NZEI welcomes Chief Ombudsman’s investigation

NZEI welcomes Chief Ombudsman’s investigation

NZEI Te Riu Roa says it welcomes the Chief Ombudsman’s investigation into the Ministry of Education’s handling of the consultation on Christchurch school mergers and closures.

National President Judith Nowotarski says many Christchurch principals, teachers, school support staff and parents would be very keen to have input into the investigation.

“While we appreciate that the Ministry of Education has already acknowledged that its process over its consultation on the school closures was flawed, the Chief Ombudsman’s findings will help it identify where it can improve its processes for the future.

“We’re pleased the Ministry has made a commitment to work with NZEI Te Riu Roa to improve the process of engagement with school communities going forward.

“The Chief Ombudsman’s investigation is a big step in the right direction and will go some way towards helping address the hurt and anger that the process has inflicted on school communities in Christchurch.

“We also hope the Minister of Education is prepared to listen seriously to the Chief Ombudsman’s findings and engage with Christchurch school communities in a way that is more respectful and credible than in the past.”

ENDS

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