Founder & Director

Jessica Staines is an early childhood educator, advocate and professional speaker, with more than fifteen years of experience working with providers in both urban and regional communities.

As the founder of the multiple award-winning Koori Curriculum, Jessica’s commitment to social justice, reconciliation and anti-bias practices drives her to empower educators to be more culturally aware and inclusive. She facilitates a range of professional development programs, resources and workshops for educators that help guide the inclusion of Aboriginal perspectives in early childhood curriculums.

Jessica has played many significant roles nationally and internationally in building cultural understanding, reconciliation and harmony, including as an Indigenous advisor to ABC’s Playschool and as the National Representative for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People at the World Forum Foundations Global Leaders Program.

Her work has been published in industry journals, and she has previously been a part of the AIATSIS Education Advisory Committee and HIPPY Reference group, contributing to the development of resources and programs that support Aboriginal children and families in the early years.

Jessica’s family are Wiradjuri and have lived off Country on Gadigal and Wangal land for four generations. Her family originally came from Cowra, Molong, Parkes and Wellington, but due to displacement, they were disconnected from their family and communities.

Today, Jessica lives on Darkinjung Country with her husband and two children on a peaceful bush block, and is proud to identify as a Wiradjuri woman, with connections to her local Darkinjung community.

Digital Producer & Marketing Specialist

Shannon lives and works on Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung Country in the Kulin Nation, just outside of Naarm (Melbourne), with his partner Dion and their two beloved pets, Walter and Bailey.

While Shannon may work behind the scenes, his expertise and contributions are evident across Koori Curriculum. He plays a crucial role in developing monthly content for the KC Club, overseeing all social media and marketing initiatives, managing Koori Curriculum systems and processes, and ensuring the successful implementation of Koori Curriculum projects.

Shannon is deeply passionate about equality and social justice, naturally gravitating toward acts of anti-bias and demonstrating a genuine commitment to learning and championing the rich and diverse facets of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Known for his calm demeanour and adaptable approach, Shannon has an exceptional ability to take challenges in stride while ensuring that creative visions and innovative ideas are brought to life with precision and care.

His collaborative spirit and behind-the-scenes expertise make him an invaluable member of the team, consistently delivering results that reflect both professional excellence and cultural sensitivity.

Event Manager & Special Projects Lead

Sonya lives on Gundungurra and Dharug Country in the Blue Mountains, where she is surrounded by orchards, native bushland, and an ever-growing collection of animals that keep her life delightfully unpredictable.

As Koori Curriculum’s Event Manager and Special Projects Lead, Sonya brings large-scale ideas to life — from coordinating major events like the annual Book Summit to managing retreats, workshops, and other bespoke projects. She oversees all the moving parts behind the scenes, including planning, logistics, budgets, and marketing, ensuring every event reflects Koori Curriculum’s commitment to cultural integrity and excellence.

Sonya works closely with Founder Jessica Staines and the wider team to transform creative visions into meaningful, well-executed experiences that connect and inspire educators across the country. Her calm approach, eye for detail, and ability to hold the bigger picture while keeping projects on track make her an essential part of the Koori Curriculum team.

Passionate about education, community, and creating spaces where Aboriginal voices and perspectives can shine, Sonya’s work helps shape events that leave a lasting impact long after the final session ends.

Customer Service Manager

Kelly Quick is the Customer Service extraordinaire and technical wizard behind Koori Curriculum's seamless operations. She lives on Darkinjung Country with her husband Shane and their son Austin.

Anyone who has contacted Koori Curriculum via email has likely interacted with Kelly, as she expertly manages the substantial volume of inquiries the Koori Curriculum receives. Kelly plays a vital role in keeping all operational elements running smoothly, ensuring that both in-service and virtual workshops proceed without a hitch. She also provides technical support and troubleshooting assistance for members and webinar participants, while maintaining the Koori Curriculum store and overseeing manual and specialised orders.

Kelly is based on the central coast and is Jessica’s cousin and consistently demonstrates a genuine enthusiasm for learning about the diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nations and their rich cultural traditions.

Kelly's combination of technical expertise, cultural curiosity, and exceptional customer service skills makes her an indispensable team member who ensures every interaction with Koori Curriculum is positive and productive.