Million Dollar Upgrade For Minyerri School

Million dollar improvements to Minyerri School, near Mataranka, will allow students a greater opportunity to reach their potential and attain their goals.

The major capital works project – Stage 2 of the Secondary School - was officially opened today by CLP Senator for the Northern Territory, Nigel Scullion.

The Australian Government contributed $600,000 to the $1,066,000 project, which involved the construction of a computer laboratory, a science/home economics room, three general learning areas, new toilets and a large storeroom.

Senator Scullion congratulated the Minyerri School and its community for establishing the best possible facilities for students.

“It wasn’t so long ago that Minyerri School was a two-teacher facility. In the space of just four years, under Principal Neil Gibson, the school has grown to 10-teachers catering for 175 students from pre-school to Year 12.

“The current attendance rate is 87 per cent I congratulate Mr Gibson and his staff for the work they’re doing to ensure students are given the best possible opportunities.

“I have no doubt that this new, improved facility will greatly enhance the capability of Minyerri to deliver the outcomes which will help students reach their full potential and see their goals realised.

“No longer do students have to be accommodated on the veranda and I’m aware of the great efforts which have been made by staff, the School Council and community groups to get us to the point we’re at today.”

In last week’s Federal Budget, the Australian Government increased funding for Northern Territory Government schools to $89 million. That’s an increase of $4 million, or 4.9% over the past year.

2005-05-20