TTUTA’s 18-point plan

Last month, the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) put together an 18-point plan, which is a list of proposed strategies to curb violence and indiscipline in the education system.

The following is the list of proposals —
1. All schools develop a Code of Conduct — a collaborative effort involving students, teachers and administration — to be ready for the new term.
2. A collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education and media to highlight positive happenings at schools — TV, radio, newspaper.
3. Functioning of student councils in all secondary schools by the beginning of the new school term January 2004.
4. Filling of all vacancies in schools.
5. Out of school constructive suspension for ringleaders in violence. Suspension must be continued where this is necessary. Suspension must be rehabilitative in nature.
6. Organised developmental supervision in all schools. Principal management team and relevant school supervision.
7. Organised referral system for all schools.
8. Management Evaluation Committee involving representatives of Ministry, TTUTA, PTA, Principals’ Association.
9. Zero tolerance — law enforcement and judiciary to act expeditiously in cases where criminal activities are involved.
10. Discussions of the new curriculum between TTUTA and the Ministry of Education to determine relevance etc.
11. Adequate competent security system at all Secondary and Senior Comprehensive schools. Communication to solicit assistance as required.
12. Setting up of student and teacher support groups.
13. Total ban on incendiary devices. Fireworks to be done by the fire services or other competent authorities.
14. Frequent police patrols around high risk schools.
15. Speedy implementation of a supply teacher program-me.
16. Development of a culture of peace for the schools.
17. Teacher training and orientation
18. Massive campaign in quality parenting involving seminars and media programmes.