Wee Waa High School meeting convened after staff suffer reactions

A meeting concerning Wee Waa High School was convened by Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell after staff members suffered strong reactions from printers.

Staff and students from Wee Waa High School have been based at the public school site following concerns of mould at the town’s high school campus.

The high school is being housed in demountable buildings at the public school.

In a statement from the Minister, it said a small number of other staff also suffered minor reactions.

Ms Mitchell convened the meeting on Friday between principal of Wee Waa High School, Annabel Doust, mayor of Narrabri Shire Council Cr Ron Campbell, Upper House member Sam Farraway and NSW Department of Education and NSW Health executives.

The Minister said the re-emergence of symptoms appearing in staff after moving the school to the primary school site was concerning but assured the community that everything is being done to address the issue.

“I would like the Wee Waa community to be reassured of two things. Firstly, we will keep working to address the problems that are occurring. Secondly, we will definitely not be closing the school,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Principal Annabel Doust is doing a fantastic job in very trying circumstances, and we will make sure that she and her staff have all the resources and support they need.

“I am also planning to revisit the school very soon to speak with the staff and the broader school community to ensure we meet all expectations as we address this issue.

Ms Mitchell has continued to tell media that a new high school remains an option for Wee Waa if the issue is unable to be addressed.

“We continue to progress plans to build a new school on a new site for the Wee Waa High School community,” she said.

Mr Farraway said the meeting was a positive one.

While it is frustrating that these reactions have started occurring again, he was confident that a permanent solution will be achieved between the Minister, department staff, school staff, council and the community.

“I know these incidents are causing anxiety for the community, but it is heartening to hear the commitment from those supporting Wee Waa High School and the local leaders,” Mr Farraway said.

“Can I commended and thank the Wee Waa High School principal Ms Doust on her leadership and the resolve of her staff, along with the support offered by those at Wee Waa Public School.”

Ms Doust and Cr Campbell thanked the Minister and the department staff for their actions, support and transparency to date.