National Public Education Day

On Thursday, May 21 public schools across the country celebrated National Public Education Day.

"Public schools are a foundation of our society. They are places of learning, of inspiration and opportunity where every Australian child can get the education they deserve,” AEU Federal President, Angelo Gavrielatos said.

"National Public Education Day provides an opportunity for school communities to showcase their wonderful achievements and to celebrate the values and traditions of public education in Australia.

"Nothing is more important for our future than strong public schools. We owe the success of our nation to the work of public schools, which through history, have provided every child with an equal opportunity to succeed regardless of their background.

"Australia’s public education system is underpinned by the values of tolerance, acceptance, and the celebration of diversity and the pursuit of excellence for all.

"The 2009 school year began with the great news of a dramatic boost in funding for public schools by the Rudd Government.

"The Government has also announced a review of schools funding which will commence in 2010. The outcome of this

review must deliver a fairer funding system that reflects governments’ primary obligation to properly and adequately fund public schools.

"In addition to emphasising the importance of high standards of achievement, reforms to education must also aim to achieve the building and maintenance of a socially cohesive, prosperous and democratic society.

"The role of public education in achieving this must be acknowledged and fostered by government,” Mr Gavrielatos said.