Standing up for Glenora

A PROTEST against the proposed downgrading of Glenora District High School will be held outside the school tomorrow (Tuesday) at noon. After the protest everyone will get their chance to have a say in the future of the school at a community forum, also being held at the school.

The State Government has shortlisted 20 schools for closure or substantial downgrading, including Glenora which it proposes to reduce to a primary school.

“Our community is strong; we won’t be taking this lying down," protest organiser Kelly Wilton, said.“If Mr McKim and Ms Giddings think we’re just a backward little town they can push around – they have another thing coming.

“To the fat cats in Parliament we are just a dot on the map, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. One ant can do little on his own, but an army can move mountains! We are that army! We are a strong community who will fight to stay alive," Ms Wilton said.

"Closing our school would kill the heart of the community and kill our towns and we are not going to let that happen."

Derwent Valley mayor Martyn Evans said the loss Grade 7–10 classes at Glenora District High School would have a wide impact. “This isn’t only about people with children at the school; it will affect our whole community, from the local businesses to the price of homes in the area – who wants to move to a place where their kids can’t go to school?” Councillor Evans said.

“The State Government has said that they want to save money, but they haven’t thought of the cost to our community, and they haven’t counted on the spirit we have here in the Derwent Valley. I’m urging everyone who can, to come out and support our community and our future and attend the protest and forum on Tuesday (June 28), starting at noon,” Cr Evans said.