Schools need to front
Given the stunning lack of accountability displayed by some schools sprung for poor financial practices or inappropriate spending, perhaps it’s time for them to get a lesson in civics.
Schools are, in the main, publicly funded. That means they should not be run like secret societies.
Massey University academic John O’neill hit the nail on the head when he said the public deserved transparency about how its money is spent.
The issue has arisen thanks to a worrying report released by the Office of the Auditor-general before Christmas. It raised concerns about everything from minor financial infractions to ridiculous cases of wasteful spending in a handful of schools.
It seems like a cone of silence has descended upon some of the schools mentioned. In the past few weeks, the Manawatu¯ Standard has approached nine schools in the Manawatu¯ -Whanganui area cited in the report.
We’ve asked for details about why they came under the auditor’s spotlight and what they’ve done to improve in the three months since the report was released. These simple questions have proven too much for some.
The worst example of reckless spending comes from Dannevirke school Te Kura Kaupapa Ma¯ ori o Tamaki Nui A Rua. How can it justify flying 27 children, four staff and four parents to Rarotonga, costing the school about $43,000, when state funds can’t be used for overseas travel?
There may be a compelling reason, but we’re left to guess because the school has ignored requests for comment.
Bainesse School was cited for being in financial difficulty and over financial conflicts of interest and inappropriately borrowing money. It’s in the public interest to know if these allegations are historical or ongoing problems, but, again, the school is mute.
Secrecy’s concerning creep has taken hold of officials in Wellington too. The Ministry of Education would only say it’s speaking to the schools involved.
Some schools, such as Rangitı¯kei College, did front up and provide explanations. This is to their credit.
O’neill put it well when he said people would be understanding of mistakes that are corrected, but have little time for schools that cover up malice or dishonesty.
That is as it should be. If schools like Te Kura Kaupapa Ma¯ ori o Tamaki Nui A Rua think otherwise, strict controls should be placed on their taxpayer funding.