Secondary students organise

By Bronwyn Powell

SYDNEY -- Twenty United Secondary Students Union (NSW) members discussed the need to build campaigns to fight the government's attacks on high school students at the first NSW USSU conference on February 22.

The conference highlighted concerns about public school funding cuts, the increasing influence in schools of private companies and the imposition of ``voluntary'' fees and compulsory religious studies.

Lou Pastro, a USSU coordinating committee member, told GLW, ``High school students are sick of being forgotten. The USSU is building a movement in which we can have our say and demand our rights."

The conference decided that the USSU would:

• support the March 26 national day of action for education and actions against any education funding cuts in the May federal budget;

• fight against the cuts to school funding and school closures, and for increased funding to reduce class sizes and improve facilities; and

• oppose compulsory school uniforms and scripture classes.

The conference also adopted a constitution which allows any secondary student concerned about secondary students' rights to join. Sydney-wide decision-making meetings will be held, but USSU members, already spread over more than 12 schools, will also meet on each school to organise locally.

The USSU is also seeking to develop alliances with other student organisations, trade unions and community groups. For more information, phone Bronwyn, Kathryn, Lou or Paul on 9690 1977.

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