Dominika Kapustka currently teaches Year 5 Mathematics at Haileybury Pangea and serves as a Digital Learning Leader. She supports over 150 staff members across Haileybury’s four Melbourne campuses, helping them integrate technology into their teaching practices. Dominika also leads an AI Mastery Series, which is delivered through a blended learning model to staff working with students from ELC to Year 12 across Melbourne, Pangea and Haileybury Rendall School in Darwin. In 2024, she was the well-deserved recipient of Rising Star of the Year at the Australian Education Awards. 

“Every student is a mathematician, nurtured, inspired to think deeply, and solve problems with confidence and curiosity.” 

What inspired you to become a teacher? 

It was my Grade 3 teacher who truly inspired me to pursue teaching. Her approach centred on building strong relationships, ensuring that every student felt supported in their learning. She took a genuine interest in each of us, which made a lasting impact. She became my role model, and I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps and make a similar difference in the lives of my own students. 

How did you find yourself teaching in Australia? 

After high school I undertook a Bachelor of Science and Education program in my hometown, Winnipeg, Manitoba. I was inspired by cooperating teachers’ stories about teaching abroad, and so explored international opportunities. In my fourth year, I became the youngest candidate accepted into the teacher exchange program. This opportunity allowed me to teach at the International School in Athens under expert mentors. 

When I graduated I felt an eagerness to explore more of the world’s education systems. I wanted to teach in a school-age setting, focus on either English or French-speaking communities, and—admittedly—find a place with nicer weather after 20 years of snow. One evening, I Googled, “What is the best school in the world?” and found Haileybury. Its focus on academic excellence and international outlook intrigued me. I landed in Melbourne just six months later.  

Shortly after arriving a recruiter recommended me for a contract position at Haileybury, Berwick and my dream of teaching in a great-world school became a reality. 

Can you share a memorable moment from your teaching career?  

One of the most memorable moments in my teaching career happened during the Covid-19 lockdowns. My students, without me knowing, organised a surprise birthday party on Zoom. They decorated their backgrounds with balloons and signs, and every single one of them wore birthday hats. It was such an unexpected and heartwarming gesture during a difficult time. Their thoughtfulness and effort to make the day special, despite being physically apart, really touched me and reminded me of the deep connections we can form as teachers, even in challenging circumstances. 

How do you keep your teaching methods fresh and innovative? 

I stay committed to keeping my teaching methods fresh by actively engaging in ongoing professional development. I prioritise reading widely and listening to experts who focus on evidence-based strategies, such as explicit instruction, retrieval practice and active learning. I also value feedback from my students; after trying new strategies, I always check in with them to see if they found the approach engaging and helpful. Lately, I have been particularly fascinated by the rapid advancements in AI, and I enjoy exploring how it can benefit both students and educators. One of my favourite uses of AI is generating images tailored to student interests, which I then incorporate into problem-solving activities. 

What is the most rewarding part of being a teacher for you? 

For me, the most rewarding part of being a teacher is seeing the growth in my students. Watching students develop their confidence and curiosity is incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that I can make a lasting impact on their lives, helping them realise their potential and build their passion for learning, is what makes teaching so special to me. 

What advice would you give to new or aspiring teachers? 

Remember the reason you chose to become a teacher and hold onto your ‘why.’ There will be challenging days but keeping that purpose in mind can help you stay grounded.  Don’t be afraid to try new approaches, make mistakes and grow alongside your students.  

How do you like to spend your time away from the classroom? 

Outside the classroom, I love taking on DIY projects around my home. One of my recent favourites was building a catio, allowing my cats to safely enjoy the outdoors without bothering my chickens! Dancing is another passion of mine — I take weekly tap, hip-hop and contemporary dance classes. It is the perfect way for me to unwind, move my body and clear my mind after a busy day.