THE EDITOR, SIR:
The proposal for Principals and Vice Principals to work under contract is one of the more forward-looking concepts to come along in a long time. I would hope the concept can be expanded to include opening these positions to Caribbean and Commonwealth citizens. Further, any educator wanting to head up Jamaican schools must submit an education plan giving details of how they intend to meet the goals set by the government and the community.
I would further suggest that the super-principal concept be incorporated as well. These principals would have responsibility for a network of schools (basic, elementary, secondary and high). They would develop and manage curriculum and parent-teacher relationships among other educational functions.
There would also be an organisational structure to include assistants and administrators etc. The physical facility management and other ancillary functions such as the school lunch programme would be outsourced on a competitive bid basis for a defined period of time.
Again, great idea that has the potential to vastly increase performance and accountability for all concerned. Jamaicans should seriously get behind this concept and try to shape its outcome in a positive way and not be too concerned about a successful principal making J$10,000,000 per year when base salary and bonuses are calculated.
I am etc,
C. BRYAN
E-mail: zarkon@bellsouth.net
Georgia, USA
Via Go-Jamaica