7 News Belize

Schools Re-open, Students Return to Class
posted (February 7, 2005)
But it is apparent even if that strike or "national shutdown" is re-launched, it would not include teachers. Regular classes at schools countrywide resumed today after the Belize National Teacher's Union ended an unprecedented 12-day strike. Catholic Public Schools Manager Clemente Wade told 7NEWS that this morning all his teachers and about 95% of students showed up for class. By afternoon he noted that attendance was near 100%. In the Anglican Public School System, which manages 20 schools, General Manager Carol Babb says all teachers and most of her students showed up. The Ministry of Education today said that about 90% of schools were re-opened today. 7NEWS was there as some students returned to the classroom.

Keith Swift Reporting,
This was the scene this morning at schools across the city as for the first time in 12 school days, children returned to their classrooms. And while the children looked smart and full of sprite, their parents were even happier.

Parent #1: I am so happy that they are back in school.
KS: Why is that?
Parent #1: Because they were missing out on their education.

Parent #2: Well I am happy that they are back in school.
KS: Do you think 12 days out of school was worth it?
Parent #2: Well I don't think so.
KS: Why not?
Parent #2: Because they gave a lot of trouble right now for me so I'm happy they're back in school.

Parent #3: At this moment I am glad and I feel that all parents are with me, even though I am supporting the unions in whatever they are doing because it's for the benefit of all of us.
KS: Do you think it was worth it?
Parent #3: Yes it certainly was and if it means that we have to do it all over again, I am supporting everything.

But though happy that his daughter is back in school, one father says he would have preferred if the strike had gone longer.

Parent #4: I feel good in a way but those teachers could have done better than this because they could stood their ground and what's not.
KS: So you think the strike should have gone longer?
Parent #4: Yes.
KS: You aren't happy your child is back in school?
Parent #4: I am happy but actually they have mothers home who could keep them up and teach them you check.
KS: You think the strike was worth it?
Parent #4: It worth it but it should have gone longer cause we need fi stand up right. We have to 'cause the Ministers will give the teachers what they want and we as the people out yah will have pay that back through the taxes.

And then there are the hundreds of children who are back in class after that 12 day mid-semester break.

Student #1: I feel happy now because with my teacher I get time to learn more and then I have more time to spend with my teacher.
KS: You missed school?
Student #1: Yes.
KS: What did you do when you were out of school?
Student #1: Studying and playing with my Gameboy.
KS: Do you know why you were out of school?
Student #1: Because the teachers they were on strike against the government because they were increasing taxes.

Student #2: Because the teachers were striking.
KS: How did you spend time when you were away from class?
Student #2: I gaan dah my mom work and we play and we watch TV.

But at least for now, it is no more TV or Gameboys for these students, it is back to class and the books.

A Ministry of Education spokesperson confirmed to 7NEWS this evening that the dates for the primary school examination have been pushed back to Monday April 11th and Monday May 9th. The PSE was originally scheduled for March 14th and May 3rd respectively. Catholic Public Schools' General Manager Clemente Wade noted that it will be up to school administrators and the Ministry of Education to decide when students will make up for the time lost during the 12 day shutdown. The education rules mandate that a student shouldn't get less than 160 school days.

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