By Russell Bennett
EMERALD Primary School students will be soon be learning in new, state-of-the-art classrooms.
The school can look forward to a $6 million windfall, regardless of which side emerges the winner in November’s state election.
Premier John Brumby announced the redevelopment during a visit last Tuesday with Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato.
Later that day Liberal candidate for Gembrook Brad Battin and Opposition Education spokesman Martin Dixon matched the government’s funding promise soon after.
Mr Battin said the government announcement was just rehashing old news.
“This is part of the school modernisation program originally announced back in 2006,” he said.
“It’s not new funding at all.
“They’re just re-announcing their 2006 policy.”
The government pledge came as part of Labor’s school modernisation plan and will deliver new art, music, physical education and office areas to Emerald Primary School.
New buildings will replace a number of portables which have formed the basis of the school over the past 30 years.
Mr Brumby said he understood “parents want the best for their children and that’s why we’re investing in building new facilities at Emerald Primary School – so every young person has the opportunity to grow and shine”.
Mr Brumby said he expected the works would take three years to complete.
“Having been a teacher myself, I’ve seen the difference education makes in people’s lives,” he said.
“This announcement is about investing in opportunity for these kids and the power of education.”
“This major new investment will give students world-class learning facilities and teachers the facilities to continue providing a world-class education.”
School principal Mark Carver was thrilled with the announcement and excited at the prospect of his students reaching their full potential.
“We think we’ve got terrific kids and terrific staff and great environmental programs,” he said.
“Now we’re going to get great facilities to support all that.
Mr Battin questioned the government’s timetable for the redevelopment, saying “the question needs to be asked – why wasn’t it (the redevelopment) done earlier? This school obviously needed it.”
