A South Australian teacher who helped inspire one of her students to become a Paralympian is featuring in a national teacher recruitment advertising campaign.

The $10 million Be That Teacher campaign is a joint Australian, state and territory government initiative which aims to showcase the value and importance of teachers and encourages individuals to consider a career in teaching.

A new South Australian webpage to encourage people to become teachers in this state has also been developed to coincide with the national campaign: www.discover.education.sa.gov.au/becomeateacher/

The national advertisements showcase inspiring stories from some of Australia’s best teachers, including Glenunga International High School teacher Stacy Frogley.  A link to Ms Frogley’s inspiring story: Campaign resources - Be That Teacher, Australian Government

Ms Frogley previously taught a year 7 student, Izzy, who has sacral agenesis, meaning her ability to use her legs diminishes as she gets older. Izzy expressed she was looking for ways to occupy her time and Ms Frogley suggested she take up swimming.

Izzy is now 17 and a Paralympic swimmer. She has represented Australia at the Tokyo Olympics and the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

One of Ms Frogley’s most cherished possessions is a drawing from Izzy and a thank-you note for inspiring her to take up swimming.

Ms Frogley’s story is just of many across the country featuring in the advertising campaign.

The campaign will run until April next year across a variety of mediums including tv, social media, cinema, print, billboards, buses, and bus/train stations.

“I am so honoured to have been chosen to share my teaching story in this national campaign as teaching is something I’m really passionate about”, said Ms Frogley.

“Teaching is such a rewarding profession and one I wish more people would consider pursuing as it is an important and fulfilling career.

“I know that what I do, and what the amazing teachers I work with do, can have a positive impact on the lives on young people and that makes everything worthwhile.”