Autism Advisory & Support Service are proud to announce our 2025 AASS Westfield Local Hero – Shari Rao!
As a Support Unit Assistant Principal, Shari brings unmatched knowledge, experience, and compassion to her role. Her mission is clear: to ensure every student feels valued, supported, and included. Through her leadership, Tower Street has embraced a culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Collaboration is at the heart of Shari’s work. She partners with families, therapists, and colleagues to provide holistic, tailored support for each child. From making adjustments for excursions and assemblies to creating opportunities like the Inclusive Dance Group, Shari ensures students with disabilities can participate fully in school life. She even introduced Disability Awareness Days to educate and inspire the entire school community.
Shari’s passion for special education drives her to continually upskill and share her learning. She mentors her team, delivers professional development, and champions evidence-based practices. Her innovative approach, focusing on exposure, engagement, and exploration, means lessons are hands-on, sensory-rich, and designed to meet diverse learning styles.
Beyond the classroom, Shari goes above and beyond for families. She assists with NDIS applications, arranges case conferences, and connects families with vital services. Her advocacy ensures students receive the right support, whether through funding assistance or securing placements in early intervention programs.
Her leadership shines through creative initiatives like the Garden Club for mindfulness and life skills, a second-hand uniform stall as part of Ngurra’s life skills program, and securing grants for essential resources. During Education Week, Shari proudly showcased ‘A Day in Ngurra’, a video highlighting the incredible capabilities of students and the dedication of teachers in the support unit.
Shari’s mantra “Connection and co-regulation before curriculum” is deeply embedded in her team. She knows that learning begins with emotional safety and trust. Drawing on her own experience as a parent of a child with additional needs, Shari reassures families: “I didn’t choose the support unit. The support unit chose me.” For Shari, this is more than a job it’s her passion and purpose.
Congratulations, Shari! Your love & commitment to inclusion and advocacy is transforming lives and inspiring communities.
If you would like to nominate someone in the 2026 Autism Advisory & Support Service Westfield Local Hero you can do so HERE
