PARENTS have won the fight to reopen the beating the heart of a rural community as NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell announces recess is over for Premer Public School.
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School children will be back in the classroom on day one, Term One in 2022.
A strong push from locals, community consultation and data backed up claims there'd be a steady flow of enrolments next year and into the future, Ms Mitchell said.
"As minister for education, and as a regional mother myself, when local Premer parents contacted me asking whether Premer Public School could be reopened, I requested the department [of education] investigate what might be possible," she said.
"I am thrilled to be here today, alongside parents and the incoming member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell, to announce that Premer Public School will be operational again from 2022.
"I feel very strongly about making life as easy as possible for regional families. This is great news for local parents and regional NSW."
Recruitment for a new principal will start as soon as next month, and from there additional staff can be hired.
The school was shut down when only two children enrolled in 2019.
Without Premer, the closest school was about 50km away and some children were taking a 200km round-trip in the car and on the bus.
The school will make life easier for local families, Upper Hunter incoming member Dave Layzell said.
"I'm proud to be part of a government prioritising regional families and giving students the opportunity to learn a little closer to home," Mr Layzell said.
"We know that parents want the best for their children, so from next year the community in Premer will have access to a top-quality education right on their doorstep, and will have peace of mind knowing their children's educational needs will be met by their local school."
Read also:
The Department of Education is preparing Premer Public School to reopen, making sure the infrastructure and technology can meet the needs of students.
More to come.
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Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
