May 2008

Alliance party education spokesperson Richard Wallis says that it comes as no surprise that Northcote College principal Vicki Barrie says her school is in need of increased funding.

"What is surprising is that more principals haven't been speaking up, calling for increased funding."

Mr Wallis says the Alliance has been consistent in its call for an increase in funding for the education sector.

"Some state schools are charging fees of more than $700 a year and the revelation that Government contributions only cover half of state school operating costs means that schools are forced to turn to parents, teachers and the local community to make up the shortfall."

Being reliant on donations from the local community to fund the public education system can only lead to disaster, he says.

"Community funding may be all well and good for those families with a large disposable income, but what of the majority of New Zealanders who struggle to put aside money to pay the bills, let alone pay twice for their children's education."

Mr Wallis says he hopes that more principals will go public because the funding of schools is a serious issue and students should not be disadvantaged because of any fiscal policy.

The Alliance in government would ensure fully funded schools where boards of trustees would not have to plan to run at a deficit.

"Schools would receive adequate funding under an Alliance government. Alliance policy is to ensure that all schools receive the funding they require to make the free education that is enshrined in law an actual reality."

ENDS

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