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2009 News Archive

January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December


December


Teachers receive lesson in agriculture
Dec 02 | Teachers from schools across southern Queensland recently went back to the classroom to learn about agriculture, its important role in people's lives and how to raise student awareness of careers in the industry.


Headstart for teaching students
Dec 02 | A talented group of aspiring teachers from Redcliffe have guaranteed university places next year thanks to an innovative school program, reports REBECCA PERRY.


Another honour for Chris Sarra
Dec 02 | Prominent Indigenous educator Chris Sarra has added another award to his growing collection: Queensland Australian of the Year for 2010.


C-Gen nominations closing soon
Dec 02 | Students are running out of time to take part in next year's Creative Generation State Schools Onstage concert with nominations for the event closing on December 11.


Help your career in the process
Dec 02 | Staff soon will have the tools and resources to boost their skills, career options and job satisfaction.


 

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November


HELP opens doors
Nov 30 | HELP Enterprises is hosting an open day at their Mitchelton premises to help create a greater awareness of the services they provide to people with a disability.


High hopes for aviation student
Nov 26 | At just 17, Emily Treacy's aviation career is taking off.


Vacation PD for teachers next year
Nov 26 | Queensland teachers can improve their literacy, numeracy and science skills and knowledge during the 2010 January vacation.


Principals help shape national agenda
Nov 26 | Queensland principals have had their say on a range of national issues at a forum with federal Education Minister Julia Gillard.


Smart approach pays off
Nov 26 | Queensland state schools were the big winners in this year's Buy Smart competition which aims to promote financial literacy among students.


Extra support for school leavers with a disability
Nov 26 | School leavers with a disability will benefit from increased job opportunities, care and support thanks to a $4 million funding boost from the State Government.


Funding boost for Indigenous students
Nov 26 | More than 100 Indigenous students throughout the state have received a share of the $500,000 Queensland Certificate of Education Scholarship Support Program to help them to complete their secondary studies.


Ballet break has students in a spin
Nov 26 | Two talented young Brisbane dancers have leapt at the chance to take part in a full-time Queensland Ballet program next year.


Extra support for school leavers with a disability
Nov 26 | School leavers with a disability will benefit from increased job opportunities, care and support thanks to a $4 million funding boost from the State Government.


Poultry competition helping to hatch careers
Nov 26 | Students from Nambour State High School on the Sunshine Coast have 'eggs-elled' themselves in a national competition promoting careers in the poultry industry.


Principals help shape national agenda
Nov 26 | Queensland principals have had their say on a range of national issues at a forum with federal Education Minister Julia Gillard.


Following the leader
Nov 23 | After 37 years in education, Central Coast Executive Director of Schools Dave Manttan has learnt a thing or two about leadership - but being honoured for his success comes as a surprise, as he explains to REBECCA PERRY.


Funding windfall for Asian studies
Nov 23 | When it comes to foreign languages, Cleveland District State High School staff, starting with principal Paul Bancroft, want nothing lost in translation.


A night to remember
Nov 23 | Education Views is featuring images from the Showcase Gala Dinner which was held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on October 29.


New look annual report now online
Nov 23 | The 2008-09 annual report is online in two forms for the first time in the history of the Department of Education and Training.


New regional boundaries to improve services
Nov 23 | The Department of Education and Training is realigning its regional boundaries to streamline the delivery of education, training and early childhood services across Queensland.


New regional boundaries to improve services
Nov 23 | The Department of Education and Training is realigning its regional boundaries to streamline the delivery of education, training and early childhood services across Queensland.


Distance no barrier for reef guardians
Nov 23 | A group of young Brisbane writers are leading a Great Barrier Reef conservation campaign with a fictional novel they hope will raise environmental awareness.


Straddie connects students with their culture
Nov 23 | Stradbroke Island elders encouraged Bayside Indigenous students to keep their culture alive in a recent three-day camp on the island.


Queensland student snaps up photography prize
Nov 23 | A Darling Downs student has taken out top honours in a national photography competition that focuses the lens on water conservation.


Queensland to co-host national standards body
Nov 23 | Qld is set to co-host and develop a national leadership institute designed to boost teaching standards.


Schools to receive $200 million upgrade
Nov 23 | More than 1800 classrooms in more than 300 schools will be rebuilt and refurbished under the $200 million final round of the State Schools of Tomorrow (SSOT) program.


New pay deal for Queensland teachers
Nov 12 | Graduate teachers in Queensland will be the best paid in the country by 2011 under a new pay deal.


Talking about a HR revolution
Nov 12 | A major Department of Education and Training (DET) project is set to revolutionise the way human resource (HR) services are delivered in schools and offices by delivering an integrated and web-enabled business and technical solution known as MyHR.


Animal welfare an instinct at Fernvale
Nov 12 | With classrooms full of wannabe wildlife rescuers and veterinarians, you can be forgiven for thinking youngsters at Fernvale State School, near Ipswich, are emulating Diego - television's animated animal advocate.


World Teachers' Day triumph for Brisbane educator
Nov 12 | A Brisbane teacher says she is still pinching herself after being named a winner in the inaugural QCT (Queensland College of Teachers) Excellence in Teaching Awards, which were presented at Government House on World Teachers' Day.


Art to brightening communities
Nov 12 | Dajarra students are flying the flag for a week-long Border Schools Cluster community art project held recently at five north-western Queensland schools.


Take part in CensusAtSchool
Nov 12 | Following the success of the project in 2006 and 2008, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will run its school questionnaire annually.


Big changes for website
Nov 12 | Staff are encouraged to visit a revamped website that supports business improvement, creativity and innovation in the public service.


A time to remember
Nov 03 | RSL Queensland is urging students to pay their respects to those who have died in war this Remembrance Day, November 11.


Living history coming of age
Nov 03 | Australia's involvement in World War I and II and our relationship with the rest of Asia is the inspiration behind a new performing arts show for schools.


Free war memorial resources for schools
Nov 03 | The Australian War Memorial has a range of free learning resources for teachers to help educate students about Australia's role in war.


Free war memorial resources for schools
Nov 03 | The Australian War Memorial has a range of free learning resources for teachers to help educate students about Australia's role in war.


