President's messageA New Year has only just begun and once more we have seen the subject of Gonski and the equitable funding of public education hitting the media streams. A discussion that shows no immediate sign of reaching a conclusion, with the suggestion that yet another version of school resourcing will be on its way at a time that is
still to be defined. In the face of such frustration I find that it’s often helpful to go back to the original source and explore the thinking behind what seems so familiar – just to be sure of my own understanding. In this instance I can highly recommend David Gonski’s collection of selected speeches presciently titled ‘I Gave a Gonski’. He discusses the recommendations of the report in layperson’s language, its context and the regret that a small part of the report that pondered the likely cost came to dominate the discussion. This was over and above the other key recommendations that sought to create the necessary cross-sector student equity of opportunity regardless of parental income and background and to reposition the sector funding divisions between the federal and State/Territory governments. David Gonski’s book also covers leadership, good governance, innovation and philanthropy - essential elements in every parent organisation - together with insights into his family history and professional activities. If you are part of a school’s parent governance body it’s a book that may be worth buying as a reference point for all. He also touches on
Australia’s place in the world – one that includes strong partnerships with Asian nations. Education about Asia As a national body ACSSO wears many hats and one that is becoming increasingly relevant in creating inclusive communities is the Asian Education Foundation (AEF)
of which ACSSO is a member of its Advisory Board. The AEF offers a range of professional programmes for school leaders and teaching staff to integrate a global outlook and reciprocal understanding of Asian culture into everyday schooling. The AEF website has a range of information, opportunities and resources that can allow your school, its staff, students and parents to expand their understanding of our place in the world. One that is especially important in the current world climate that appears to be polarising around statements of intolerance and division. For more information:
www.asiaeducation.edu.au Safe Schools Coalition One of the key strengths of the Australian Government school system is its open and welcoming inclusivity for all students – no matter what their religious affiliations, cultural norms, gender associations or point of view may be. Our Australian character is
said to be tolerant and welcoming with a sense of fair go for all. Part of maintaining this is encouraging our students to value our individual differences in a positive way to develop their own authentic sense of fair go. The Safe Schools Coalition
is one of the many initiatives that focus on student wellbeing. In this case to develop awareness and acceptance for those students that may associate with being be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex (LGBTI). Such students often face extreme levels intolerance and bullying from others. The initiative is fully funded by the Commonwealth and has deeper implications when considered in the broader concept of acceptance, welcome and safety for all as an indisputable part of our authentic Australian values. For more information please visit the Safe Schools Coalition website:
www.safeschoolscoalition.org.au Your education vote matters With an election on its way can I ask you to consider your family’s education priorities and whilst they are fresh in your mind please go to
www.acsso.org.au
and send them in to us on the ‘Have a say’ link. ACSSO can then compile them for the various parties’ response. Wishing you all the very best for the start of the new school year and all the inevitable covering of books that comes with it. Phillip Spratt  Like us on Facebook
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