[Offtopic] Ministerial Announcements

[stephen at melbpc.org.au]

Three Ministerial Anouncements today ..

<http://www.dest.gov.au/ministers/bishop/default.asp>

* National Awards for Quality Schooling

The 2008 Australian Government National Awards for Quality Schooling, 
which celebrates excellence in Australian schools, were launched today at 
Perth Modern School, a selective State Government school, by the Minister 
for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP.

"These annual Awards recognise and reward our outstanding teachers, 
principals, schools and support staff, who play crucial roles in providing 
a quality education to young Australians," Minister Bishop said.

The Australian Government is providing $1.2 million for the Awards 
including up to $100,000 for the winner of the prestigious Medal of 
Distinction. 

"I encourage all interested educators to nominate, specifically teachers, 
principals, support staff members and schools at pre-primary, primary and 
secondary levels."

* Million dollar expansion of music in schools

Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, 
today announced a $1 million grant to Musica Viva Australia to enhance 
music education in regional, rural and remote schools across the country. 

* Australian Government funding for literacy and numeracy 

The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, 
today welcomed the confirmation from State and Territory Governments that 
they will participate in the national testing for literacy and numeracy in 
2008, as required by the Australian Government under the current schools 
funding agreement.
--

Regards people
Stephen Loosley
Victoria Australia