Kempsey East PS was established in 1881. It has a long and proud tradition in education and is well- respected in the local community. The school's core values are respect and the development of personal responsibility. These values are embedded in the School Discipline Code and reinforced through curriculum offerings. The school serves a diverse community, drawing its students from both urban and rural areas. The school draws many students from homes that are classed as socio-economically disadvantaged. In 2009 the school commenced on the NSW Priority Schools Progam and in 2010 was identified as a Low Socio Economic School and will receive additional Federal funding 2010-2013. Inclusion in these programs brings much needed funds to conduct early literacy and language programs, intensive maths programs and increased teacher professional development. Despite the Australian Early Development Index indicating many of our Kindergarten students commence school with very poor language development and social skills, excellent teaching and intensive school programs support these students to achieve results approaching and often surpassing the state averages in NAPLAN. A school priority is to ensure that all children are provided with relevant and challenging teaching programs. The school has a focus on providing enrichment programs in literacy and numeracy to provide increased learning challenges and to further extend gifted and talented students. The proportion of students achieving in the top bands of NAPLAN indicate the success of these newly introduced programs. Many students travel to school by bus each day. All students are encouraged to participate and give their best performance in all aspects of school life. The development of skills which will allow students to become valued and respected community members is continually fostered. In addition to the key learning areas, students are provided with opportunities to participate in excursions, perform in the school band, choir and dance group, and participate in a..