackburn Kindergarten in Pascoe Vale when she and husband Greg moved to Mulwala to raise their three boys Chris, Mark and Andrew.
She volunteered as a special needs carer in 1990 at Mulwala Preschool and is a fundamental part of the school with her warmth and proficiency in early childhood.
“I had a friend with a disability child who needed help, so I volunteered my time and it was so rewarding that I knew this was the area I wanted to spend my career in,” Maree said.
“A job come up at Newlands Kindergarten in North Coburg that needed disability training and I got the job.
“My career took off from there, progressing to full time work at Doris Blackburn Kindergarten in Pascoe Vale where I stayed for 10 years.”
Maree’s most treasured time at Mulwala Preschool was teaching three of her four grandchildren and she loves sharing in the wonder and happiness of a child’s world but she also recalls some favourite memories.
“We did Princess Diana and Prince Charles’ wedding which was an iconic moment to celebrate with children,” Maree said.
“One of my favourite memories was sharing the experience of the Olympic Torch relay. To see the wonder and excitement on their little faces was fantastic.”
Together Liz and Maree have created a place for children to enter the learning world in a friendly and confident way.
Children who went to Mulwala Pre School, have returned to send their own children and no doubt they will soon be seeing a third generation coming through.
The team has grown at Mulwala Pre School, but it is Liz and Maree who are the pillar stones of quality early childhood learning in our community.
Congratulations to these incredible women who have shaped the lives of local children.
The Mulwala Preschool, staff, committee and community would like to thank them both.