Queensland shines on national stage
Nov 03 | Queensland teachers and schools have been named among Australia's best in a national education awards program.


Program pays off for Sunshine Coast school
Nov 03 | Maroochydore State School on the Sunshine Coast has collected a $100,000 state award for a program linking disengaged students and their families to local community services.


Prized presence for gifted students
Nov 03 | Some of the state's brightest minds have been workshopping creativity with hundreds of central Queensland youngsters and organisers hope it will help retain local talent, writes Rebecca Perry


Pre - apprenticeship program targets school leavers
Nov 03 |A new program will prepare young people for apprenticeships and help to counter future skills shortages in key industries.


Pilots re-enact history for students
Nov 03 | Year 4 students from Longreach School of Distance Education (LSODE) recently enjoyed a trip down memory lane thanks to some high-flying visitors.


Students track a career in ag science
Nov 03 | Hundreds of high school students recently chatted to some of Queensland's best young scientists about their jobs which ranged from conducting aerial surveys of feral pigs to training baby fish to avoid predators.


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October


Help prevent youth suicide
Oct 27 | The Commission for Children and Young People is trying to reverse a growing rate of youth suicide in Queensland.


Download the 2010 School Calendar
Oct 09 | The 2010 School Calendar is now available to download.


Drawing on our flag
Oct 06 | Entries are now open in the Visions of Australia flag project, which offers teachers a creative way to explore Australia Day with their students.


Top marks for teachers
Oct 27 | World Teachers' Day is celebrated in more than 100 countries and hundreds of Queensland's hardest working educators will be honoured this year, writes Rebecca Perry.


More PD opportunities for staff
Oct 06 | Each term, Education Views publishes a calendar of upcoming professional development events and activities for teachers, school staff and public servants.


Explore our modern times
Oct 27 | School groups are encouraged to visit the State Library of Queensland's new exhibition of 250 works showcasing the shaping of Australia's modern-day cosmopolitan culture.


Filmmaking wraps for northern students
Oct 27 | A five-minute movie by North Queensland students featuring three penguins answering questions about global warming has taken out top honours in a national schools short film competition.


Queensland kids give voice to hope
Oct 27 | A choir from Brisbane's Grovely State School performed a specially-composed song to open the World Vision Kids Hope AUS Conference in Melbourne earlier this month.


Good vibes at Western Cape
Oct 27 | Western Cape College was the big winner at this year's Vibe Alive with teams from the Far North Queensland school taking out top honours in each of the festival's categories.


Nominate for public service medal
Oct 27 | Department of Education and Training (DET) staff are invited to nominate their colleagues for next year's Queen's Birthday Public Service Medal.


Help for teacher training
Oct 15 | Fancy free study? Rebecca Perry looks at the range of Department of Education and Training (DET) teaching scholarships on offer.

Showcase finale draws near
Oct 27 | Excitement is building in state schools throughout Queensland as the time nears for the announcement of their best education programs at a gala dinner in Brisbane.


Creative crash course for teachers
Oct 27 | The Australian Film Television and Radio School is inviting teachers to complete its Graduate Certificate in Teaching Creative Practice in Brisbane early next year.


Celebrate your premier readers
Oct 06 | Schools are encouraged to celebrate their students' outstanding achievements in this year's Premier's Reading Challenge by hosting a special ceremony later this month.


Scene with Shakespeare
Oct 06 | A competition has been launched that invites students to choose a Shakespearean phrase and interpret it in their own unique way.


Day for Daniel promotes personal safety
Oct 06 | Schools are reminded that October 30 is Day for Daniel, a national day for promoting child safety awareness, and schools are invited to join in by hosting an activity.


Vaccination program for Human Swine Flu
Oct 20 | Schools are urged to notify their staff and parents about a vaccination program for the H1N1 influenza virus (Human Swine Flu) which is being rolled out across the country.


Yeronga's cookbook serves up more than meals
Oct 20 | Cultures around the world know the importance of meal times and how it brings families together.


Students work and play at Summer Schools
Oct 15 | More than 3700 students returned to school during the September holidays for the first ever Summer Schools - but it wasn't a case of all work and no play.


Winners wanted for prestigious TJ Ryan scholarships
Oct 15 | Awards can carry prestige, honour and financial help, and recipients of the TJ Ryan Memorial Medal and Scholarship deservedly receive all three.


Working together
Oct 15 | Rebecca Perry reports on the three schools named as finalists in the Showcase Award for Excellence in Community or Industry Partnerships. The winner will be announced on October 29.


Helping hands reap rewards
Oct 15 | Savvy spending and consumer-driven choices are among the hallmarks of Generation Y but at Kingaroy State High School, teenagers are learning the best things in life are free.


Bribie students return from Cambodia
Oct 15 | Sleeping on bamboo mats on the floor was one of the challenges faced by a group of Bribie Island students when they travelled to Cambodia earlier this month.


Special State Parliament broadcast
Oct 21 | Teachers and students can hear how the Queensland Parliament works when 612 ABC Brisbane broadcasts a special live program from the floor of Parliament House on October 23.


Free writing workshops
Oct 06 | Young adult fiction author Mo Johnson will be running free writing workshops for Years 10 to 12 students at the State Library from October 20 to 23.


Educators and student to shine at Showcase
Oct 27 | The countdown is on in the Showcase Awards for Excellence in Schools 2009 with Queensland's best state school programs to be announced at a gala dinner on October 29.


Top marks for academic success
Oct 06 | Soaring results in science, literacy and numeracy are winning over students, staff and parents at three Queensland schools - but only one will take out the Showcase Award for Academic Excellence on October 29. Rebecca Perry reports


Stronger, smarter approach to Indigenous schooling
Oct 06 | Hundreds of Queensland teachers and education staff gathered in Brisbane last week for the inaugural Stronger Smarter Summit.


Smiles all round for science education stars
Oct 06 | Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson presented the 2009 Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in Science and Science Education to some excited teachers and students at a ceremony at the Customs House in Brisbane on October 1.


Auslan rhyme time
Oct 06 | Students and families within the deaf community can now enjoy the State Library of Queensland's popular Rhyme Time activities with the help of an Auslan interpreter.


