Defence School Mentors (DSMs) are located across Australia in schools with significant numbers of Australian Defence Force families. The program is funded by the Department of Defence through the Defence School Mentor Program (DSMP), supported by Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS, formerly DCO). DSMs help minimise the impact of mobility on education and enhance the school's capacity to support Defence students and their families.
The DSM program is designed to provide targeted support, helping Defence students and their families feel secure and connected. At Springfield Lakes State School (SLSS), my role includes:
- Welcoming and integrating new Defence students into the school community.
- Assisting students with accessing school-based support.
- Offering extra support during parental absences.
- Providing information about the school to existing and prospective Defence families.
- Raising awareness of Defence-related challenges among school staff.
Support is available in the classroom, on the playground, and through specific programs.
If you're a Defence family enrolling at SLSS, please reach out to let me know you're joining us. My name is Maria Mavroudis and I look forward to welcoming your family to our community.
Contact Information:
My school hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 am to 2:45 pm. You can contact me through the school office at (07) 3437 9888 or via email at mmavr10@eq.edu.au
For more information about the Defence Mentor Program, visit Defence School Mentors Fact Sheet.