THE school bell has rung for the final time for respected primary educator Peter Adams.
Mr Adams, who taught thousands of children in the Kerang district for more than 30 years, died on December 24, aged 59.
Kerang Primary School said it was with great sadness that the school community laid to rest their beloved teacher, colleague and friend, who was affectionately known to his students as Mr A.
“Peter touched many lives in his 37 years of teaching in the Kerang district, accomplishing nine years at Murrabit Group School, one year at Kerang South and an amazing 26 years here at Kerang Primary School,” the school said in a statement.
“Past students and colleagues alike will continue to have fond memories of a dedicated, gentle and caring natured teacher with an infectious smile and a wonderful sense of humour.
“Peter was well respected and admired by all, with his influence extending far beyond the classroom.
“He had many ties to the local community and was often acknowledged by students far and wide.
“Peter was proud of his students’ achievements and keenly followed their lives with interest.”
Longtime colleague Jenny McDonald said it was an “honour” to work alongside Mr Adams for more than 30 years.
“Pete was modest, cheeky, caring, honest, supportive, meticulous in labelling things and in photocopying sheets,” she said.
“The teacher with the messiest desk, too, and that is saying something.
“Pete weathered many educational changes over his career, but one thing that never altered was his ability to see the good in any student.
“Pete changed so many lives because he cared.
“Pete had a canny knack of recalling past experiences and student antics with humour and never forgot any staff antics either.
“Pete endeared himself to all during his teaching career regardless of what position you held, and we all know how he loved his community too.”
Ms McDonald said Mr Adams was more than Mr A.
“By far, Pete’s greatest achievement, as he always stated, was being a husband and father,” she said.
“He would share snippets of this world and always listened intently as you shared yours.
“Pete was so proud to work with his brother, Greg, and sister-in-law Pam at KPS over many years and delighted to hear his niece, Chloe, had gained a position there also.
“The loss of Pete … is immeasurable, yet he has left us with countless memories, and the reminder that life is so precious.”
In 2023, Mr Adams received a 35 years’ service award from the Department of Education.
Greg said as a teacher, Peter taught in the middle and upper grades, but was able to apply skills to all grades.
“Then his passion was in the area of physical education, co-ordinating events at school and district levels,” Greg said in his eulogy.
“For many years, students loved Mr A that he had a profound impact on many children’s education.
“Being an excellent role model and dedicated teacher who motivated students and ignited their curiosity while caring greatly about their wellbeing.
“Peter also made many friends through his teaching colleagues with his friendly nature and good humour, he will be remembered fondly by so many in education.”
Greg said as “positive and upbeat as Pete was”, there were times when he had his demons.
“Pete dealt with challenges throughout his life, and he fought hard, bloody hard, but in the end, these challenges proved too great,” he said.
“(The family) would like to ask that if you would someone you know who’s struggling, please reach out for help.
“Mental illness doesn’t discriminate.
“There is a saying that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
“I think this applies beautifully to Pete; his big smile, gentle and caring nature made others feel important, happy, and people enjoyed being around him.”
Anyone requiring urgent help can call Lifeline’s 24-hour number, 131 114. For crisis support, call Beyond Blue, 1300 224 636, headspace, 1800 650 890, or Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800.
