Eltham electorate school leaders
Vicki WARD (Eltham – Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery, Minister for Equality) (09:55): I also want to thank the principals of the many small schools in the outer north-east who made the time to sit with the Deputy Premier and me for an important discussion about the unique joys, strengths and challenges of leading a small school community. This meeting was a valuable opportunity for principals to share their experiences directly with the Minister for Education, whose openness to listening and consideration of their concerns was greatly appreciated. I especially thank Research Primary School principal Fiona Vale for her leadership, advocacy and generosity in hosting this meeting. These leaders carry immense responsibilities, often extending beyond the school gate into the broader community. Their voices are critical in shaping how we support small schools. I am grateful for their dedication to their staff, students and the broader community, and I look forward to continuing to work with them.