Rebecca Isakson

Before discovering my passion for education, I built a successful career in business, leading finance, operations and strategic improvement across multiple industries. That experience shaped my strengths in systems thinking, data analysis and organisational leadership, which I brought with me when transitioning into teaching 7 years ago. After completing a Master of Learning and Teaching with Distinction, I rapidly progressed from classroom teacher to Head of Mathematics and Acting Deputy Principal at Park Ridge State High School.

Today, I lead whole-school improvement through evidence-informed practice, building teacher capability and improving outcomes for students in a large, diverse community. Recognised as an Australian Educator Awards Excellence Awardee and a regular conference presenter, I am driven by a belief that every student can succeed when high expectations are matched with innovative teaching and strong, collaborative leadership.

As Head of Mathematics at Park Ridge State High School, I lead a high-performing faculty serving approximately 2,000 students in a diverse, low socioeconomic community. I drive strategic improvement in curriculum, pedagogy and assessment, embedding evidence-based practices including the Explicit Teaching Cycle and refining the Math Pathways model to improve engagement, achievement and equity. I foster a collaborative culture of high expectations through instructional coaching, professional learning and data-informed decision-making, empowering teachers to identify learning needs and implement targeted interventions. My leadership has resulted in significant improvements in student outcomes, increased senior mathematics participation and stronger faculty cohesion. Beyond the department, I collaborate with school leaders, community partners and regional networks to strengthen curriculum innovation, STEM opportunities and student pathways, ensuring every student has access to high-quality mathematics education and the opportunity to succeed.