Schools launch community respect project

Minister for Training and Skills Yvette D’Ath has today officially launched a project designed to promote respectful relationships in the community.

Thirteen State Schools are taking part in the Peninsula Respect Project, where schools will work together to strengthen the “State School” brand and promote a sense of shared identity.

“It is great to see these thirteen state schools taking the initiative and working together on a project to promote a culture of respect in all aspects of our community,” Mrs D’Ath said. 

“The schools have agreed to focus on respect when doing business and will support parents and the broader community to engage in positive ways to maximise student learning outcomes.

“I congratulate all schools who have become involved, and I also thank all parents and citizens association representatives who have come on board.”

The Peninsula Respect Project aligns with the Government’s Respect our staff, respect our school campaign being rolled out across Queensland state schools to promote safe and supporting learning environments.

Mrs D’Ath, who is also the Member for Redcliffe and represented the Education Minister at the launch, said schools played a pivotal role in cultivating a culture of respect in communities.

“Some school staff have expressed concerns about the difficulty in maintaining positive relationships because of various issues in the community, such as mental health, drug and alcohol abuse and unrealistic expectations of schools and government agencies,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“This project will provide an important vehicle for community networks to raise and discuss issues and explore strategies to strengthen partnerships and promote respect for each person.

“I encourage everyone in the Redcliffe community to engage with the principles of this project. Government, business and community organisations, as well as individuals, all have a role to play in building a community based on respect.”

Peninsula Respect Project Coordinator and Principal of Redcliffe State High School, Ms Shona McKinlay, said she looked forward to the existing goodwill of the project gathering momentum.

“Respectful relationships are the foundation to achieve positive outcomes for everyone,” Ms McKinlay said.

“We hope that our entire community commits to the Respect initiative.”

For further information, or to become involved, contact Redcliffe State High School on 3897 1111.

ENDS

Media contact: Pam Frost – 0437 696 809