PUBLIC schools in Orange will receive thousands of dollars in extra funding to support children with disabilities and special needs.
The state government has changed the way it provides funding for children with autism, mental health problems and learning disabilities as part of the Every Student Every School initiative.
Previously, children were funded individually based on a diagnosis of additional needs.
Under the new system funding will be allocated based on NAPLAN testing and the community prevalence of autism.
Orange High school’s additional needs funding will increase from $153,753 to $258,808.
The money will be used to employ extra learning support teachers andto fund areas such as teacher education.
Department of Education and Training school education director Denis Armstrong said schools in Orange received extra funding based on enrolment increases.
“There have been increases in enrolments since we last looked at funding in 2006,” he said.
“The funding is part of a national initiative supporting all schools.
“Areas that needed support are now getting that support.”
Canobolas Rural Technology High School’s additional needs funding will increase from $202,460 to $302,778.
“The initiative is about recognising that all schools need assistance with children with special needs,” Mr Armstrong said.
However, while Orange schools will receive additional funding, Canowindra Public School will lose $2022.
Mr Armstrong said overall the amount of funding was increased but some schools would receive less based on factors including a drop in enrolments.
The schools will receive the funding in term three.
nicole.kuter@ruralpress.com
