Shoalhaven High School principal Kem Rakisposki was overwhelmed by the $1 million announcement for his school, made during a meet and greet with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian on Wednesday.

“It was my understanding it would be a friendly visit, the announcement was the cherry on top,” he said.

“It’s a wonderful boost for us, it’s a very pleasant surprise for us.

“It allows us to carry out a lot of the maintenance work and backlog that had accumulated.

“This funding has been a most welcomed addition to funds we do have to try and make sure we do offer wonderful, continuous, world-class education.”

Kiama MP Gareth Ward said the school had been prioritised due to a significant maintenance backlog.

“Some of the older buildings need renewal, a bit of tender loving care,” he said.

The school will look into replacing its roof, that has been there for 40 years, and ensuring outdoor areas are safe from trees at risk of falling down.

Premier Berejiklian was pleased to surprise the school community on Wednesday.

“We appreciate as a state government, improving the learning environment for students is so important,” she said.

“As the school leaders led me around I was so impressed with the lovely community they’re a part of and it brought me back to my own days as a public high school student.

“I had every opportunity through the teachers and my family to believe I could go to work and do anything I wanted to, and I certainly hope every student at this school feels that sense of encouragement.”

The remaining $3.4 million will be shared among 17 schools.

Maintenance project funding will also go to Budawang School, Callala Public School, Greenwell Point Public School, Huskisson Public School, Milton Public School, Nowra East Public School, Nowra High School, Nowra Public School, Sanctuary Point Public School, St Georges Basin Public School, Sussex Inlet Public School, Terara Public School, Tomerong Public School, Ulladulla High School, Ulladulla Public School, Vincentia High School and Vincenta Public School.