According to Camden Haven Teachers’ Association President Leon Mackiewicz, funding cuts to Public Education by the NSW Coalition government will lead directly to the loss of Teachers’ Aides’ jobs at Camden Haven High School. These Aides support students with special needs. Aides also help deliver programs in reading and basic maths”, according.
“Camden Haven High School will lose $60,000 in funding for teachers’ aides in this unjust state government cost cutting exercise. The big losers will be kids with special needs,” he said
P & C President Chris Fajks said, “We are concerned that any funding for public education is being cut, let alone funding that directly supports our kids of greatest need.”
Mr Mackiewicz said these funding cuts were trialled in the Illawarra region.
“Now there are no reading support classes there,” he said.
“At a time when the Federal government’s report into Public Education, the Gonski Review, has recommended more money be put into helping students with difficulties, a National Party State Education Minister is slashing these services to country children.
“Cuts have occurred at local primary schools as well,” Mr Mackiewicz said.
“We urge all parents to attend their schools P&C meeting and find out how these changes will affect their school and their children’s learning conditions.”
Mr Mackiewicz also said “Parents should contact local member, Leslie Williams and National Party Leader Andrew Stoner, to protest these cost cutting measures.”
The Courier contacted Mrs Williams who said the claims by the Camden Haven Teachers Association were totally incorrect.
“If they have any particular concerns about the education polices of this Government, I urge them to contact me directly” she said.
“The simple fact is that under the Every Student, Every Schools program announced by the Education Minister Adrian Piccoli, Camden Haven High School will receive an increase of more than $32,000.
“Each regular school receives an allocation for learning and support to reflect the learning needs of students.
“I am more than happy to sit down with Mr Mackiewicz and explain that the Liberals and Nationals Government is here to support students to get the best education possible”, said Mrs Williams.