On Monday, 3rd June, a number of parents were contacted via phone and informed that Tawonga Kindergarten will be relocated to Lakeview Childcare Centre effective next term. This abrupt decision was made by Alphine Children's Services (ACS) without any prior consultation with the parents. To say we are upset is an understatement.

We have chosen to place our toddlers (3 and 4-year-olds) at Tawonga Kindergarten for specific reasons that align with our children's needs and our community values. The sudden relocation disrupts not only our children's education but also the plans of many prospective families who intend to enroll their children in the coming years.

This decision affects my child who is attending kindergarten this year and next year, as well as numerous other families in our community. We urge ACS to reconsider this move and involve parents in any future decisions regarding the kindergarten's location. 

Please sign this petition to stop the relocation of Tawonga Kindergarten and ensure that parental consultation is prioritised in such important decisions affecting our children’s education. Should ACS wish to cease Kindergarten at Tawonga we urge they should relinquish the licence so that another organisation can run it and allow locals to have choices in their children's education. 

Further reasons this action needs to be prevented.

• This kindergarten was awarded an "exceeding national quality standard last year" which was achieved by the amazing staff. 
  
  
• This kindergarten acts as a great transition to Tawonga Primary School, helping bolster numbers of the school and also allow kids to have a easy step up to prep.

• The core issue is that ACS does not hire staff to work at one location (i.e. Tawonga) as they must work all ACS locations including Mount Beauty, Bright and Myrtleford. There are ample candidates who could work this kindergarten in the surrounding area however ACS policy prevents this. 

Feel free to add your comments to this petition also as your input and support is greatly appreciated.