Green MP Marama Davidson says the government's allocation of financial bonuses to four charter schools is an insult to Māori education. This comes after the Ministry refused to move forward with plans to build a new premises for Te Wharekura o Manurewa.
Six years on and Te Wharekura o Manurewa are still waiting to have their new school built. The principal, Māhia Nathan is troubled at the quick establishment of a new charter school in the area.
Mr Nathan says, “In 2014 the Ministry (MoE) halted discussions about our new school. At the same time, they started a new charter school, South Auckland Middle School.”
Greens MP Marama Davidson is concerned that charter schools are getting preference over Māori kura.
Marama Davidson says, “It's clear to see that charter schools are failing, despite the large amount of funding they're receiving. Where is the government support for Māori schools in Manurewa?”
Ministry of Education Spokesperson Katrina Casey says, "The board chair and principal have given an undertaking to reconsider relocating the wharekura when the roll numbers for increase significantly. We will provide advice and support where we can.”
But the MP has a different view. She says, “Waiting this long is frustrating. The school needs to be built. 25 percent of people living in Manurewa are Māori, so MoE needs to act quickly on the matter.”
Tomorrow the school board will meet to discuss the way forward, in the hope of getting results.