Hangers On
Herald Sun Saturday, January 01, 2000
I usually oppose the state teacher unions because they won't face open competition from other schools, but I must say I sympathise with their recent protest that the recent budget cuts are aimed at their teacher numbers - while administrative staff are being increased.
The state sector enjoys the highest average expenditure per pupil, but the advantage is undermined by central administration, a literal marble tower in Collins St supporting expensive hangers-on who control state teachers like children and interfere in the running of individual schools.
Given that non-state schools manage better outcomes without the "help" of Education Ministry central control, what more eloquent proof could there be that the state system's Rialto Palace is but a drain on taxpayers' money?
Philip O'Carroll