2026 Women of Achievement Award finalists announced

Five outstanding women have today been announced as finalists for the 2026 Women of Achievement Award.

These female trailblazers were recognised for their significant contribution to public education in Western Australia. 

The winner will be announced at the International Women’s Day breakfast on Thursday 5 March at Optus Stadium.  

Finalists 

Jane Alexander 
Laboratory Technician 
Joseph Banks Secondary College 

Jane was nominated for her dedication to supporting science education and helping students explore their interest in STEM.   

As a laboratory technician at Joseph Banks Secondary College, she has gone far beyond her role, helping teachers, mentoring new staff and improving science programs across the school.   

Jane supports students by preparing equipment, helping with hands-on activities and creating resources that make science engaging, inclusive and accessible for everyone.   

Jeanette Brown 
Education Assistant Lead 
Gosnells Primary School 

Jeanette was nominated for her dedication to supporting students, families and staff through her long career in public education.  

As an education assistant lead at Gosnells Primary School, she has created strong systems that help students learn, while mentoring other education assistants and building their confidence.  

She developed programs such as the Little Learners Program, which has supported young children and families for more than 10 years and strengthened early learning in the community.  

Jeanette was also recognised nationally as the 2025 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year, showing the impact of her leadership both at school and across the wider education system.  

Patricia Levitzke-Gray 
Education Officer 
Shenton College Deaf Education Centre 

Patricia was nominated for her dedication to supporting deaf and hearing students and helping build a strong, inclusive school community. 

In her role, she has a strong impact on students and staff by sharing her lived experience, supporting colleagues and strengthening the Auslan program. 

She believes that inclusion is built through everyday actions and has helped create a school environment where Auslan, deaf culture and student wellbeing are valued and celebrated. 

Alison Parolo 
Principal 
Baldivis Secondary College 

Alison was nominated for her strong leadership and commitment to helping students across Baldivis and the Karnup network succeed. 

She is well respected for her caring, thoughtful and practical approach to improving teaching, learning and student wellbeing. 

She supports staff by helping them grow as leaders and by building a school culture based on trust, teamwork and continual improvement. 

Alison has led projects that strengthen student voice, celebrate culture and provide better support for students, while also building strong connections with local schools and Aboriginal communities. 

Dalisa Pigram-Ross 
Yawuru Language Teacher
Cable Beach Primary School 

Dalisa was nominated for her strong commitment to keeping the Yawuru language and culture alive in her school and community. 

As a Yawuru language teacher at Cable Beach Primary School, she has created a warm and respectful place where students and staff feel proud to learn about culture. 

She supports other teachers and helps new Aboriginal educators grow in confidence, making Yawuru language a regular part of school life. 

Dalisa has also shared her knowledge through books and creative projects that are used by students all over Australia.