Education Minister Satisfied With Start of New School Year

Education Minister, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, is expressing satisfaction with the level of preparedness of schools for Monday’s (September 1) start of the 2014/15 academic year.

Reports from the Ministry indicate that there was a relatively smooth start to the new school year without any major challenges.

Speaking with JIS News after visiting nine infant, primary, junior high, and secondary institutions in Central Kingston, Rev. Thwaites said he is happy with the “advanced state of readiness” evident at the institutions.

While noting that not all of the scheduled activities for some institutions have been completed, including repairs and textbook deliveries, the Minister said that “by and large, schools in Central Kingston have made a good start, and I am grateful for all the effort that has gone into that.”

As it relates to the rest of the island, Rev. Thwaites said initial reports suggest that some institutions are facing challenges and assures that these will be addressed as quickly as possible. “I have assured them that I will raise them in the priority list and we will ensure to have that done before the end of this calendar year,” he said.

The Minister said he is also looking forward to the continuation of the infrastructure programme that will take several more high and primary schools off shift this year and thereby “offer a better opportunity for (quality) education (for our students).”

The Minister also expressed satisfaction with the quality leadership now in place at a number of the schools, noting that several new Principals and Vice Principals have been appointed.

“I am pleased with the leadership in the schools, (and believe) we are going to have a good start to the school year. I am proud to see so many parents out this morning, particularly many more fathers than I have seen on the past, (who have accompanied) their children to primary school…that’s very gratifying,” he added.

Rev. Thwaites said there is great anticipation and expectation of stronger academic performances by students this year, consequent on the collaborative efforts and inputs of the Ministry, teachers, parents, and all other stakeholders.

“I anticipate higher outcomes in literacy and numeracy (through, among other things) giving schools that are weak, special help. I (also) anticipate and insist upon higher levels of discipline (through) strong counselling and acute behaviour management. It’s a call to action and a call to partnership… (which) is going to make a difference,” the Minister stated.

Institutions, which Rev. Thwaites visited on Monday included: St. Michael’s Primary; Holy Family Primary; Calabar Primary and Junior High; Kingston Technical High; Alpha Primary, and Alpha Infant; Holy Trinity High; Franklyn Town Primary; and Allman Town Infant and Primary Schools.