Elder Electorate

Ms DIGANCE (Elder) (16:00): I rise today to highlight the inspirational work of students, staff, parents and all volunteers of the school communities in my electorate of Elder. It is probably impossible to overstate the role our schools play in nurturing, developing and realising the potential of our children. To paraphrase what I have previously said in this place, South Australia can only benefit as a fairer and more productive society when we invest in our youngest citizens.

In support of families, our teachers and school staff reinforce the values and learning that first happens at home. For children who face extra challenges to their development, our school communities bear an even weightier responsibility. Good quality, accessible education should be a right, not a privilege, in Australia. It is the most important foundation on which our young children can build successful and productive lives, and I am proud to be part of a Labor government which, since being elected in 2002, has almost doubled its funding for our public schools on a per student basis.

Engaging with the school communities of Elder is one of my most treasured opportunities as the local member. I have met some wonderful people of all ages from the public primary schools, the public high school, the two special education schools, the non-government schools and the many kindies and early learning centres in the electorate. From meeting with school principals to attending acquaintance nights at the start of a school year, and end-of-year graduation and awards presentation ceremonies, as well as Book Week events and Battle of the Band rehearsals, I have seen firsthand the hard work and dedication of these vital and vibrant mini communities.

Another highlight has been the opportunity to present students at the schools in my electorate with my citizenship awards, recognising outstanding achievement and exceptional public spirit. I want to acknowledge those students who received this award for exceptional contribution to school life. From Ascot Park Primary School, Maddison Payne and Julianne Pamintuan; from Christ the King School, Ryan Morris and Sinead Donaghey; from Clovelly Park Primary School, Azalia Tanbunan and Winton La; from Edwardstown Primary School, Jade Fitzpatrick; from Forbes Primary School, Mikala Thorpe and Reem Bou Ghader; from Marion Primary School, Chrysi Katsionis and William Golding; and from Sacred Heart Middle School, Luke Wormald. Congratulations to all these worthy award winners.

In addition, I wish to acknowledge and thank all students who strive each day to be their best. Whether in academic, sporting, arts, social or extracurricular activities, your efforts are appreciated. Thank you, too, to our teachers and principals for whom guiding our young people is not just a job, trade or profession, it is a vocation, a great calling and commitment which goes way beyond school hours, school terms and school years. To the many volunteers who donate their time and talents to our schools, your contributions are invaluable and often have a profound impact on the students.