Message from Michelle Green, Chief Executive of the Association of independent schools of Victoria

27 May 2008

Unfounded editorial assertions

Your editorial (26 May, 2008) makes two unfounded assertions.

It is not true that the independent schools’ sector has been quick to question the Government’s proposed funding changes. You have no evidence to imply that private schools would, ‘dismiss out of hand federal government ideas for a new funding model’.

I spent a lot of time on the phone explaining to an Age reporter that we are happy to participate in a funding review but this did not appear in the news pages and was not reflected in your editorial.

AISV and other associations of independent schools are willing participants in continuing discussions with federal and state governments on funding, policy development, research and initiatives that will improve educational outcomes for all students, whether they attend government or non-government schools.

The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald campaign against independent schools is a disservice to readers who want balanced and accurate reporting. After all, 55 per cent in The Age Readers’ Poll voted against your proposition that private schools should have their funding cut by the government.

We do agree with The Age editorial headline: ‘Better education for all students must be the goal’ – that is what we are working to achieve, with or without your support.

Yours sincerely

Michelle Green

Chief Executive

Association of Independent Schools of Victoria

 

 

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