The Editor, Sir:

I have been following the recent discussion on the dismal academic performance of our high schools with keen interest. From my observation I would like to set out the features of what I term mediocre schools. Mediocrity is the essence of the problems we are experiencing.

First, unlike the schools of excellence where there is a vision and a plan, the mediocre school does very little planning, and there appears to be a haziness and confusion regarding a common vision.

Accountability

In the mediocre school there is very little accountability by teachers to the principal, and the principal in turn, by lack of force of character, is unable to bring about improved performance by his/her teachers. There is very little monitoring and guidance provided to teachers.

In the mediocre school a spirit of powerlessness abounds. Hence, parenting, the children don't want to learn, overcrowded classes and the Ministry of Education are blamed for poor academic performance. These schools need to empower themselves and seek creative solutions which will not only bring about improved academic performance but will lift the esteem of staff and students alike.

This spirit of mediocrity is present in a great number of our so-called traditional and upgraded high schools. No educational policy from 'above' can really be successful until we address the spirit of mediocrity which exists in the 'belly' of many of our schools.

I am, etc.,

SELVYN GILBERT

gilecon2004@cwjamaica.com

Kingston 20

Via Go-Jamaica