Proud results for city school

WHITE Rock State School is congratulated for the vast improvement its students have shown in the latest National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) results.

The school in the southern corridor of Cairns has been singled out for recognition.

It’s a tribute to the teachers, staff and youngsters.

In 2016 half of their students were in the bottom quarter for literacy and numeracy. Last year it improved to 46 per cent.

Improvement was also recorded among the top quarter with four per cent achieving excellent results in 2017, compared to three per cent in 2016.

The percentage increases might be small but any improvement at a school where many families are on struggle street is to be applauded.

Half of the school’s 515 students come from the lowest socioeconomic bracket and 43 per cent of its students identify as indigenous.

What the school is doing is proving to be a success.

The school motto is “learning together”. “The ‘White Rock Way’ is underpinned by the principles of learning, safety and respect which are reflected in our whole school daily practices,” the website proudly proclaims.

The school is practising what it preaches.

Acting principal Mark Pullar says students are active participants in the learning process and are constantly monitored for understanding. He says the approach is working for all the kids. Plus there is no differentation.

Onwards and upwards White Rock State School. Nick Dalton Deputy editor