Poster campaign encourages tolerance in schools
Oct 20 | Raising awareness among young people that the expression 'That's so gay' can be hurtful and discriminatory is the aim of a new campaign by lesbian and gay support group PFLAG.


Q150 celebrations continue online
Oct 27 | Queensland teachers and students are encouraged to continue to visit the Department of Education and Training's special Q150 website for ideas and information to help them celebrate Queensland's 150th anniversary.


Nursing program for senior school students
Oct 27 | Years 11 and 12 students keen to pursue a career in nursing or midwifery can boost their ranking by enrolling in a University of Queensland (UQ) enrichment program.


Free shade tents
Oct 06 | With summer fast approaching, South East Queensland schools can take advantage of free shade tents courtesy of Suncorp.


Teacher registration fees due
Oct 06 | The Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) is reminding the majority of Queensland teachers that their annual teacher registration fees are due on December 31.


Creative Generation hits the web
Oct 15 | The full three hours of this year's Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage is now available for viewing on the Creative Generation website.


Teaching graduates invited back to Mount Gravatt
Oct 06 | Griffith University's Mount Gravatt campus will celebrate 40 years of teacher education on October 12 and past teaching graduates are invited back as part of the festivities.


Innovative teaching no game for Microsoft winner
Oct 06 | A Toowoomba teacher with a passion for game development has been recognised by software giant Microsoft as one of Australia's leading information and communication technologies (ICT) teachers.


Redlands students jump the competition to claim gold
Oct 06 | A group of primary school students from the Redlands area have skipped their way to international success in the recent Junior Olympics.


Townsville educators create a climate for change
Oct 06 | As heads of state were gathering in New York ahead of the recent UN Climate Summit, some of Townsville's leading educators were hosting their own sustainability event.


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September


Literacy and numeracy results show improvement
Sept 17 | Efforts to improve Queensland's literacy and numeracy results appear to be working, with the number of Queensland students meeting national benchmarks on the rise.


Veterans' trust scholarships
September 15 | Up to 65 scholarships are available to eligible students in 2010 under the Australian Veterans' Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT).


Get SunSmart and win
September 15 | Queensland students are invited to enter the Cancer Council's SunSmart competition to win some great prizes, including mp3 players and video game consoles.


Free film fest tours Queensland
September 15 | Some of the state's favourite flicks will be shown on a big screen under the stars when the Q150 Film Festival goes on tour later this month.


Queensland history online
September 15 | At the Ekka this year, the State Government celebrated Queensland's 150th anniversary (Q150) with a walk through history.


Turnaround teams and audits to lift standards
Sept 15 | Teams of experienced teachers will be deployed in schools located in our most disadvantaged communities next year in an effort to boost school performance.


Youthful design
September 15 | Students can join in the spirit of the Year of Creativity and start living their design dreams now by entering the Youth Week 2010 poster competition.


Touring the arts
September 15 | Queensland Arts Council's Ontour inschools program promises to take students' imagination to new and exciting places with the launch of its 2010 season.


Training star aiming high
Sept 17 | Balmoral State High School captain Priyanka Luecke knows the world is her oyster - after all, she is living in Brisbane with a family friend while her parents pursue business interests overseas.


Indigenous education summit
September 17 | Queensland teachers with an interest in Indigenous education are invited to attend the inaugural national Stronger Smarter Summit this month.


Burning issue
September 15 | Teachers with a passion for the environment are encouraged to view The Burning Season, which will be televised later this month on free-to-air television.


Summer schools to support literacy and numeracy
Sept 01 | Students needing extra help in literacy and numeracy will attend summer schools during the September holidays as part of a Federal-State Government partnership.


Vacation PD for teachers
Sept 08 | Over the next three years all state school teachers in Queensland will have the opportunity to build their literacy, numeracy and science teaching skills during the September and Christmas vacation periods.


C-Gen to screen on Network Ten
Sept 15 |A 90-minute broadcast of this year's Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage will screen on Network Ten on October 3 at midday.

Bright sparks shine in Showcase Awards
Sept 15 | Three schools are counting down until October 29 when they find out who will win the RemServ Showcase Award for Excellence in Innovation, Rebecca Perry reports.


No wasting
September 15 | A new digital game has been launched that helps children think about saving energy in a fun, interactive and safe online environment.


Livewire community
September 15 | The Starlight Children's Foundation has created a free online community for young people aged 10 and over living with a disability, serious illness or chronic health condition.


Online reef resource
September 15 | Teachers can download a whole term's work on biodiversity and the Great Barrier Reef thanks to a new Queensland Museum online science learning resource.


Preserve and protect
September 15 | A new online education program has been launched to teach primary school students how to preserve and protect the environment.


Boys achieving success at Bundaberg school
Sept 15 | Bundaberg's Kepnock State High School has found an innovative way to tackle truancy and bad behaviour among boys.


Our top eLearning teachers take a bow
Sept 08 | Twelve teachers have been recognised for their excellence in teaching and learning using information and communication technology (ICT).


Taking the lead
Sept 08 | Three schools are leading the way as finalists in the Queensland University of Technology Showcase Award for Excellence in Leadership, Rebecca Perry writes.


Designs for life inspire teacher's US trip
Sept 08 | From rebuilding communities after Hurricane Katrina to sparking new ways of schooling, a Queensland teacher has been using design to tackle real-world challenges in the US.


Science stars shine at parliament
Sept 08 | Queensland's best and brightest science education stars have been recognised in the Peter Doherty Awards, including a Far North Queensland teacher with an eye for astronomy.


Students share a love of reading with celebrity visitors
Sept 08 | Students at Mitchelton State School read books and shared stories with popular author Nick Earls and Queensland Australian of the Year Bronwyn Sheehan during a recent visit.


Friendly start to school
Sept 08 | A national study of children entering primary school has found teachers who helped children make friends also helped their social, emotional and academic development.


Signpost
Sept 08 | With Mistake Creek State School principal Geraldine Parkes.


ICT training reaps 1000th Orange Card holder
Sept 08 | The Department of Education and Training's network of qualified, on-the-ground ICT support staff is thriving, with the number of Orange Card holders growing to 1000.


