THE EDITOR, Sir:
I AM very concerned about the indiscipline in schools, and the various talk and suggestions that seem not to have much bearing on the matter.
We are hardly hearing or seeing anyone attacking the root cause of the indiscipline.
If a survey should be taken of the homes especially in the inner cities and the rural areas of this country then one could see where indiscipline's root lies. Depression, deprivation, discontent, dishonesty, disloyalty, disunity, disobedience, disruption, all these and more are mainly rooted and grounded in those areas. These are also found in the upper income arenas but in a concealed avenue. I won't go there.
Teachers are not to be blamed for children's behaviour. I read in The Sunday Gleaner of May 21, where Mrs. Janilee Abrikian stated that "Poor classroom control contributes to indiscipline." I cannot agree fully when she said that "much of the acting out behaviour is as a result of poor classroom management skills by teachers." No, no, Mrs. Abrikian.
You did a very well-planned presentation, and I do agree with some of what you said. It seems however, that you are not aware of the grass roots level of these latter-day generation, and the problems they are facing in their development as children. In some schools the teacher can't even look hard at a child.
Very good strategies are always outlined in speeches or put on paper at times, but how much of these really go into action? It's only the consistent prayer of the faithful ones and the interjection of the thoughtful ones that can save Jamaica in these critical times.
I am, etc.,
BELDENE WILLIAMS
beldene1@yahoo.com
