Media Release
ACT’s peak body for public school parents frustrated by negative media coverage of school improvement measures.
The ACT Council of Parents & Citizens Associations calls on local media to support public schools on their improvement journeys.
“Challenges occur in all of our schools as they do in the community,” says Executive Officer, Veronica Elliott. “We know our public school staff are working really hard to make their schools great learning environments, but it’s difficult with the extended teacher shortages and increases in workload.”
“We value the Education Directorate’s special purpose reviews to understand and respond to the challenges in ACT public schools. We strongly support the holistic and collaborative approach to these reviews, with opportunities for parents and carers to identify issues and strengths alongside school staff and students. This approach, together with time and additional resources has already seen improvements at Kingsford Smith School,” she says.
“It’s always disappointing for P&Cs, parents, carers, students and staff to see a school negatively singled out in the media. Consistent media attention on a single school causes more damage to a school community, it lowers morale and increases tensions,” says Ms Elliott.
“Parents want to see the Canberra community supporting schools, so they can ask for the help they need to improve. We’re pleased to see Education Directorate responding to and investing in local school communities, being transparent and engaging in open dialogue about these issues, and resolving challenges together.”
“Transforming school culture isn’t just a job for teachers, it needs investment from Government, P&Cs, parents, carers, students and the wider community too. We all need to work together to support our public schools.”
ends
Monday 18 September, 2023
Media Release
Further comment: Veronica Elliott
Executive Officer