Our world champion speaks out
Sept 01 | Mark Hunter, principal of Undurba State School, north of Brisbane, has been officially dubbed the world's best public speaker.


Schooling the investigators
Sept 01 | Ethical Standards Unit investigators have been visiting Brisbane schools to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the issues and challenges teachers face.


All together now
Sept 01 | Students, teachers and parents are all responsible for success at the three schools chosen as finalists in the Showcase Award for Excellence in Inclusive Education, Rebecca Perry reports.


Indigenous students research life in the lab
Sept 01 | A group of Indigenous high school students from regional Queensland put science and health careers under the microscope on a recent tour of major science and medical institutions in Brisbane.


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August

State finalists to share in Showcase prize
August 18 | Twenty-four of our best state schools have shared in $120,000 as finalists in the 2009 Showcase Awards for Excellence in Schools.


Consumer confidence
Aug 24 | Queensland students can show off their consumer and financial skills by entering the Buy Smart competition 2009.


Healthy competition
Aug 24 | The State Government and Cherish the Children Foundation have joined forces to reward outstanding programs that promote participation in physical activity and/or healthy eating within Queensland schools.


Dive into new reef game
Aug 24 | A new online game has been launched to help bring the underwater world of Australia's coral reefs into the classroom.


National trial to tackle cyber bullying
August 04 | The Federal Government has announced a $3 million national pilot project aimed at addressing cyber bullying in Australian schools.


Gold Coast schools to crown their own
August 18 | South-East Queensland educators are invited to attend the Gold Coast State Secondary Schools Teacher Gala Ball and Awards Ceremony.


Flagging down schools
Aug 24 | Schools across the state are encouraged to hold a special flag raising ceremony on September 3 to mark Australian National Flag Day.


Visionary work helping students to communicate
August 24 | To mark Speech-Language Therapy in Education Day, Education Views spoke with two speech-language pathologists about the important work they do to help students with special needs in communication.


Showcase stars finding middle ground
August 24 | Keeping students interested in schooling is a common theme in the three programs vying for the Commonwealth Bank Showcase Award for Excellence in the Middle Phase of Learning, to be announced on October 29, Rebecca Perry reports.


Senior Showcase stars
August 24 | Three schools contesting the RACQ Showcase Award for Excellence in the Senior Phase of Learning are linking students with life beyond school, Rebecca Perry writes.


Wrapping up a week in the film industry
August 24 | Nineteen of Queensland's most talented media students recently wrapped up a week of valuable industry experience, including shooting the latest film clip for Brisbane musician Tyrone Noonan.


Nominate a noteworthy Australian
August 04 | If you know of a teacher, administrator or young person who deserves to be acknowledged for their outstanding contribution to their community or Australia at large, nominate them in the Australian of the Year Awards.


Keep your school beautiful
Aug 24 | Queensland schools are invited to get involved in the clean-up effort during this year's Keep Australia Beautiful Week (August 24 to 30).


Science teaching Israeli-style
August 24 | Two Darling Downs science teachers recently joined educators from Brazil, the US and Israel for a series of workshops and lectures at a leading research university in Israel.


The stars of Showcase: Early Phase of Learning
August 18 | Twenty-four finalists in the Showcase Awards for Excellence in Schools are in the running for the state's top honours, which will be announced on October 29 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.


House works for Toolooa students
August 18 | Gladstone's Toolooa State High School is giving the term 'home schooling' a new meaning with the addition of a full-scale house to its grounds.


Queensland training students earn national praise
August 18 | Two former Queensland state school students have earned national praise for their achievements in vocational education and training while at school.


Do the numbers ... district maths tournament adds up
August 18 | Add together more than 650 keen number crunchers from 19 Sunshine Coast high schools and you have a simple equation for a successful maths tournament.


New Indigenous strategy to help close the gap
August 04 | A new strategy has given educators clear targets and direction to improve the achievement, attendance and retention of Indigenous students.


Queensland kids zoom in on film success
August 04 | Nineteen Queensland state school students, including 11 from Far North Queensland, are in Brisbane this week for a crash course in filmmaking.


Creating a culture of creativity
August 04 | A study of a south-east Queensland artist-in-residence program shows teachers and students' engagement in the arts helps to build a culture of creativity in schools, which can lead to improved teaching and learning outcomes.


Authors on board for online festival
August 04 | Some of Australia's favourite children's authors have signed on to chat with Queensland teachers and students as part of this year's Online Literature Festival.


New tools connect colleagues
August 04 | Working online with staff around the state is a whole lot easier now OnePortal and the Learning Place's iConnect are in place.


Mt Surprise State School
August 04 | With Mt Surprise State School principal Brigitte Mackenzie.


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July


The lesson of a lifetime for ballet hopefuls
July 06 | It was an experience of a lifetime for more than a dozen Queensland ballet students, including six from Kelvin Grove State College, when they rehearsed and performed with dancers from the world's oldest ballet company.


Made for Queenslanders
July 20 | To mark Queensland's 150th birthday (Q150), a new book has been published that captures the defining moments of Queensland's rich history.


Indigenous stats online
July 20 | The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has launched a resource that offers teachers and students easy-to-use data on Indigenous population, education, health, housing, work and more.


Copy right, not wrong
July 20 | Teachers have a new resource to help them better understand copyright and the rules that apply to them.


Day for Daniel promotes personal safety
July 20 | Schools are being invited to join in the Day for Daniel, a national day for promoting child safety awareness, by hosting an activity.


Clear a space in your diary for PD
July 27 | Each term, Education Views will publish a calendar of coming professional development events and activities for teachers, school staff and public servants.


Awards put female teachers under the microscope
July 27 | The search is on for female teachers and students who are helping to build brighter futures for women in non-traditional industries.


Clear a space in your diary for PD
July 27 | Each term, Education Views will publish a calendar of coming professional development events and activities for teachers, school staff and public servants.


Illustrate the spirit of giving
July 20 | Queensland primary school students are invited to draw or paint a picture or create a collage that represents the spirit of giving for the inaugural Kmart Art of Giving competition.


