General News
3 July, 2025
Mrs Jochinke bids farewell after two decades
A chapter that started in early 2005 came to an end this Monday, June 30, as Mrs Lisa Jochinke farewelled St Joseph Primary School after more than 20 years of service.
“I’ve been here for so long because of the students and the staff,” she said.
“The school is like a big family and very welcoming.”
The school organised a special morning tea for Mrs Jochinke with the participation of school kids, staff members and her parents.
Nick Speipolt, the school’s Grade 6 student, Emily, and the school’s principal, Cynthia Maiden, spoke a few words during the ceremony and wished Mrs Jochinke the best for her future endeavours.
The school’s principal, Ms Maiden, made Mrs Jochinke a bit emotional as they had both spent over 20 years together working under the same roof.
Mrs Jochinke was born and bred in Hopetoun, but a decade ago she moved to Rainbow with her family.
Mrs Jochinke is going to continue teaching at the Rainbow P-12 College, where her children are currently studying.
“I’m nervous about going to Rainbow P-12, but also excited,” she said.
“Excited for a fresh start and to spend more time with my children.
“I had a lot of highlights and lots of good things in my career.”
Mrs Jochinke stated that the high point of her career was the school community, and the main low of her career was the COVID pandemic.
“COVID was lows, as I had to teach from home and I had a toddler and a growing prep kid and then teaching these guys,” she said.
“The highs are the students, they’re so motivated, well-behaved and they’re just great.
“And other than students, the staff and Cynthia were more like a family here.
“She started just a year before I joined the school, so we pretty much spent the whole time together.”
Mrs Jochinke has a beautiful message for the community on her farewell day.
“Just continue and keep this great family going, and enjoy and look after each other,” she said.
“Keep leading, as the best bit about life is to keep learning.”
