Long-serving chaplain says she will miss student bonds

Beloved Broome chaplain Margie Houston is stepping down from her role at a local high school after a decade of service.

The spiritual guide who has been based at Broome Senior High School for the past 10 years said there had been many highlights during her career and she had formed a special bond with the students along the way.

“A young boy used to come to me to show me his Melbourne Shuffle dance moves because he felt safe and I didn’t laugh at him,” she said.

“Another time, four really rowdy boys fell asleep in my office after I did a visualisation relaxation session with them and I had to wake them up when the bell went.”

Mrs Houston said she had treasured working in such a role where she was able to listen and care while having the necessary skills to help.

“To be able to speak positively into students’ lives is very rewarding for me because I know it can help them to see things differently and grow emotionally,” she said.

“What I will miss most about being a chaplain will be being part of a great team at Broome Senior High School and the knocks on my door from so many great kids.”

Mrs Houston said she planned to move interstate, where she would be spending time with her children and grandchildren.