Parent election pressure shows trustee clout

Media Release

Parent election pressure
shows trustee clout

A teacher lobby group trying to stack boards of trustees to force changes in curriculum underscores the power of trustees, says National Trustee Elections Co-ordinator Janet Kelly.

She says she’s disappointed that the lobby group wants to fill boards with parents opposed to the National Certificate of Educational Achievement.

The group called Concerned Teachers is encouraging the parents of third formers to politicise the trustee elections – telling them to stand in the elections to get the replacement qualification for School Certificate thrown out.

“Changes made in the last year have strengthened boards responsibilities in curriculum areas and that is a huge plus. It means that parents and caregivers do have a strong say in what is being taught in our schools,” says Janet Kelly.

“However, we think most people will stand in these elections out of a commitment to education generally and to all students, rather than on just one issue.”

Janet Kelly says the very fact that the teacher lobby group is trying to exert pressure on government through boards is a graphic example of their clout.

“It is a good way to begin the elections – it shows parents that they can make a difference in all areas of their children’s education.”

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