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2010-06-08
Government's Budget Announcements
An important message for all STFKA personnel, families and whanau
The Association's governing board met on Thursday 3 June to discuss the implications of the Government's budget announcements around funding in ECE and the quality teacher funding bands. The board wishes to state that:
- The STFKA condemns the Government's policy of cutting the 80-99% and 100% qualified teacher funding bands.
- The STFKA states its continued commitment to employing only qualified, registered early childhood teachers in regulated staffing positions.
- The STFKA board and management team is committed to working collaboratively with teachers, and to consulting with communities, to find solutions to the challenges ahead.
As you will be aware, we are faced with significant cuts in our funding. However, the board is resolute that retaining 100% qualified registered teachers in regulated positions must be an absolute priority. To this end, we will be doing everything in our power to ensure children are able to continue to participate in high quality early childhood education through the eight South Taranaki Free Kindergartens.
We have a series of meetings scheduled with teaching colleagues to problem-solve a way forward. Discussion with kindergarten committee representatives will take place at the Term 3 Committee Liaison Forum meeting. We will provide information to families and whanau and seek feedback from them on issues as the board, management and teaching staff together begin to develop some possible strategies.
Kindergartens have been in operation for over 100 years in New Zealand. They have adapted to all challenges with continued success in supporting our communities and providing the best possible start for our children.