State Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan attended the school to announce the funding as part of the 2020-21 state budget, on Thursday, November 19.
“Families in Elmore have done a phenomenal job in supporting students to learn from home, and as kids return to their classrooms we want to make Elmore Primary School better than before,” she said.
“Not only will this make sure our kids are getting a great education — it’ll create new local jobs.”
Principal Aaron Taylor said the school, which has 32 students, was thrilled with the announcement.
“It's not often that you receive this level of funding in one big hit,” he said.
“Hopefully for the kids themselves, they will have modern and engaging learning facilities that are not too different from their urban counterparts. We just couldn't be happier.”
Mr Taylor said the money would go towards upgrading the 145-year-old school building, the grounds and toilet facilities.Even the students themselves have started to notice the damage.“Some of the rooms are getting a bit old and the plaster is cracking,” grade two student Luke Drust said.“It's going to be a lot of money and it's going to be pretty cool to have new classrooms in a small school,” grade five student Tom Drust said.
Mr Taylor said the funding would support the growing Elmore community.
“$1.2 million will have a big impact,” he said.“The number of younger students coming through the kinder is increasing.
“This means we're going to be able to meet the needs of the current students but also their younger siblings and students for years to come.”
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