BOT Elections

Candidate Statements 2025

Abraham, Heidi

I am writing to express my interest in becoming a member of the Havelock School Board. As a parent of three children currently attending Havelock School, I am deeply committed to the continued growth and success of our students, staff, and wider school community.

In addition to being an engaged parent, I also contribute to the school by doing occasional teacher aiding. This involvement has given me firsthand insight into the day-to-day operations of the classroom, as well as a strong understanding of the needs of both students and staff. It has deepened my appreciation for the hard work our educators do and highlighted the importance of supportive leadership at all levels.

I am passionate about helping build an inclusive, nurturing, and high-achieving environment for all learners. I believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. I also understand how important it is for the school board to work collaboratively with families, staff, and the local community to ensure balanced and informed decision-making.

If selected, I would bring a thoughtful, grounded, and community-minded perspective to the board. I am approachable, a good listener, and eager to help strengthen our school’s future in any way I can.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be honoured to support Havelock School in this role.

Sincerely,

Heidi Abraham

Murray, Colleen

Tēnā koutou katou

Ko Maungataniwha Te Maunga

Ko Doubtless Bay Te Moana

Ko Colleen Murray Ahau

I have just completed my first 3 years on the board as parent elect and I feel I have more to give.

To support our staff, community and tamariki in our continual journey of creating a love for learning in our tamariki, a passion for teaching in our staff and the feeling of belonging for all.

A little about me for those who don't know me, I live in Havelock with my husband and daughter who attends Havelock School. I grew up in the Far North before becoming a Process Engineer and since then have worked and lived in many different parts of New Zealand before settling in Havelock.

I strongly believe in a varied education for all and that community and whanau involvement is invaluable for our tamariki.

I highly endorse the Havelock School values of Responsibility, Respect and Resilience and believe in supporting our teaching staff to coach our tamariki to be independent life-long learners.

Nicholls, Jeanette

I became a part of the Havelock community in 2012, and over the years, I’ve taken great pride in actively supporting our school. As a parent, I played a pivotal role in establishing the Friends of Havelock School Committee, contributing significantly to successful fundraising efforts and initiatives aimed at bringing our community together.

I am a strong listener and bring a wealth of experience from years of involvement on various Havelock-based committees, particularly those focused on education. I like to think I offer invaluable insights and a calm, solution-focused approach to challenges.

Both of my daughters have attended Havelock School—one is currently in the senior class—so my connection and commitment to the school run deep. My background has provided me with excellent administrative skills, which I believe further enhance my ability to contribute meaningfully.

I have had the privilege of serving on the Board as a parent-elected representative for the past three years, and I have truly enjoyed working alongside such a dedicated group. Being part of the school board is a responsibility I take seriously, as it plays a crucial role in the governance and continued success of our school.

Thank you for your support

Jeanette Nicholls

Ryan, Rose

Tēnā koutou katoa,

My name is Rose, and I'm putting my hand up to be a member of the Havelock School Board. Almost none of you will know me, so here is a little bit about me and why I am standing!

I moved to Marlborough from Wellington in early 2024, looking to be part of a smaller community and to give back where I can. I’ve spent over 30 years researching and teaching in the areas of management and HR, and have worked across both the public and not-for-profit sectors in Wellington and Sydney.

What inspired me to stand was a recent radio interview with the School Boards Association about the challenges rural schools face finding Board members—especially when parents are already juggling so much. I’d like to offer my skills and experience to support the school and lighten that load where possible.

I understand the role of a School Board is to govern and support the school community and I bring experience from previous Board roles, including with the Wellington Homeless Women’s Trust. I currently work at the Marlborough Chamber of Commerce, helping local businesses improve their management capability and performance.

I’d love to serve the Havelock school community in this way.

Ngā mihi,

Rose Ryan

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