Aim to create best possible environment

Keeping pupils and staff up to date in the ever-changing world of technology and maintaining a high level of support within the community are two of the biggest challenges facing the Arrowtown School board of trustees. James Beech talks to board deputy chairman Don Hazlett.

Queenstown Times: Why did you want to become a board member and how long have you been in the role?

Don Hazlett: I became a board member in the recent elections in May 2010.

I wanted to become a board member to be involved in giving all pupils the best possible environment to enable them to grow and learn - an environment that helps to keep children engaged and interested in all aspects of their school life: academic, sports and the arts.

QT: What is the biggest issue facing Arrowtown School pupils and what do you want done to tackle it?

DH: Technology would be one of the biggest issues facing Arrowtown School in these fast and changing times, for the pupils and teachers.

We need to keep up with the changing needs for teaching our pupils with quality resources and personnel.

QT: Will national standards improve a pupil's education at the school?

DH: I believe that national standards will improve the pupils' education in time, but in my view there are a few issues to be sorted out along the way.

It is in its early stages.

Extra investment and support for implementing these standards would be an advantage.

QT: How would you describe the school's financial situation and what needs to be done to improve it?

DH: The school's financial situation is sound, but as always the ever-changing needs for the school will require extra funding.

Being a decile 10 school is a challenge when it comes to funding, so without the generous support from the PTA and our community members, the school would struggle to meet its needs.

QT: What needs to be done to cater for Arrowtown School's growing enrolment?

DH: The school's growing enrolment needs to be managed so that we can get the most out of its assets without compromising the learning capabilities of the pupils and teachers."

QT: How can the community help Arrowtown School?

DH: The community can and do help the Arrowtown School by supporting the pupils and school in the various fundraising efforts required; by taking an interest in the development of the school and involving the school in community events.