The Minister for Education, Grace Grace has thanked school communities in South East Queensland for their ongoing clean-up efforts following the impacts of the recent storms and flooding.
Ms Grace said she knew many schools would face difficult times over the coming days as flood waters receded and damage could be fully assessed.
“I want to thank principals, school staff and our entire school communities for the hard work that they’ve already put in, and for their ongoing efforts to get our schools open again,” Ms Grace said.
She also thanked dedicated staff from QBuild and the Department of Education who had worked hard to support affected schools.
“They have been out to schools assessing damage and putting in place strategies to get them back up and running, where it is safe to do so,” the Minister said.
“This week I have seen this incredible effort first hand at Aviation State High School and Milton State School, which have both been badly impacted by flood water,” she said.
“It is this amazing community spirit which will help us to get through this crisis.”
Ms Grace said that while most schools reopened on Monday (7 March), a small number of schools with more significant damage would need to be closed for longer to make the sites safe.
“We are determined to open all our schools as soon as it is safely possible,” she said.
“Some schools need substantial cleaning and replacement of furniture, equipment and floor coverings, while others have more significant damage and are going to need major repairs.”
“For schools that need to remain closed for a longer period of time, the Department is looking at a number of plans including relocating students temporarily to nearby schools (bus transport provided), rotation of staff and students on school sites, remote learning options and use of temporary buildings,” Ms Grace said.
