Students do not appoint principals

THE EDITOR: The students of San Fernando Senior Secondary Comprehensive School failed to realise the significance of their duties and responsibilities. Their behaviour was horrible, uncalled for and unnecessary. They must know that they are not proprietors of the school. They are not the employers of the staff and principal. The chattel in the school is not theirs. They are not trustees or beneficiaries of the school. They are not joint-tenants or tenancy-in-common. They are not co-owners with the government. Their parents can be made to pay for any chattel damaged by them. School is not merely an institution of instruction but one of discipline. The principal failed to guide them on discipline and respect. Schools are places where students are taught how to study and conduct themselves properly.

Students must imbibe principles to translate into practice later in life. They must never have a say on who the Ministry of Education must appoint as teacher, vice principal or principal. Every creed and race has an equal place here. Students must try their best to elevate the depressed one by example and precept. They must become a centre of wholesome influence to be a credit to themselves and their school. Mr Bacchus must be commended for guiding the students and being approachable but he must shoulder the blame for not telling them to respect and accept the new principal. Congratulations to Principal Bacchus on his elevation as principal to a new school where his education, experience, talent and influence will mould his new students into ladies and gentlemen.

AHAMAD KHAYYAM
Former Dean of Discipline
St Augustine Senior Secondary Comprehensive School