Two decades ago, the radio airwaves were filled with the sounds of OutKast’s “Hey Ya!”, a song that dominated the charts and became a defining track of 2004.
Fast forward 20 years, and while music tastes have evolved, life for Symone Bakker is uncannily similar.
Ms Bakker, who in 2004 sat in a classroom at St Francis College as a 5-year-old prep student, is now standing in a classroom just metres away from where she began her educational journey.
“It’s wholesome,” she said.
“I adored my time as a student at St Francis College, so to come back and be part of the community as a teacher is something I’ve really enjoyed.”
Ms Bakker is just one of several alumni who have returned to St Francis College as staff members, with her mother, Elizabeth Bakker, and sister, Sarah Bakker, also working at the school.
The Bakker family has been part of the St Francis community for 22 years, with both daughters completing their schooling at the college before choosing careers within its walls.
“We really liked the small class sizes and the feeling of being a community unto itself,” Mrs Bakker said.
“Now, I feel very blessed to see both our girls here, giving back to a community that helped develop and nurture them.”
Ms Bakker’s journey into teaching was a natural one, having dreamed of becoming a teacher since childhood.
“For many children, school is their only safe space,” she said.
“Building a place where I can help children grow as good people and in their learning is such a fulfilling career choice.”
Her prep students may be just beginning their school adventure, but Ms Bakker already sees incredible growth in them.
“By Term 4, they’re so confident and filled with so much new knowledge,” she said.
“It’s amazing to witness.”
St Francis College has a rich tradition of alumni returning as staff.
Nicole Carter, who taught Ms Bakker in Prep in 2004, now works alongside her as a colleague at the school.
“I remember her as a student. She was determined, with a heart of gold,” she said.
“Now, seeing her in this role makes me incredibly proud.”
Principal John Marinucci, who was Ms Bakkers principal when she was in year 12, said the return speaks volumes to the culture the school provides.
“When former students return as teachers, it highlights their deep connection to the school and their desire to contribute to the community that shaped them,” he said.
For the Bakker family, St Francis College is more than just a workplace, it’s home.
“The college provided us with a safe, welcoming environment where we knew we belonged,” Ms Bakker said.
“Working here gives me the opportunity to give back to the community that gave me so much.”
