Citywest Educate Together Second-level Campaign
Educate Together is currently collecting Expressions of Interest from parents who want an Educate Together Secondary School in Citywest, Co. Dublin.
This data will be used in the event of the Department of Education opening a process whereby potential school patrons apply for patronage.
Please be aware that this does not guarantee that a school will open in Citywest or that the chid/ren named will be offered a place if a school is opened.
Click here to complete an Expression of Interest Form
A Letter of Experience – We need YOU!
April 2016
Hi Parents and Guardians,
I am writing this about my experiences with our start up group for our wonderful school, Citywest Educate Together National School, in the hopes that it ignites your interest in our campaign to get a secondary school in our area.
I have been a volunteer for Educate Together for the last 9 years. In 2007 we started out as 3 parents with a dream, who felt passionate about our shared goal- to achieve an Educate Together Primary School in Dublin 24. Our group grew in the next few years, but not without the hard work that comes with publicity, political lobbying, fundraising, writing letters, public meetings, and much more.
We campaigned for nearly 5 years, and look where we are now! In 2012 our school opened to much anticipation and excitement. Nearly 4 years on and our school has grown exponentially to 210 students. So, what does this mean for our secondary campaign? Instead of 3 parents starting uphill, we've got a parent/ guardian body of potentially 420 helpers!
Right?
We've GOT THIS!
A natural next step for all our children's education. All we need is YOU!
A lot of traditional schools just seem to “pop up” as and when needed in an area. Sometimes too late for too many, as our own community is experiencing, sometimes, with luck, just on time for some. This is not the case for an Educate Together school, and indeed, never has been. They don't pop up out of nowhere. They are, for all intents and purposes, won by a start-up group of parents and guardians who often campaign and lobby for years for their ideal school for their children. And as we have all seen, a school who teaches equality, justice, child-centredness, democracy, and specifically- view students as individuals, with individual needs and hopes. A prime example of this is our own original start up group for our primary school. We lobbied and campaigned sometimes tirelessly when the political climate dictated so, for nearly 5 years. This, apparently is short compared to some other start up groups’ campaigns. But many of the parents who worked on our campaign from the beginning were unable to use the school which opened in 2012, due to the fact that it came too late for their children’s ages. Despite this cruel fact and devastating blow, they stayed on the campaign and worked on it until the end, volunteering their time and energy that still inspires me to this day. I have no doubt that we have our school because of these amazing people.
A lot of people take for granted that, because they are very busy, then someone else will do it, someone else will campaign for a local secondary school, someone less busy. Or maybe it will just happen anyway? But I am here to tell you from my experience that great schools don’t come for free, not without people power, power in numbers, without political momentum and pressure, without community involvement and much publicity, without YOU! We need you!
My experience in Educate Together volunteering is that I didn’t encompass one single parent or guardian who weren’t incredibly busy in their lives, with work, voluntary work, caregivers, studying, raising their children, double jobbing, or all of it!
When I joined Educate Together 9 years ago I thought at the time that I’d no skills to offer the campaign other than ambition and hope. I had no computer skills, I was shy and lacking in confidence, I thought I’d no experience to offer the campaign. However I soon learned that not only was my contributions needed, but it was also valued and appreciated. See that’s what you’ll find in an Educate Together school campaign. Everyone’s contribution is appreciated, big or small, there is an understanding that each person is doing what they can do. And if you’re not there, the same old people are having to do more, even though most people have similar busy schedules, deadlines, pressures and stresses of everyday life. The old dictate remains very true- many hands make light work.
I can’t overstate how every contribution made a difference, big or little, to the overall success of our primary school start up campaign. From marketing, fundraising, photocopying, letter writing, drawing, delivering, corporate sponsorships, politicking, publicity, cheering; it all made a difference. And the beauty of it is that it’s a grassroots movement made by ordinary people for their children’s education. In equal measure, that’s also its greatest challenge. We need our people, WE NEED YOU. Forget expensive toys and gadgets, what better gift to give to your children than your contribution to the betterment of their education?
Another great challenge we face with our Secondary School campaign is that at the moment, just a couple of members are incurring all the costs of stationery, paper, website fees, and other communication costs. We will change this with fundraising supports. You know the old adage- a problem shared is a problem halved.
You’ll find a co-op, not a clique, you’ll find a group of equal peers, not seniority, you’ll find always an appreciative welcome, never judgmentalness, you’ll find open minds to all kinds of ideas. You might even find, as I did, what a difference you can make. WE NEED YOU.
