School boards deal with changes

Many changes took place in the province's schools over the past two years. Last year the new Term 17 became law. All schools are now under one system.

School board directors say they are pleased with how things are going. Students and teachers have come together to make things work. Parents worked with the school boards to plan changes and are helping to put the plans in place. Directors from three of the eleven boards were asked how things are going so far.

Director Domino Wilkins said Baie Verte, Central, Conaigre School Board closed six schools. Many students and a lot of equipment were moved. He mentioned that some concerns with the lunch time have to be worked out. "I am quite pleased with how well it has gone. This is pretty much a year of adjustment," he said.

Avalon West School Board closed 12 schools last year and will close three this year. Director Dr. David Rideout said the parents would not have it any other way now that changes have happened. Programs in schools are better and students are making new friends.

He said the main adjustment was, "Just an acceptance of the fact schools had to come together. The community school could not remain."

Corner Brook, Deer Lake, St. Barbe School Board closed five schools. Director Dr. Tony Genge said there was some negative reaction to some of the changes at first. One thousand students moved around and about 100 people had problems with changes. Dr. Genge said principals and teachers worked hard to get schools ready for opening on September first.

"I think things are working extremely well. People have accepted, for the most part, the changes in the school system. Many parents are working hard to make it work," said Dr. Genge. He said his board is letting schools get on with their jobs.

"We are at a crossroads in education. More things will happen if we work together for the good of education," said Dr. Rideout. We wish them success.