Minister of Education Priya Manickchand emphasised the need for parents and teachers to cooperate to give students the best opportunities to succeed as she and a team comprising education officers met parents to register students for the new Diamond/Grove Primary School.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, scores of parents attended the session where they voiced concerns about corporal punishment in schools and related issues at the meeting two Sundays ago at the newly built school. The minister commended the fathers who attended the meeting, pointing out that their presence is a step forward as their absence at such meetings is often perceived to be an indication that they are less interested in their children’s future.
“The role of upbringing children is not a sole responsibility of a mother and as such I must congratulate the many fathers who are present here today, as you are demonstrating your commitment to your children’s future,” she said. Manickchand then called on parents to cooperate with teachers at Parent-Teachers Association (PTA) meetings at the new Diamond/Grove Primary school in order to resolve issues.
When asked about the design, colour and style of the new uniform, some parents were keen to voice their displeasure, but the minister reminded them that a uniform will not determine if a child excels but their commitment to learning. “This is just a shell for a child to wear…it will by no chance determine how well they do in school. When the REdO came with the design of the uniforms I told her no; let’s go with something a little more simple, because for every pocket and buttons a parent pays more,” she said.
Regarding the first PTA meeting which is set for the second Thursday in September, Manickchand encouraged the PTA to be reasonable in their decision-making so that every household despite its financial status can be actively involved. In addition, she said government is currently taking steps to ensure that the new school is a model for other schools, reiterating that this will not be possible without parents’ support.
During the interactive session, it was discovered that some parents had already purchased uniform material. As such, the minister said the ministry will provide them with another voucher when they present the material. Parents also raised concerns about the issue of corporal punishment in schools and the ‘no child left behind’ policy.
In response, Manickchand said nationwide consultations are being held to garner input from stakeholders at all levels before a decision is taken on the issue. “While I have my own views on the issue, the Government has committed to holding consultations so that everyone has a say in the matter…However, on the issue of literacy and numeracy, a committee will be formed shortly, including a representative from all the political parties to address the issue,” she said.
Manickchand also pledged that the final touches to the school compound including the installation of swings and slides will be done before the September start of the new school term.
Parents of children who recently completed the nursery level and are starting the primary level and those who were interested in transferring their children to the new school were given an opportunity to register at the close of the meeting. Parents will also be asked to pay a fee of $1000 for report cards and school badges, GINA said.
