Will Parents Send their Children to School?

Elena Smith

So, as you heard, the National President of the B.N.T.U. believes that majority of the schools are not ready for reopening.  Senator Elena Smith says that information was gathered by a survey and at this time, there are mounting concerns among teachers about the readiness of their schools.  Another issue that teachers are expecting to face is a reduction in number of attendees; this is because parents are also fearful.  The worry is that these students may miss out on lessons and others, who are opting for homeschooling, are facing challenges in moving forward with that option. Smith says that these are issues that will be raised at this week’s meeting.

Andrea Polanco

“In your view, can they reopen if they are not ready?”

Senator Elena Smith, National President, B.N.T.U.

“We don’t believe so. If they are not ready, they shouldn’t re-open. We are going to be having a meeting tomorrow where we will be discussing some of these concerns and other issues that we have in terms of safety for teachers and students. We are hoping that the meeting will be fruitful and that all sides can see the relevance and the importance of what we are bringing to the table as it relates to concerns of our teachers and students.”

Andrea Polanco

“Do we know if any of the parents are resorting to homeschooling for the kids at this point?”

Senator Elena Smith

“I have heard from a few who have said that they applied for homeschooling and even though they have met the requirements, for example the Associate Degree as the Ministry has requested, their applications were denied. And they were being told that the students, by law, must be at school. So, they were given an option to apply for homeschooling and dispute when they apply their students are denied.  So, parents are concerned and the schools that we have visited of parents.”