A PETITION to save rural schools in the region has reached 1151 signatures.
It was set up by the Rural and Small Schools Parent Council Alliance (RSSPCA) in protest against plans by Dumfries and Galloway Council.
Alliance spokesperson Franziska Weir described the support as ‘incredible’ and said: “This shows the power of our community when we come together.
“Now, let’s keep the momentum going! We need the next 1000 signatures from people of all ages who care about the future of our children and the generations to come. Let’s raise our voices and make a difference. Together, we can create change.
“Let’s ensure rural areas remain a vibrant choice for families, now and for generations to come.”
The group was set up after education officers revealed their model, which opponents say deems rural and small schools unsustainable and puts 20 per cent of the area’s primary schools at risk of closure in the near future, rising to half in the next 5-15 years.
And they point out the strengths of small schools, from low pupil to teacher ratios and great attainment, to strong community.
The RSSPCA is calling on councillors to stop recommendations for mothballing for rural and small school; and stop recommendations to changes to school structure through reductions in number of classes.
They want decisions on future sustainability and closure to be made by partnership headteachers and school communities.
In addition, they want to see a new model, which recognises the rural character of the region, values rural and small schools and embeds education in rural communities.
“We are saying very strongly that we want teachers for our children, in our communities, not taxis elsewhere,” added Franziska.
n See the petition at https://shorturl.at/gn6Ap
Above – Hottsbridge is one of the area’s mothballed rural schools