When I joined Educate Together many moons ago, I dared to hope and dream for an Educate Together School for both of my children. But I never could’ve imagined the wonderful experiences I had along the journey, the confidence I gained, and the eventual school we got, which exceeded even my best dreams. The friendships I made for life are now invaluable to me. One way or another, no matter how much distance comes between our paths, I know I made friendships for life. I just know. And hey, we weren’t averse to the odd night off and the odd night out! We’re only human...
Let’s dare to dream for an Educate Together Secondary School for our children too, and let's put those dreams into actions together. WE NEED YOU.
You may be sensing a theme here… And at the risk of repeating myself, (is it too late to apologise?!) WE really NEED YOU!
All of our primary school volunteer initiatives still need more of you too.
I will sign off with a quote that sums up Educate Together start up campaigns-
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Thanks for reading this,
Best regards,
Leona Mc Mahon, parent.
Contact us at:
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CitywestETcamp2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Citywest-Educate-Together-2nd-Level-Campaign-1668705970081598/
Hi Parents and Guardians,
I am writing this about my experiences with our start up group for our wonderful school, Citywest Educate Together National School, in the hopes that it ignites your interest in our campaign to get a secondary school in our area.
I have been a volunteer for Educate Together for the last 9 years. In 2007 we started out as 3 parents with a dream, who felt passionate about our shared goal- to achieve an Educate Together Primary School in Dublin 24. Our group grew in the next few years, but not without the hard work that comes with publicity, political lobbying, fundraising, writing letters, public meetings, and much more.
We campaigned for nearly 5 years, and look where we are now! In 2012 our school opened to much anticipation and excitement. Nearly 4 years on and our school has grown exponentially to 210 students. So, what does this mean for our secondary campaign? Instead of 3 parents starting uphill, we've got a parent/ guardian body of potentially 420 helpers!
Right?
We've GOT THIS!
A natural next step for all our children's education. All we need is YOU!
A lot of traditional schools just seem to “pop up” as and when needed in an area. Sometimes too late for too many, as our own community is experiencing, sometimes, with luck, just on time for some. This is not the case for an Educate Together school, and indeed, never has been. They don't pop up out of nowhere. They are, for all intents and purposes, won by a start-up group of parents and guardians who often campaign and lobby for years for their ideal school for their children. And as we have all seen, a school who teaches equality, justice, child-centredness, democracy, and specifically- view students as individuals, with individual needs and hopes. A prime example of this is our own original start up group for our primary school. We lobbied and campaigned sometimes tirelessly when the political climate dictated so, for nearly 5 years. This, apparently is short compared to some other start up groups’ campaigns. But many of the parents who worked on our campaign from the beginning were unable to use the school which opened in 2012, due to the fact that it came too late for their children’s ages. Despite this cruel fact and devastating blow, they stayed on the campaign and worked on it until the end, volunteering their time and energy that still inspires me to this day. I have no doubt that we have our school because of these amazing people.
A lot of people take for granted that, because they are very busy, then someone else will do it, someone else will campaign for a local secondary school, someone less busy. Or maybe it will just happen anyway? But I am here to tell you from my experience that great schools don’t come for free, not without people power, power in numbers, without political momentum and pressure, without community involvement and much publicity, without YOU! We need you!
My experience in Educate Together volunteering is that I didn’t encompass one single parent or guardian who weren’t incredibly busy in their lives, with work, voluntary work, caregivers, studying, raising their children, double jobbing, or all of it!
When I joined Educate Together 9 years ago I thought at the time that I’d no skills to offer the campaign other than ambition and hope. I had no computer skills, I was shy and lacking in confidence, I thought I’d no experience to offer the campaign. However I soon learned that not only was my contributions needed, but it was also valued and appreciated. See that’s what you’ll find in an Educate Together school campaign. Everyone’s contribution is appreciated, big or small, there is an understanding that each person is doing what they can do. And if you’re not there, the same old people are having to do more, even though most people have similar busy schedules, deadlines, pressures and stresses of everyday life. The old dictate remains very true- many hands make light work.
I can’t overstate how every contribution made a difference, big or little, to the overall success of our primary school start up campaign. From marketing, fundraising, photocopying, letter writing, drawing, delivering, corporate sponsorships, politicking, publicity, cheering; it all made a difference. And the beauty of it is that it’s a grassroots movement made by ordinary people for their children’s education. In equal measure, that’s also its greatest challenge. We need our people, WE NEED YOU. Forget expensive toys and gadgets, what better gift to give to your children than your contribution to the betterment of their education?
