Concern has been raised by the Tocumwal community and Berrigan Shire Council as a critical staff position at a local school faces the axe.
For at least the past 18 months, a student support officer role funded by the NSW Department of Education has provided external support to children and families affected by the 2022 floods.
However, with the end of the school year approaching, the position is set to close due to the end to its funding by the department.
Berrigan Shire Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean expressed her concern for the loss of the position, and urged NSW Education Minister Prue Car to reconsider the planned withdrawal of funding for the position.
“The loss of our student support officers will be a significant blow to our community,” Cr McKean said.
“These roles are essential, especially in regions where access to external support services is limited.”
Parents of students at the school also expressed concern over the end of the funding program, saying the officer has made a profound impact on their families.
“Our SSO has been a lifeline for many of us. She provides not just support, but hope and stability for our children during challenging times,” one parent representative said.
“Her departure would leave a void that cannot be filled, and we are committed to doing everything we can to keep her in our school.”