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"This is a great start to make our kids equal in learning throughout NZ and it's up to us the parents to have a voice in school.  PPTAs and school councils to drive our Pacific success." Samoan parent

"Raise awareness.  In my own experience I have been subjected to racism.  Very important for kids to know/understand their own culture and especially language and also other cultures." Samoan parent and community member

"There should be a special allowance for bilingual teachers because their workload is more than those teachers who only teach in one language of instruction" Samoan teacher (translated into English) 

Are these important to you?

  • There is support for the focus areas with particular mention of addressing racism, discrimination and harmful stereotypes, getting more Pacific teachers and parents and schools working together 

Is there something missing?

  • The resources to support the changes to happen – in particular compensation for teachers in bilingual and immersion settings who spend time translating materials and creating new resources
  • A language policy – IELTS is a barrier for Pasifika people
  • Addressing financial burden of education, including finances/funding/scholarships to support low income families
  • Easier pathways for teachers from the Pacific (specifically language teachers)
  • Spiritual teachings 

What would you change about the areas?

  • More Pacific content in curriculum areas
  • More Pacific teacher aides for learning support
  • More full immersion services in early learning
  • A better understanding of different countries and cultures from non-Pacific teachers
  • Make sure we do have a more holistic focus on children – not just academic but the talents, skills and abilities they grow within their church and family environments 

Questions

  • Can Bible teachers be enforced in schools?
  • Why is education so expensive?
  • What is stopping our current Pacific Teachers from progressing to a higher level?
  • When will these changes be put into place?

Most common indicators of success (in order)

  • Pacific learners' faith beliefs and cultures are valued in education
  • Pacific learners have the skills to succeed in the workforce
  • Pacific learners and their families feel accepted and included
  • Pacific learners can learn in their language throughout their education
  • Pacific learners and families are free from racism and discrimination in education
  • Pacific learners and families feel that their subject choices create good opportunities for their future

South Auckland Samoa Fono Summary [PDF]