School community mourns passing of beloved Carlton principal 

Tina McDougall, beloved principal of Carlton Gardens Primary School, has been remembered as “much-loved and respected leader” after her recent death rocked the school community. 

Tributes have flowed for Ms McDougall, who had been the principal of the school for more than a decade and had dedicated her life creating a nurturing and loving environment for her students.

In a statement, the school said, “it is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of Carlton Gardens Primary School principal Tina McDougall, who passed away after a medical episode recently”.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to her family and friends at this difficult time,” it said.

“Tina was dedicated to our students and passionate about providing a high-quality education throughout her long career and was a much-loved and respected leader of our school community.”

City of Melbourne Deputy Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece also paid tribute to the life and legacy of Ms McDougall at the council’s June 6 meeting, saying “Tina was completely dedicated to her students and passionate about providing a high-quality education throughout her long career”.

“At the City of Melbourne, we regularly interacted with Tina on the many projects she was advancing for the school,” he said. “We were always so impressed by her energy, her tenacity, and her passion for the school, the students, and the local community.”

The Department of Education’s deputy secretary David Howes also paid his respects, saying Ms McDougall would be “remembered for ensuring that every member of the school was able to be their best”.

“Tina was a much respected and well-liked colleague. She was principal of Carlton Gardens Primary School for the past 15 years, and before that taught in a range of schools across Melbourne’s west,” he said.

“This is reflected in her contribution to our school system through the many leaders who have graduated from Carlton Gardens. We extend our deepest sympathy to Tina’s family and friends.” •