Craigslea Community Kindergarten and Preschool in Brisbane, Australia asked parents to pay $1,400 for their children’s art portfolios as a fundraiser to cover unpaid bills and educator wages. The debt-ridden center closed last month after funding was halted during a governance investigation. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli called the request “emotional blackmail” and “un-Australian,” saying “I never saw any Picassos come home, that’s for sure. But they mean something to you.” One parent, Brooke, called it “ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous. I don’t even really have words for it.” Police are investigating an alleged midnight break-in at the kindergarten two weeks ago. The Department of Education and Creche and Kindergarten Association successfully retrieved all portfolios Wednesday, making them available to families free of charge. (Story URL)
Kindergarten Demanded Parents Pay $1,400 For Their Children’s Artwork
Sep 25, 2025 | 8:00 PM