John was a much-loved principal of Birrong PS. He was a generous and supportive leader. As a classroom teacher, I appreciated that he encouraged me to follow my passions – teaching young children and environmental education. He even allowed me to take a veggie garden with me when I changed rooms. To Karen, Tracey, Sarah and Tim my prayers and thoughts are for you. I won’t be able to attend the celebration of John’s life but will wear red, black and white on Thursday and remember him. Pamela Boyd
Deepest sympathy to Karen & his children. Our thoughts are with you as you cope with your loss. John is leaving an immense hole with us at Harrington Street Public School and will always be fondly remembered for his compassion towards other, his kindness and ability to calm others (especially children) in difficult moments, words of wisdom and his keen sense of humour with morning assembly riddles and jokes. We will all miss John so much. I am so grateful have known John. John took such pride in his family & always supported others in their parental responsibilities. He will be forever remembered and dearly missed by all. xx
John taught us, simply by associating with him, the importance of humour, of ethical decision making, the impact of high moral purpose, the love of making a difference for others, especially our students, and the centrality of family. Such a wonderful colleague, a partner in the fun factor in our work, and an inspiring builder of community.
My sincere condolences to John’s family. He was a wonderful school leader always approachable, supportive and so highly regarded by all. He will be missed and remembered.
I wish to extend my sincere condolences to Mr. John Massard's family. Although I have only known John for a relatively short time since commencing employment at Harrington Street Public School in 2019, it became abundantly clear to me how much John was admired as a great School Principal and a well-respected and loved person by all parents and the greater school community. John will be sadly missed by us all as we continue at Harrington Street Public School. R.I.P MR JOHN MASSARD
A principal, a mentor, a father, a friend and a great human being. John never stopped caring for others. He had insurmountable time for the students. He always found that joy in making them think, smile and laugh. A pillar of support and guidance for his staff, he was always approachable and available for a personal or professional chat. I’ll always appreciate the warm consideration he had for his staff and students. A one of a kind principal and an even greater human being. He will be missed.
John always had time to listen no matter whether you were a staff member a parent or a student. This made him very popular with all his students. At recess or lunch you could usually find a few children waiting outside his office so they could tell him about their day. Former students often came in after school to give him updates on their lives. It was a great pleasure to have worked with him and I know he will be missed.
John was a brilliant Principal and had endless empathy for others. He was a consummate professional, mad soccer fan and a great guy. The world is poorer for the loss of John and my thoughts are with his family and friends