Write on with John Marsden
July 20 | Best-selling author John Marsden has thrown his support behind a literary competition for young writers.


Latest classified teaching appointments
July 27 | Congratulations to all staff appointed to promotional positions through the Semester 1 classified teaching round.


Tougher stance on school violence and bullying
July 13 | Queensland state school principals could be given stronger powers to combat poor student behaviour under a major review of school disciplinary processes.


Conference to inspire student leaders
July 20 | Next year young community leaders who contribute to a better world will be recognised at the yLead Australian Student Leadership Conference in Brisbane.


Whittle away your next excursion
July 20 | For an excursion with a difference, schools are invited to visit the revamped Woodworks Timber and Forestry Museum in Gympie and gain an insight into the forestry and timber industry.


Free cancer information seminar for teachers
July 06 | Cancer Council Queensland and the Queensland Childrens Cancer Centre are hosting a free cancer information seminar for Queensland teachers on September 1.


Get well with ACHPER
July 06 | School staff and community members are encouraged to become 'school wellness coordinators' thanks to the Australian Council Health Physical Education Recreation (ACHPER) Qld.


Go Outback for your next school excursion
July 06 | Queensland students and teachers are encouraged to go Outback, following the launch of a new school excursions program.


Tests for new teachers to boost education outcomes
July 08 | Graduate teachers in Queensland will sit literacy, numeracy and science tests as part of changes introduced by the government to boost education outcomes in our schools.


Put your school first
July 20 | Schools throughout Australia are invited to apply for a Schools First award and be in the running to share in $5 million.


Dress down to raise funds
July 20 | Schools are invited to organise a Jeans for Genes activity to raise money for the Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI).


First NAIDOC videoconference marks week
July 27 | Teachers, students and senior education staff have celebrated NAIDOC Week (July 5 to 12) in a variety of ways, including the Department of Education and Training's first statewide NAIDOC videoconference with Indigenous education advocates.


NAIDOC Week celebrations take to the park
July 27 | Thousands of people descended on the Department of Education and Training's display at the Musgrave Park Family Fun Day on July 10 as part of NAIDOC Week celebrations.


Science lessons take off in the bush
July 27 | Fun fly-by lessons in science are teaching some of Queensland's most geographically isolated students the joys and importance of science.


Students encouraged to enrol to vote
July 06 | The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) is encouraging more secondary schools to register for national Enrol to Vote Week, to be held from July 27 to August 2.


Get involved in writing about art
July 06 | Arts Queensland is searching for Queensland senior students who want to write about visual art, craft and design.


Small pet makes big difference
July 13 | He chews fruit in class, scratches loudly during silent reading and occasionally displays anti-social behaviour. But despite his misdemeanours, a small class pet has made a big difference to a class of Year 5 students at Durack State School in Brisbane's west.


Round of applause for school music talent
July 13 | The quality of Education Queensland's instrumental music program rang loud and clear when 77 of our finest young musicians performed in the Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Instrumental Music gala concert.


Mooloolaba State School's movie stars in Tokyo
July 20 | Mooloolaba State School has confirmed its reputation as a mini-Hollywood on the Sunshine Coast by taking out top honours in a prestigious international filmmaking competition.


Jury of peers reviews film fest highlights
July 27 | A group of high school film critics enjoyed a sneak preview of this year's TransLink Cine Sparks as winners in a movie review competition.


Healthy professional learning exercise
July 13 | Childhood obesity and what it means for educators was one of the hot topics of discussion at the recent Australian Council for Health, Physical Education and Recreation (ACHPER) international conference.


SMART CLASSROOMS - Digital dream a reality for Yarrabah teacher
July 13 | A far north Queensland state school teacher has beaten off competition from across the Asia-Pacific to be named as one of the region's most innovative technology teachers.


SMART CLASSROOMS - Bedtime reading a Braveheart performance
July 13 | For many Queenslanders the thought of getting up at 5.30am is enough to make them cringe, roll over and go back to sleep.


PM signs off on new science centre at Marsden State High School
July 08 | Going to school during the holidays isn't something many students would see themselves doing, but then its not every day they get to meet the Prime Minister and hear their school has scored a $1.9 million new science centre.


New science program seeks school lab rats
July 06 | Former Australian of the Year and the scientist who developed of the world's first cervical cancer vaccine, Professor Ian Frazer, is the brains behind a new program to spark students' interest in science.

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June


Text messaging better off-road
June 22 | A new guide has been launched to inform young drivers of the dangers of text messaging while driving.


Budget prepares Queenslanders for state's future prosperity
June 22 | Despite the tougher global economy this year's State Budget has funded more teachers and support to improve students' literacy, numeracy and science outcomes.


Pictures tell the story of state school spectacular
June 15 | State Education Week 2009 culminated in spectacular style with Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage and we have the pictures to prove it!


Opera no longer a 'what if' experience for distance students
June | What would happen if about 100 Queensland students, including several who studied via distance education, came together to write and perform their own operas?


Nominate an outstanding teacher
June 22 | School communities are encouraged to nominate their outstanding teachers in the Queensland College of Teachers' (QCT) Excellence in Teaching Awards.


Youth film fest sparks to life
June 22 | Teachers and students with a taste for quality cinema can get their fill at Cine Sparks 2009, Australia's leading film festival for young people.


Fresh praise for tech teaching duo
June | They're the apple of the eye at one of the world's best known technology companies, but for Glenda Hobdell and Jennie Jahnke, grasping how best to incorporate technology into the classroom has been an ongoing learning experience.


Youth film fest sparks to life
June 22 | Teachers and students with a taste for quality cinema can get their fill at Cine Sparks 2009, Australia's leading film festival for young people.

Online Queensland history lesson
June 22 | Teachers and students can enjoy a unique history lesson thanks to Becoming Queensland, a new virtual exhibition that looks at Queensland's first 50 years.


Drive for students to enter road safety awards
June 23 | High school students are being encouraged to draw on their artistic talents to help reduce the number of road deaths in Queensland.


Student writers rule
June 23 | Young Brisbane writers have been invited to tell the world how it would be if they were in charge and win prizes for themselves and their school.


