STATE-of-the-art facilities were unveiled at Moree East Public School on Wednesday, as $16.3 million upgrades were officially opened. Executive principal Muriel Kelly said she was honoured and humbled to be part of the journey.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
“I remember so clearly my first day as executive principal and the state of disrepair the school was in. Air conditioners and heaters didn’t work, buildings were leaning, there were gaps in the floors and the list goes on.
“However, I do not remember a single complaint from staff or students, they were focused on teaching and learning no matter the circumstances,” Mrs Kelly said.
She said the urgent need for a rebuild sparked community consultation to balance education and culture; which then led to a unique design.
“We have comfortable and innovative learning spaces with furniture designed to assist all types of learning, a community hub and yarning circle, 15 state-of-the-art classrooms, a new library, beautiful playgrounds and gardens,” she said.
In 2015, Moree East Public School placed in the top 10 per cent for student growth and in 2016 they rose to the top 5 per cent.
“I am excited to see what the future brings. The new facilities will ensure further growth for our students as they now have what they so rightfully deserve,” she said.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall described the transformation as “breathtaking”.
“The old blue buildings and outdated classrooms are now state-of-the-art learning areas, designed with the latest and best-thinking around education.
He was pleased the school doubled as a community hub and place for support services to assist students, staff and community members of Moree East Public School.
“There are more than 2,000 public schools in the state and of those Moree East Public School is the very best; that’s something to be proud of.
“Education is the greatest equalizer in life. No matter what background you are from, education can give you an equal footing,” he said.
Mr Marshall said youngsters of Moree were able to receive the very best education at East, eliminating the need to move for better schooling.
“This school has been built for the 21st century and it will last the century.”
Mrs Kelly thanked everyone involved in the project, especially the school’s reference group.
“I also want to thank Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli for hearing our voices and making sure they were heard in the city.”
Moree East Public School students showed guests traditional dance, language and shared their favourite parts of the new facility.
