The NSW Teachers Federation released the statement below on June 18.
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Teachers and principals are stepping up pressure for action on the recommendations of the Gonski Review with a new national campaign kicking off today.
The I give a Gonski campaign will start with national and regional television advertising as well as grass roots community activity involving teachers and parents.
It is time politicians to taken notice and act on the widespread support for the Gonski recommendations from educators, parents, business leaders, community groups and welfare agencies.
The Gonski Review’s recommendations provide us with a once in a generation opportunity to act for the benefit of all children. What Gonski means, on average, is an additional $1,500 per public school student per year.
This additional funding will allow us to do the things we know will benefit students such as reducing class sizes, providing more individual attention and additional specialist teachers.
All federal politicians need to commit to the additional $5 billion a year funding identified as urgently required by Gonski ($3.8 billion to public schools) and lay down a timetable for the passage of legislation this year.
Show your support by going to www.igiveagonski.com.au and get involved in the campaign.