13th February 2002 2002 school enrolments up First day back at school for Magdalena Myers, Maddilyn Dowdle, Eliza Harvey, Kaitlin Harvey and Kayla Kotru

If enrollments are an indicator of a town's stability then Lightning Ridge has reason to be comfortably confident.

This year enrolments at Lightning Ridge Central School have risen for the first time in a number of years, with a total intake of 510 students; 323 Primary, 187 Secondary.

The school and community welcomes new appointee teachers replacing dedicated staff who have transferred.

One position, that of music teacher, remains unfilled. Mr. Valler's efforts with the students have been well documented and most appreciated, however, it may be that drama and visual arts will take the lead in the cultural life of the school if the position remains unfilled.

Principal, Mrs. Fiona Prentice, stressed the need for home and school to support students at school and clearly outlined what is acceptable / unacceptable, with procedures to be followed.

'Maybe it is tougher to take a stand with your own children when you suspect 'the neighbours' can't be bothered to do so, but remember children in the public system have the richness of learning and mixing daily with the whole range of people who make up our society', said Mrs. prentice.

Emphasis was placed upon punctuality by Mrs. Prentice and the need for students to attend in uniform to indicate their commitment to learn as part of a team.

The provision of a demountable classroom which will serve as an Aboriginal Education resource Room is a welcome addition to the school facilities

The Parents, Teachers and Citizens Association and School Council play vital and effective roles in the daily school routine. The PTCA will elect office bearers at its AGM February 20, whilst two Parent representatives will be elected from the three nominees to the School Council this week.