Eliminate poverty, raise achievement - NZEI

13 December 2016

The latest Child Poverty Monitor report is proof that without major action to reduce child poverty, educational targets alone will never work to raise achievement, NZEI TE Riu Roa says.

The Children's Commissioner's annual Child Poverty Monitor Report out today reinforces the strong link between poverty and under achievement.

"It's no surprise that children from disadvantaged families underachieve when, as the report shows, large numbers are missing out on warm clothes, healthy food, and learning opportunities outside school," NZEI president Louise Green said.

"Teachers know kids can't learn when they're sick and hungry, that's why all over the country they're dipping into their own pockets to help children out.

"If the Government is serious about raising achievement, it needs to raise family incomes, and properly fund public schools, so all children can reach their potential," Ms Green said.

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