School life returns to normal at Milton State School after floods

Students and teachers are beginning their first full week of classes for 2011 at Milton State School this morning following the post-flood clean up and repairs.

Education Minister Cameron Dick and Member for Mt Coot-tha Andrew Fraser visited the school which was extensively damaged in the summer floods.

“It has been an extraordinary effort by the school community and workers to get Milton State School back up and running just six weeks into the school year,” Mr Dick said.

“Students and teachers began the year in temporary classrooms at the Academy of Science, Maths and Technology at Toowong but it’s great to have everyone back in their own classrooms.

“The repair bill was about $750,000 with severe damage to six classrooms, a learning support room, the after-school care facility, playground, toilets, music room, sports room, storage room and the tuckshop.

“The damaged facilities have been rebuilt ahead of schedule and all grounds and buildings have passed safety checks.

“All reconstruction works have been completed except the tuckshop which will be extended and remodelled by the P&C later this year.”

Mr Fraser has thanked teaching staff and volunteers for pitching in to help with the recovery.

“An army of volunteers, including teaching staff and parents, turned up at the school before the flood to save equipment and after the waters receded to help clean up,” Mr Fraser said.

“Teachers, including three new teachers, also worked long hours before the start of the term to move classes to the Academy so all students could begin classes on day one.

“The strong community spirit got Milton State School through this disaster and it’s wonderful to have this beautiful 122 year old school restored and students back in their normal learning environment.”

Media contact: Office of the Minister for Education and Industrial Relations 3237 1072

March 7, 2011