Veronica, principal of St. Andrew’s Autism School 2021 to 2024
As the Principal of St. Andrew’s Autism School (SAAS), Veronica has been a source of warmth, guidance, and unwavering support for her students, staff, and families. After years of dedicated service, she is moving on to a new chapter in her journey, transitioning to St. Andrew’s Mission School. Her time at SAAS has been filled with meaningful moments, and her contributions to the lives of students, families, and colleagues will not be forgotten.
When Veronica first joined SAAS, she did not consider herself an expert in the field of autism. Instead, she came with an open heart and a clear vision: to support her colleagues, to empower them to support the students, and to help create a learning environment where students could learn and grow in their own ways. “I wanted to find that sweet spot in the curriculum that would truly help our students live life,” she reflects. “It’s not about learning new definitions, but about acquiring skills they can use in the community.”
Through her leadership, Veronica emphasized the importance of clear communication. She created a safe space where teachers felt supported in their growth, encouraging them to gain a deeper understanding of the needs of their students, even if they weren’t initially trained in special education. “Sense-making for my colleagues has always been a big part of my role,” Veronica shares. “It’s about equipping them so they can feel confident and motivated in the classroom.”
Veronica also has deep appreciation for the many partners who have supported SAAS over the years, from organisations like Blue Acres, Red Dot Penguin, and Music Solutions to parents, mainstream school students, and institutions like Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). “The community around us has been incredibly generous with their time, skills, and talents,” she says. “It’s not just about us as teachers; it’s about a community coming together for the students.”
These partnerships brought countless beautiful moments, such as seeing students excited to meet with their mainstream school counterparts or spending time with SUSS undergraduates. “Our students want to socialise,” Veronica notes. “They just need the right opportunities and understanding to connect with others.”
Among the many special memories, Veronica recalls a heartwarming event where the teachers organised a bowling outing for families. “To see families coming together, parents taking leave to spend time with their children, creating memories—that’s something I’ll always treasure,” she says. Veronica’s leadership wasn’t just about managing the school; it was about fostering an environment where students with autism and their families could feel valued and be supported every day.
Veronica & the team from St. Andrew’s Autism School
Her time at SAAS has also had a profound impact personally. Veronica reflects, “I came in not knowing much about autism, but I leave with a heart full of gratitude. The love and care within this community have made every day a rewarding experience.”
As Veronica prepares for her next chapter, she leaves behind a community enriched by her thoughtful leadership and care. Her time at SAAS has been marked by a shared dedication to the students and a commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can grow together.
We wish Veronica all the best in her future endeavors. Thank you for everything you’ve done for SAAS. Your heart and dedication will be missed, and the positive impact you’ve made will continue to resonate with those you’ve worked with.
