The Australian Council for Educational Leaders have acknowledged the service to education by Kathy Walker by admitting her to the rank of FELLOW. 

The following is the citation that accompanied the award:

For her extensive contributions to the improvement of student outcomes as teacher, lecturer and consultant.  For her work with teachers and parents to develop early-childhood and primary programs, developmental curriculum, effective transition and preparation of children for school entry.

For articulating her passion for children to be given a childhood, learning through play and in multi-age classrooms.  For her capacity to share her passion with parents, teachers and the wider community through her writing and presentations.  For her commitment to sharing her knowledge and experience in educational media, and family friendly corporate settings.

For her contributions to the professional learning of parents, teachers and the wider public via her presentations and workshops, her regular articles in the press, her books and for her regular radio speeches.  For her leadership and mentoring of other educators. 

For her leadership and commitment as an independent inquirer for the Australian Education Union that sponsored the national Inquiry into Preschool Education across Australia.  For her expertise in transition issues and readiness which is an integral part of that inquiry.

For her excellent educational leadership in inspiring others and contributing to the practice of educational leadership at schools, in professional development activities, special events and meeting of professional organizations, national education unions, and local government networks forums and conferences.  For upholding the ideals of the Australian Council for Educational Leaders.