[HelenG]

Small grants to schools in drought-affected areas

The federal government last week announced funding of $17.4 million to help primary and secondary schools in the forty regions eligible for Exceptional Circumstances drought assistance. Schools may use the funding for items such as text books, uniforms, subject levies, excursions and school camps, or to provide other support which is directly related to schooling. The funding is flexible which means it can be used to subsidise activities for a whole class or school. Principals can also direct support to families most in need. Many schools in this region will receive up to $10,000. The assistance consists of a base entitlement of $1000 per school plus a per capita allowance on $100 for every enrolled full-time-equivalent student recorded in the 2008 school census. For more information goto the website.

For the list of schools in WA which received funding go to this website.