Democratic Alliance Member of Parliament Michael Waters and Ward 92 councillor Ashley Rutherford recently visited Sunnyridge Primary School.
The DA representatives were impressed with the positive attitude of principal Marianna Odendaal and all the teachers they were introduced to.
“It shows that with a positive attitude anything is possible,” said Waters.
The school now has 1 175 pupils, with 31 state teachers, and a further six teachers paid for by the school governing board (SGB).
In addition, the school employs five student teachers.
“The school budget is just under R6-million a year, of which the department gives the school R559 000, and the rest is raised by the school through aftercare income of R192 000 and school fees which are R6 000 per year,” Waters said.
“While some parents do qualify for school fee exemption, the school can apply to the department for compensation in this regard.
“However, the department is not forthcoming. For example, last year the school applied for R338 000 in exemptions and the department only paid R14 000, which is less than five per cent.”
Waters added that the school is fortunate to have adequate toilets for both boys and girls, and they comply with minimum norms and standards.
Another initiative by the SGB is that they are purchasing 20 tablets for the school which will allow teachers and pupils to have more interactive lessons.
The SGB also built two new classrooms which now means the hall is no longer used as a classroom.
“The DA congratulates Marianna Odendaal and her staff for their sterling work,” Waters said.