Schoolyard wildlife warriors challenge
June 22 | Students keen to protect the environment can take part in the Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Schoolyard Warriors Conservation Challenge.


Queensland Rail work experience
June 15 | Secondary students can now explore careers in the state's rail industry through work experience in Queensland Rail (QR) workshops.


National search for inspirational educators
June 22 | The National Excellence In Teaching Awards (NEiTA) 2009 Australian Scholarships Group (ASG) Inspirational Teaching Awards are now open for nominations.


International recognition for schools
June 16 | Nominations for the 2009 Queensland Education and Training International Awards for Excellence (QETI Awards) have opened, with a number of categories for schools and students.


Latest human swine influenza update
JUNE | The campaign to protect state school students and staff from H1N1 Influenza A (Human Swine Influenza) moved to a new phase last week with the precautionary closure of Warwick and Cairns state high schools and Ferny Hills State School.


Swine flu school closures
JUNE | Two more Queensland state schools have been closed as a precaution after students at the schools were confirmed as having H1N1 Influenza A (Human Swine Influenza).


Behind the scenes of creative stage spectacular
JUNE | This Saturday, June 6, more than 2000 of our most talented state school dancers, musicians, singers and performers will take to the stage at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre for Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage 2009.


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May


Feature: Celebrating education | State Education Week
Queensland's 150th anniversary is a chance to celebrate our past while honouring history in the making - and festivities will be in full swing during State Education Week in June.

Brighton's big win
MAY | A whale of an effort netted Brisbane's Brighton State School a $10,000 grant and first place in a national competition.


School at cutting edge
MAY | Ipswich State High School has shown it's a cut above the rest.


Online tourism tutor
MAY | Tourism Queensland has developed a comprehensive, classroom-ready online educational tool for high school teachers and students.


Education news delivered to your computer ... as easy as ABC
MAY | With the click of a mouse, teachers can now subscribe to an online radio program about education.


Students taught to say no to drugs
MAY | A drug awareness program at Everton Park State School teaches students about the effects drugs can have on the body.


Anzac spirit lives on in Jim's Chookhouse
MAY | Greenslopes State School's Anzac assembly this year honoured former pupils who had served Australia in conflict, celebrating the memory of one veteran whose legacy included his love of feathered creatures.


Conference draws arts teachers
MAY | More than 180 teachers from throughout the state gathered in Brisbane in April for the Primary Arts Network's (PAN) annual state conference.


The rewards of volunteering
MAY | To mark National Volunteer Week from May 11 to 17 Craigslea State High School social and community studies teacher Andrew Blight is asking teachers to encourage students to discover the educational and social rewards of volunteering.


PD coordinators share success stories
MAY | Queensland's 12 regional professional development coordinators (PDCs) came from all corners of the state to meet in Brisbane in May for planning sessions and to share their success stories.


Nominate for Reconciliation Awards for Business
MAY | Schools are urged to consider nominating for the 2009 Reconciliation Awards for Business which close on May 25.


New classification structure
MAY | A new classification structure for Queensland state school teachers and school leaders was introduced at the start of the 2009 school year.


Minister's first day in portfolio
APRIL | Education Minister Geoff Wilson visited Mabel Park SS to talk about NAPLAN preparation.


Early childhood education conference
MAY | How do we ensure kindergarten children are prepared for success in a global world?


Have your say on the future of education
MAY | Teachers are encouraged to make a submission on Professor Geoff Masters' recommendations for lifting educational standards in primary schools before the consultation period ends on May 29.


Different schools, similar Yr12 outcomes
MAY | Dysart and Pacific Pines state high schools are in some ways as different as chalk & cheese.


Funding to support Indigenous QCE students
MAY | The Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) invites secondary schools to apply for funding to support students starting Year 11 in 2010.

Competition for students of Mandarin
MAY | Students of Mandarin, the modern standard language of the People's Republic of China, are encouraged to enter the 2009 Shanghai Cup Chinese (Mandarin) Language Speaking Competition.


Calling all student singers and dancers
MAY | Do your students want to sing and dance in front of up to 10,000 people in the state's biggest variety show at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in June?


Call for disability awards nominations
MAY | The Federal Government is encouraging people to nominate students and teachers for a National Disability Award.


Hot foot it to school
MAY | Teachers, students and parents are urged to put their best foot forward in May for national Walk Safely to School Day.


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April


Fifteen minutes with the Minister
April 23 | New Education and Training Minister Geoff Wilson's primary school days recently caught up with him.


One-on-one with the Director-General
April 09 | Many staff members may recognise the friendly, familiar face at the helm of the Department of Education and Training (DET) after the recent machinery of government changes.


Feature: Top class relief effort | Fundraising State Schools
Queenslanders were shocked by the devastation and loss of life caused by the bushfires in Victoria and the destructive flooding created by Cyclone Ellie in our state's north earlier this year. Generous school communities across the state rallied to help, donating more than $33,000. Even those isolated in the flood zone were quick to offer support, raising money for fire victims, becoming evacuation centres or being students' link to the outside world.


Creative Generation artworks on show
APRIL | Schools are being urged to nominate their talented visual artists for Queensland's top student art and design awards program as the 2008 participants' artworks go on display in Brisbane.


Principals give PPP schools tick of approval
APRIL | The state's largest principals' association has welcomed the Queensland Government's first schools public private partnership, which will establish seven new schools in south-east Queensland.


Forums focus on national curriculum
APRIL | Principals and deputy principals are invited to attend the Queensland Studies Authority's free 2009 Principals Forums running from April to June across Queensland.


Minister's first day in portfolio
APRIL | Education Minister Geoff Wilson visited Mabel Park SS to talk about NAPLAN preparation.


Cowboy talks horse sense
APRIL | Rugby League star Matt Bowen has endorsed a reading program for primary school students about the importance of treating animals with care and understanding.


Acting against bullying
APRIL | Balmoral drama students will use "enhanced forum theatre" to introduce primary schoolers to anti-bullying tactics.

West End State School gets fit4fun
APRIL | What's blue, has 1326 legs and likes to huff and puff? The West End State School fit4fun team.

