This 1998 staff photograph from Jacana Primary School provides valuable insight into the history of public education in Melbourne’s northern suburbs during the late 20th century. Operating from 1959 until the early 2000s, Jacana Primary was more than a place of learning—it was a cornerstone of the local community. The image captures a moment in time that reflects the school’s commitment to educational access, inclusivity, and community engagement. It illustrates the professional culture of the staff and the broader social values that shaped suburban schooling during this period. As such, the photograph serves as a meaningful record of the school’s role in fostering a sense of identity and belonging among generations of students and families. This 1998 staff photograph of Jacana Primary School is significant as a visual record of a community-based educational institution that operated in Melbourne’s northern suburbs from 1959 to the early 2000s. The image captures the professional and social fabric of the school at a time when public education was undergoing substantial change. It reflects the school’s enduring commitment to inclusive education, community involvement, and social cohesion. As a historical artifact, the photograph provides insight into the values, demographics, and educational culture of suburban Melbourne at the close of the 20th century. It holds cultural and social value for former students, staff, and the broader community, representing a shared legacy of learning, belonging, and local identity.A colour photograph depicting teachers at Jacana Primary School, taken in 1998. The image is bordered by a black frame and features a white strip along the bottom edge with names of individuals neatly printed. The Jacana Primary School logo is located in the bottom right-hand corner. Photograph is laminated. jacana primary school, education, photograph, group photograph, mrs. heather faulkes, mrs. linda mostyn, mrs. vivien mcnish, ms. mary stapleton, mrs. pam streete, mrs. kaye smith, ms. carol taylor, janelle koistinen, yvonne micallef, vicki dokas, 1998

Jacana Primary School, located in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, served the local community for several decades before its closure. Established during a period of suburban expansion, the school became a cornerstone of early childhood education in the area, known for its inclusive ethos and strong community engagement. By the 1990s, Jacana Primary reflected the cultural diversity of its neighbourhood, with staff and students from a wide range of backgrounds contributing to a rich and supportive learning environment. The 1994 staff photograph captures a moment in time when public education was undergoing significant change, including curriculum reforms and shifts in teaching practices. It showcases the dedicated educators who worked collaboratively to foster student growth and wellbeing. Their commitment helped shape the lives of countless children and left a lasting impact on the community. The image also offers visual cues to the era—fashion, hairstyles, and photographic style—providing a nostalgic link to the social and cultural context of the mid-1990s. Today, it stands as a meaningful artefact, honouring the legacy of Jacana Primary School and the people who made it a vibrant place of learning. This 1994 photograph of the Jacana Primary School staff holds deep historical and emotional significance. As a visual record of a now-closed institution, it captures the professional community that supported and shaped early childhood education in the area. The image reflects the school’s vibrant spirit, cultural diversity, and collaborative ethos, preserving the legacy of a dedicated team that played a vital role in nurturing young learners and strengthening community ties. Offering a glimpse into the fashion and hairstyles of the era, it also serves as a nostalgic artefact for former staff, students, and the broader community.Colour photograph on Matte Photographic paper, mounted on a Mottled brown card.Front: See attachment Back: Top right Corner - Blue Label: PH - 1669jacana primary school, students, staff, 1994, education, marta bialocerkowski, mary stapleton, brian o'dea, yvonne micallef, suzanne leahy, carrie white, kaye smith, niki skoullos, sue osborne, nazio mancini, glenn payne, pam streete, diane di grazia, mr b o'dea