Another great challenge we face with our Secondary School campaign is that at the moment, just a couple of members are incurring all the costs of stationery, paper, website fees, and other communication costs. We will change this with fundraising supports. You know the old adage- a problem shared is a problem halved.
You’ll find a co-op, not a clique, you’ll find a group of equal peers, not seniority, you’ll find always an appreciative welcome, never judgmentalness, you’ll find open minds to all kinds of ideas. You might even find, as I did, what a difference you can make. WE NEED YOU.
When I joined Educate Together many moons ago, I dared to hope and dream for an Educate Together School for both of my children. But I never could’ve imagined the wonderful experiences I had along the journey, the confidence I gained, and the eventual school we got, which exceeded even my best dreams. The friendships I made for life are now invaluable to me. One way or another, no matter how much distance comes between our paths, I know I made friendships for life. I just know. And hey, we weren’t averse to the odd night off and the odd night out! We’re only human...
Let’s dare to dream for an Educate Together Secondary School for our children too, and let's put those dreams into actions together. WE NEED YOU.
You may be sensing a theme here… And at the risk of repeating myself, (is it too late to apologise?!) WE really NEED YOU!
All of our primary school volunteer initiatives still need more of you too.
I will sign off with a quote that sums up Educate Together start up campaigns-
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Thanks for reading this,
Best regards,
Leona Mc Mahon, parent.
Contact us at:
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CitywestETcamp2
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Citywest-Educate-Together-2nd-Level-Campaign-1668705970081598/
Next Meeting - Wednesday 27th April, 8pm, Citywest Hotel
Our next meeting is on Wednesday 27th April at 8pm in Citywest Hotel. Please come along, if you can.
As you know form the emails and meetings over the last 9 months, since we started this group for a Second Level Educate Together School for our children here in Citywest, a lot has been done. We have sent letters to the Department of Education, secured provision for multiple second level schools with South Dublin County Council in the 2016-2022 Local Authority plans for this area, and set up an expression of interest form with Educate Together http://www.citywestetns.ie/campaign-for-a-second-level-school.html
We have lots to do and so little time before our children head on to second level. We can not take for granted that a second level educate together school will just appear. We all need to come together and work for our children's future. I ask you please to spare any time you have to join the campaign and help us secure a second level educate together school for all our children here in Citywest.
Take care and hope to see you soon - Dave Murphy
As you know form the emails and meetings over the last 9 months, since we started this group for a Second Level Educate Together School for our children here in Citywest, a lot has been done. We have sent letters to the Department of Education, secured provision for multiple second level schools with South Dublin County Council in the 2016-2022 Local Authority plans for this area, and set up an expression of interest form with Educate Together http://www.citywestetns.ie/campaign-for-a-second-level-school.html
We have lots to do and so little time before our children head on to second level. We can not take for granted that a second level educate together school will just appear. We all need to come together and work for our children's future. I ask you please to spare any time you have to join the campaign and help us secure a second level educate together school for all our children here in Citywest.
Take care and hope to see you soon - Dave Murphy
Update from Educate Together - 22nd April 2016
Educate Together have very kindly offered to do the following for our campaign:
- share Facebook posts and Tweets
- publicise events
- spread the word about your campaign
- put together posters/flyers
Make Equality in Education an Election Issue in 2016
Educate Together is working towards a day when all children have access to a school that is truly inclusive and equality-based. For that to happen, Ireland needs many more Educate Together schools - schools that don’t demand proof of religion at the school gate and don’t segregate children along religious lines during the school day.
Educate Together is determined to make equality in education an election issue. We've sent canvas cards to every Educate Together school and campaign group in the country for distribution. We are asking all our supporters to ask all election candidates to commit to Educate Together’s 4 Essentials for Equality in Education:
Commitment 1: Provide 300 Equality-based Primary Schools
Candidates must commit to establishing a national network of 300 Educate Together primary schools.
Commitment 2: Provide 30 Equality-based Second-level Schools
Candidates must commit to developing a network of 30 Educate Together second-level schools.
Commitment 3: Provide Realistic Funding For All New Schools
Candidates must commit to provide the necessary grants for the establishment of all new schools in Ireland.
Commitment 4: Provide For All Children Equally
Candidates must commit to radically increase investment in our education system, to increase funding for schools and to provide proper supports for children with additional needs.
