From Candles to Compassion

Each year, as the school year winds down, educators receive tokens of appreciation such as mugs, candles and chocolates from grateful families. While the sentiment behind these gestures is deeply valued, one Melbourne teacher saw an opportunity to turn that generosity into something even more impactful.

That teacher is Andrea McKellar, founder of the not-for-profit charity Teacher Presence, which invites educators to model kindness, empathy, and gratitude by redirecting optional end-of-year gifts into donations for charities in need. 

“I’m so grateful for the job I have, and for the thoughtful gifts families give to show their appreciation,” Andrea explains. “But I always thought, I don’t need another candle or mug. That money could be redirected to help others and that’s where Teacher Presence was born.”

Through Teacher Presence, families who wish to give a gift are instead encouraged to donate to one of three aligned charities: Berry Street, Eat Up, or Operation Toilets. Educators nominate a charity when they sign up on the website, and families can make their donation online in just a few clicks. 

The concept is simple but powerful. Rather than cluttered cupboards of coffee mugs, schools and educators are helping feed hungry children, support vulnerable families, and provide sanitation in communities overseas.

Andrea believes the initiative also carries an important message for students. “As educators we strive to make an impact in the lives of our students and  not just academically, but in the way we model kindness, empathy, and gratitude. Teacher Presence allows us to live those values in a practical way that students and families can see.”

To make the transition easy, the Teacher Presence team has developed a full suite of resources: from posters and editable newsletter templates to letters for families and ready-to-use videos. Schools can access everything they need through the website’s resources tab, making implementation simple and effective: From engaging staff, inspiring families and the community, to celebrating the impact. 

Importantly, 100% of all funds raised go directly to the aligned charities, ensuring every dollar reaches those who need it most.For education communities, joining Teacher Presence is more than just donating. It’s about creating a culture of compassion that strengthens classrooms and communities alike. It’s a reminder that the most lasting lessons students and families learn are about how we treat one another.

The Teacher Presence team is ready to support schools every step of the way, whether that means speaking with staff, guiding schools through the process, or simply offering a helping hand.

To learn more or to see how your school, kindergarten or daycare can turn candles into compassion, visit www.teacherpresence.org
or [email protected]
or give Andrea a call on 0459682546.