Schools to review discipline plans

“The Ministry of Education has always had a system to address indiscipline and violence in schools. Bullying is one aspect of indiscipline.

Incidents of indiscipline and violence have been on the wane for some time. However, recent incidents have told us we need to look again, more closely at plans to reduce violence and indiscipline,” he said during a press conference at his Port-of-Spain office.

He said it is important to address the issue before it attains proportions that will negatively affect the entire school system. Garcia said the ministry has asked all principals to pay close attention to a number of aspects of the discipline plans and review where necessary. “The ministry will be giving teachers and principals certain skills on how to deal with conflict and anti-bullying sessions will be done with students.

“We have asked teachers and principals to engage in greater communication exercises.

The ministry and will continue to encourage students to always seek help. The ministry will also focus on parenting workshops.” Garcia said the ministry will be working to improve reading and writing skills to all students by launching a programme aimed at improving penmanship.

“As part of this project, the ministry has identified the need for students at primary level to master the skill of handwriting. When we look at the reports that come to us that are written by students, very often it is difficult to decipher what is written.” He added, “We realise because of the widespread use of technology, in particular, the use of the cell phones and computer by our students, writing itself is being placed on the back burner. It is important therefore to ensure those skills are returned to our students.”