Download the canvas cards with the 4 Commitments to show Election Candidates when they come knocking.
Print - http://static1.squarespace.com/static/528204dbe4b0c0e9b159cccb/t/56b0aac57da24f37c652f548/1454418631165/Educate+Together+GE16+CanvasCard.pdf
Educate Together is determined to make equality in education an election issue. We've sent canvas cards to every Educate Together school and campaign group in the country for distribution. We are asking all our supporters to ask all election candidates to commit to Educate Together’s 4 Essentials for Equality in Education:
Commitment 1: Provide 300 Equality-based Primary Schools
Candidates must commit to establishing a national network of 300 Educate Together primary schools.
Commitment 2: Provide 30 Equality-based Second-level Schools
Candidates must commit to developing a network of 30 Educate Together second-level schools.
Commitment 3: Provide Realistic Funding For All New Schools
Candidates must commit to provide the necessary grants for the establishment of all new schools in Ireland.
Commitment 4: Provide For All Children Equally
Candidates must commit to radically increase investment in our education system, to increase funding for schools and to provide proper supports for children with additional needs.
Download the canvas cards with the 4 Commitments to show Election Candidates when they come knocking.
Print - http://static1.squarespace.com/static/528204dbe4b0c0e9b159cccb/t/56b0aac57da24f37c652f548/1454418631165/Educate+Together+GE16+CanvasCard.pdf
Email the Elections Candiates
Depending on where you are living, in either Dublin South West or Dublin Mid-West. We are lucky enough, just like the national school located in Citywest, that once open; our Educate Together Second Level School would attract families from both constituencies.
Tell your local candidate that equality in education is an issue that needs to be addressed. The State funds the education system and the Government is accountable to you - the voter and the taxpayer. We have provided email contacts for all election candidates below, and a template for your email above.
Dublin South West
Ann-Marie Dermody
FG [email protected]
Colm Brophy
FG [email protected]
Declan Burke
IND [email protected]
Deirdre O'Donovan
IND [email protected]
Eamonn Maloney
IND [email protected]
Francis Noel Duffy
GP [email protected]
John Lahart
FF [email protected]
Karen Warren
FG [email protected]
Katherine Zappone
IND [email protected]
Mick Duff
LAB [email protected]
Pamela Kearns
LAB [email protected]
Paul Murphy
AAA [email protected]
Peter Fitzpatrick
IND [email protected]
Ronan McMahon
REN [email protected]
Sandra Fay
AAA [email protected]
Sarah Holland
SF [email protected]
Sean Crowe
SF [email protected]
Dublin Mid-West
Anne-Marie McNally
SD socialdemocrats.ie
Derek Keating
FG [email protected]
Eoin Ó Broin
SF [email protected]
Frances Fitzgerald
FG [email protected]
Francis Timmons
IND [email protected]
Gino Kenny
PBPA [email protected]
Joanna Tuffy
LAB [email protected]
John Curran
FF [email protected]
Lorraine Hennessy
WP [email protected]
Paul Gogarty
IND [email protected]
Tell your local candidate that equality in education is an issue that needs to be addressed. The State funds the education system and the Government is accountable to you - the voter and the taxpayer. We have provided email contacts for all election candidates below, and a template for your email above.
Dublin South West
Ann-Marie Dermody
FG [email protected]
Colm Brophy
FG [email protected]
Declan Burke
IND [email protected]
Deirdre O'Donovan
IND [email protected]
Eamonn Maloney
IND [email protected]
Francis Noel Duffy
GP [email protected]
John Lahart
FF [email protected]
Karen Warren
FG [email protected]
Katherine Zappone
IND [email protected]
Mick Duff
LAB [email protected]
Pamela Kearns
LAB [email protected]
Paul Murphy
AAA [email protected]
Peter Fitzpatrick
IND [email protected]
Ronan McMahon
REN [email protected]
Sandra Fay
AAA [email protected]
Sarah Holland
SF [email protected]
Sean Crowe
SF [email protected]
Dublin Mid-West
Anne-Marie McNally
SD socialdemocrats.ie
Derek Keating
FG [email protected]
Eoin Ó Broin
SF [email protected]
Frances Fitzgerald
FG [email protected]
Francis Timmons
IND [email protected]
Gino Kenny
PBPA [email protected]
Joanna Tuffy
LAB [email protected]
John Curran
FF [email protected]
Lorraine Hennessy
WP [email protected]
Paul Gogarty
IND [email protected]
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