Great teachers inspire medallists
APRIL | Great teachers and passion helped two outstanding Year 12 graduates win a TJ Ryan Memorial Medal and a $10,000 scholarship.


Straight from the horse's mouth
APRIL | A new equestrian program on the Darling Downs is teaching students about everything from showjumping to equine dentistry.


Reading matters
APRIL | It's the time of year again for primary school students around Queensland to find a good book and start reading for this year's Premier's Reading Challenge.


Creating online world a challenge
APRIL | Creating a virtual world that would connect with students throughout the state has been a steep learning curve for a Brisbane teacher.


Strategies closing the gap
APRIL | Josh Mallet, a 1st-year Education undergraduate at the University of the Sunshine Coast, was 1 of a record number of Indigenous Year 12 students enrolled in Queensland in 2008.


Minister's first day in portfolio
APRIL | Education Minister Geoff Wilson visited Mabel Park SS to talk about NAPLAN preparation.


Schools urged to enter Anzac competition
APRIL | Bli Bli State School has been selected to represent south-east Queensland at the Anzac Day Commemoration Ceremony for Students in Brisbane on April 23.


School garden unites community
APRIL | The Jandowae Prep-10 State School has received a $60,000 grant from the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation.

Singers vie for spot in variety show
APRIL | 85 singers from 35 state schools across Qld descended on the Old Museum in Brisbane early last month to secure their place in Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage 2009.


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March


Feature: Outside the square | Year of Creativity
Creativity has often been considered the domain of dancing, drawing and drama - but what about its place in other subjects such as science or sport? As REBECCA PERRY discovers, creative thinking, a crucial skill for students and teachers, will remain on the agenda well beyond the 2009 Year of Creativity.


Students impress 'ideas man'
MARCH | QACI students spend a morning with Queensland's inaugural Innovator in Residence Prof. Carlo Ratti.


Down-to-earth teacher wins platinum
MARCH | A North Queensland teacher whose love of earth sciences was born during a childhood marked by camping trips with his parents in the English and Welsh countryside has won a prestigious teaching award.


Nominations open for national teaching awards
MARCH | Nominations are open to celebrate the work of outstanding teachers, principals, support staff and schools at the Australian Awards for Teaching Excellence.


Prep teachers in national roll-out of the AEDI
MARCH | Queensland Prep teachers will soon take part in the compilation of a comprehensive picture of early childhood development throughout Australia.


Students take swipe at stopping dengue fever
MARCH | Research by Cairns SHS students is helping to stop an epidemic in the Far North.


Riding the wave of success
MARCH | Glenview State School teacher Graeme McIntyre has just competed in the 2009 Australian Masters Surf Life Saving Championships at Scarborough Beach in WA.


Arterial - your highway to the arts
MARCH | Teachers now have a one-stop shop to easily access key arts programs, projects, partnerships and professional development opportunities.


Time to vote for Queensland icons
MARCH | Current state school students are being urged to have their say in selecting Queensland's top 150 icons.


A+ for 100 blood donations
MARCH | A Department of Education, Training and the Arts employee is doing her bit to help those in need, recently making her 100th blood donation.


Nominate top science teachers
APRIL | Australia's Chief Scientist has encouraged nominations for the Prime Minister's Prizes for Science, saying the nation's leading scientific researchers and teachers should be as highly regarded as its top athletes.


Go with the grain
MARCH | Queensland students can learn more about grains through the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries' Schools Plant Science Competition.


Online game sends smart safety message
MARCH | Young Sunshine Coast students have learnt how to be safety smart with the help of an online computer game.


Ecology project for backyard explorers
MARCH | The Queensland Museum is encouraging students to become backyard explorers and take part in an online habitat study of their local area.


At the coalface
MARCH | Queensland teachers and students can get an insight into the resources sector at the new Blackwater International Coal Centre.


PAN conference to boost creativity
MARCH | A state-wide group of primary teachers who volunteer to help other teachers engage more students in creative pursuits will meet in Brisbane in April.

Fight fire fascination
MARCH | Young people often have a natural curiosity about fire, but when that curiosity turns to inappropriate behaviour the student is at risk, as well as peers and property.


Get moving
MARCH | Health and physical education teachers are invited to apply for funding to attend an international physical education conference later this year.


Tips to improve student inclusiveness
MARCH | Blind and vision impaired students have another resource to help gain equality with sighted students.


Training for success in Indigenous communities
MARCH | Some 140 teachers starting jobs in remote Indigenous communities this year have hit the ground running after completing Remote Area Incentives Scheme (RAIS) induction training.


Students make a move for Youth Week
MARCH | Students from across Queensland are invited to join in the spirit of Youth Week 2009 by entering the Make a Move online creative competition.


Youthful exuberance strikes a chord
MARCH | One of Queensland's leading music teachers is embarking on an international musical odyssey including the study of an unusual approach to teaching classical music.


Countering student absences
MARCH | Schools in Cairns and Bundaberg are extolling the virtues of the Every Day Counts campaign.


State-wide SATs review
MARCH | Training Ombudsman Peter Ruhanen is conducting a state-wide review of the school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SATs) system in line with the actions of the Queensland Skills Plan 2008.


More computers for our schools
MARCH | Another 363 Queensland secondary schools will receive funding for new computers.


Time is running out to win
MARCH | There are only two weeks left for students to enter the Our State, Your Stories writing competition.


On the grapevine
MARCH | If you could bottle success, what would it look like? Red, white and sparkling, judging by the vintages being produced at Stanthorpe's Queensland College of Wine Tourism where REBECCA PERRY finds an innovative education venture overflowing with achievements.


Schools receive mozzie repellent
MARCH | All schools in Cairns and Townsville will receive free insect repellent to help prevent the spread of dengue fever.


Beginning teachers given a flying start
MARCH | This year, more than 1000 graduate beginning teachers will take up their first positions in a Queensland state school.


A billion dollar boost for school facilities
Queensland schools will share in $14.7 billion worth of infrastructure funding


Once-in-a-lifetime performance
MARCH | More than 3500 state school students are gearing up to take centre stage as part of Queensland's biggest birthday party and every teacher and student is invited to attend.


