Merena McLaren has shared the joy of music with children for more than 30 years.
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Since the 1990s she has prepared the Bolwarra Public School choir for the Department of Education’s major arts events: Primary Proms and Festival of Choral Music.
It was the organisers of these events who nominated Ms McLaren for the Teachers’ Mutual Bank Performing Arts Teacher Recognition Award.
She is one of six be recognised for their outstanding contribution to arts units this year.
“I was a bit bemused at first,” Ms McLaren said.
“I was very pleasantly surprised, honoured and humbled. All teachers do their job for the love of it and don’t ever expect recognition.”
Teachers’ Mutual Bank said Ms McLaren had demonstrated an enormous commitment to music education in public schools by producing student ensembles of a consistently high standard .
“She has also shown long-standing commitment over many years,” the bank said.
“Teachers’ Mutual Bank would like to thank Merena for her commitment and passion for the arts and for her ongoing support for public school students.”
Ms McLaren said she was happy with her choice of career as a primary music teacher.
“I think with music and the arts it helps bring a smile to the children’s faces, gives them confidence and brings the school together,” Ms McLaren said.
She said her award was a combined effort from students, parents and staff.