Ms Grace was in Mount Isa to launch a $100 million strategy to support schools in rural and remote areas.

“We’re investing $31.1 million over four years to deliver four Centres for Learning and Wellbeing around the state – the first of which is right here in Mount Isa,” Ms Grace said.

“We’re also establishing centres at Roma in South West Queensland, Central Queensland and Far North Queensland,” she said.

“These centres will offer support to a network of state schools in rural and remote locations through coaching and professional development, both face-to-face and through virtual delivery methods.

The Mount Isa Centre for Learning and Wellbeing is located at the Central State School site on Miles Street.

Ms Grace said the four-year rural and remote strategy also includes a funding boost for teacher housing and internet connectivity to their homes. 

A further $3.2 million is gong to build leadership skills in aspiring principals so they can confidently take up leadership roles in the bush.

Queensland Isolated Children’s Parents Association president Tammie Irons welcomed the release of the rural and remote education strategy.

“We feel very strongly about giving rural and remote students the same opportunities as city kids,” Ms Irons said.

“A key part of this plan is for schools in rural and remote areas to actively develop strong and sustainable partnerships with families and communities, because we know that when we do this our students thrive.”

Queensland Secondary Principals’ president Mark Breckenridge said leadership of schools in rural and remote locations involves unique challenges.

“These new centres will support school leaders in their work, building their capability to lead world class schools. Having access to professional support and expert advice in the local community is a very positive move,”  Mr Breckenridge said.