Showcase star still shining
MARCH | The residential campus at Spinifex State College in Mount Isa has become a second home for students from some of Queensland's most remote communities.


Switching off for climate change
MARCH | Schools and their communities are being encouraged to participate in Earth Hour 2009. The World Wildlife Fund initiative aims to raise awareness of climate change and makes it possible for individuals to take action and reduce greenhouse emissions.


Lollipop scheme still saving lives
MARCH | Queensland school communities are encouraged to celebrate 25 years of the Lollipop School Crossing Supervisor Scheme.


Celebrate our pioneering women
MARCH | Queensland schools are invited to join communities around the world to mark International Women's Day (IWD), celebrated each year on March 8.


More funding for Asian languages
MARCH | Queensland students will have more opportunities to learn an Asian language with the start of a $62.4 million national languages program this year.


More enrolments mean more teachers
MARCH | Queensland teachers and students can get an insight into the resources sector at the new Blackwater International Coal Centre.


Chop Chop
MARCH | Queensland teachers and students are invited to colour or shave their hair for the Leukaemia Foundation's World's Greatest Shave from March 12 to 14.


In training for a win
MARCH | Rohan Greer's goal of becoming an electrician was sparked as a curious toddler tinkering with his toys.


In the future
MARCH | Schooling in Australia has a new blueprint for the future with the release of the Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians.


Spinal safety message inspires students
MARCH | A spinal awareness program is inspiring Queensland students to practise safe behaviours and think about the consequences of their actions.


Practice tests to lift student achievement
MARCH | Queensland state schools will use practice tests to prepare their students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 for this year's national tests, and to help assess their literacy and numeracy levels.


Aspiring teachers awarded scholarships
Bid O'Sullivan Teaching Scholarship & The Pearl Duncan Scholarship


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February


Provisional schools
FEBRUARY | Provisional schools are an important part of Queensland's education history. One of the earliest references to provisional schools by Queensland's education department was in a report in 1869.


Connecting the dots
FEBRUARY | Rockhampton teacher Wayne Real remembers introducing technology into his classroom three decades ago.


Creative thinking
FEBRUARY | The year will celebrate creativity in our classrooms and give teachers and students new opportunities to develop their creative skills.


Schools score an A for war effort
FEBRUARY | In 1943, Prime Minister John Curtin's plea to children did not fall on deaf ears.


One teacher schools
FEBRUARY | Since the 19th century, many young Queenslanders in remote areas have been educated in one-teacher schools.


Indigenous reflections
FEBRUARY | Times have changed since Penny Tripcony was a student at East Brisbane State School in the 1940s.


Teaching across the great divide
FEBRUARY | In 1922, the Primary Correspondence School in Brisbane was established, heralding a more productive and efficient way of teaching children in remote areas.


Distance no longer a tyranny
FEBRUARY | Historian Geoffrey Blainey suggested in his book, The Tyranny of Distance, that distance shaped Australia's history.


Milking the system
FEBRUARY | The mention of the 'free milk scheme' often prompts vivid images to flood back for thousands of former Queenslands primary school students.


Indigenous reflections
FEBRUARY | Pearl Duncan, the 1st tertiary trained Indigenous teacher in Australia believes investment in education has yielded the best results.


Teaching lessons lasting a lifetime
FEBRUARY | In classrooms across Queensland there are a lot of people called Isabelle - currently one of the most popular girls' names - but only one who is aged 80 and working as a teacher.


New schools go green
FEBRUARY | Environmental sustainability, wireless internet and al fresco dining areas would have been beyond the comprehension of students and teachers at Queensland's first state schools in the 1850s and 60s.


School on the move
FEBRUARY | Since the 19th century, many young Queenslanders in remote areas have been educated in one-teacher schools.


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Vol 18. Number 1, January/February 2009


DG's View with Director-General Rachel Hunter
2009 is a momentous year for Queensland as we celebrate 150 years since Queensland separated from New South Wales (Q150). To mark the occasion, Education Views steps back in time to look at the evolution of Queensland education over those years.


Back to school bulletin
2009 will be a big year with more new teachers, students and schools. It will also see a review of the primary school curriculum and the start of a new Indigenous scholarship program.


The education evolution
When the founders of Queensland's education system put their grand plan in place some 150 years ago, they couldn't have imagined the impact it would have on future generations of students and teachers. REBECCA PERRY steps back in time to discover how history was made in classrooms throughout the state.


Creative thinking
2009 is the Year of Creativity in Queensland schools. The year will celebrate creativity in our classrooms and give teachers and students new opportunities to develop their creative skills.


End of an era
It's a bit strange - but very reassuring - to hear a high school principal admit his own teenage years were spent 'having an absolute ball, and I never studied'.


Family ties to teaching
When Daphne Weller began her teaching career at the Gympie Girls and Infants School in the 1930s, she could never have imagined both her daughter and granddaughter would follow in her footsteps decades later.


A journey worth revisiting
Music is often the soundtrack to moments in time - so in 1987, as the stock-market crashed, it's little wonder that Bon Jovi's 'Livin' on a Prayer' struck a chord.


Our longest serving public servant
When I told principal advisor Lesley Fletcher I was from the department's Corporate Communication and Marketing (CCM) branch at central office she thought I was phoning her about a hot media issue.


Our longest serving teacher
With 54 years' continuous employment with the department in its various incarnations, Margaret May is our longest serving state school teacher.


Special lessons
At 81, there is a quiet, old school aura about Geoffrey Swan, but it's nothing to do with his age.


Building lasting memories
Early Queensland schools were very basic structures built of materials at hand.


Hot properties
Introducing some of our most historically significant state school buildings.


History alive at Kedron
While a national history curriculum is set to become compulsory for students until Year 10 in 2011, students at a Brisbane high school are already soaking up their local history thanks to a teacher with a passion for the past.


Planning for a successful celebration
Acting principal of Currumbin Valley State School Andrew Schumacher has one piece of advice for any school planning to celebrate a significant milestone or event - plan ahead.


School sports
In the early days of the Queensland colony, there was no such thing as organised games.


Queenslanders embrace a ticket to train
The lives of Queenslanders have been enriched by vocational education and training for more than 150 years.



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