The much-awaited Gonski review of Australia’s education systems appeared to win wide acceptance in the community.
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Parents and educators alike could see the benefits of investing in the future, via arguably our nation’s most important resource – our kids.
The ethos that all children, regardless of background or address – should get the support they needed to reach their full potential is difficult to fault.
Not all children arrive at the school gate on the same page – but a strong, egalitarian school system is a great leveller.
It offers a chance, a peer group, books, role models and a future to all – if it is well resourced.
The Gonski review promised that resourcing.
Moruya Public School Parents & Citizen’s Association members are a giving lot.
They are active in the life of the school, in fundraising and generous in the volunteer hours they donate.
They know first-hand the challenges rural schools such as theirs face.
They understand some students, through no fault of their own, require a hand up to do their best and become the best they can be.
So their disquiet at the federal government’s decision to back away from funding reforms announced in the Gonski review for the full six years is understandable.
The association has taken the unusual step of writing to Eden-Monaro MP Peter Hendy to express their concerns.
Like every school, a diverse parent body does not hold uniform political beliefs.
However, all they want is what is best for their kids and their school.
The decision to put their views in writing does not appear to have been taken lightly and should not be lightly dismissed.
- Kerrie O’Connor