BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Eight of Shortland’s more disadvantaged schools will be supported with an extra $192,000 funding commitment from Labor, which comes on top of $20 million already pledged for schools in the area.

The extra funding will go to eight state schools identified as urgently needing funding for special projects, including smart-board purchase and outdoor play areas.

Shortland MP, Pat Conroy says the extra funding promise comes after consultation with the schools, and from taking a “needs-based” approach to funding.

“The schools were chosen based on their socioeconomic status,” he said.

“We’ll be funding projects up to $50,000 for things like outdoor learning areas, to smart-boards, and everything in between.”

The commitment will be in addition to funding promised for 45 public schools in the area, and will go to specialist projects for eight schools found to be more disadvantaged in Shortland.

Pat Conroy yesterday made the funding announcement for Labor in his electorate.

“If kids are actually looking forward to going to school, then they’re more likely to learn at school and stay in school.

“So these individual projects will have a big impact,” he said.

The schools included are Northlakes High School, Northlakes Public School, Belmont North Public School, Mount Hutton Public School, Windale Primary School, Wirapaang Primary School, Nords Wharf Public School, and Boolaroo Public School.



Labor has announced an extra funding pledge for disadvantaged schools.