Samantha Ilic

I am writing to apply for the position of QASEL Regional Councillor for the Far North Region for 2024. I have been a member of QASEL since 2018 and have worked in the role of Head of Special Education Services in the Far North Region since 2016. Prior to working in HOSES positions, I held a number of regional positions including Autism Coach, Advisory Teacher for Autism and Advisory Teacher for Physical Impairment and AAC. I am passionate about my work in the field of special education and inclusive education is something I feel strongly about. As a special education leader in the Far North Region, I have been a strong advocate for all students with additional needs and mentored the next generation of special education leaders.

As a member of the Far North region Special Education Leaders Network organising committee and QASEL Regional Councillor in 2023 , I have the opportunity to network and connect with regional special education leaders and regional staff to enhance and support the QASEL values of Leading, Linking and Learning.

Over the past 12 months, I have enjoyed working with fellow Far North Regional Councillors Alicia Smith and Michelle Ericksson and together we have worked to build collegial networks and support special education leaders in our region. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Alicia and Michelle again in 2024 to further what we have started. It is important that members voices are heard from regional areas such as ours in the Far North and that the regional and remote voice is as recognised as those from metro areas so that the best possible learning outcomes are achieved for students with a disability and their support staff.