EA Anonymous…First day of Term 1
This story is entirely fictional - a playful glimpse into the life of Krystal, a dedicated Executive Assistant in an Australian School. Inspired by the unsung heroes who keep schools running smoothly, Krystal and her world are products of imagination. Blending humour, heart, and a touch of chaos, this tale celebrates the resilience, wit, and warmth of EAs everywhere. Any resemblance to real people or events is purely coincidental. Step into Krystal’s office and enjoy her wonderfully messy, endearing world.
Our erstwhile EA Krystal returns to work after a refreshing break, fresh challenges arise, and the Boss delivers a surprise.
Krystal always approached the return to work phase with a mix of emotions.
Overwhelming excitement, anxiety, a small dose of dread, tinged with eternal optimism coursed through her veins as she pulled into the car park. Her adrenaline was high or was it just caffeine?
After a quick hello to Kenneth from Accounts, she found herself wondering whether his help with the dishwasher on the last day of Term 4 had been a one-time gesture or might become a regular occurrence. Kenneth was always a touch unpredictable.
A longer break than normal had been required after a challenging final term. What seemed an eternal summer had now seemingly flown by in a mix of mojitos, mistletoe, musings and meanderings on coastal paths. A sense of equilibrium had returned to our erstwhile EA. Manic moments were mere memory.
The holiday break with family and her new friend Snuggles the cat had provided opportunities for Krystal to recharge, read, refresh and renew. Yet as the return loomed a dark cloud often appeared on the horizon as our heroine considered the moments that lay ahead. What crazy chaotic challenges would present themselves in coming days.
As return got closer, Krystal found herself contemplating the start of the year. The buzz of the first few days, the energy of the students, the challenges and obstacles of setting standards whilst building boundaries.
This year would be different - more balanced, less frenetic, calmer, quieter, more collaborative. The hope was always the same and generally lasted until at least the first crisis by 10am on the first day.
Back at the desk, such optimism disappeared as Outlook opened, and an email tsunami of queries, questions and controversies emerged. This was of course, all in the Bosses email who clearly had no internet reception at the Balinese retreat he had attended in a bid to soothe his anger management, memory and mood condition.
As Krystal looked at her own schedule, an email popped up on her screen.
‘Welcome to EAs in Education Krystal. We look forward to you joining us at the National Gathering later this year.’
OMG our erstwhile EA gasped. She had applied with the Boss for this professional learning opportunity at the end of last year. ‘Absolutely not, budget cuts. No way at all. I can’t even get my personal trainer paid for anymore. No money, no chance.’
The Boss was full of surprises and Krystal was headed to the EAs in Education National Gathering in Sydney. She was excited to connect to with like-minded colleagues at The Scots College Bellevue Hill. The brochure said it was going to be a transformational professional development experience, with reflective engagement, expert-led workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities designed to foster growth, collaboration, and strategic impact.
But would she have to catch the bus or train due to budget cuts? Regardless, it was good to be back, she was grateful for the ticket, and it was time for the second coffee.
