Education Minister Promises Pop Visits

The minister of education will be paying surprise visits to the island's schools as part of his ministry's efforts to find effective ways to curtail youth violence and indiscipline.

Bertrand Joseph says the initiative arose following complaints raised by parents at the recently held national consultation.

He says these spot checks are two-fold, ie geared towards observing how the schools are being managed, and to provide mentor ship and encouragement for students.

The first schools visited were the Cedar Grove and Green Bay Primary
Schools, where an executive team checked through school records and observed teachers' class control and preparation techniques, among other things.

"It is important for every child to be afforded the opportunity to get a sound education in light of globalization and the CSME," Joseph said. "A teacher's role is one of a decision maker, mentor and coach, and as such they play a critical role in the educational development of the country."

The Minister of Education notes, "This effort will keep teachers alert, ensuring that their classrooms are properly managed to encourage order and discipline."

Meanwhile, plans are on track for this year's Education Week, set to begin on Friday.

The activities will be held under the theme "Improving Quality,"
and highlight the need to find creative ways to advance the education system amidst the many challenges.

The week will open with a thanksgiving service, followed by a national youth forum on HIV and AIDS.

There will also be a national reading day, sporting activities, an open day and an exhibition of work within the schools.

Education Week culminates with an awards ceremony where educators will be acknowledged for their indelible service to the education sector.

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