FOXTON DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 2997, 11 February 1926, Page 3

FOXTON DISTRICT HIGH SCHOOL

OFFICIAL OPENING,

Although the local District High School came into being on the 2nd. inst., the local school committee decided that such an important step in local educational matters should be marked by a public function. It decided to hold an “official opening,” and to invite the parents and public to attend. The function took place in All Saints’ schoolroom on Tuesday afternoon when upwards of 100 adults and pupils were in attendance. Mr. Perreau (chairman of committee) presided and extended a welcome. He apologised for the absence of Mr. Alf. Fraser, member of the Wanganui Education Board, and Mr. John 'Chrystall (exMayor) both of whom had given valuable assistance in establishing the school. He paid a tribute to past school committees and to the Borough Council for their efforts and said that Foxton was to be congratulated upon the realisation of its efforts for the educational advancement of local children. A good start had been made with 40 pupils and he hoped that a suitable building would soon be erected for the pupils. He urged the parents to see that their children were regular in attendance and to take advantage of the educational facilities afforded them. He extended a welcome to Mrs. M. C. Price M.A., and Mr. W. G. Parker, who would have temporary charge of the high school, and finally paid a tribute to the enthusiasm of the head master, Mr. Mason, for his efforts in getting the school established.

Mr J. K. Hornblow said that permanent secondary education in Foxton would depend upon the attendance of pupils to justify the expenditure, which would run into about £6OO per year. On top of this about £2,500 would be required for increased accommodation. Many people did not realise the amount of money expended on education in this country nor did parents of children take full advantage of the educational facilities offered. Foxton was now placed on the same footing as larger centres and he hoped that in due time the secondary department would show results equal to those of any secondary school in the province. In refei’ring to the matriculation examinations, he said the time would come when students would be judged on their class work and so save the nervous strain of the examination. He wished the school every sucess both scholastically and in the field of sport. The Rev. Walton spoke of the advantages of local secondary education and gave some good advice to the students. Cr. F. Woods, said the Borough Council would be pleased to assist the school by any means in its power and had sanctioned the use of Easton Park for the playing of games and school sports. Mr. F. Mason, headmaster, endorsed the remarks of the previous speakers and thanked parents for their assistance. Those pupils who, in the past, were unable to board at Palmerston, were handicapped in their studies and social school lifce. They had to travel four hours per day to receive five hours of school work. The local school would obviate this and if they were diligent in their work at school and at home their efforts would be rewarded by success. Regular attendance was essential, however, and he looked to the parents to co-operate with the teachers to make the school a SUCC6SS. Captain Stone, of the Salvation Army, also proferred his congratulations and wished the school suc-

cess. At the conclusion afternoon tea was dispensed by the pupils and staff and the buildings and equipement inspected.